Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Wendy Chamberlain and Sarah Jones

Monday 26th October 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sarah Jones]

I have noted that piece of work. We support drug diversion schemes, which are part of the respect orders that we have announced today, part of our rough sleeping programme and part of lots of the work we do to help people get off drugs, but they are not a substitute for the right punishment where necessary.

[Wendy Chamberlain (North East Fife) (LD)]

When the Minister announced new refugee pathways in September, we were told that Afghan women and girls would be prioritised. I have since received correspondence that says there will be no prioritisation. Can we get clarity on what is correct?

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Wendy Chamberlain and Sarah Jones

Monday 17th November 2025 Commons Chamber

[Sarah Jones]

I would not say that the neighbourhood policing guarantee, involving an extra £200 million, means nothing. It is a substantial amount for all our communities in England and Wales, and the allocations will be decided in the usual way this year.

[Wendy Chamberlain (North East Fife) (LD)]

As a former police officer, I have policed protests, and I know how important they are. On the issue of cumulative disruption, what evidence has the Minister gathered that demonstrates that a protest that is deemed safe as a one-off would become a public safety risk if it were repeated?

[Sarah Jones]

The hon. Lady is aware of these issues, and she is aware of the complexities of policing what are sometimes very disruptive and upsetting protests. We must get the balance right, and that is what we are trying to do, but I am happy to engage in more conversations with her about this.