Questions on Mandelson’s Ambassadorship
Sir John criticised Peter Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador, highlighting failures in vetting, unanswered questions from the Foreign Affairs Committee, and the need for accountability and lessons for future appointments.
Jimmy Lai’s Imprisonment
Highlighting Jimmy Lai’s five-year imprisonment in China, Sir John urged the Minister to press for his release and take all possible action to protect the deteriorating health of the British citizen.
Live Facial Recognition in Policing
Sir John questioned the Home Secretary on the use of live facial recognition by police, highlighting the lack of a legal framework and asking when national guidelines will be established.
Sovereignty of the Chagos Islands
Sir John challenged the Government on the Chagos Islands treaty, raising strategic, nuclear, environmental, and financial concerns, emphasizing that many answers so far fail to safeguard UK interests.
Ukraine Questions
Highlighting Russia’s continued attacks on Ukraine, Sir John urged stronger sanctions and increased support for Ukraine, emphasizing that Putin currently shows no interest in a ceasefire.
Middle East Questions
Expressing concern over civilian casualties in Gaza, Sir John highlighted that at least 200 journalists have died, urging the Israeli Government to prevent further targeting and uphold international standards.
Civilian Death in Gaza
Sir John expressed shock at civilian deaths in Gaza and urged that international media, including the BBC and Reuters, be granted full access to verify the situation on the ground.
Education Questions
Highlighting Essex’s rising demand for education, health and care assessments, Sir John questioned delays caused by staffing shortages, and pressed the Minister on government plans to meet these needs.
Russian Citizens Granted UK Visas
Sir John asked the Home Secretary for visa statistics, specifically how many Russian citizens received UK visas each year over the past five years, prompting guidance on published data sources.
Industrial Electricity Prices
John Whittingdale Conservative, Maldon On Friday, I visited C&M Precision Ltd, a small manufacturing company in my constituency. Electricity represents easily its biggest cost. What is the Minister doing to listen to small and medium-sized enterprises like C&M who feel that their voice is simply not being heard? Miatta Fahnbulleh Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and […]