Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Graeme Downie and Nusrat Ghani

Monday 23rd June 2025 Commons Chamber

[Madam Deputy Speaker]

I remind Members that topical questions and answers should be brief.

[Graeme Downie (Dunfermline and Dollar) (Lab)]

T2. My constituent, Nicola Smith, works for NHS Fife. Like many people across the country, she is not paid on the same date each month. This leads to incorrect calculations for her husband Steven’s universal credit, often leaving the family without a payment or being sanctioned before the system catches up the following month, and I am aware of thousands of others in a similar position. What reassurance can the Minister provide that he is addressing these issues, ensuring smooth and fair payment for NHS workers and their families on universal credit, and will he meet me to discuss this issue in more detail?

Absent Voting (Elections in Scotland and Wales) Bill

Debate between Graeme Downie and Nusrat Ghani

2nd reading
Friday 17th January 2025 Commons Chamber

[Graeme Downie (Dunfermline and Dollar) (Lab)]

My hon. Friend is making a fantastic speech. Does she agree that—

[Madam Deputy Speaker (Ms Nusrat Ghani)]

Order. Please be seated, both of you. Ms Gilbert, when you take an intervention, which is your choice, you must sit down.

[Graeme Downie]

Does my hon. Friend agree that the Bill is vital to ensuring that everyone in Scotland, Wales and across the UK has every opportunity to vote in elections, and that we must continue to do all we can through schools and other means of encouragement to make sure that people fully understand the democratic process and that it is accessible at all times and in all ways?

Licensing Hours Extension Bill

Debate between Graeme Downie and Nusrat Ghani

2nd reading
Friday 17th January 2025 Commons Chamber

[Graeme Downie (Dunfermline and Dollar) (Lab)]

I am delighted to hear that my hon. Friend will now have, I think, at least 12 free drinks in his constituency! Does he agree with me about the importance of community-owned and operated pubs, and the additional social value they can provide to local communities and groups?

[Madam Deputy Speaker (Ms Nusrat Ghani)]

Order. Before Mr Ranger returns to his feet, I should obviously reference all the fantastic pubs in Sussex Weald!