Contents

Published – Wednesday 23 April 2025

Early Day Motions tabled on Tuesday 22 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

1084Right to peaceful protest and freedom of assembly

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Lisa Smart

That this House recognises that the right to peaceful protest and freedom of assembly is a cornerstone of a free and democratic society and insists that it must be safeguarded; expresses serious concern over the wide-ranging draconian anti-protest powers introduced by the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 and the Public Order Act 2023 under the previous Government; acknowledges that the police already have the powers they need to stop what goes beyond a peaceful protest; and therefore calls on the Government to repeal the protest-related provisions within these Acts and to reaffirm its commitment to civil liberties and the democratic right to protest.

1085Ian Gibson Fellowship

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Alice Macdonald

That this House welcomes the announcement by the Quadram Institute and UK charity, Invest in ME Research, to fund the first postdoctoral fellowship for research into myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME); congratulates Dr Katharine Seton on being the first fellow and notes that this new position was created to continue and extend research into ME and build on the foundations already in place for further developing the UK/European Centre of Excellence for ME research on the Norwich Research Park; is pleased that the charity has decided to name this fellowship the Invest in ME Research Ian Gibson Fellowship in memory of scientist, Scottish footballer and good friend of people with ME, the late Dr Ian Gibson, who led research into cancer and became Dean of Biological Sciences at the University of East Anglia in 1991 and elected Member of Parliament for Norwich North in 1997; and believes this is a fitting tribute to the former Member for Norwich North who was a highly respected Chair of the Science and Technology Select Committee and an outstanding advocate for science and health.

1086Palantir Technologies, Peter Thiel and the NHS

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Martin Wrigley

That this House believes that Palantir and Peter Thiel should have their hands off our NHS; further believes every individual deserves high-quality healthcare, accessible when and where it’s needed and free at the point of use; furthermore believes in the importance of upholding British democratic values throughout the work of the Government and all public services; notes the negative implications of Government contracts being awarded to those who do not share such values; further notes with concern the awarding of NHS data contracts to Palantir Technologies, a company whose founder and chair has repeatedly been shown not to be in alignment with such values; and supports the call of the Science, Technology and Innovation Committee to protect the interests of data owners, such as NHS patients.

1087Falkirk Schools Pipe Band representing Scotland at the Tartan Day Parade in New York

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Euan Stainbank

That this House congratulates the Falkirk Schools Pipe Band on representing Scotland at New York’s Tartan Day Parade on 6 April 2025; notes that the Band, made up of 37 pupils aged 11 to 17 from schools across the Falkirk district, proudly showcased Scottish musical talent on the international stage during a five-day visit to the United States; commends their performances in the Tartan Day Parade on Sixth Avenue, at Bryant Park and at various iconic locations around Manhattan; applauds their achievements to date, including multiple trophies at the Cowal Highland Gathering and Peebles competitions; and celebrates the international debut of a new composition by Falkirk High School pupil and Falkirk Young Musician of the Year 2024, James Silcock, marking both the Kelpies’ anniversary and the exceptional creativity of young musicians in Falkirk.

1088Northfleet School for Girls award of the Lionesses Futures Fund Pitch

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Dr Lauren Sullivan

That this House congratulates Northfleet Schools Trust on securing £970,000 from the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation; celebrates the creation of a new 3G pitch at Northfleet School for Girls to expand women’s and girls’ football in Gravesham; commends England’s Lionesses as reigning European champions and sends them the support of this House and country as they prepare to defend their title this summer; and welcomes the positive impact this investment will have on sport and community life across Gravesham.

1089Future of children’s palliative care

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Mr Will Forster

That this House notes with concern the findings of the report entitled Built to Last? The State of Children’s Palliative Care in 2025, published by Together for Short Lives; recognises that the report reveals a stark postcode lottery in access to high-quality palliative care for seriously ill children across England, particularly in relation to 24/7 end-of-life care at home; expresses alarm that only 19% of Integrated Care Boards currently commission this service on a formal basis; acknowledges that this disparity is driven by workforce shortages, a lack of accountability among NHS bodies and councils and a significant funding shortfall projected to rise to £310 million by 2025-26; welcomes the vital services provided by organisations such as Shooting Star Children’s Hospices in Surrey Heartlands and surrounding areas; and calls on the Government to urgently implement the recommendations of the report by reviewing the funding and planning of children’s palliative care, investing in paediatric nursing bursaries and specialist consultant training, holding Integrated Care Boards and local authorities to account for delivering on existing policy, and committing to a sustainable, long-term funding model for children’s hospices, including the continuation of ringfenced, centrally distributed funding beyond 2025-26.

1090Introduction of the Hillsborough Law and the 36th anniversary

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Tom Morrison

That this House supports the urgent introduction of the Hillsborough Law to ensure justice, transparency and accountability in public inquiries and inquests; recognises the tireless campaigning of the Hillsborough families and survivors, who have fought for over three decades for the truth to be acknowledged and for meaningful reform; notes that the Hillsborough Law would enshrine a statutory duty of candour on public authorities and officials, ensuring they act with honesty and integrity during investigations and would provide bereaved families with parity of legal representation during inquests; further notes with concern that, despite a commitment made by the Prime Minister in September 2024 that the law would be introduced before the 36th anniversary of the tragedy on 15 April 2025, this deadline was unfortunately missed; believes that this delay risks further undermining trust in the system and prolonging the pain of those affected; and calls on the Government to honour its promise by bringing forward and implementing the Hillsborough Law in full, without dilution, as a lasting legacy of justice and reform in memory of the 97 lives lost at Hillsborough.

109120th anniversary of the Balerno Farmers Market

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Dr Scott Arthur

That this House congratulates Balerno Farmers Market on celebrating its 20th anniversary on 12 April 2025, marking two decades of consistent service to the local community and surrounding areas; recognises the market’s vital contribution to promoting local food, sustainable farming and small independent producers, while strengthening the sense of community and supporting the local economy in Edinburgh South West constituency; commends the dedication of the organisers, stallholders, volunteers and community partners whose continued efforts have made the market a well-loved and successful monthly event since its founding in 2005, which helps define Balerno; acknowledges that the market has grown into a community hub, supporting not only local commerce but also arts, culture, fairtrade and environmental awareness, reflecting the values of resilience, sustainability and civic pride; and congratulates all those involved in the Balerno Farmers Market on this significant milestone, wishing it continued success in the years ahead.

1092Antonine Friendship Link support for West Bank communities

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Euan Stainbank

That this House commends the Antonine Friendship Link for its dedicated support to the community of Jayyous in the West Bank for the past 21 years and amidst the ongoing conflict and challenges arising from surrounding illegal settlements; welcomes the group's efforts to raise awareness through initiatives such as their educational evenings, active participation in Falkirk Charities Day 2024 and all previous years, and organisation of folk nights in the Falkirk district; and thanks the Antonine Friendship Link for highlighting the important human stories behind the conflict and promoting greater understanding and solidarity between communities.

1093Support for active travel

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Sarah Gibson

That this House congratulates the work being led by Active Travel England and specifically the Royal Wootton Bassett Environment Trust which is working to promote active travel in Wiltshire; acknowledges that investment in active travel routes is needed to stimulate local economies; and notes that local authorities need to be empowered so they can leverage the planning system more effectively to deliver local active travel routes.

1094NHS parking charges

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Sarah Gibson

That this House notes with concern that hospital patients, staff and visitors have been charged over £1 billion in car parking fees over the past eight years; recognises the significant financial burden this places on National Health Service staff, who work tirelessly to provide care, and on patients and their families, who should not face exorbitant costs while accessing essential healthcare services; further notes that hospital parking charges amount to an unfair tax on the sick and those who care for them; calls on the Government to cut hospital parking fees for National Health Service staff, patients and visitors; and urges the Government to establish a visitors and caring fund to ensure that National Health Service trusts can offset the revenue lost from parking fees without compromising investment in frontline services.

1095Wiltshire’s LINK schemes and volunteering

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Sarah Gibson

That this House recognises the invaluable work of Wiltshire’s LINK schemes, including Chippenham LINK, Corsham LINK, Calne and District LINK and Royal Wootton Bassett LINK, in providing transport for older and vulnerable residents to NHS appointments and social inclusion events; acknowledges the vital role LINK volunteers play in reducing pressure on local NHS services, particularly in rural areas where public transport options are limited; notes with concern the impact of NHS dental practice closures, which has increased journey times for patients and volunteers alike; further notes the importance of recruiting younger volunteers to ensure the sustainability of these schemes in the long term; and calls on the Government to promote and support volunteer driver initiatives to help maintain essential community transport services.

1096Siemens Mobility in Chippenham

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Sarah Gibson

That this House congratulates Siemens Mobility on its £100 million investment to establish a state-of-the-art rail infrastructure manufacturing, digital engineering and research and development facility in Chippenham; recognises the company's long-standing presence in the town since 1897 and its commitment to innovation, sustainability and high-skilled employment; welcomes the anticipated opening of the new facility in 2026, which will replace the existing factory and accommodate approximately 800 local staff; acknowledges the role of this investment in strengthening the UK's rail technology sector and contributing to the local and national economy; and commends Siemens Mobility for its dedication to advancing rail infrastructure and fostering economic growth in Chippenham and beyond.

1097Corsham Bowls Club centenary celebration

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Sarah Gibson

That this House congratulates Corsham Bowls Club on reaching its centenary year in 2025; acknowledges the club's significant contribution to the local community in Corsham over the past 100 years; notes the successful grand opening of their centenary season on 5 April 2025; recognises the generous support from The Late Lord Methuen's Charitable Trust and Corsham Town Council in facilitating the club's recent developments; and wishes Corsham Bowls Club continued success and prosperity in its next century of promoting the sport of bowls within the community.

1098Practical driving tests in the South West

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Sarah Gibson

That this House notes the significant delays in access to practical driving tests across the United Kingdom; recognises the particular impact this has on learners in rural areas where access to public transport is limited and the ability to drive is often essential for employment, education and caring responsibilities; acknowledges the measures introduced by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency, including the recruitment of additional examiners and the extension of the driving test cancellation period from three to ten working days, effective from 8 April 2025; expresses concern over reports of third-party resellers charging learners up to £195 for test bookings that officially cost £62 on weekdays; and calls on the Government to intensify efforts to reduce driving test waiting times in the Chippenham constituency and the South West more broadly.

1099Scottish Men’s Team Curling World Championship gold

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

John Cooper

That this House congratulates Bruce Mouat, Grant Hardie, Bobby Lammie, Hammy McMillan, Kyle Waddell and team coach Michael Goodfellow on winning gold at the BKT World Curling Championships for Scotland; notes that this is Team Mouat’s second world championship title, winning also in 2023; commends their efforts winning silver at the 2024 European Championships; further congratulates them on retaining the rank of world number one men’s team; praises their hard work and dedication competing in elite level sport; and wishes them every success in their future sporting endeavours.

1100Rory McIlroy’s grand slam victory

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Alex Easton

That this House congratulates Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy on his historic victory at the 89th Masters Tournament at Augusta National, becoming only the sixth male golfer in history to complete the modern career Grand Slam; notes that McIlroy’s triumph, following a dramatic sudden-death playoff against England’s Justin Rose, sees him join the legendary ranks of Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, and Tiger Woods as winners of all four major championships; pays tribute to his remarkable journey from his early days at Holywood Golf Club in County Down, where his talent was first nurtured and developed; recognises the immense pride his achievement brings to the people of Northern Ireland and the inspiration he provides to young athletes across the region; and acknowledges McIlroy’s continuing role as a global ambassador for Northern Irish sport, demonstrating the strength, character, and sporting excellence that his home nation contributes to the world stage.

1101Bury Film Group

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Peter Prinsley

That this House congratulates the Bury Film Group for its outstanding contribution to community life in Bury St Edmunds and surrounding areas through the organisation of free public film screenings; recognises the positive impact of this initiative in bringing people together, reducing isolation, and improving access to cinema; applauds the tireless efforts of dedicated community organiser Tom Howard; and notes the role of the group in promoting social inclusion.

1102Knightswood Community Shop

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Patricia Ferguson

That this House welcomes the opening of Knightswood Community Shop, which welcomed 99 members in its first two days; recognises that the shop, located at 160 Lincoln Avenue, was made possible thanks to the work of LINKES Glasgow in partnership with Good Food Scotland; notes that the shop is the latest in a range of services offered by LINKES, a community project, serving Lincoln Avenue and Kestrel Road, and the wider Knightswood Community; further recognises that Good Food Scotland is a co-operative which works to provide practical ways to ensure access to affordable and nutritious food in locations across Scotland, with Knightswood Community Shop being its eighth affordable food space in Glasgow, allowing members to pay a membership fee of one pound per month or an annual fee of twelve pounds which gives access to fresh, chilled, frozen, and long-life food as well as basic household goods; and commends the work of community volunteers who set up fridges and freezers and stocked the shelves, and who now offer their spare time to serve customers and to ensure the shop is operational.

1103Supreme Court ruling on legal definition of a woman

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Jim Allister

That this House welcomes the Supreme Court judgement of 15 April 2025 that the legal definition of a woman is based on biological sex; and calls on all Government departments, arms length bodies and all operating in the public sphere to ensure their language, definitions, guidance and approach fully accords with the findings of this ruling.

1104Omagh Bomb Inquiry

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Jim Allister

That this House notes that the Omagh Bomb Inquiry will examine only alleged failings in respect of agencies in the United Kingdom; regrets that there is no parallel inquiry established by the Dublin Government to investigate failings within that state, having regard to the fact the bomb was constructed in the Republic of Ireland and conveyed to Omagh by terrorists from within that state; and further notes with disapproval that the Memorandum of Understanding between the Chairman of the Omagh Bomb Inquiry and the Government of the Republic of Ireland does not ensure compellability of personnel from the Republic nor assure transparency in the handling of any evidence if produced from the Republic.

1105National League restructuring

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Steve Darling

That this House celebrates the decision of Torquay United FC, alongside all 72 National League clubs, to vote unanimously in favour of introducing a third promotion place from the National League into League Two; recognises that this change would bring the promotion structure in line with that between League Two and League One; acknowledges the dedication and ambition of clubs within the National League who face an unfair bottleneck in their progression through the football leagues; believes that a third promotion place would ensure a fairer and more competitive system that rewards sporting merit and ambition; and calls upon the English Football League, the Football Association, and other relevant governing bodies to support and implement this change to promote fairness and opportunity in the football pyramid.

1106Bicentenary of the Neilston Show

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Blair McDougall

That this House congratulates the village of Neilston on the occasion of the 200th Neilston Show; notes that the Neilston Show is a landmark of the cultural and economic life, not just of the village but for the farming community across the West of Scotland and the residents of East Renfrewshire; celebrates Nulsoners for two centuries of enthusiastic participation in the prize competitions, sporting contests and other festivities the Show is renowned for; commends the Show’s organisers for their hard work that adds so much to the life the local community; and looks forward to the next two centuries of success for the Neilston Show.

1107St George’s Day 2025

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 8

Adam Jogee

Leigh Ingham

David Williams

Dave Robertson

Dr Allison Gardner

Mr Luke Charters

That this House joins the people of England in celebrating St. George's Day on 23 April 2025; understands the significance of England’s national day to many people throughout the world; acknowledges the important role that England and her people play in strengthening the bonds of solidarity across the United Kingdom; welcomes the opportunity to celebrate England's patron saint and all that is great about England not least its history, identity, cultures and traditions; notes the application from the Hon. Members for Newcastle-under-Lyme and Buckingham and Bletchley to the Backbench Business Committee for a debate to mark St George’s Day 2025 and English Affairs and looks forward to the debate taking place at the earliest opportunity; encourages schools and their leaders in counties, cities, towns and villages across England to give our young people the chance to engage with and enjoy this day; and gives thanks for the leadership role that England, and the United Kingdom, plays on the world stage and reaffirms its commitment to preserving, celebrating and cherishing England’s green and pleasant lands, and her people, this year and all years.

1108Glastry College success

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Jim Shannon

That this House notes the success of Glastry College in winning the under-16 Ulster High Schools Rugby Shield; highlights the fantastic efforts of the Rugby Team and how all their hard word and dedication has paid off; underlines the ongoing support of the coaches and that this success would not have been possible without everyone's enthusiasm; further notes that Glastry College is a secondary school in Strangford that has over 600 pupils, including 90 students in their sixth form college; further highlights how proud everyone is of the team and that this will inspire younger pupils in the school wanting to get involved in sports; wishes the team continued success for the future; and trusts that this remarkable achievement will go down in history for the school.

110970th anniversary of First Comber Presbyterian Church Girls Brigade

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Jim Shannon

That this House notes the 70th anniversary of First Comber Presbyterian Church Girls Brigade; highlights that this milestone was marked with a tea party, where memorabilia from over the years was on display and that it was attended by past and present members and officers; further notes that The Girls' Brigade at First Comber currently has over 100 young members aged 3 to 18 and meets every Tuesday evening; underlines the benefits of Girls Brigades in Northern Ireland where they are pivotal in teaching young girls important skills that are needed for development and that their motto is to "Serve, Seek, And Follow Christ"; wishes First Comber Presbyterian Church Girls Brigade all the very best for the future; and congratulates the girls on such a wonderful display.

111020th anniversary of Fyne Futures

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Brendan O'Hara

That this House congratulates Fyne Futures, a subsidiary company of Fyne Homes, on their 20th anniversary; acknowledges their dedication to the promotion of environmental sustainability on the Isle of Bute through their many projects including ReStyle, which transforms goods, destined for landfill into goods which can be purchased by local people at affordable prices, and applauds the positive effect this has had on the local economy by reducing both landfill waste and the landfill tax; commends Bute Produce which has over the past decade developed a 6-acre site into a fully functioning market garden, producing local fruit and vegetables which are then sold at affordable prices to local people; further acknowledges the health benefits to local people of having all year round access to locally grown produce through the creation of this bio-diverse space; wishes to thank everyone who has been involved in Fyne Futures over the past 20 years, particularly those volunteers who have given so much of their time to help members of their community overcome numerous challenges to allow them to access training or return to employment; recognises the enormous contribution to the wellbeing of the Isle of Bute and everyone involved with Fyne Futures for their years of commitment, particularly the contributions made by Reeni Kennedy Boyle, Tony Edwards, Peter McDonald, Alan McDougall, Colin Renfrew and Ailsa Clark in making Fyne Futures the success it has become; and further wishes them a long and Fyne Future.

1111Anniversary of the death of Stephen Lawrence

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Shockat Adam

That this House honours the memory of Stephen Lawrence, who was tragically murdered in a racist attack at the age of 18 on 22 April 1993; remembers Stephen as a bright, ambitious young man with aspirations of becoming an architect; recognises the profound tragedy of his murder and the long and painful struggle for justice that followed; honours the unwavering courage of Stephen’s family, particularly Baroness Doreen Lawrence, whose tireless campaign for justice exposed institutional racism within the Metropolitan Police and led to lasting reforms in policing, equalities legislation and public accountability; praises the work of the Stephen Lawrence Research Centre at De Montfort University for its contributions to social justice, and for being a leading voice in conversations on race and identity and challenging structural inequalities; and calls on the Government to commit to tackling systemic racism which continues to impact Black communities.

1112The death of His Holiness Pope Francis

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Adam Jogee

That this House notes with deep sadness the death of the Holy Father, His Holiness Pope Francis, on Easter Monday, 21 April 2025; gives thanks for his life of service to the Catholic Church, his loyalty to the teachings of Jesus Christ and compassion for those most in need right across the world; and stands in solidarity and sympathy with the Catholic community in Newcastle-under-Lyme and up and down the United Kingdom who mourn his passing and expresses its wish that Pope Francis rests in eternal peace.

1113Food poverty

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Dr Roz Savage

That this House recognises the vital work of Malmesbury and District Foodbank in supporting people in crisis by providing emergency food packs and helping them find further support from other agencies and charities; pays tribute to the leadership of Dick Gray, Operations Trustee, and Simon Kershaw, Operations Manager, whose dedication has inspired a brilliant team of volunteers; thanks the volunteers for offering kindness, compassion, and a listening ear to everyone who walks through the door; acknowledges that in 2024 the Trussell Trust supplied the highest recorded number of emergency food parcels across the country in a single year; and calls on the Government to take urgent action to address the issue of food poverty.

1114Malmesbury Amatuer Boxing Club

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Dr Roz Savage

That this House recognises Malmesbury Amatuer Boxing Club for its outstanding contribution to the community including providing fantastic coaching and community engagement; acknowledges the crucial work by its longstanding head coach, Mike Rees, who provides a safe space and opportunities for the young people of Malmesbury and the surrounding villages to learn and compete in boxing; notes the inspiring work that the Club does to help people diagnosed with Parkinson’s, helping them to regain their physical and mental strength through boxing sessions; congratulates the work that the Club does with young people in the local area, giving them national and international opportunities to compete; and further recognises the fantastic work that sports clubs provide to communities.

1115LED headlights

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Martin Wrigley

That this House notes with concern the growing number of reports and studies from organisations including the RAC indicating that excessive brightness and improper alignment of some LED headlights can cause discomfort, temporary blindness, and pose safety risks to other road users, including drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians; is concerned about the lack of specific regulations to address LED's brightness levels and align standards for LED headlights in the UK; awaits the findings of the Department for Transport's independent review into headlight glare; and calls on the Government to ensure regulation for the brightness of LED car headlights improves road safety for all users, with collaboration from automotive manufacturers, safety experts, and international bodies, and to implement standards for vehicle lighting which balance technological advancement with public safety as soon as possible.

1116Sentencing Guidelines and pre-sentence reports

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Josh Babarinde

That this House recognises that everyone should be treated equally under the law; further recognises the vital role pre-sentence reports (PSRs) play in providing courts with the information they need to make informed sentencing decisions that keep our communities safe while aiming to rehabilitate offenders; believes that the equal application of justice is a fundamental principle of a fair society; expresses concern that the use of PSRs has declined sharply by 44% between 2013 and 2023; notes with concern that the Probation Service has been left overstretched and under-resourced, making it difficult to consistently deliver high-quality PSRs; acknowledges the importance of addressing disproportionality that sees ethnic minority communities over-represented in the criminal justice system, including by fully implementing the recommendations of the Lammy and Angiolini Reviews; and calls on the Government to restore public confidence and ensure everyone is treated equally under the law by taking steps to make PSRs consistently available and bringing forward a Royal Commission on Sentencing to restore public confidence and guide evidence-based reforms.

1117Collapse of Rana Plaza, Bangladesh

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 3

Apsana Begum

John McDonnell

Ian Byrne

That this House marks that on 24 April 2025 it is 12 years since the collapse of the Rana Plaza building in Dhaka, Bangladesh, which killed at least 1,132 workers and injured more than 2,500, a large proportion of whom were women in what was one of the worst industrial accidents on record; is concerned at the ongoing poor labour conditions, low wages and unsafe work environments, with a high incidence of work-related accidents and deaths, faced by workers in the garment sector worldwide; notes the emergence of new health and safety risks in the wake of the climate crisis, such as heat stress and flood risk; recognises that without the ability to organise, workers are inhibited from fully securing improved working conditions and challenging abuse; believes that all workers deserve a workplace that provides them with a living wage, safe working conditions and trade union rights including the right to refuse unsafe work, to take strike action and to collectively bargain; and calls on global clothing brands to uphold commitments to conduct enhanced human rights due diligence with workers and their representatives and implement responsible and ethical purchasing practices.

1118Bracknell Town Council 70th anniversary

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Peter Swallow

That this House notes the 70th anniversary of Bracknell Town Council; recognises the significant contribution the Town Council has made over seven decades; expresses its heartfelt thanks to all those who have served as town councillors, of all parties, as well as its hard-working staff; and commends its continued commitment to provide services for the residents of Bracknell Town.

1119Somerset County Cricket Club and Tom Banton

Tabled: 22/04/25 Signatories: 1

Gideon Amos

That this house congratulates Tom Banton and Somerset County Cricket Club for his remarkable record-breaking score on the weekend of the 5th of April; commends Tom for making history with the highest ever score by a Somerset batter in first class cricket, achieved in the Rothesay County Championship First Division match against Worcestershire at the Cooper Associates County Ground in Taunton; recognises Tom’s mammoth 371 runs, having faced 405 balls, struck 56 fours and two sixes; understands the deep-rooted importance of Somerset County Cricket Club and cricket in Taunton and across Somerset, where the sport is a proud part of local identity and community life; and notes that achievements like Tom’s inspire future generations and strengthen Somerset’s rich cricketing heritage.

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.

1016Radiotherapy (No. 2)

Tabled: 26/03/25 Signatories: 39

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.

1045Disability hate crime

Tabled: 1/04/25 Signatories: 33

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: 14

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.

1048Libraries in state primary schools

Tabled: 2/04/25 Signatories: 23

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.

105380th anniversary of Christian Aid

Tabled: 3/04/25 Signatories: 13

Douglas McAllister

Ellie Chowns

Jim Shannon

Zöe Franklin

Kirsteen Sullivan

Ann Davies

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.

1058International Day for Mine Awareness

Tabled: 3/04/25 Signatories: 21

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.

1060Abduction of Ukrainian children

Tabled: 3/04/25 Signatories: 42

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.

1062Dementia strategy for Devon

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 9

Caroline Voaden

Helen Maguire

Ian Roome

Jim Shannon

Rachel Gilmour

Sarah Dyke

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: 10

Caroline Voaden

Helen Maguire

Ian Roome

Jim Shannon

Rachel Gilmour

Sarah Dyke

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: 13

Alex Brewer

Jim Shannon

Ben Maguire

Tom Morrison

Lisa Smart

Alison Bennett

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: 14

Barry Gardiner

Neil Duncan-Jordan

Jim Shannon

Shockat Adam

Dr Simon Opher

Jon Trickett

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 shortlisted for Local Authority of the Year

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 5

Clive Jones

Jim Shannon

Sarah Dyke

Martin Wrigley

Mr Angus MacDonald

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: 8

Clive Jones

Jim Shannon

Jack Rankin

Peter Swallow

Sarah Dyke

Martin Wrigley

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.

1069Oaklands College success in sport and academia

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 7

Daisy Cooper

Jim Shannon

Sarah Dyke

Martin Wrigley

Adam Dance

Clive Jones

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.

1072Small and medium-sized enterprises in defence procurement

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 20

Helen Maguire

Zöe Franklin

Ian Roome

Ian Sollom

Pippa Heylings

Brian Mathew

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.

1074International Day of the Midwife

Tabled: 7/04/25 Signatories: 46

Dr Simon Opher

Jim Shannon

Margaret Mullane

Bell Ribeiro-Addy

Ms Diane Abbott

Robin Swann

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.

1076Stepping Hill Hospital

Tabled: 8/04/25 Signatories: 6

Lisa Smart

Tom Morrison

Sarah Dyke

Martin Wrigley

Adam Dance

Mr Angus MacDonald

That this House expresses deep concern at the urgent and worsening state of infrastructure at Stepping Hill Hospital in Hazel Grove, where the repairs backlog is reported to exceed £134 million; notes with alarm the numerous reports from constituents regarding unsafe and inadequate facilities, including power cuts delaying treatments, flooding in hospital corridors, regular breakdowns of lifts and a light fitting falling in a delivery suite during active labour; further notes that patients have been unable to find parking spaces, forcing some to park in supermarket car parks and walk to the hospital, while others, including those experiencing cardiac events, have had to wait in overcrowded conditions due to a lack of seating; recognises that the closure of buildings deemed unsafe has placed further pressure on staff and services, exacerbating waiting lists and worsening patient outcomes; and urges the Government to commit to the overall funding of £134 million required to fully address the repairs backlog, with a clear and detailed timetable and to support the establishment of a second site in central Stockport to alleviate pressure on the current site and improve services.

1077Chalk stream river protection

Tabled: 8/04/25 Signatories: 19

Alex Brewer

Sarah Dyke

Helen Maguire

Martin Wrigley

Edward Morello

Steff Aquarone

That this House recognises the crucial role of chalk stream rivers in ensuring water security and supporting local ecosystems; acknowledges the significant threats faced by chalk stream rivers, including over-abstraction, wastewater pollution, sewage dumping, and urban development; notes with concern that, without action, incidents of water scarcity and ecological degradation in these unique waterways will increase due to ongoing environmental harm; further notes that in 2024 there was more than 975 hours’ worth of sewage pumped into the river Loddon and the river Whitewater, two chalk stream rivers that run through North East Hampshire; and calls on the Government to recognise the ecological distinctiveness of chalk streams and implement specific protections to preserve them, as these irreplaceable ecosystems are at risk of disappearing without urgent intervention.

1078Rural bus services

Tabled: 8/04/25 Signatories: 28

Edward Morello

Ian Roome

Sarah Dyke

Martin Wrigley

Wendy Chamberlain

Brian Mathew

That this House recognises the significant challenges faced by rural communities in accessing reliable public transport, particularly in West Dorset constituency and the wider South West; notes with concern that many rural bus services remain sparse and irregular, making it difficult for elderly and disabled residents to travel to medical appointments, employment and essential services; further acknowledges that rurality presents unique transport challenges, requiring sustainable and appropriately designed buses that can safely navigate country roads; believes that urgent action is needed to boost rural bus services by giving local authorities the promised new powers to franchise services and simplifying funding to restore routes and create new ones where there is local need; calls for maintaining the £2 cap on bus fares and the replacement of multiple funding streams with a single integrated fund for local authorities to expand services and transition to zero-emission vehicles; and urges investment in road and bridge infrastructure to ensure that buses can operate safely and reliably in rural areas.

1080Public libraries

Tabled: 8/04/25 Signatories: 16

Ian Roome

Brian Mathew

Sarah Dyke

Helen Maguire

Martin Wrigley

Adam Dance

That this House congratulates the regional winners of Library of the Year at the British Book Awards 2025, including Braunton Library in North Devon, winner of South West England's Library of the Year; recognises the important contribution libraries make to advancing reading and literacy skills among both children and adults, as well as the wider community functions libraries serve in hosting a vast range of community events, support groups, employment workshops, live music, arts and crafts activities, flexible working spaces, access to the internet and public records, among many others; notes that at least 190 libraries across the UK have closed in the past five years; and calls on the Government to support local councils in maintaining publicly-accessible spaces for community use.

1081Flamstead Toad Patrol

Tabled: 8/04/25 Signatories: 6

Victoria Collins

Sarah Dyke

Martin Wrigley

Jess Brown-Fuller

Mr Angus MacDonald

Steve Darling

That this House acknowledges the unwavering dedication of the Flamstead Toad Patrol, a community-led initiative that guides common toads safely through hazardous areas during their annual journey to ancient breeding grounds; commends the volunteers who brave the cold, dark and wet conditions to protect this native species now facing decline; expresses deep concern over the severe health hazards posed by sewage discharges in the River Ver downstream of the Markyate Sewage Works; acknowledges the grave risk of contamination from E. coli and other dangerous pathogens that volunteers encounter; highlights the mental toll on volunteers who, despite their love for nature, are burdened by the fear of exposure to poorly treated sewage; and calls for immediate action to address the pollution, safeguarding both the environment and the valiant community members who strive to make a difference.

1082Retirement of GPs and national GP strategy

Tabled: 8/04/25 Signatories: 12

Rachel Gilmour

Sarah Dyke

Helen Maguire

Martin Wrigley

Adam Dance

Brian Mathew

That this House congratulates Dr Simon Johnson-Ferguson and Dr Helen Johnson-Ferguson, of Bampton Surgery in Tiverton and Minehead, for the decades of service they have given as GPs to the people of Bampton and its environs and the NHS; wishes them both a happy, if early, retirement; notes however with concern the growing number of early retirements by NHS GPs; and calls on the Government to increase the number of full-time GPs by 8,000.

108375th anniversary of the European Convention on Human Rights

Tabled: 8/04/25 Signatories: 20

Tom Gordon

Rachael Maskell

Sarah Dyke

Helen Maguire

Martin Wrigley

Adam Dance

That this House celebrates the 75th anniversary of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), signed in 1950, which has been a cornerstone of the Council of Europe and continues to evolve to meet modern human rights challenges; recognises and celebrates the Convention’s role in protecting the rights and fundamental freedoms of over 700 million people across Europe, ensuring dignity and liberty within its jurisdiction; acknowledges the ECHR’s crucial role in empowering individuals to uphold their rights; and notes the Convention’s lasting contribution to British law, particularly through the Human Rights Act 1998, which has embedded these protections in domestic legislation and strengthened the rights of people across the UK.