Contents

Published – Wednesday 26 March 2025

Early Day Motions tabled on Tuesday 25 March 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

1002100th anniversary of East Belfast District Scouts

Tabled: 25/03/25 Signatories: 3

Gavin Robinson

Carla Lockhart

Sammy Wilson

That this House notes the 100th anniversary of the East Belfast District Scouts; commends District Lead Volunteer Gareth McAuley and his team for a hugely successful celebratory centenary parade and service at Campbell College, Belfast on 23 March 2025; acknowledges the selfless dedication of scout leaders past and present; honours the generations of young people who have benefitted through fun, gained values and skills for life; and wishes East Belfast District Scouts every success for the next 100 years and beyond.

1003Support for the World Health Organization

Tabled: 25/03/25 Signatories: 1

Monica Harding

That this House affirms its support for the World Health Organization (WHO); believes that President Trump’s decision to withdraw from the WHO via an executive order is irresponsible and dangerous; recognises that in an interconnected world, global health security and national health security are closely connected; further recognises that multilateral cooperation is vital for addressing health threats arising from climate change, anti-microbial resistance, low vaccination rates, and the proliferation of conflict and state fragility; further believes that the WHO’s work on these issues and on pandemic preparedness is essential for delivering the improved global health outcomes that will help to keep the UK safe; welcomes the Government’s continued support of the WHO; and calls on the Government to encourage its American counterparts to restart support and funding for the WHO.

1004Bangladesh Independence Day

Tabled: 25/03/25 Signatories: 1

Shockat Adam

That this House celebrates the 54th anniversary of the independence of Bangladesh; recognises the events of the Liberation War as a reminder of the importance of the right to self-determination and freedom; commemorates all those who sacrificed their lives for the freedom and independence of Bangladesh; remembers the victims of the atrocities committed during the conflict, particularly the widespread use of rape as a weapon of war; further recognises the huge progress Bangladesh has made, particularly in social and economic development, since 1971; acknowledges the efforts of the interim government to navigate the current political transition period; and calls for continued support for Bangladesh’s political stability and the need for a transition into a democratically elected government with free and fair elections to ensure long term stability in Bangladesh.

1005Royal Academy of Arts proposed job reductions

Tabled: 25/03/25 Signatories: 1

John McDonnell

That this House expresses its serious concerns at the proposals of the Royal Academy of Arts to put at risk the jobs of nearly 100 staff which will undermine many of the core functions of the Academy; and calls upon the management of the Academy to enter into serious and meaningful negotiations with the union representing the staff to secure an agreed way forward that protects the interests of both the Academy and its staff.

1006Rural market towns

Tabled: 25/03/25 Signatories: 1

Lizzi Collinge

That this House recognises Kirkby Lonsdale as one of the top places to live in the UK, as reported by The Sunday Times; applauds the community for their continued work following a devastating fire in December; and agrees that rural market towns are an asset to our country.

1007BBC Sounds provision

Tabled: 25/03/25 Signatories: 4

Liz Saville Roberts

Ben Lake

Llinos Medi

Ann Davies

That this House recognises the importance of BBC sounds for audiences across the UK and the world; expresses deep disappointment with the BBC’s decision to restrict the use of BBC sounds to listeners living in the UK; further recognises that access to Radio Cymru on BBC Sounds plays a significant role in connecting the Welsh diaspora with Wales; notes that this will have a negative impact on Welsh speakers living outside of the UK; further notes that it will specifically have a detrimental impact on the next generation of Welsh speakers outside the UK; and seeks clarity from the BBC about the reason behind this decision.

1008Amlwch Viking Festival 2025

Tabled: 25/03/25 Signatories: 4

Llinos Medi

Ben Lake

Ann Davies

Liz Saville Roberts

That this House celebrates the return of Amlwch Viking Festival on 26 and 27 July 2025; extends its congratulations to the organisers of the event; pays tribute to Amlwch Town Council and to Val Roberts, Eric Roberts, John Byast and Di and Titch Craddock, the late John Hughes Britannia and Peter Williams who first established this festival in 1996; expresses enthusiasm about the Viking re-enactments scheduled to take place; notes that the Amlwch Viking Festival provides a unique and immersive insight into the Viking’s way of life; recognises that Amlwch Viking Festival offers an opportunity for people across the community to come together and enjoy a cultural experience; acknowledges that such events have a positive impact on the local economy and tourist industry; offers best wishes to the festival organisers and Amlwch community.

1009Avanti West Coast ticket offices and station staffing

Tabled: 25/03/25 Signatories: 1

Rebecca Long Bailey

That this House understands that First Group majority-owned rail operator Avanti West Coast has been undertaking a stations rostering review; is alarmed at reports that this review may be used to undermine ticket offices and station staffing, with Manchester Piccadilly, Birmingham New Street and London Euston stations particularly affected; recognises that the RMT union has longstanding concerns about Avanti’s failure to fill station staff vacancies and its widespread reliance on fixed-term contracts, leading to delays at ticket offices and closures of ticket offices during their regulated hours; is concerned that these issues persist despite the overwhelming opposition to the 2023 ticket office closures proposals which demonstrated the importance of ticket offices and staff for many passengers; acknowledges that a recent Transport Committee report found that the ticket office closure plans risked significantly damaging people’s access to rail and the presence of staff is often a crucial determinant as to whether disabled people are able to travel by rail; expresses concern that Avanti’s proposals risk detrimental impacts on passenger safety, service and accessibility; notes that Avanti paid out dividends of £8.1 million in 2024; further notes that Avanti is on a National Rail contract managed and funded by the Government; and therefore calls on the Government to instruct Avanti to permanently fill all existing vacancies, transfer staff on fixed term contracts onto permanent contracts and ensure its ticket offices and stations are properly staffed.

101030th anniversary of Manor Estates Housing Association in Edinburgh

Tabled: 25/03/25 Signatories: 1

Dr Scott Arthur

That this House celebrates the 30th anniversary of Manor Estates Housing Association in Edinburgh; acknowledges the significant contributions Manor Estates Housing Association has made to the local community since its establishment in 1995; recognises the vital role it has played in providing affordable, high-quality housing and fostering a sense of community among residents; commends the dedication and hard work of the staff, volunteers and residents who have contributed to its success over the past three decades; and calls on the Government to continue supporting charitable housing associations like Manor Estates Housing Association to ensure they can keep delivering essential services and improving the quality of life for people in their communities.

1011Benefit reforms and Personal Independence Payment consultation

Tabled: 25/03/25 Signatories: 6

Mr Clive Betts

Clive Efford

Abtisam Mohamed

Valerie Vaz

Melanie Onn

Karl Turner

That this House welcomes proposals which have the objective of ensuring more young people are supported into work; wishes to ensure that the people with the most severe disabilities continue to get Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and other support; and, to ensure this happens, requires the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions to fully consult on all changes to PIP eligibly criteria before such measures are put before Parliament for a vote.

1012Congratulating Barry Ahearn

Tabled: 25/03/25 Signatories: 1

Helen Maguire

That this House congratulates Barry Ahearn who completed 27 half marathons in honour of his sister Abbie Walsh who sadly passed away following a cardiac arrest during an epileptic seizure in September 2023; applauds that his amazing efforts have raised awareness of the seriousness of the condition; recognises that the funds he has raised will further epilepsy research and support those already suffering with the condition; notes that Wednesday 26 March 2025 is Purple Day, Epilepsy Awareness Day; further recognises that around 1 in 100 people in the UK have epilepsy; and calls on the Government to improve the diagnosis of epilepsy and the supply of the necessary medication so those with the condition can be identified and treated as soon as possible.

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.

927World Kidney Day 2025

Tabled: 11/03/25 Signatories: 23

Daisy Cooper

Ian Roome

Jim Shannon

Helen Maguire

Mr Joshua Reynolds

Andrew George

That this House acknowledges that World Kidney Day takes place on Thursday 13 March 2025; recognises that an estimated 3.5 million people are living with later stage, 3-5, chronic kidney disease (CKD), although many remain undiagnosed; further recognises the mental health impacts of severe CKD, evidenced through 67% of patients living with CKD reporting symptoms of depression; regrets the financial impacts on patients due to multiple trips to hospital per week for life sustaining treatment, the inability to work regular hours, and increased utility bills due to energy intensive medical equipment negatively impacting patients’ finances; understands that CKD cases are often preventable, and by detecting CKD early, it is possible to slow or stop the progression of the disease, and prevent it from reaching the stages at which it is most severe; commends charities, such as Kidney Care UK, and their work on the Bloody Amazing Kidneys campaign, which raises awareness of the disease and encourages people most at risk of chronic kidney disease to get tested; notes that half of the 135,000 people who took the Bloody Amazing Kidneys campaign kidney health check were at risk of kidney disease, mainly because of high blood pressure; and calls on the Government to prioritise the early detection of kidney disease, and develop guidelines so that other services and support vital for kidney patients, including transport, social care, and mental health support, are uniformly available, with no postcode lotteries.

929Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

Tabled: 11/03/25 Signatories: 18

Jim Shannon

Andrew George

Tom Morrison

Ayoub Khan

Carla Denyer

Ellie Chowns

That this House notes that March is Prostate Cancer awareness month; highlights that prostate cancer has become the most common cancer in England, with a massive 25% increase in cases between 2019 and 2023 and a further 1,100 men being diagnosed each year in Northern Ireland; underlines the importance of awareness campaigns and the difference they have, leading to thousands more men getting an early and lifechanging diagnosis; further notes that despite the huge increase in prostate cancer cases, there is still no national screening programme and as the disease often has no symptoms in its earlier stages, this situation means too many men find out they have cancer only after it’s spread and become harder to treat; and calls upon the Government to update NHS guidelines so that more can be done to increase early diagnosis and save more lives.

934Workplace disabilities and sickle cell disease

Tabled: 12/03/25 Signatories: 18

Bell Ribeiro-Addy

Jim Shannon

Jon Trickett

Ayoub Khan

Carla Denyer

Ellie Chowns

That this House regrets that despite being a serious lifelong condition, sickle cell disease is not consistently recognised in workplaces; notes that many employers still lack awareness of how the condition affects daily life, resulting in individuals living with sickle cell disease finding it difficult to secure flexible working, reasonable adjustments or medical leave without penalty; calls on the Government to take steps to protect the workplace rights of people living with sickle cell disease by recognising it as a workplace disability requiring clearer guidance under the Equality Act 2010; encourages the Department for Work and Pensions to promote a programme of sickle cell disease awareness training for employers, HR teams, and occupational health providers so employees are not subjected to misunderstanding or mistreatment; and further calls on the Government to expand Access to Work support so that employees with sickle cell disease can receive financial assistance for transport, workplace adjustments, and flexible working options.

936Future of the adoption and special guardianship support fund

Tabled: 12/03/25 Signatories: 49

Jess Brown-Fuller

Wera Hobhouse

Adam Dance

Steve Darling

Cameron Thomas

Dr Al Pinkerton

That this House expresses deep concern over the future of the adoption and special guardianship support fund (ASGSF), which is set to expire on 31 March 2025; recognises the vital role the fund plays in providing essential mental health services to adopted children and those under special guardianship orders, supporting nearly half of the work undertaken by organisations such as Beacon House in Chichester; notes with alarm the uncertainty surrounding its continuation, which is causing significant anxiety among families and service providers who rely on this critical support; acknowledges the importance of stable, long-term funding for these vulnerable children to ensure they receive the therapeutic and mental health services they need to thrive; and calls on the Government to provide urgent clarification on the future of the ASGSF and commit to securing its continuation beyond March 2025.

937Keeping transport workers safe

Tabled: 12/03/25 Signatories: 42

Steve Witherden

Andy McDonald

John McDonnell

Richard Burgon

Jon Trickett

Grahame Morris

That this House notes with concern the findings of the TSSA union’s latest report entitled Keep transport workers safe – no to abuse and harassment on the transport network; further notes that the report suggests violence and abuse directed at transport workers is endemic and that these workers regularly face racial and sexual harassment and abuse, threats, assault, including assault with weapons; believes that this is unacceptable and that all workers have a right to work in dignity, free from abuse and harassment; further believes that this behaviour is not inevitable, it can be tackled, and that the Government’s public transport reforms are a key opportunity for doing that; and supports the recommendations in the report, including legislative measures to increase the protection of transport workers, an enhanced funding settlement for British Transport Police that allows it to carry out its functions without service cuts or recruitment freezes, stricter penalties for offenders, mandatory reporting of violent and abusive incidents alongside the creation of regulatory bodies to oversee workplace safety specifically in relation to violence and abuse, and guidance for employers on implementing support systems, reporting, training, and a zero-tolerance culture for abuse and harassment on the transport network.

938Provision of essential humanitarian supplies, electricity and water sanitation in Gaza

Tabled: 12/03/25 Signatories: 22

Ellie Chowns

Carla Denyer

Siân Berry

Ayoub Khan

Adrian Ramsay

John McDonnell

That this House condemns the Israeli Government’s decision of 3 March 2025 to halt the entry of all humanitarian aid and commercial supplies, including fuel and food, to Gaza, and its decision of 9 March 2025 to cut off electricity to Gaza’s main desalination plant; recognises that these actions violate international humanitarian law and amount to collective punishment of 2.2 million people in Gaza for the terrible crimes committed against Israeli and other citizens by Hamas; records that Gaza was already experiencing a water and sanitation catastrophe following overwhelming damage and destruction of water and sanitation infrastructure due to the Israeli Defence Force’s military operations and the ongoing unlawful blockade; further recognises that Amnesty International has described these actions as inhumane and unlawful; considers these actions to be evidence that the Israeli Government is deliberately imposing conditions of life calculated to bring about the physical destruction of Palestinians in Gaza, an act prohibited under the Genocide Convention; and calls on the UK Government to take steps to prevent genocide, as it is obligated to do, including through implementing a full arms embargo on Israel, working to secure comprehensive sanctions against Israel and other actions to hold Israel accountable for grave breaches of international law.

942Minister for Coastal Communities

Tabled: 13/03/25 Signatories: 11

Martin Wrigley

Steff Aquarone

Jess Brown-Fuller

Edward Morello

Ian Roome

Rachel Gilmour

That this House calls on the Government to appoint a Minister for Coastal Communities to help tackle the unique set of issues that coastal communities face; and urges the Government to implement the recommendations of The Future of Seaside Towns: Follow-up Report to allocate a Ministerial portfolio within the Department specifically for seaside towns to create a clear point of contact and demonstrate the importance of these areas within the levelling up agenda, ensure the Minister with this portfolio attends all meetings of the Interministerial Group on Levelling Up to ensure coastal perspectives are considered, and develop a national coastal communities strategy in collaboration with the Local Government Association, coastal interest groups, and the private and third sectors.

943Three promotion places from the National League

Tabled: 13/03/25 Signatories: 10

Kate Osborne

Jon Trickett

Grahame Morris

Ian Lavery

Nadia Whittome

Margaret Mullane

That this House recognises the importance of the pyramid system in English football; welcomes efforts to distribute revenue more fairly across the system, and acknowledges the vital role of the 72 National League clubs as the top tier of non-League football in England; applauds the National League’s adoption of the Salary Cost Management Protocol next season to align with the English Football League (EFL), helping maintain the record of no National League club entering liquidation since 2013; supports the National League’s 3-Up campaign for three promotions into the EFL, welcoming the EFL’s willingness to discuss this, noting that it aligns with the Independent Football Regulator’s three objectives; and calls for the regulator to use its backstop to ensure both financial and promotional fairness within the National League system.

944Wellbeing benefits of outdoor education to young people

Tabled: 13/03/25 Signatories: 26

Tim Farron

Ian Roome

Martin Wrigley

Helen Maguire

Adam Dance

Edward Morello

That this House recognises the significant benefits of outdoor learning for children and young people; urges the Secretary of State to undertake a review of the value of those benefits; notes that more time learning outdoors provides an opportunity for children to learn skills and characteristics to cope with many of the societal problems of climate change, worsening child mental health, and high child obesity levels; further notes that there is significant evidence that outdoor learning and youth work enables better engagement with education, builds pro-environmental behaviours from a young age, and establishes team work and resilience in young people; and recognises that these practices build on a long heritage of outdoor learning in the UK.

946SEND in schools

Tabled: 14/03/25 Signatories: 17

Mr Lee Dillon

Wera Hobhouse

Steve Darling

Adam Dance

Mr Joshua Reynolds

Zöe Franklin

That this House recognises the need for further classroom provisions to be implemented for children with SEND; notes with concern that resources for pupils with SEND are very limited and that there is a need for extra school places for such pupils; congratulates Castle School in Newbury for the commencement of a project that will create 32 extra classroom spaces for children with SEND; recognises the vital role that West Berkshire Council played in the investment of this project, highlighting its commitment to improving SEND education; and calls on the Government to support projects such as the one at Castle School to improve education for children with SEND.

949Reductions in welfare spending

Tabled: 14/03/25 Signatories: 25

Siân Berry

Carla Denyer

Kim Johnson

Sorcha Eastwood

Nadia Whittome

Liz Saville Roberts

That this House believes that the welfare system should be based on dignity and respect; further believes that years of damaging austerity inflicted upon public services and welfare provision by previous Conservative Governments has brought our communities to breaking point, with people in receipt of health-related benefits already facing inordinate hardships as a result; notes that the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights has called on the UK Government to take corrective measures to address the immense negative impact of welfare cuts made since 2010; is concerned that 50 per cent of people claiming Universal Credit who have limited capability for work are unable to heat their homes or pay their bills and have low food security; is further concerned that, according to Scope, an added 700,000 disabled households will be pushed into poverty by the cuts rumoured to be set out in the forthcoming Green Paper on welfare reform; considers there is no moral case for making these cuts, the impact of which would be catastrophic for millions of disabled people; calls on the Government to address the root issues that lead to welfare claims, namely housing insecurity, poor quality jobs, huge wage inequality and a soaring mental health crisis; and further calls on the Government not to scapegoat disabled people by cutting the welfare payments on which they depend.

950Royal Television Society and withdrawal of award to journalists in Gaza

Tabled: 14/03/25 Signatories: 18

John McDonnell

Ben Lake

Liz Saville Roberts

Llinos Medi

Ann Davies

Neil Duncan-Jordan

That this House expresses its strong concern at the decision by the Royal Television Society to scrap a special recognition award for journalists in Gaza; further expresses its support for the demand by nearly 400 people, including many prominent journalists, for full transparency about how the Society arrived at this decision; and also expresses its regret that this act by the Society displayed an appalling failure to respect the sacrifices made by journalists in Gaza, including the loss of 170 lives.

952Banking hubs

Tabled: 17/03/25 Signatories: 21

Chris Coghlan

Helen Maguire

Andrew George

Brian Leishman

Steff Aquarone

Caroline Voaden

That this House welcomes the return of in-person banking and cash services, with the opening of a banking hub in the market town of Dorking; notes that banking hubs offer important everyday banking transactions and a community banker for more specific or complex enquiries; acknowledges the contribution of Cash Access UK in supporting communities that have lost access to bank and building society branches; and further notes that more full-service banking hubs are urgently needed across the UK.

953Independent advisory panel on Department for Work and Pensions-related deaths

Tabled: 17/03/25 Signatories: 16

John McDonnell

Andrew George

Brian Leishman

Neil Duncan-Jordan

Ayoub Khan

Jim Shannon

That this House is alarmed by the continued use of the fatally flawed work capability assessment, adopted by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to limit the access of disabled people to long-term disability benefits and that is linked to a growing public mental health crisis and suicides; is concerned that the chronically ill and disabled community are living in fear of DWP as they are threatened with additional cuts to the welfare budget, guaranteed to cause more human suffering on a vast scale; highlights the devastating consequences of these punitive policies, which have forced people into poverty, mental distress, and, tragically, even to their deaths; and calls on the Government to establish an independent advisory panel with full powers to investigate DWP-related deaths and suicides caused by the DWP's failed systems.

955Carbon monoxide safety

Tabled: 17/03/25 Signatories: 9

Jim Shannon

Andrew George

Brian Leishman

Ayoub Khan

Siân Berry

Ellie Chowns

That this House recognises the dozens of British lives lost to carbon monoxide poisoning each year; expresses concern at the underreporting of carbon monoxide incidents, due to low awareness, diagnosis and death classification; notes the additional risks of carbon monoxide poisoning to those travelling abroad, due to weaker appliance standards; identifies the life-saving importance of carbon monoxide alarms, which should be installed wherever combustion appliances are used indoors and taken travelling as a precaution; further notes the concerning availability online of substandard alarms; and urges members of the public to follow UK carbon monoxide alarms regulations and use only British standard-compliant alarms.

962Rhys McClennaghan Dancing with the Stars champion

Tabled: 17/03/25 Signatories: 2

Jim Shannon

Gavin Robinson

That this House notes the success of Rhys McClennaghan who was crowned 2025 Dancing with the Stars champion; congratulates this world class Olympic athlete on yet another victory; highlights the tremendous encouragement that Rhys gives to young people not simply in his hometown of Newtownards, but throughout Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK to be active and understand that success on the global stage comes with hard-work at home; and offers best wishes to world-class athlete Rhys McClennaghan as he continues to compete and inspire others to work towards their goals.

963Chronic urinary tract infections and women's health

Tabled: 17/03/25 Signatories: 24

Helen Maguire

Helen Morgan

Dr Roz Savage

Luke Taylor

Andrew George

Wera Hobhouse

That this House recognises the urgent need for improved care and support for those suffering from chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs), a debilitating condition that significantly impacts quality of life; notes with concern the lack of awareness, research, and effective treatment options available to patients; acknowledges that women's health as a whole demands greater attention, funding, research and care from the Government; and calls on the Government to prioritise investment in women's health, improve access to specialist care, and ensure that those affected by chronic UTIs or other debilitating conditions receive the diagnosis and treatment they deserve.

965Coalfields Regeneration Trust funding

Tabled: 18/03/25 Signatories: 43

Grahame Morris

Elaine Stewart

Ian Lavery

Adam Jogee

Paul Davies

Steve Yemm

That this House recognises the invaluable contribution of the Coalfields Regeneration Trust (CRT) in supporting economic regeneration, employment, and growth in coalfield communities across the UK; notes that the CRT was established in 1999 by the then Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott to address the economic and social challenges resulting from the closure of coal mines in the 1980/90s; acknowledges that the CRT received direct Government funding between 1999 and 2015 and has since developed an innovative community wealth-building model that reinvests rental income from industrial units into local economic and social initiatives; further notes that the CRT is requesting £10 million per annum in capital funding over the next five years to develop a minimum of two industrial unit projects per year, providing 500,000 square feet of new industrial space and generating over 1,000 new jobs upon completion, alongside hundreds of construction jobs and additional supply chain benefits; further recognises that this investment would generate up to £4 million annually in self-sustaining revenue for coalfield communities; highlights the independent evaluation by the Centre for Local Economic Strategies which found that the CRT delivers an annual economic benefit of £413 million, generates £7.50 in local community returns for every £1 invested, and provides £35.4 million in annual cost savings to the state; and urges the Government to approve the CRT’s funding request as a key part of its mission to bring growth to every part of the UK and as part of the Government’s neighbourhoods and communities strategy.

971Bank closures

Tabled: 19/03/25 Signatories: 25

Alex Brewer

Wera Hobhouse

Steve Darling

Jim Shannon

Helen Maguire

Adam Dance

That this House notes with concern that Santander is set to close its Fleet High Street branch at the end of June 2025;believes that this closure, along with others across the country, will greatly impact many in our community who rely on high street bank branches for essential services, particularly the elderly, disabled, and those without transport; further notes that many residents from surrounding rural villages already face significant challenges in accessing banking services, and that this closure will exacerbate those difficulties; acknowledges the disproportionate impact of branch closures on rural communities, where public transport options are limited and alternative banking facilities are scarce; and calls on the Secretary of State to urgently engage with banks and local MPs to prevent further branch closures before the establishment of adequate banking hubs in these areas.

973St Patrick's Challenge Trophy, Northern Ireland Volleyball

Tabled: 19/03/25 Signatories: 3

Carla Lockhart

Jim Shannon

Gavin Robinson

That this House congratulates Northern Ireland Volleyball on their outstanding achievement in retaining the St Patrick's Challenge Trophy on 15 March 2025, an annual competition between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland; acknowledges the triumph of the four Northern Ireland National Teams, who defeated their counterparts by three matches to one; recognises that many of the talented athletes involved are from Upper Bann constituency and serve as excellent role models; praises the exceptional work of the Northern Ireland Volleyball Federation, whose volunteers work tirelessly to raise the profile of volleyball, introduce more people to the sport, and prepare squads for international competition; commends the fast, skilful, and competitive nature of volleyball, a sport that is accessible to all and played with great respect and spirit; notes the successful hosting of these international fixtures at South Lakes Leisure Centre, and congratulates Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council for their support in hosting the event; encourages the council to continue backing Northern Ireland Volleyball; further recognises the sold-out nature of the event and looks forward to the planned 5 Nation Volleyball Championship at the venue in June 2026; and calls on SportNI to continue its support for Northern Ireland Volleyball in helping the sport to grow and reach its full potential.

974Personal Independence Payment

Tabled: 19/03/25 Signatories: 8

Ayoub Khan

Shockat Adam

Jim Shannon

Jeremy Corbyn

Siân Berry

Chris Law

That this House strongly condemns the recent decision by His Majesty's Government to implement £5 billion cuts to Personal Independence Payment, a vital lifeline for individuals with disabilities, chronic health issues, and mental health problems across the United Kingdom; believes that such measures unfairly target some of the most vulnerable people in our society, contravening the principle that those with the broadest shoulders should contribute more; is deeply disappointed that a Labour Government would enact policies that appear to punish rather than support those in need of assistance, contradicting core Labour values of social justice and equality; further believes that parliamentarians have a duty to uphold the dignity and well-being of all citizens, ensuring that adequate support systems are available for the most disadvantaged; therefore urges the Government to reconsider its approach, prioritising the protection of essential support; and calls for an immediate reversal of these cuts and the implementation of a fairer taxation system where contributions are aligned with the ability to pay, ensuring that those facing the greatest financial challenges are not left to bear the heaviest burdens.

977Lagan Valley’s Special Olympics gold medallists

Tabled: 20/03/25 Signatories: 3

Sorcha Eastwood

Jim Shannon

Christine Jardine

That this House sends its biggest congratulations to Caolán McConville and Lucy Best from Lagan Valley on their brilliant achievements at the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 in Italy; celebrates Caolán winning gold in the giant slalom and Lucy winning gold in the novice division, which were amazing accomplishments especially given the lack of snow sports facilities in Northern Ireland; recognises their hard work, dedication, and talent in representing their community on the world stage; applauds them for inspiring others to get involved in sport; and wishes them all the best for the future.

979Scottish Tourism Month 2025

Tabled: 20/03/25 Signatories: 5

Jamie Stone

Wendy Chamberlain

Jim Shannon

Graham Leadbitter

Christine Jardine

That this House recognises that March is Scottish Tourism Month; notes the importance of the tourism industry in the Highlands, welcoming over two million visitors every year; highlights the significance of the tourism and hospitality sector to the economy and culture of the Far North, bringing in £762 million from international and domestic visitors in 2023; acknowledges that the Highlands possess some of the most unique, diverse, and breathtaking scenery in the United Kingdom; celebrates the hard work of all of those working in the tourism industry; and recommends that all enjoy the beauty and adventure that Scotland has to offer.

982Support for young disabled people after education

Tabled: 20/03/25 Signatories: 19

Max Wilkinson

Ellie Chowns

Helen Maguire

Tom Gordon

Liz Jarvis

Claire Young

That this House acknowledges the findings in the National Star and the Together Trust’s report entitled What Comes After Education; recognises the report’s key findings, including that young people do not feel listened to, feel worried about leaving education, need access to meaningful activities, want to choose where they live and who they live with, want to be able to work, want meaningful relationships, need reasonable adjustments to attend university, and that transition plans must be proactive and involve the young person and their family; urges the Government to consider the report’s findings when deciding on changes to welfare policy; and calls on the Government to enact the report’s recommendations when enacting welfare changes.

984The Advisory Group’s Glasgow Banking Steering Committee

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 2

Martin Rhodes

Jim Shannon

That this House commends the work of The Advisory Group’s Glasgow Banking Steering Committee in highlighting the significant challenges faced by communities in accessing essential banking services, including financial discrimination, restricted access to cash, and the dwindling number of free-to-use ATMs; recognises the dedication and tireless efforts of Committee Chairperson Rebecca, alongside Committee Members Andy, Christine, Clare, Dylano, and Laura, in advocating for fairer, more inclusive banking provisions that serve the needs of all members of society; welcomes the ongoing efforts to ensure these concerns are meaningfully addressed through the development of Banking Hubs in Scotland, providing accessible, community-focused financial services; and acknowledges the importance of community-led initiatives in shaping an inclusive and accessible banking system for all.

985Access to football pitches for women and girls

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 11

Helen Maguire

Ian Roome

Anna Sabine

Wera Hobhouse

Mr Joshua Reynolds

Rachael Maskell

That this House expresses concern over ongoing inequalities in access to quality training facilities for women’s and girls’ football; notes that women's and girls’ teams are often allocated pitches in worse locations and poorer conditions than their male counterparts; further notes reports from local clubs that training slots for women's teams are frequently being taken by men’s teams, limiting opportunities for women and girls to participate in the sport; believes that equal access to quality facilities is essential for gender equality in football; and calls on the Government, local authorities, and sporting bodies to take urgent action to ensure fair distribution of pitches and training resources for players at all levels.

986Fee waivers for ILR applications

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 11

Kim Johnson

Rachael Maskell

Jim Shannon

Neil Duncan-Jordan

Nadia Whittome

Bell Ribeiro-Addy

That this House supports the Refugee and Migrant Forum of Essex and London’s call for a fee waiver to be introduced for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) applications for those on family and private life visas; notes that ILR provides security and stability, yet the £2,885 fee is unaffordable for many despite costing the Home Office just £646 to process; regrets that this denies many people, including UK born children and parents of British children, permanent status and forces them into financial hardship and repeated visa renewals; believes this system is counterproductive, creating unnecessary administrative burdens for both individuals and the Home Office; and calls on the Government to introduce a fee waiver to ensure financial barriers do not prevent people securing permanent immigration status after completing their qualifying periods.

987Retrospective awarding of the Humanitarian Medal

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 3

Dr Lauren Sullivan

Jim Shannon

Ayoub Khan

That this House acknowledges the achievements of those firefighters historically who have responded to international disasters, especially those who were inspired in December 1989 to respond to the earthquake in Armenia after seeing the scenes of suffering and devastation there, and who have responded to other international disasters since in countries such as Bosnia, Tanzania, Japan and Ukraine; commends the efforts of retired firefighter Michael Evenson, now living in the Gravesham constituency, to raise awareness of what he and his colleagues did, especially those who have now died; and calls on the Government to make the Humanitarian Medal retrospective so that they can be duly honoured.

98810th anniversary of the reinterment of King Richard III

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 4

Shockat Adam

Jim Shannon

Amanda Hack

Ayoub Khan

That this House celebrates the 10th anniversary of the reinterment of King Richard III in Leicester South; recognises the historic significance of his discovery by the University of Leicester in 2012 and his reburial in Leicester Cathedral in 2015; commends the work of the local archaeologists, historians and the local community in uncovering and preserving this important chapter of British history; notes the continued cultural and educational impact, with the King Richard III Visitor Centre welcoming over 300,000 visitors since its opening; and recognises the importance of heritage-led regeneration in strengthening a city’s identity, tourism economy and community engagement.

98950th anniversary of the Odenwald Association

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 2

Euan Stainbank

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates the Odenwald Association on its 50th anniversary in 2025; recognises the significant contribution made by the Association in fostering friendship, cultural exchanges and mutual understanding between Falkirk and Odenwald since its founding; commends the Association's continued efforts to promote Scottish-German relations through educational, musical and community events; and wishes the Odenwald Association continued success in strengthening these important international bonds for many years to come.

990Hyndland Secondary School reading championship

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 2

Patricia Ferguson

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates the two teams from Hyndland Secondary School that competed in the Scottish heats of the National Literacy Trust’s Reading Champions Quiz; notes that, out of twenty five competing teams, one Hyndland team secured second place and the other placed twelfth; celebrates this achievement and recognises the hard work and dedication of the pupils in achieving this success; acknowledges the importance of supporting and celebrating a reading culture within schools, encouraging young people to enjoy reading, and enhancing their reading stamina and diversity; and commends the National Literacy Trust for organising the Reading Champions Quiz, which is now in its fifth year and has a recognised and lasting impact with over 80% of past participants reporting it boosted their confidence and encouraged them to read more.

991Corpus Christi Primary School's Big Brew coffee afternoon

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 2

Patricia Ferguson

Jim Shannon

That this House commends Corpus Christi Primary School in Glasgow West for hosting a Big Brew coffee afternoon to raise money to support fairer trade and climate justice; congratulates the work of the P6 Fairtrade Committee for organising this event; further commends the pupils who worked hard on the day to make the event a success, from serving tea, coffee and treats, to selling raffle tickets and the can you guess numbers game, and speaking so well about the issue of farmers’ pay and the impact of switching to Fairtrade products; notes that in hosting this event, the pupils drew attention to an important issue, raised awareness of the small changes we can make in order to consume in a smarter, fairer and greener way; and acknowledges the work of Transform Trade in organising the Big Brew 2025 Campaign, providing fun activities and ideas for hosting these events, as part of their important fundraising work.

992Boghall Butchers

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 2

Kirsteen Sullivan

Jim Shannon

That this House celebrates the achievement of Bathgate's Boghall Butchers whose kebab pie was crowned champion at the British Pie Awards in Melton Mowbray; acknowledges the creativity and dedication of Christine and Paul Boyle in developing the award-winning pie, featuring a doner kebab filling; recognises the significance of this victory among 900 entries from across the UK, involving many diverse and unique competitors; commends the Boyle family's butcher shop, which has been serving the community for 50 years; further recognises the butchers as a point of pride for the Bathgate community; and wishes Boghall Butchers well in future.

993Bridgend Pet Supplies

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 2

Kirsteen Sullivan

Jim Shannon

That this House celebrates the success of Bridgend Pet Supplies, a social enterprise initiated by Bridgend Primary School in collaboration with the Social Enterprise Academy; notes the project's origins in addressing the local community's need for accessible pet supplies; praises the innovative approach taken by the learners, who conducted market research and utilised their skills in sewing and crocheting to create products; thanks the support received from parents and the generous donations of sewing machines and food mixers following the first Partnership Event; congratulates the learners on their entrepreneurial spirit, demonstrated by selling their products at school events, other schools' fayres, and the Social Enterprise Awards; further notes the enterprise's profitability and the learners' commitment to using their profits for a social cause; wishes them well with their plan to create a garden area for growing vegetables and establishing a community cafe to foster social interaction among local residents; and further celebrates all initiatives that empower young people, train crucial entrepreneurial skills and strengthen community ties.

994Petty crime

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 2

Ayoub Khan

Jim Shannon

That this House acknowledges the increasing concerns of constituents in Birmingham and the West Midlands regarding the rise in petty crime, which undermines community safety and confidence; recognises the impact of these offences on individuals, local businesses, and the overall quality of life; calls upon the Government to implement a robust strategy to tackle petty crime effectively across the country, including through supporting local police forces with additional resources and funding, and fostering stronger collaborations between the police, local councils, and community groups to address the root causes of petty crime; and urges the Home Office to review and significantly strengthen existing policies to act as a deterrent against such offences, so protecting the Government's commitment to the safety and security of all citizens.

995Repair of Hammersmith Bridge

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 2

Ayoub Khan

Jim Shannon

That this House calls upon the Government to urgently put in place the work necessary to repair Hammersmith Bridge to reopen the bridge for all users, including motor vehicle users, recognising the vital importance of Hammersmith Bridge as a key transport link in London; and believes that the residents in the vicinity and users of the bridge have been failed by successive governments and stakeholders, and deserve action to put in place a repair without delay.

996Second anniversary of Eco Action Hub for Maidenhead and Windsor

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 4

Mr Joshua Reynolds

Helen Maguire

Wera Hobhouse

Jim Shannon

That this House celebrates the second anniversary of Eco Action Hub for Maidenhead and Windsor, a remarkable community organisation dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability and resilience in the Maidenhead and Windsor areas; recognises the invaluable contributions of Eco Action Hub for Maidenhead and Windsor in fostering a greener and healthier borough through their diverse initiatives, including the Repair Café, Library of Things, and educational workshops; commends their efforts in bringing local people together to take positive action in the Climate Emergency, helping individuals make small but impactful changes in their lives to combat climate change and loss of biodiversity; applauds their commitment to creating a vibrant and enjoyable space that inspires the community to contribute towards a more sustainable future; and wishes Eco Action Hub for Maidenhead and Windsor continued success in their mission to reduce carbon, increase nature, and improve wellbeing for all residents.

997Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance 25th anniversary

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 10

Edward Morello

Helen Maguire

Anna Sabine

Mr Joshua Reynolds

Jim Shannon

Sarah Dyke

That this House recognises the brilliant work of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance on its 25th anniversary of dedicated service; further recognises the extraordinary contribution of its pilots, volunteers, paramedics, and doctors in providing lifesaving pre-hospital critical care to people in need, particularly in remote, coastal and rural areas; notes that the service has responded to nearly 3,000 incidents in the past year alone; acknowledges the vital role the air ambulance plays in transporting patients to Dorset County Hospital; pays tribute to the first patient treated by the charity 25 years ago, who has spoken of his gratitude and the service’s lifesaving impact; applauds the unwavering support of the public, whose donations have enabled the service to grow from small beginnings to a vital emergency response resource; and expresses profound gratitude for the dedication and commitment of all those who have contributed to the continued success of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance in saving lives across the region.

999Linfield FC and the Irish Premier League

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 2

Jim Shannon

Alex Easton

That this House notes the fantastic achievement for Linfield FC to win the Irish Premiership Title with six matches remaining; highlights that Linfield secured their 57th Gibson Cup on Tuesday after nearest challengers Glentoran were held to a 2-2 draw by Larne; underlines that Linfield have not won the league for the past two seasons and that credit must be given to Killyleagh man David Healy, the Manager and his team, for this remarkable success; congratulates Linfield on this success; and wishes them all the very best for the future.

1000Ensuring stability for Ukrainian refugees in the UK

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 10

Pippa Heylings

Helen Maguire

Ian Roome

Wera Hobhouse

Mr Joshua Reynolds

Rachael Maskell

That this House believes that Ukrainian refugees fleeing war must be treated with compassion in the UK; recognises that the war in Ukraine still wages on, more than three years after Putin first invaded; notes with concern recent reports that some Ukrainian refugees have faced losing their homes and jobs due to uncertainty around their visa extensions; acknowledges that Ukrainian refugees deserve certainty, enabling them to rebuild their lives in the UK if they wish and fully contribute to our economy; further acknowledges that certainty regarding visa extensions would grant young Ukrainians the opportunity to complete their education in the UK to protect and enhance their future; and calls on the Government to give Ukrainian refugees the certainty they deserve by automatically extending their visas and setting out a pathway for obtaining Indefinite Leave to Remain.

1001Changes to Great Western Railway ticket offices and stations

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 4

John McDonnell

Jim Shannon

Neil Duncan-Jordan

Ayoub Khan

That this House is alarmed that First Group rail operator Great Western Railway (GWR) has proposed a number of changes to its stations and ticket offices which include reducing ticket office windows and opening hours; is shocked that it should propose these changes despite the unprecedented and overwhelming public opposition to plans in 2023 to close around 1,000 ticket offices, including at GWR, which demonstrated the importance of ticket offices and station staff for many rail passengers; recognises that the recent Transport Committee report found that the ticket office closure plans risked significantly damaging people’s access to rail and the presence of staff is often a crucial determinant as to whether disabled people are able to travel by rail; is concerned that GWR’s proposals will undermine the role of ticket offices, to the detriment of passenger safety, security and accessibility; understands that the RMT union, which represents GWR station staff, is opposed to these proposals and has expressed concerns about a lack of proper negotiation by the company; notes that GWR paid out dividends of £24.3m in 2024; further notes that GWR is operating under a National Rail contract managed and funded by the Government; and calls on the Government to instruct GWR to scrap its proposed changes to ticket offices and stations and commit to retaining all ticket office and station staffing levels, operating hours and window provision.