Business of the House

Ayoub Khan Excerpts

Thursday 26th February 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I thank my hon. Friend for raising this important matter. Pakistan’s judicial processes are, of course, a domestic matter, but we urge Pakistan to respect the fundamental freedoms of all its citizens, including Imran Khan. We are concerned by the use of military courts for civilians due to potential issues with transparency. I will ensure that the Foreign Secretary hears my hon. Friend’s concerns and that he gets a response.

[Ayoub Khan (Birmingham Perry Barr) (Ind)]

In Birmingham, residents and I are appalled at Birmingham city council’s botched sale of the former Newtown swimming baths and New Aston House. A bid was put in for the property by a charity dedicated to educating, serving and uplifting the local community. The bid was approved by the cabinet committee, but that decision has now been overturned. I will not mention the names of any organisations, politicians or council officers, because it may become a legal proceeding, but I have it on good authority that this distortion of due process was a result of some politicians in Birmingham. I have never encountered anything of this nature in my 20 years of political and public life. Will the Leader of the House make time for a debate on the Nolan principles, so that we can discuss the ethical limits of members’ powers and the harm that can be done when party politics infringe on non-political local business?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

The hon. Gentleman raises concerning matters. I encourage him to seek an Adjournment debate, where he can not only set out his concerns in more detail but get a response from the relevant Minister.