Contents

Published – Tuesday 11 February 2025

Early Day Motions tabled on Monday 10 February 2025

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

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

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

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

New EDMs

773Recognition for World War I servicemen affected by PTSD

Tabled: 10/02/25 Signatories: 1

Natasha Irons

That this House acknowledges the commendable efforts of Mr Michael Lyons, a dedicated local veteran in leading the Final Roll Call campaign which seeks to secure recognition for World War I servicemen who, due to the psychological trauma now understood as PTSD, were unjustly institutionalised and omitted from honour rolls and memorials; notes that many of these servicemen were sent to asylums such as Cane Hill, where they were wrongly branded as cowards, and their sacrifices were erased from history; highlights that Mr Lyons has tirelessly worked to ensure these forgotten heroes are finally given the recognition they deserve; observes that his campaign has already succeeded in commemorating 26 such men, with another 8 awaiting rightful recognition; supports fully Mr Lyons' efforts and believes that these veterans, who gave so much for their country, should be honoured just like any other who served during the war; and calls for their suffering and sacrifice not be forgotten simply because of the historical lack of understanding of mental health.

774Mental health of women in farming

Tabled: 10/02/25 Signatories: 1

Sarah Dyke

That this House recognises the urgent need to address the mental health crisis affecting women in British agriculture; acknowledges research by the University of Exeter and the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) which highlights financial pressures, long working hours, social isolation, and gender inequalities as contributing factors to poor mental health among women in farming; notes with concern that 23% of women farmers suffer from severe anxiety, with 34.6% experiencing mild anxiety, affecting over half (58%) of women in farming; expresses alarm that loneliness is a leading factor, with 64.5% of women in farming who are often or always lonely experiencing anxiety; understands that additional concerns such as childcare responsibilities, non-farming employment, rural crime, and domestic violence further exacerbate these challenges; notes the Government’s proposed cut to Agricultural Property Relief (APR), which risks financial devastation for small family farms, has only heightened the crisis present; regrets that women’s mental health needs in farming have been historically overlooked; commends the University of Exeter and the Farming Community Network for their contemporary Understanding health and wellbeing among farm women: a life-course approach study and the Farm Safety Foundation for their Mind Your Head mental health awareness campaign during 10-14 February 2025; and calls on the Government to improve access for women to mental health services in rural areas by supporting the continued roll-out of mental health hubs, reverse the changes to APR, and increase the farming budget by £1 billion annually to help provide financial support for women in farming.

775Transition of Scottish Council on Global Affairs leadership from University of Glasgow to University of St Andrews

Tabled: 10/02/25 Signatories: 1

Wendy Chamberlain

That this House celebrates an event held at the University of St Andrews to mark the transition of the Scottish Council on Global Affairs from the University of Glasgow to St Andrews for the next two years; acknowledges that First Minister John Swinney MSP and former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar joined Principal Professor Dame Sally Mapstone at the event held in the School of Medicine’s Booth Lecture Theatre; and recognises the important role Scotland and the Scottish Council on Global Affairs can play in meeting current and future challenges to global security.

776Female football boots

Tabled: 10/02/25 Signatories: 1

Helen Maguire

That this House recognises the growing participation of women and girls in football and the need for better accessibility to appropriate footwear; notes with concern that while female football boots can be purchased online from major retailers, there is often a very restricted range and a general absence from high street stores; highlights that many high street shops do not stock football boots specifically designed for women or men's boots in sizes below size 6, making it difficult for women with smaller feet to find suitable options; acknowledges the physiological differences between male and female players and the importance of properly designed footwear to provide adequate support and performance; believes that women and girls should have the same ease of access to football boots as their male counterparts; and calls on retailers and manufacturers to improve the availability of football boots in stores to ensure all players can access appropriate footwear regardless of their size and sex.

77775 years of the Harpenden and Wheathampstead Gang Show

Tabled: 10/02/25 Signatories: 1

Victoria Collins

That this House celebrates the 75th anniversary of the Harpenden and Wheathampstead Gang Show, a variety show that has been running since 1949, making it the longest continuously running Gang Show in the world that celebrates the talent of the young people around the Harpenden and Wheathampstead area; notes the commendable efforts of all of the backstage crew and cast members in their dedication to keep the tradition of the Gang Show alive whilst performing entertaining acts for the community; commends the hard work of Ewan Murray for his 37 years as Musical Director and 32 years as Show Director of the Gang Show; and highlights the community spirit of Harpenden and Wheathampstead for keeping this tradition alive.

778Blue Flag status for rivers

Tabled: 10/02/25 Signatories: 2

Victoria Collins

Ayoub Khan

That this House calls for a new Blue Flag status for rivers and chalk streams; notes that as globally rare and ecologically unique habitats, chalk streams are not only ripe contenders for the attribution of the status but fundamentally require the formal recognition for their survival, especially given the persistent sewage dumping scandals and good categorisation of only 14% of England’s rivers; further notes the anticipated benefits of the Blue Flag status in advocating for enhanced responsibility and accountability from water companies, maintained via compliance checks and stringent environmental standards; and further calls on environmental champions to prioritise chalk streams, as pinnacles of biodiversity under threat, by raising awareness of the need for a new Blue Flag status.

779Parliamentary Prayers

Tabled: 10/02/25 Signatories: 7

Neil Duncan-Jordan

Kirsty Blackman

Luke Taylor

Ellie Chowns

Steve Witherden

Cat Eccles

That this House recognises that religious worship should not play any part in the formal business of the House of Commons; believes that Parliamentary meetings should be conducted in a manner that is equally welcoming to all attendees, irrespective of their personal beliefs; further believes that Parliamentary prayers are not compatible with a society that respects the principles of freedom of and from religion; urges that prayers should not form part of the official business of Parliament; and calls on the Modernisation Committee to consider alternative arrangements.

780Royal Mail's universal service obligation

Tabled: 10/02/25 Signatories: 2

Anna Sabine

Ayoub Khan

That this House expresses its concern over Ofcom’s proposed changes to Royal Mail’s universal service obligation which would allow Royal Mail to alternate second-class deliveries, scrap second-class deliveries on Saturday and reduce delivery targets for first and second-class post; acknowledges the importance of a reliable Royal Mail service for rural communities, the elderly, disabled and the vulnerable; laments that many households are not receiving an adequate level of postal and parcel service, often missing important post including medical appointments, prescriptions and bills; calls on the Government and Ofcom to work with Royal Mail to improve the quality of service, delivery targets and staff retention; and further acknowledges all the work that postal works and deliverers do for the community.

781NHS targets

Tabled: 10/02/25 Signatories: 5

Helen Morgan

Jess Brown-Fuller

Dr Danny Chambers

Alison Bennett

Ayoub Khan

That this House acknowledges the abject failure of the last Conservative Government to meet NHS targets; notes that this failure reflected devastating mismanagement which left hospitals crumbling, operations cancelled, pensioners treated on trolleys in corridors, and doctors and nurses at breaking point; further notes that our NHS was once the envy of the world; regrets that, rather than show ambition in this moment of crisis, the Labour Government has been slow to take the action required to reach basic standards of diagnosis, treatment and waiting times; expresses alarm that the dropping of targets has seen community services, mental health, dementia, women’s health and other areas of care deprioritised; further regrets that many patients will suffer as a result; believes the Government has not lived up to its promises on prevention and care in the community; calls on the Government to be more ambitious for our NHS, and reinstate the slashed targets; further calls on the Government to fix the crisis at both the front door and the back door of the NHS by investing in public health and early access to community services so fewer people need to go to hospital in the first place, and to fix the crisis in social care which sees so many people stuck in hospital beds or unable to cope; and further believes patients in this country deserve nothing less than a first class health service which delivers the highest standards of care whenever they need it.

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.

707The Bereavement Journey programme

Tabled: 27/01/25 Signatories: 12

Ruth Jones

Adam Jogee

Jim Shannon

Christine Jardine

Ayoub Khan

Mary Kelly Foy

That this House celebrates that The Bereavement Journey community grief support programme, produced by AtaLoss, has doubled to running in 400 locations across the country since its relaunch last year; further celebrates 30 years since its start in original form; and commends the communities running the programme as they seek to respond to the cumulative impact of bereavement on society.

716Metropolitan Police’s Gangs Violence Matrix

Tabled: 29/01/25 Signatories: 17

Kim Johnson

Mary Kelly Foy

Ian Byrne

Ellie Chowns

Zarah Sultana

Ms Diane Abbott

That this House notes the imminent deadline of 13 February 2025 for the permanent deletion of the Metropolitan Police’s Gangs Violence Matrix (GVM) database following a successful legal challenge that highlighted its racist application and breaches of the European Convention on Human Rights; further notes that this database has unlawfully profiled and targeted individuals, including many who have never committed a crime, and may have been used as illegal evidence to charge or prosecute individuals using a gang narrative, including under the Joint Enterprise doctrine; expresses deep concern that the deletion of this database will destroy critical evidence needed to rectify miscarriages of justice and to ensure accountability for illegal police practices; calls on the Home Secretary to immediately intervene to delay or prevent the deletion of the database; and urges the Government to identify an independent body to safeguard the data while investigating its harmful impacts and supporting those affected to seek justice.

723Women's health hubs

Tabled: 30/01/25 Signatories: 32

Helen Maguire

Steve Darling

Luke Taylor

Adam Dance

Anna Sabine

Jess Brown-Fuller

That this House notes with deep concern the Government’s decision to reduce women’s health targets in NHS guidance, including the removal of the commitment to roll out women’s health hubs across all integrated care boards; recognises that these hubs provide vital services, including faster diagnosis for conditions such as endometriosis and osteoporosis, which disproportionately impact women’s quality of life; further notes that the Government’s own cost-benefit analysis found that every £1 spent on these hubs generates £5 in benefits; notes that waiting times for gynaecological services remain unacceptably high, with conditions like endometriosis taking an average of 8 years and 10 months to diagnose; warns that deprioritising women’s health risks worsening health inequalities; and urges the Government to reinstate the target for a nationwide rollout of women’s health hubs to ensure women receive the care they deserve.

729World Cancer Day and Leukaemia UK’s Take Action, Save Lives report

Tabled: 3/02/25 Signatories: 39

Clive Jones [R]

Sorcha Eastwood

Helen Maguire

Steve Darling

Ian Roome

Martin Wrigley

That this House recognises that World Cancer Day is held on 4 February; welcomes the launch of Leukaemia UK’s report, Take Action, Save Lives, which highlights the need for a National Cancer Strategy with commitments to save and improve the lives of those affected by leukaemia; notes that nearly 60,000 people are affected by leukaemia in the UK, and 10,000 people are newly diagnosed every year, while it mainly affects adults, leukaemia is the most common childhood cancer; expresses concern that if no action is taken nearly 80% of those diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) today, will not survive this Parliament; appreciates that the five-year survival rate of AML, 22%, is one of the lowest of all cancers; urges the Government to adopt the report’s recommendations, including a commitment to double the 5-year survival of AML from 22% to 44%; and encourages all Members of Parliament to attend Leukaemia UK’s drop-in event in Parliament on World Cancer Day.

730Recognition of Mary Cobbett’s outstanding community contribution

Tabled: 3/02/25 Signatories: 7

Dr Roz Savage

Helen Maguire

Steve Darling

Adam Dance

Jim Shannon

Mr Angus MacDonald

That this House recognises the exceptional dedication and community spirit of Mary Cobbett, whose tireless efforts have made a profound difference to the lives of many in Cirencester; acknowledges her role as a founder of Cirencester Pantry, a cooperative initiative that not only helps families struggling with the cost-of-living crisis but also plays a crucial role in reducing food waste; commends her outstanding work in securing over £60,000 in benefits for local families this year, ensuring that those in need receive the support they are entitled to; further applauds her extensive involvement in organising community events, supporting local organisations such as Armes House, and advocating for vulnerable individuals; notes that her selfless commitment extends far beyond a single project, encompassing welfare support, social inclusion, and practical assistance for those facing hardship; and calls on this House to recognise Mary Cobbett as a true community hero, whose dedication and compassion continue to transform lives across Cirencester.

734South Western Railway service standards and performance

Tabled: 3/02/25 Signatories: 14

Luke Taylor

Helen Maguire

Steve Darling

Martin Wrigley

Edward Morello

Neil Duncan-Jordan

That this House notes with deep concern the inadequate state of train services provided by South Western Railway, particularly affecting Worcester Park Station, but also across the broader train network; highlights the ongoing issues of frequent cancellations, delays, and short-formed trains, often leaving commuters unable to board and contributing to overcrowding; further notes the decline in service frequency, despite growing passenger demand post-pandemic; and emphasises the frustration of constituents, who are facing rising fares while enduring deteriorating service standards.

739Wheelchair services provided by AJM Healthcare

Tabled: 4/02/25 Signatories: 15

Daisy Cooper

Daniel Francis

Steve Darling

Dr Roz Savage

Adam Dance

Jim Shannon

That this House notes with deep concern the poor performance of AJM Healthcare, the leading provider of NHS wheelchair services, as set out in news reports and experienced by an increasing number of constituents; expresses its disappointment that responses to enquiries to that organisation are not forthcoming to its users, Integrated Care Boards, or their Members of Parliament; agrees with users that the waiting times for wheelchairs provided by AJM Healthcare are unacceptably long and are impacting users’ mental and physical wellbeing; regrets that the Government does not have specific plans to solicit feedback from Integrated Care Boards on the performance of AJM Healthcare in their areas; further regrets that the Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care Board has stated that there was some way to go before they have AJM Healthcare providing the level and responsiveness of service patients and their families need; further notes with alarm that AJM Healthcare is one of the largest national wheelchair providers supplying approximately 150,000 registered users and representing around 20% of all wheelchair service needs for NHS England; calls on AJM Healthcare to respond promptly to enquiries from its customers, Integrated Care Boards, and their Members of Parliament; and calls on the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to invite AJM Healthcare to answer to all concerned hon. Members for its failures in providing essential wheelchair services.

741Marking World Cancer Day 2025

Tabled: 4/02/25 Signatories: 22

Helen Maguire

Ian Roome

Wera Hobhouse

Steve Darling

Dr Roz Savage

Claire Young

That this House marks World Cancer Day on 4 February 2025 and acknowledges the profound impact cancer has on individuals, families, and friends across the UK; recognises the courage and resilience of those living with cancer and the immeasurable support provided by loved ones; further recognises those who have sadly lost their lives to cancer and the lasting impact on their families and communities; expresses gratitude to the dedicated healthcare professionals, researchers, carers and volunteers who work tirelessly in cancer diagnosis, treatment and care; commends the ongoing efforts to improve early detection, treatment options and patient outcomes; and urges the Government to reaffirm its commitment to reducing cancer inequalities and improving support for those impacted by this disease.

744Electric vehicle charging costs

Tabled: 4/02/25 Signatories: 22

Claire Young

Wera Hobhouse

Dr Roz Savage

Adam Dance

Jess Brown-Fuller

Tom Morrison

That this House notes the growing number of electric vehicles on UK roads; is concerned that the current charging infrastructure is inadequate; recognises that helping people transition to owning an electric vehicle supports our Net Zero ambitions; further notes that making charging facilities available is key to ensuring people can make the switch to owning an electric vehicle; recognises that those in flats and shared buildings in particular are affected by a lack of at home charging; appreciates that being unable to charge your vehicle at home leaves people reliant on public charging points; is concerned about the cost to consumers if they have to rely solely on commercial charging; and calls on the Government to do more to reduce the cost of charging and to support the rollout of electric vehicle charging points, including reviewing the current planning framework to ensure new build homes are outfitted to support at home charging.

748Police funding settlement in rural areas

Tabled: 4/02/25 Signatories: 16

Edward Morello

Alison Bennett

Dr Roz Savage

Steve Darling

Claire Young

Adam Dance

That this House notes with concern the ongoing funding disparities affecting rural police forces, particularly in areas such as West Dorset; recognises that rural forces face unique challenges, including vast geographical areas to cover with fewer officers, as well as significant seasonal population increases due to tourism, which are not adequately accounted for in current funding formulas; notes that West Dorset experiences a 42% increase in population during peak seasons, placing additional pressure on already stretched police resources; further notes that the current funding deficit of £3.6 million is projected to rise to £7.3 million next year, undermining the ability of local forces to keep communities safe; is alarmed that, despite submitting evidence-backed requests for an additional £12.2 million in annual funding—primarily to recruit 250 additional officers and staff—the necessary support has not been provided; regrets that to meet budget shortfalls, the Police and Crime Commissioner has been forced to reduce Community Support Officers by 43%, freeze staff recruitment, sell off surplus vehicles and buildings, restrict overtime, and halt all non-essential spending; and calls on the Government to urgently revise the police funding formula to ensure rural forces receive a fair and sustainable settlement that reflects the true demands placed upon them.

749Hospital maintenance

Tabled: 4/02/25 Signatories: 28

Helen Morgan

Jess Brown-Fuller

Alison Bennett

Dr Danny Chambers

Ian Roome

Wera Hobhouse

That this House notes the appalling state of repair of NHS hospitals across the country; notes that the NHS maintenance backlog has reached £13.8bn; further notes that decaying and inadequate facilities threaten the safety of patients and staff; believes it is an outrage that overcrowded hospitals must close operating theatres because they are no longer fit for use; regrets the last Conservative government’s record of starved repair budgets and exploding maintenance backlogs, which made sewage leaks, cracked walls, crumbling ceilings, and sinking floors commonplace; further regrets that patients have suffered a double betrayal on the New Hospital Programme, of broken promises under the last Conservative government and of dither and delay under this government; also regrets the cost to the NHS of papering over the cracks and keeping hospitals running past their natural lifespan; calls on the government to ensure no one is treated in broken, uncomfortable and unsafe facilities; and further calls on the government to reverse their delay and urgently deliver the new hospitals that patients have long been promised.

751Drug-resistant superbugs

Tabled: 4/02/25 Signatories: 18

Dr Danny Chambers

Ian Roome

Dr Roz Savage

Steve Darling

Adam Dance

Jess Brown-Fuller

That this House recognises the urgent and growing challenge posed by drug-resistant superbugs emerging from the conflict in Ukraine and elsewhere, which have significantly impacted patient treatment and healthcare systems across Europe; acknowledges the severity of injuries sustained in the war and the subsequent need for medical care across multiple European nations, having at times left doctors and patients with no viable antibiotic options for life- and limb-threatening infections; notes that the UK has extensive experience in tackling antimicrobial resistance and that UK scientists have demonstrated how these superbugs can affect hospitals in the UK, leading to critical disruptions in surgical theatres and high-dependency units; further notes the UK’s long-standing leadership in the discovery of antibiotics, investment in research, and development of rapid, cost-effective testing to combat such infections; welcomes the signing of the 100 Year Partnership between the UK and Ukraine in January this year and the opportunity it presents to improve infection control in hospitals, and enhance access to new diagnostic tests and antibiotic treatments to combat these infections; and calls on the Government to prioritise collaboration with Ukrainian healthcare professionals and our European partners to combat the spread of drug-resistant infections, ensuring that both Ukrainian and UK hospitals are better equipped with the necessary situational awareness/knowledge, tools, expertise, and antibiotics to safeguard public health.

752National Apprenticeships Week 2025

Tabled: 4/02/25 Signatories: 27

Ian Sollom

Ian Roome

Dr Roz Savage

Steve Darling

Claire Young

Adam Dance

That this House welcomes National Apprenticeship Week from the 10th to the 14th February 2025; celebrates the positive impact apprenticeships have on the British economy; further welcomes any events in recognition of National Apprenticeship Week 2025; and encourages more businesses to consider the benefits of taking on apprentices within the workforce.

753LGBT+ History Month 2025

Tabled: 4/02/25 Signatories: 28

Christine Jardine

Steve Darling

Dr Roz Savage

Claire Young

Adam Dance

Jess Brown-Fuller

That this House celebrates February as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) History Month 2025; recognises that this year's theme is activism and social change, highlighting the contributions of LGBT+ people who helped advance society for all; notes that LGBT+ History Month can facilitate conversations around the continuing struggle for LGBT+ rights; regrets that there are a growing number of anti-LGBT+ laws in place across the world in nations including Russia, Hungary and Uganda; acknowledges the progress made for LGBT+ rights in the UK, but regrets that many inequalities still persist; notes with concern that nearly two-thirds of LGBT+ people in the UK have experienced violence or abuse; welcomes the Government's announcement of a draft Bill to ban conversion practices; and calls on all Rt hon. and hon. Members of this House to work together to tackle discrimination and achieve equality for all LGBT+ people.

756Injury on Duty Award Scheme

Tabled: 5/02/25 Signatories: 8

Tom Morrison

Ellie Chowns

Adam Dance

Christine Jardine

Zöe Franklin

Jim Shannon

That this House acknowledges the inherent risks undertaken by police officers, firefighters, paramedics and other members of the emergency services in the line of duty; notes that severe injuries sustained in the line of duty can prematurely end their careers; further notes with concern that current recognition for such sacrifices is insufficient as existing gallantry awards are seldom conferred due to stringent criteria; highlights the case of Cheadle resident Jane Notley, a dedicated police officer whose legs were crushed while protecting the public, leading to her medical discharge; commends the initiative by retired Sussex Police Officer Tom Curry, who has launched a campaign seeking official recognition for officers injured on duty, as detailed by the National Association of Retired Police Officers; supports the Fire and Rescue Services Association's campaign advocating for medal recognition for all emergency service workers who are severely injured and medically retired from service; and calls on the Government to establish an official Injury on Duty Award Scheme to honour and acknowledge the sacrifices of these brave individuals.

757Proposals to forcibly displace and ethnically cleanse Palestinians from Gaza

Tabled: 5/02/25 Signatories: 47

Richard Burgon

Imran Hussain

Apsana Begum

Andy McDonald

Zarah Sultana

Nadia Whittome

That this House rejects the proposals for Gaza by President Trump on 4 February 2025; deplores the inhumanity and illegality of any efforts to forcibly displace and ethnically cleanse Palestinians from Gaza; affirms the provisions of Article 49 of the Fourth Geneva Convention, that individual or mass forcible transfers or deportations of protected persons from occupied territory are prohibited, regardless of their motive; expresses grave concern over the risk of destabilisation not only of the recently achieved ceasefire agreement but of wider regional peace; and calls on the Government unequivocally to reject such proposals and take action to oppose any efforts to forcibly displace and ethnically cleanse Palestinians from Gaza.

757A1 [Amendment]

Tabled: 6/02/25 Signatories: 1

at end add 'and urges the Government immediately to recognise Palestine as a state on the 1967 borders and accordingly to advance a two-state solution.'.

758116th anniversary of the 1909 West Stanley Pit Disaster

Tabled: 5/02/25 Signatories: 12

Luke Akehurst

Mary Kelly Foy

Josh Newbury

Mrs Sharon Hodgson

Grahame Morris

Mary Glindon

That this House acknowledges that 16 February 2025 marks the 116th anniversary of the 1909 West Stanley Pit Disaster; remembers the 168 men and boys who died in the explosion and its aftermath and those who risked their lives to rescue survivors; notes that the disaster was the worst in the history of the Durham coalfield and one of the worst coal mining disasters in British history; pays tribute to the resilience, courage and spirit shown by the community of Stanley; recognises that the disaster continues to have profound importance in the local community’s collective memory; and honours the tremendous sacrifices made by miners and their families.

759School absences

Tabled: 5/02/25 Signatories: 3

Mr Lee Dillon

Helen Maguire

Jim Shannon

That this House notes with concern the impact of low school attendance on pupils' futures; acknowledges the significant effect of covid-19 on overall absence rates, which have increased by 57% since 2015; further notes with alarm that 26.5% of secondary school pupils in West Berkshire were persistently absent in 2023; recognises the detrimental consequences of high absence rates on children’s educational achievements and future opportunities; calls on the Government to prioritise addressing the underlying causes of poor attendance, including the role of poor mental health; and urges the Government to take action to reduce inequalities in school attendance across different socioeconomic groups.

760Ambulances in Newbury

Tabled: 5/02/25 Signatories: 3

Mr Lee Dillon

Helen Morgan

Jim Shannon

That this House notes with concern the lengthy wait times for ambulances in Newbury; further notes with alarm that only 18% of calls in Hungerford and Lambourn about life-threatening conditions are responded to within eight minutes when the response target time for such calls is seven minutes; recognises the significant impact that these long wait times may have on people's health and the potential increase in avoidable fatalities; also notes that as of March 2024, 22% of ambulances were waiting outside of the Royal Berkshire Hospital for longer than 30 minutes; and calls on the Government to recognise the negative impact this is having on the country and bring forward plans to combat these long wait times.

761A&E waiting times in Berkshire

Tabled: 5/02/25 Signatories: 6

Mr Lee Dillon

Adam Dance

Helen Maguire

Helen Morgan

Jim Shannon

Mr Joshua Reynolds

That this House notes with concern that in December 2024 2,655 people admitted to A&E in the NHS Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire Integrated Care Board were waiting over 12 hours; recognises the significant negative impact that long hospital wait times are having on people’s health; further notes with alarm that in February 2024 32% of patients at the Royal Berkshire NHS Trust were waiting longer than the target time of four hours in A&E, compared to the UK average of 29%; and also notes that the Royal Berkshire Hospital will not receive its promised funding under the New Hospital Programme to carry out vital improvements until 2037.

762The Courier Food and Drink Awards shortlist

Tabled: 5/02/25 Signatories: 7

Wendy Chamberlain

Dr Roz Savage

Adam Dance

Helen Maguire

Christine Jardine

Jamie Stone

That this House congratulates nine North East Fife businesses and chefs on being shortlisted for The Courier Food and Drink Awards in partnership with Barnetts Dundee; recognises The Boudingait in Cupar being nominated for Bar of the Year, Futtle in Anstruther and The St Andrews Brewing Company for Brewer of the Year, The Adamson in St Andrews for Chef of the Year, Craw’s Nest in Pittenweem for Community Champion, Baern in Anstruther and The Rhynd Café in Leuchars for Independent Café of the Year, and that Baern is also shortlisted for the Sustainability Award; acknowledges that Georgia Scott of the Fairmont St Andrews and Luke Atagan of Craig Millar at 16 West End in St Monans are shortlisted for Rising Star of the Year which is voted on by the public; wishes everyone the best of luck; and looks forward to the results in March.

763US proposals for Gaza

Tabled: 5/02/25 Signatories: 65

Calum Miller

Monica Harding

Helen Maguire

James MacCleary

Layla Moran

Wendy Chamberlain

That this House believes that President Trump’s proposals for Gaza are dangerously irresponsible; recognises the need to uphold the rights and security of all citizens in Israel and Palestine; notes with concern that President Trump’s approach demonstrates total disregard for the rights and aspirations of the Palestinian people; acknowledges the immense suffering that Palestinians have endured for so long; warns that President Trump’s statements will only deepen fear and uncertainty in Palestinians' lives; stresses the importance of maintaining the current ceasefire as a foundation for lasting peace and stability in the Middle East; calls on the UK Government to condemn President Trump’s proposals as both wrong and in violation of international law; and urges the UK to take this moment to immediately recognise Palestine as a state on 1967 Lines and accordingly advance a two-state solution.

764Waitangi Day 2025

Tabled: 5/02/25 Signatories: 4

Andrew Rosindell

Lillian Jones

David Mundell

Jim Shannon

That this House joins the people of New Zealand in celebrating Waitangi Day, their National Day, on 6 February 2025, commemorating the historic signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, that established a partnership between equals for both the Maori people and representatives of the British Crown; notes the importance of maintaining strong ties between the UK and New Zealand; recognises the shared heritage, longstanding trading relationships and deeply intertwined cultural, educational and military ties between the peoples of these two great allies and Commonwealth members who share His Majesty King Charles III as Head of State and Sovereign; and urges the Government to continue to foster and strengthen the special relationship that binds these two nations together.

765Children's Mental Health Week

Tabled: 5/02/25 Signatories: 22

Christine Jardine

Ellie Chowns

Dr Roz Savage

Adam Dance

Steff Aquarone

Ian Sollom

That this House celebrates Children’s Mental Health Week 2025, running from 3 to 9 February; notes with concern that 50% of children and young people with lifetime mental health problems first experience symptoms by the age of 14; further notes that this year's theme is Know Yourself, Grow Yourself, which is aimed at encouraging children and young people to use self-awareness to understand and regulate their emotions; acknowledges the positive impact of this approach on building resilience, developing healthy relationships, and avoiding self-destructive behaviours; also notes the positive impact this support can have on young people experiencing difficult life events such as bereavement; and calls on the Government to introduce a dedicated mental health professional in every school to make this vital support more accessible to every child.

766Pathway Project 32 year anniversary

Tabled: 5/02/25 Signatories: 3

Dave Robertson

Mary Kelly Foy

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates Pathway Project for 32 years of vital work supporting survivors of domestic and sexual abuse in Staffordshire; recognises that, in that period, Pathway Project has helped more than 25,000 people, and in the past year alone provided almost 6,000 hours of support and received 3,500 calls to its helpline; further recognises the transformational impact that Pathway Project's work can have on survivors, who have referred to the organisation as the place that gave them back their life; and hopes that the charity will continue to support all those who need its help for many years to come.

767Elliot Holmes Memorial Fund

Tabled: 5/02/25 Signatories: 3

Dr Lauren Sullivan

Mary Kelly Foy

Jim Shannon

That this House commends the invaluable work of the Elliot Holmes Memorial Fund, a Community Interest Company based in Gravesham, focused on providing direct access to mental health counselling for young people locally; notes that the Memorial Fund was set up by Kerry Holmes and her husband, Peter Scutts, after the tragic loss of her 19 year old son Elliot to suicide in 2020; recognises the Memorial Fund for their work in referring and funding 341 young people in Gravesham to counselling services since 2022, including 24 young people already referred so far in 2025; further recognises their impact in bettering access to critical mental health support for young people in Gravesham; and also recognises the need for services like those funded by the Elliot Holmes Memorial Fund across the country to provide timely, effective mental health intervention at the point of need to prevent further tragic losses of young people.

768Safety regulations for large-scale battery storage facilities

Tabled: 5/02/25 Signatories: 11

Charlotte Cane [R]

Dr Roz Savage

Adam Dance

Christine Jardine

Anna Sabine

Pippa Heylings

That this House notes the increasing reliance on battery storage facilities, particularly lithium-ion technologies, to support renewable energy projects and grid stability; acknowledges the concerns raised by residents and emergency services in Ely and East Cambridgeshire regarding the safety implications of such sites; calls for such concerns to be recognised during the consideration of the planned Sunnica Energy Farm; recognises the risks posed by thermal runaway events, including fires, explosions, and the release of toxic gases; expresses alarm at the potential for soil and water contamination from firefighting runoff and chemical leaks; believes that the current regulatory framework governing battery storage safety is inadequate; calls on the Government to urgently review and update regulations to ensure robust safety standards for large-scale battery storage facilities, including clear guidance on site location, emergency response protocols, and environmental protection measures; and urges the Government to provide clarity on which department holds responsibility for these regulations, along with a timeline for their implementation, to ensure these facilities can contribute to greater renewable energy infrastructure and net zero targets while also safeguarding public safety.

769Heather Kent's contribution to tackling litter

Tabled: 6/02/25 Signatories: 3

Dr Roz Savage

Helen Maguire

Jim Shannon

That this House recognises the exceptional efforts of Heather Kent, founder of the A Bag a Day Keeps Litter Away initiative, for her tireless commitment to improving the environment through regular litter-picking and community engagement; commends her dedication to raising awareness about the importance of maintaining clean and safe public spaces; celebrates the positive impact her actions have had on the local community and beyond, inspiring others to take pride in their surroundings and contribute to a cleaner environment; and calls on the Government and local authorities to support and encourage grassroots environmental initiatives, like Heather's, which play a vital role in fostering community spirit and protecting the natural environment.

770Recognition of Paralympian Phoebe Paterson Pine

Tabled: 6/02/25 Signatories: 3

Dr Roz Savage

Helen Maguire

Jim Shannon

That this House recognises the remarkable achievements of Phoebe Paterson Pine, an exceptional Paralympic archer who has represented Great Britain with distinction; celebrates her gold medal victory in the Women's Individual Compound Open event at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, showcasing her incredible skill, dedication, and resilience; acknowledges her role as an inspiration to athletes with disabilities and her contribution to raising the profile of Paralympic sport in the UK; commends her advocacy for greater inclusivity in sport and her efforts to encourage more people with disabilities to participate in athletic pursuits; and calls on the Government to continue supporting Paralympians like Phoebe by providing adequate funding and opportunities to ensure that British athletes can continue to excel on the world stage.

771Responders to Storm Éowyn

Tabled: 6/02/25 Signatories: 2

Carla Lockhart

Jim Shannon

That this House expresses its deep gratitude to all those who stepped up in the aftermath of Storm Éowyn, demonstrating remarkable resilience, dedication, and community spirit; recognises the extraordinary efforts of Northern Ireland Electricity engineers, call handlers, and all utility workers who worked around the clock to restore power and assist those affected; commends the response of individuals, community groups, and businesses who provided hot meals, charging facilities, washing facilities, and warm spaces to those in need; acknowledges the emergency responders and statutory authorities for their swift action in ensuring public safety; pays tribute to the farmers who helped clear roads and supported their communities; welcomes the £1 million financial assistance package from the Minister for Communities, Gordon Lyons MLA, to aid those impacted; and thanks the UK Government for its role in securing mutual aid, ensuring that helicopters, generators, batteries, and additional engineers were swiftly deployed to support recovery efforts upon request from the NI Executive.

772Mental health in farming

Tabled: 6/02/25 Signatories: 21

Sarah Dyke

Graham Leadbitter

Edward Morello

Mr Alistair Carmichael

Adam Dance

Jess Brown-Fuller

That this House recognises the mental health crisis among the British agricultural sector; acknowledges that 95% of farmers in the UK under the age of 40 ranked poor mental health as one of the biggest hidden problems facing the industry; is concerned by RABI’s findings that revealed that one-in-five respondents to their Big Farming Survey knew someone within the sector who had taken their own life; further recognises the host of challenges facing British farmers from high energy, feed and fertiliser costs to unfair trade deals that have undercut the industry; understands that climate change has increased the risks of flooding and temperature increases that reduce crop yields and disrupt growing seasons; shows regret at the Government’s recent proposed changes to APR and BPR that will have a negative impact on family farms across the country that are already struggling to be profitable; commends the work of mental health charities such as the Farm Safety Foundation whose annual Mind Your Head campaign aims to raise awareness of this growing issue within farming; and calls on the Government to reverse the changes to APR, increase the farming budget by £1 billion a year and improve access to mental health services in rural areas by supporting the continued roll-out of mental health hubs.