Contents

Published – Tuesday 8 April 2025

Early Day Motions tabled on Monday 7 April 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

1061British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 4

Ann Davies

Ben Lake

Llinos Medi

Liz Saville Roberts

That this House is deeply concerned regarding the impact of the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme (BCSSS) scandal; notes that, in the Autumn Budget, the Government released equivalent funds from the Miners’ Pension Scheme (MPS), but this welcome move to improve former miners’ pensions was not extended to the BCSSS; highlights that the Government’s failure to release frozen funds is causing immense hardship for people who have paid into the system for decades but are now left without the vital support they need and deserve; further notes that the BCSSS Trustees have been campaigning for members of the BCSSS to be treated equally to members of the MPS; agrees with the Trustees in their view that the £2.3bn BCSSS investment reserve should be transferred to members as soon as possible; and calls on the Government to review how any future surplus in the BCSSS is shared between members and the Government.

1062Dementia strategy for Devon

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 1

Caroline Voaden

That this House recognises the creation of a new dementia strategy for Devon; celebrates the work of the Devon Dementia and Memory Care Delivery Group, which includes voluntary, community and social enterprise colleagues and people with lived experience, amounting to over 40 organisations across Devon, Torbay and Plymouth; calls on the Government to ensure the upcoming NHS ten year plan includes improved dementia services, with a dedicated dementia strategy in all parts of the UK; and further calls on the Government to ensure that anyone suffering from dementia can expect the highest standard of care and are supported to live free from fear and stigma.

1063Ukrainian Action Team Devon

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 1

Caroline Voaden

That this House congratulates the Ukrainian Action Team Devon on the remarkable achievement of donating their 50th vehicle to support Ukraine; acknowledges the dedication and commitment of all volunteers involved; commends the team for sending seven trucks of vital aid to Poland on 8th March 2025, ensuring essential supplies reach those in need; pays special tribute to volunteer Adam Steward for his continued efforts, including his journey to the frontline in Ukraine, where he donated his vehicle to assist in evacuating elderly and disabled individuals from frontline villages, marking the 50th vehicle donated by the team; recognises the profound impact these donations and convoys have on the lives of vulnerable people and communities in Ukraine; and urges continued recognition of the vital work carried out by Team Devon.

1064Robert May’s school and STEM racing competition

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 1

Alex Brewer

That this House congratulates the two F1 teams at Robert May’s School on their participation in the STEM Racing competition; commends Team Echo for being invited to compete in the World Championships in Singapore this autumn; notes that this remarkable achievement has required significant imagination, creativity, and hard work to project manage, design, build, and race a mini F1 car; recognises that, alongside car construction, the students have managed all aspects of marketing and sponsorship, and will continue to do so to raise the £25,000 needed for the World Championships; and celebrates this F1 project as a fun and exciting way to engage students in STEM.

1065Securing habitat for endangered swifts and other cavity nesting birds

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 1

Barry Gardiner

This House notes with concern the dramatic decline in the breeding population of swifts whose numbers have dropped by 60% since 1995; recognises that the loss of natural nesting habitat for swifts and other cavity nesting birds has meant that four species of these birds are now on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species; welcomes the fact that Barratt Homes, Vistry and other members of the Home Builders Federation have stated they have no objection to legislation that would require the incorporation into all new domestic buildings of swift bricks, which are universal bricks that would provide nesting habitat for eight species of small bird, and that these would not delay or increase the costs of the Government's house-building plans; and therefore urges the Government to introduce such regulations at the earliest opportunity so as to prevent the extinction of one of our most loved species.

1066Wokingham Borough Council awarded Local Authority of the Year

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 1

Clive Jones

This House congratulates Wokingham Borough Council on its shortlisting for Municipal Journal's Local Authority of the Year Award; celebrates the improvement Wokingham Borough Council has consistently demonstrated since its change in administration in 2022; agrees with its Leader, Councillor Stephen Conway, that what really matters is how the Council works for residents; commends particularly the hard work put in by staff to sustain the Council's improvement; and recognises that of the seven finalists for the award, six have the Liberal Democrats as a party of administration.

1067150th anniversary of Wokingham Town Football Club

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 1

Clive Jones

This House joins Wokingham Town Football Club in celebrating its sesquicentennial this year; recognises the importance that grass roots and non-league football clubs have in their communities across the UK; and wishes the Sumas another successful 150 years to come.

1068Clwb Rygbi Caernarfon (Caernarfon Rygby Club) and Division 1 Cup Final

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 4

Liz Saville Roberts

Ben Lake

Llinos Medi

Ann Davies

That this House warmly congratulates Clwb Rygbi Caernarfon (Caernarfon Rygby Club) on their stunning 30 - 29 victory against Bridgend Athletic at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday; notes that this was Clwb Rygbi Caernarfon’s first appearance in the WRU Division 1 Cup Final; further notes that hundreds of dedicated Caernarfon supporters travelled down to Cardiff to watch the match; pays tribute to the team’s head coach Carl Russell Owen, the players, and all the volunteers and supporters who help run the club throughout the year; recognises that Clwb Rygbi Caernarfon was established in 1973 with the club ground located at Y Morfa, Lôn Parc, Caernarfon; and gives thanks to the club for developing and mentoring local rugby talent through their first, second, youth, and women’s teams, alongside an extensive junior section.

1069Oaklands College success in sport and academia

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 1

Daisy Cooper

That this House recognises the outstanding work being carried out by Oaklands College in fostering sporting, academic and vocational excellence; commends the College for its longstanding commitment to developing talent and providing students with exceptional opportunities since 1921, most recently exemplified by the establishment of the Sports High Performance Centre; notes the College’s role in supporting elite athletes, with distinguished alumni such as Paralympic Champion Olivia Breen, Olympic medalist Daryll Neita, and former England footballer and broadcaster Alex Scott, demonstrating the success of its high-quality coaching and development programmes; acknowledges the College’s rising student outcomes as a result of its focus on academic achievement, career readiness and the integration of technology-enabled learning to enhance student engagement and skills development; further recognises its strong partnerships with local, regional and national employers to provide students with relevant experience and industry-aligned skills; highlights the College’s significant investment in its new Construction Centre, which will provide state-of-the-art training facilities to equip students with the technical expertise needed to excel in the construction industry and continue to develop facilities for construction and engineering; and calls on the Government to continue supporting institutions like Oaklands College that play a crucial role in nurturing sporting, academic and vocational success.

1070Belfast Giants

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 1

Jim Shannon

That this House notes the success of the Belfast Giants on becoming the 2024-25 Elite League Champions, with a 4-3 win away to Nottingham Panthers; highlights that this victory gives the Giants a fourth regular season title in the last five years, showcasing the true talent of ice hockey in Northern Ireland; further notes the commitment and dedication of all the managers and players to the sport and that people across Northern Ireland love attending Belfast Giants games to support their home team; sends massive congratulations; and looks forward to celebrating further success in the future.

1071Trailblazers Powerchair Football Club

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 1

Jim Shannon

That this House recognises the success of the Trailblazers Powerchair Football Club, becoming Powerchair Football Premier League Champions; notes that the Trailblazers travelled to TU Dublin Blanchardstown to contest the final round of the league, defeating runners up Midlands United 4-0 in a fantastic match; highlights that this result means the Trailblazers were undefeated all season and that the champions conceded only one goal during their league campaign; further notes the impact this will have on disabled people out there who are wanting to get involved in sport and that the Trailblazers have proven inspirational for so many; wishes them the very best for future games; and believes that the team thoroughly deserve this wonderful success.

1072Small and medium-sized enterprises in defence procurement

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 1

Helen Maguire

That this House recognises the vital role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK defence industry, providing innovation, flexibility and high-quality jobs across the country; notes with concern the longstanding inefficiencies in the Ministry of Defence’s procurement system, including delays, overspends and inflexible processes that restrict SME participation; believes that defence procurement must be reformed to be more adaptable, accountable and strategically integrated into a broader industrial strategy; urges the Government to support the better integration of SMEs into the domestic supply chain, enabling them to further contribute to developing the UK's sovereign defence capabilities; calls on the Government to secure a UK-EU defence pact which would enable access for UK firms to European defence funding programmes; and further calls on the Government to support the development of a rearmament bank with our partners in Europe, providing further access to finance for UK firms.

107325 years of the Water of Leith visitor centre

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 1

Dr Scott Arthur

That this House congratulates the Water of Leith Conservation Trust on their upcoming event marking 25 years since the opening of the Water of Leith visitor centre; further congratulates and thanks the Trusts' team and volunteers on the work that they do to improve the area along the Water of Leith working to protect and improve the river, its heritage and wildlife; and wishes them well for the future as they look to continue to serve the local area and its communities.

1074International Day of the Midwife

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 1

Dr Simon Opher

That this House recognises the International Day of the Midwife, on 5 May, along with its theme for 2025, ‘Midwives: critical in every crisis’; expresses its support for midwives in the United Kingdom and around the world for the vital contribution they make in providing care and support to women and their families during pregnancy, throughout labour and during the period after a baby’s birth; notes however that, globally, we are facing a growing number of compounding crises, including natural disasters, war, and the ongoing impact of climate change, which can threaten the safe, effective delivery of maternity care; recognises the importance of the role of midwives in caring for women during these challenging times; further recognises that, in both times of peace and in times of crisis, midwives can and do support safe births and provide antenatal and postnatal care as well as sexual and reproductive healthcare, and educate and prepare women with the knowledge and tools they need to stay safe and healthy; and commends the contribution made by the International Confederation of Midwives and the Royal College of Midwives in championing better, safer maternity care, at home and abroad.

1075King's Award for Voluntary Service to Old Kilpatrick Food Parcels

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 1

Douglas McAllister

That this House congratulates Old Kilpatrick Food Parcels, recipients of The King's Award for Voluntary Service; notes that this is the highest recognition for a local voluntary group in the UK; understands that the King's Award will be presented to Old Kilpatrick Food Parcels by His Majesty's Lord Lieutenant for Dunbartonshire at a special ceremony in Clydebank Town Hall on Thursday the 10th of April; acknowledges their outstanding contribution to West Dunbartonshire by providing essential food support and companionship through their community food pantry, Chatty Cafe and community events; recognises their exceptional work to reduce social isolation and their tireless dedication to supporting the most vulnerable members of society through compassion and kindness; and wishes Old Kilpatrick Food Parcels every success and all the best for the future.

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.

984The Advisory Group’s Glasgow Banking Steering Committee

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 4

Martin Rhodes

Jim Shannon

John Grady

Patricia Ferguson

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.

1000Ensuring stability for Ukrainian refugees in the UK

Tabled: 24/03/25 Signatories: 44

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: 17

John McDonnell

Jim Shannon

Neil Duncan-Jordan

Ayoub Khan

Kim Johnson

Shockat Adam

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.

1003Support for the World Health Organization

Tabled: 25/03/25 Signatories: 31

Monica Harding

Helen Maguire

Claire Young

Rachael Maskell

Jim Shannon

Zöe Franklin

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.

1009Avanti West Coast ticket offices and station staffing

Tabled: 25/03/25 Signatories: 19

Rebecca Long Bailey

Ayoub Khan

Neil Duncan-Jordan

Jim Shannon

Kim Johnson

Cat Smith

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.

1015Beer festivals 2025

Tabled: 26/03/25 Signatories: 12

Martin Wrigley

Wera Hobhouse

Mr Joshua Reynolds

Adam Dance

Ian Roome

Mr Angus MacDonald

That this House gives special thanks to MaltingsFest in April 2025, supported by the Society of Independent Brewers, Warminster Maltings, and Newton Abbot Town Council; further gives thanks to other beer festivals across the country; supports businesses struggling with the hike in the cost-of-living which is impacting businesses and jobs across the South West and the whole UK, including the increases in utilities costs, raw material prices, and National Insurance contributions; and thanks CAMRA and the BBPA for their work supporting pubs and breweries across the country.

1016Radiotherapy (No. 2)

Tabled: 26/03/25 Signatories: 35

Tim Farron

Helen Maguire

Wera Hobhouse

Ellie Chowns

Andrew George

Steff Aquarone

This House acknowledges the urgent need for a bold and comprehensive National Cancer Plan to reduce cancer waiting times from point of referral; recognises that radiotherapy is a lifesaving, highly advanced, and cost-effective treatment needed in half of all cancer cures and by one in four people in the UK at some point in their lives; pays tribute to the frontline professionals delivering this care across the country; notes with concern that cancer waiting times have been routinely missed in recent years, with too many patients unable to access modern radiotherapy; and calls for the National Cancer Plan to prioritise improving access to curative radiotherapy, invest in AI technology that empowers clinicians, and ensure patients receive timely, effective treatment to ease pressures on NHS cancer services, waitlists, workforce, and technology.

1017Government review into Volumetric Concrete Mobile plants

Tabled: 26/03/25 Signatories: 10

Mr Alistair Carmichael

Graham Leadbitter

John McDonnell

Kim Johnson

Mr Angus MacDonald

Jim Shannon

That this House celebrates the Volumetric Concrete Mobile (VCM) sector employing 15,000 skilled workers in 155 constituencies, contributing £380m to the economy and £100m to the Exchequer; notes that from 1975 VCMs have run at weights above 32 tonnes to produce concrete with zero waste, servicing multiple customers, pouring different strengths of concrete on one circuit, saving an estimated 14 million concrete lorry miles pa on UK roads, eliminating 598,000 lorry journeys and 120,000 tonnes of CO2 creating a 20% increase in CO2, nitrogen oxide and particulates, generating carbon costs of £7 million pa and requiring 200 more HGV drivers; further notes that VCMs avoid wasting c.4.8 billion litres of water pa required by old-fashioned drum mixers to flush out concrete waste, and expresses concern that National Highways failed to carry out an environmental impact assessment on cutting VCM weights to 32 tonnes, and made no account in its calculations of the fact that most VCMs weight under 32 tonnes after the first delivery of the day while almost all drum mixers weigh 32 tonnes for their entire journey to every site and failed to question the c40 roll-overs of drum mixers as against one for VCMs; highlights that 5-axle 44 tonne VCMs manufactured and exported from the UK are road legal in many countries including Canada, Denmark and Brazil; and urges Ministers to review this decision and make the current 38.4 and 44 tonne weight limits permanent before the next election, honouring a pledge given before the 2024 election.

1020Scams and fraud

Tabled: 28/03/25 Signatories: 28

Alex Brewer

Sarah Gibson

Clive Jones

Wendy Chamberlain

Helen Maguire

Mr Angus MacDonald

That this House expresses deep concern over the rise of scams across the UK which target older and vulnerable people; notes the speed at which new technologies continue to provide increasingly sophisticated tools to criminals to commit fraud, at the cost to thousands of individuals who often face little chance of compensation; recognises that scams can be in a variety of forms, including but not limited to, phone scams, cold calls, postal scams, doorstep scams, email scams, pension scams, and investment scams; and calls for increased safeguarding processes in retail spaces to ensure that staff have the necessary information and advice to help them spot and avoid scams targeting the money of older or vulnerable individuals.

1022Households below average income

Tabled: 31/03/25 Signatories: 12

Neil Duncan-Jordan

Rachael Maskell

Steve Witherden

Nadia Whittome

Brian Leishman

Jim Shannon

That this House is angered by the latest households below average income figures which reveal that 4.5 million children are living in relative poverty after housing costs, which amounts to nine children in every classroom and a record high; understands there has been an increase in child poverty of 200,000 extra children since last year, estimated to be over 300 extra children in the average constituency that are now dealing with the adverse effects of poverty blotting and limiting their life chances; recognises that 48% of children in poverty live in a household where the youngest child is aged between 0-4, 72% of children in poverty live in a household where someone is in work, 43% of all children in lone-parent households live in poverty, 49% of children in poverty live in a household with 3 or more children, affected by the sibling tax (two-child benefit limit) and 44% of children in poverty live in a household where someone is disabled; believes this situation is a source of national shame; further understands that analysis from Save the Children shows that child poverty numbers will approach 5 million by the end of the Parliament unless urgent action is taken; expresses concern at the negative impact the latest welfare reforms may have on families with disabled members; and calls on the Government to strengthen its commitment to tackling the root causes of poverty and provide a social security system that supports all those in need throughout their lifetime.

1028Whitchurch banking hub

Tabled: 31/03/25 Signatories: 10

Helen Morgan

Jim Shannon

Adam Dance

Helen Maguire

Steff Aquarone

Tim Farron

That this House welcomes the opening of a banking hub in the Shropshire market town of Whitchurch, providing vital in-person banking and cash services to its residents; notes that the constituency of North Shropshire has lost five high street bank branches since 2021; acknowledges the contribution of Cash Access UK in supporting communities that have lost access to building society and bank branches; further notes that rural residents are left isolated by poor transport links and a decline of available high street services in market towns; believes that market towns such as Ellesmere and Wem, which lack any in-person banking services, should be eligible for banking hubs; recognises the danger of digital exclusion to many constituents due to banking increasingly being conducted online; and calls on the Secretary of State for Business and Trade to engage with local Rt hon. and hon. Members and banks to ensure there are adequate in-person banking facilities in every market town.

1036Humanitarian response to the Myanmar earthquake

Tabled: 31/03/25 Signatories: 43

Monica Harding

Luke Akehurst

Jeremy Corbyn

Jess Brown-Fuller

Jim Shannon

Brian Mathew

That this House offers its deepest condolences to the people of Myanmar and Thailand after the devastating earthquake and tragic loss of life; recognises the work done by responders to rescue survivors from rubble, deliver food and provide urgent medical assistance; welcomes the Government’s announcement of a £10 million package to provide life-saving aid; hopes that this can be increased as the scope of the destruction becomes clearer; acknowledges that this earthquake comes after more than four years of Myanmar's brutal civil war, which has left 20 million people in need of humanitarian assistance; condemns the repressive violence of Myanmar’s military junta, in particular the continuing use of airstrikes on civilians in the aftermath of the earthquake; supports the ongoing work of the UN’s Independent Investigative Mechanism on Myanmar to deliver justice for victims and accountability for alleged serious international crimes; encourages the UK to continue to provide critical bilateral assistance to Myanmar, and to work with international partners and through multilateral institutions to ensure humanitarian access for aid delivery; and affirms support for a peaceful, democratic resolution to the conflict for the people of Myanmar.

1037Wealth tax and social security reform

Tabled: 31/03/25 Signatories: 6

Sorcha Eastwood

Jim Shannon

Shockat Adam

Siân Berry

Ayoub Khan

Ellie Chowns

That this House opposes the approach of the UK Government to reforming disability benefits; believes that withdrawing or cutting social security support for those most in need will exacerbate poverty and increase pressure on other public services; recognises that there are more progressive and sustainable ways to generate additional revenue, including tax increases for the super-wealthy; calls on the Government to reconsider the punitive elements of its proposals and ensure fairness and dignity for those requiring welfare support; and further urges the Government to work with devolved administrations on the establishment of a UK-wide commission to develop holistic, cross-departmental proposals for addressing economic inactivity among those with long-term illnesses and disabilities.

1040Tackling child poverty

Tabled: 1/04/25 Signatories: 14

Kirsty Blackman

Chris Law

Stephen Flynn

Seamus Logan

Brendan O'Hara

Graham Leadbitter

That this House believes that every child has the right to a childhood free of poverty; recognises the essential work of child poverty charities who step up to support children where the UK Government is failing them; acknowledges that such charities do so in a context of deepening and spreading poverty and existential operational challenges; thanks Includem, AberNecessities, Save The Children, Child Poverty Action Group, Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Aberlour for sharing their insights at the SNP Westminster Child Poverty Roundtable this week; calls on the Government to scrap the two-child benefit cap, end the assault on social security, reconsider the increase in National Insurance contributions for the charity sector, reconsider changes to Personal Independence Payment criteria, and replicate the Scottish Government’s commitment to eradicating child poverty by matching Scottish Child Payment UK-wide; and further calls on the UK Government to avoid stigmatising and demonising rhetoric when referring to people who require social security support.

1042Energy Technical Academy Group’s Female Introduction to Trades Open Day

Tabled: 1/04/25 Signatories: 5

Susan Murray

Jim Shannon

Sarah Dyke

Mr Angus MacDonald

Pippa Heylings

That this House celebrates the inaugural Female Introduction to Trades Open Day organised by the Energy Technical Academy Group (ETAG) in Kirkintilloch on 29 March 2025; affirms the importance of encouraging women into the trade sector; recognises the work of ETAG as one of Scotland’s leaders in upskilling key skills in much-needed, critical energy service industries; highlights the significance of these trades, such as that of gas engineers, electricians and plumbers, as a vital part of our communities; endorses the commitment to ensuring tradespeople are adequately skilled in installing and working with new technologies within an ever-developing sector; attests to the importance of green, eco-friendly technological solutions for the energy sector; notes their contribution to the future of UK economy by directly helping to alleviate the national shortage of skills; acknowledges the importance of the community having access to trained, trustworthy tradespeople; thanks Jacqui Wilkie for organising the event; and expresses its appreciation for the director Tommy Smith and his team for their innovative outlook and commitment to widening participation in the energy sector.

1043Strode College awarded the CyberFirst Silver Award

Tabled: 1/04/25 Signatories: 6

Sarah Dyke

Helen Maguire

Adam Dance

Jim Shannon

Mr Angus MacDonald

Pippa Heylings

That this House congratulates Strode College on being awarded the CyberFirst Silver Award by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC); acknowledges the College’s exceptional efforts in advancing cybersecurity education and inspiring students to pursue careers in the sector; praises the successful hosting of CyberCon by Strode College’s T Level students, which brought together industry leaders, practitioners and professionals for interactive workshop sessions and career exploration; welcomes the practical experience and guidance offered to students through such an initiative; notes the opportunity afforded by the CyberFirst bursary of £4,000 available annually for students progressing into cyber-related higher education; commends Strode College’s ongoing work to strengthen the UK’s cyber workforce by equipping young people with vital skills and access to future employment in cybersecurity; and urges the Government to increase investment in further education colleges delivering digital and cybersecurity training to meet the national skills demanded in an ever increasing technologically advanced world.

1045Disability hate crime

Tabled: 1/04/25 Signatories: 23

Christine Jardine

Lisa Smart

Wera Hobhouse

Helen Maguire

Adam Dance

Brian Mathew

That this House condemns the increase in recorded disability hate crime across the UK; notes with concern that, despite an overall drop on the previous year, there were more than 10,000 incidents recorded in England and Wales in the year to March 2024, with conviction rates for violent offences at just 1%; further notes with concern the increase in disability hate crime in Scotland; supports the work of charities including United Response in raising awareness of the impact of this crime; commends their recent survey on the impact of disability hate crime on public transport; expresses its shock at the scale of this issue, with 24% of those surveyed experiencing disability hate crime in the previous quarter, but just a third felt comfortable enough to report the incident to the authorities; and calls on the Government to introduce a statutory aggravated offence for disability hate crime.

1046News journalism and artificial intelligence tools

Tabled: 1/04/25 Signatories: 10

Rebecca Long Bailey

Claire Hanna

John McDonnell

Kim Johnson

Ian Lavery

Neil Duncan-Jordan

That this House recognises the vital importance for a democratic society of professional news reporting, photography and broadcasting; understands the desire of the Government to foster a business climate favourable to investment and development of artificial intelligence in the United Kingdom; is concerned, however, to ensure that technological developments are not allowed to undermine the economic sustainability of employment in professional news journalism; believes that it is vital that news reporters, photographers, broadcasters and other creatives are properly remunerated and credited where their work is used as the basis for derivative content using artificial intelligence; urges requirements on developers of artificial intelligence models to use content only where consent has been provided for set purposes, ensuring transparency over the sources of their training data; and therefore calls for the introduction of effective regulatory protections to protect the future of our media and creative industries.

1047Work of the Royal British Legion in Stratford-on-Avon

Tabled: 2/04/25 Signatories: 8

Manuela Perteghella

Helen Maguire

Adam Dance

Wera Hobhouse

Ian Roome

Mr Angus MacDonald

That this House recognises the vital work of the Royal British Legion branches across Stratford-on-Avon, including in Alcester, Bidford-on-Avon, Newbold-on-Stour, Claverdon, Henley-in-Arden, Long Compton, Shipston-on-Stour, Stratford-upon-Avon and Studley; praises their tireless efforts to ensure that remembrance is kept alive and that the sacrifices of our brave service men and women are never forgotten; acknowledges the role of the Legion in giving a voice to the ex-service community and raising awareness of the challenges they face, including poor access to key services; commends the Stratford-upon-Avon branch for running the Royal British Legion Club on Bull Street, which provides a social space for veterans and regularly hosts band nights that showcase local talent; and celebrates the legion’s fantastic team of fundraisers and their continued commitment to supporting veterans and their families throughout the constituency.

1048Libraries in state primary schools

Tabled: 2/04/25 Signatories: 18

Imran Hussain

Jeremy Corbyn

Neil Duncan-Jordan

Ellie Chowns

Colum Eastwood

Mr Will Forster

That this House welcomes the National Literacy Trust and Penguin Random House’s Libraries for Primaries campaign; is concerned that research shows that one in seven state primary schools in the UK do not have a library or dedicated library space; understands that children in disadvantaged areas are disproportionately affected by this; urges the Government to add data collection on libraries in schools to the school census; congratulates the campaign for transforming over 1,000 school libraries and training over 2,500 teachers and support staff so far; notes that the UK needs to go further, as there is currently no statutory requirement for schools to have a library despite the positive effects the statutory requirement to have libraries in prisons has had in that space; is further alarmed by the results of the National Literacy Trust’s Annual Reading Survey which shows that two thirds of children and young people do not read for pleasure; recognises the personal benefits reading for pleasure brings to children and their development including higher attainment, increased opportunities and better wellbeing; highlights research by British Land with the National Literacy Trust which shows that reading for pleasure can result in more children getting five good GCSEs, which in turn would boost their lifetime earnings and raise the UK’s GDP to deliver economic growth; and believes all schools in the country should have a library or dedicated library space, particularly in the context of the current reading for enjoyment crisis.

1049Camelon Bowling Club award of £2,000 grant from Flutter UKI

Tabled: 2/04/25 Signatories: 2

Euan Stainbank

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates Camelon Bowling Club on being awarded a £2,000 grant as part of the Flutter UKI Cash4Clubs grassroots sports programme; recognises the vital role that Camelon Bowling Club plays in promoting local participation in sport and physical activity; commends the club’s ongoing commitment to improving its facilities and supporting coaching programmes for its members; and acknowledges the importance of the Cash4Clubs programme in providing financial support to community sports clubs, enabling them to enhance their operations and sustainability, as demonstrated by the continued success of the programme, which this year has supported 200 clubs across the UK and Ireland.

1050Israeli Defence Force attacks on humanitarian workers

Tabled: 2/04/25 Signatories: 52

Tom Morrison

Layla Moran

Helen Maguire

Adam Dance

Ben Lake

Liz Saville Roberts

That this House is deeply shocked by the killing of 15 paramedic and rescue workers in Gaza, whose bodies were discovered handcuffed in mass graves following an attack from the Israeli Defence Force; notes the statement by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, condemning the attack and calling for an independent, prompt and thorough investigation into the deaths; recognises the essential and life-saving work carried out by humanitarian personnel, including those from the Palestine Red Crescent Society, Palestinian Civil Defence, and UNRWA, who came under fire while attempting to rescue their injured colleagues in Rafah on 23 March 2025; strongly condemns all attacks on humanitarian workers, which constitute a grave violation of international law; urges the UK Government to take immediate action by calling for an independent investigation, holding those responsible to account and ensuring the protection of humanitarian personnel in conflict zones; and asks the Government to put every effort into ensuring the unconditional and immediate release of hostages and the lifting of the Israeli government's illegal blockade of Gaza.

1051Gerry Watkins

Tabled: 2/04/25 Signatories: 4

Dr Roz Savage

Mr Angus MacDonald

Jim Shannon

Pippa Heylings

That this House congratulates Gerry Watkins on receiving the Unsung Hero Award for his exceptional service to the community in Cirencester; recognises his dedication and selfless efforts in helping the homeless and vulnerable; acknowledges his tireless work, which includes running projects such as the Big Yellow Bus which has provided accommodation for the homeless since September 2017; further recognises his efforts on Food for Thought, a new initiative aimed at providing hot meals, drinks, clothes, and essential support to those in need; commends Gerry on providing company and emotional support to the lonely and vulnerable members in his community; notes that 345,000 people are currently homeless, and that 47% of adults aged 16 and above experience loneliness; and calls on the Government to increase the provision of the necessary support for the lonely and the homeless, especially in rural communities.

1052Protecting children from data exploitation

Tabled: 2/04/25 Signatories: 17

Victoria Collins

Munira Wilson

Max Wilkinson

Dr Danny Chambers

Caroline Voaden

Steff Aquarone

That this House believes that social media platforms and online services must be designed with children’s safety in mind; notes that under current UK law, children as young as 13 can have their personal data collected, processed, and used for targeted advertising and algorithm-driven content; further notes that the majority of EU Member States set 16 as the minimum age for personal data processing; further believes that younger users are particularly vulnerable to manipulation by addictive platform design and invasive data collection practices; also notes that algorithms fuelled by children’s personal data can lead to addictive engagement loops, exposure to harmful content, and increased risks of online exploitation; and calls on the Government to set the UK’s digital age of consent for data processing at 16, in line with many other European jurisdictions, ensuring that social media platforms and other online services prioritise children’s rights, safety, and wellbeing by default.

105380th anniversary of Christian Aid

Tabled: 3/04/25 Signatories: 3

Douglas McAllister

Ellie Chowns

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates Christian Aid on its 80th anniversary; recognises that for 80 years Christian Aid has been fighting poverty and injustice; commends the organisation for offering hope to communities who need it most; praises its work towards a world where all can live with dignity, equality and justice; celebrates eight decades of fundraising, community support and tackling poverty worldwide; thanks their volunteers for 80 years of church fundraisers, door to door collections and sponsored events; further recognises that Christian Aid is as relevant today as it was 80 years ago; and wishes them every success for the future.

1054Recognition of the Deuchar family’s service to Denny and Dunipace

Tabled: 3/04/25 Signatories: 2

Euan Stainbank

Jim Shannon

That this House recognises the exceptional and longstanding service of Dr Robert Andrew Deuchar and his family to the community of Denny and Dunipace over eight decades; acknowledges Robert's invaluable contributions as a GP and founding member of Denny Cross Medical Centre, where he provided dedicated healthcare to local families for over 40 years; commends his leadership as Pipe Major of the Denny and Dunipace Pipes and Drums, helping the band achieve widespread recognition; and honours the Deuchar family’s long involvement in the Boys’ Brigade, with Robert's father, John Jamieson Deuchar, serving as Captain for over 40 years, fostering the development of generations of local youths and Robert’s son Kenneth following into his father’s footsteps as GP partner in Denny Cross Medical Centre.

1055Bathgate 80th anniversary of VE Day Commemoration

Tabled: 3/04/25 Signatories: 2

Kirsteen Sullivan

Jim Shannon

That this House celebrates the Bathgate 80th anniversary of VE Day Commemoration event as the first in Britain; acknowledges the exceptional efforts of St Kentigern’s Academy, Windyknowe Primary, Boghall Primary School, Whitburn Brass Band, Sing West Lothian Choir, and singers Alan Brydon and Georgina McKenzie in making the event a resounding success; thanks the organisers from the Ancre Somme Association, including Bathgate man Tommy Davidson, for creating a touching and special event to mark 80 years on from VE Day; recognises the importance of such commemorations in remembering the sacrifices made by our Armed Forces and educating future generations about our shared history; and highlights the vital role of our volunteers in honouring and supporting the families of our brave men and women.

1056Fife Carers Centre

Tabled: 3/04/25 Signatories: 6

Wendy Chamberlain [R]

Manuela Perteghella

Mr Angus MacDonald

Jim Shannon

Olly Glover

Pippa Heylings

That this House celebrates that Fife Carers Centre are the latest Carers Trust Scotland Network Partner in Scotland; welcomes Sandra Morris, Fife Carers Centre’s general manager, and her team to the Network; notes that Carers Trust Scotland partner with local carer organisations to provide funding and support, deliver innovative and evidence-based programmes, raise awareness and influence policy to help support local carer organisations to deliver localised action, whilst influencing the environment for unpaid carers UK-wide; and recognises that the network of local carer organisations currently has 24 local carer organisations in Scotland, covering 70% of Scotland’s local authorities and actively supporting over 32,000 unpaid carers.

1057Cupar Scouts King's Scout Award

Tabled: 3/04/25 Signatories: 5

Wendy Chamberlain

Manuela Perteghella

Mr Angus MacDonald

Jim Shannon

Pippa Heylings

That this House celebrates three Cupar Explorer Scouts on being presented with the King’s Scout Award, the highest youth accolade in scouting; congratulates Zoe Nimmo, Beth Harvie and Fergus Alexander, who were honoured in a ceremony at Cupar Scout Hall; and recognises that all three have earned their Duke of Edinburgh Gold Awards, volunteered as Young Leaders for several years, participated in numerous expeditions, been selected for international Scouting events and led community projects.

1058International Day for Mine Awareness

Tabled: 3/04/25 Signatories: 13

Helen Maguire

Monica Harding

Manuela Perteghella

Lisa Smart

Brian Mathew

Tom Morrison

That this House recognises International Day for Mine Awareness on 4 April 2025; acknowledges the UK’s proud history in championing the Mine Ban Treaty and producing many of the world’s deminers; notes with deep concern the devastating impact of landmines, cluster munitions, and unexploded ordnance, which continue to kill and maim civilians, displace communities, and make land inaccessible for agriculture and economic growth; highlights the urgent need for mine clearance in conflict-affected areas, including Ukraine, where vast contamination threatens lives and livelihoods, and Gaza, now considered the most contaminated place on Earth; further recognises the crucial role of UK aid in supporting global mine action efforts and urges the Government to prioritise and protect this critical area within the aid budget; calls for the diversification of partnerships in mine action, ensuring an integrated approach that includes risk education, land clearance, victim assistance, and advocacy; and stresses the importance of connecting mine action with broader development initiatives to help communities rebuild and thrive.

1059John Irvine’s 50 years of service to the Loyal Orders

Tabled: 3/04/25 Signatories: 2

Alex Easton

Jim Shannon

That this House warmly congratulates John Irvine on the significant milestone of receiving his 50-year jewel, honouring his exceptional dedication and unwavering service to Cottown Loyal Orange Lodge 1029; recognises with great appreciation the extensive range of leadership positions he has diligently undertaken within the Lodge, notably serving with distinction as Worshipful Master and Secretary; pays tribute to his pivotal role in the planning, execution, and successful completion of substantial refurbishment projects to the Lodge hall, particularly highlighting his instrumental efforts in securing essential improvements, including a new roof and upgraded kitchen facilities; acknowledges Mr Irvine’s dedicated service as District Lay Chaplain in Bangor District L.O.L No.18; further acknowledges his longstanding and steadfast commitment to Royal Black Preceptory 209, notably in his dedicated roles as Worshipful Master and Registrar, where he has consistently demonstrated outstanding devotion and loyalty; values his dedicated service and contribution to the local community through his key positions as Treasurer and Vice President of the esteemed Cottown Pipe Band; and extends its sincere gratitude for his many years of devoted community service.

1060Abduction of Ukrainian children

Tabled: 3/04/25 Signatories: 26

Calum Miller

Monica Harding

Helen Maguire

Manuela Perteghella

Ian Roome

Tom Morrison

That this House expresses its anger and revulsion at the abduction of over 30,000 Ukrainian children since the start of Russia's invasion; notes with disgust this tactic of the Russian Armed Forces, which threatens to rob Ukraine of its future; believes that these mass abductions authorised by President Putin constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity; calls for President Putin to be held accountable for these crimes and for the implementation of the outstanding International Criminal Court arrest warrant against him; supports wholeheartedly the work of the Bring Kids Back initiative and the Yale Humanitarian Research Lab (YHRL) to locate and bring home the abducted children; further notes with alarm that US Government funding for the YHRL will soon expire following the decision by President Trump to cease further funding for the programme; also notes with concern that the YHRL has only been given six weeks notice to prepare for the cessation of funding; urges the Government to commit to filling the funding gap for the YHRL, ensuring it can continue its vital work; and further urges the Government to seize the £25 billion of frozen Russia assets across the UK and to direct these to humanitarian, financial and military aid to Ukraine.