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Tom Gordon
Current MP
Tom Gordon
· 2024–present
182 speeches on record Last active 3 Feb 2026
LD · Lib Dem
Fish and Chip Sector3 Feb 2026
TG
Tom Gordon
The hon. Gentleman is outlining some of the economic challenges that the sector is facing. One of my constituents is heavily involved in the National Federation of Fish Friers. He told me that he often feels that the Government are very good at listening to UK hospitality and other big sectors, but they do not…
Hansard · 3 Feb 2026 · parliament.uk
Business of the House15 Jan 2026
TG
Tom Gordon
One of the greatest privileges I have had in this place so far was sitting on the assisted dying Bill Committee. We have seen in the press today rumours that No. 10 thinks the Bill will not return before the King’s Speech and subsequently would fall. Could the Leader of the House enlighten us on…
Hansard · 15 Jan 2026 · parliament.uk
Northern Powerhouse Rail14 Jan 2026
TG
Tom Gordon
I completely disagree with the shadow Minister, the hon. Member for Broadland and Fakenham (Jerome Mayhew) in his comments about the betrayal of the north by this Labour Government. While this plan is not by any means perfect, it is a damn sight better than what we saw from the last Government. At last week’s…
Hansard · 14 Jan 2026 · parliament.uk
Social Media: Non-consensual Sexual Deepfakes12 Jan 2026
TG
Tom Gordon
I welcome the statement by the Secretary of State. When she talks about a ban, one thing I am slightly concerned about, whether it is limited, short-term or long-term, is how it would be enforced. Is she confident that Ofcom could do so in response to X and what we have seen? How do we…
Hansard · 12 Jan 2026 · parliament.uk
Rail Services: Harrogate and Knaresborough8 Jan 2026
TG
Tom Gordon
What steps she is taking to help improve rail services in Harrogate and Knaresborough constituency.
Hansard · 8 Jan 2026 · parliament.uk
Topical Questions8 Jan 2026
TG
Tom Gordon
As a Yorkshireman, I love a bargain, so I welcome the great British rail sale, but members of the Young Liberals have told me that they cannot use their railcards when purchasing rail sale tickets. Can the Minister justify a rail sale that excludes young people, and will she look to fix it?
Hansard · 8 Jan 2026 · parliament.uk
Business of the House8 Jan 2026
TG
Tom Gordon
I join the Leader of the House in recognising people who were awarded honours in the new year’s list, including those who live and work in Harrogate and Knaresborough such as Simon Roberts, Jane Bayliss, Professor Piers Forster, Miriam and Terence Wilcox, and Master Ali, who was awarded an MBE for services to taekwondo. I…
Hansard · 8 Jan 2026 · parliament.uk
Jury Trials7 Jan 2026
TG
Tom Gordon
The Minister talks about record demand and the pressure on court services. Is he able to outline what assessment has been made of the increase in pressure on the court system as a result of cracking down on the right to protest in legitimate cases?
Hansard · 7 Jan 2026 · parliament.uk
Seasonal Work10 Dec 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
The hon. Lady makes an excellent point about the need to see the minimum wage increase—people who live in my constituency of Harrogate and Knaresborough simply cannot afford to live or work in the area, and that is a real problem—but does she accept that it is not just the minimum wage that is the…
Hansard · 10 Dec 2025 · parliament.uk
Child Poverty8 Dec 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
One thing that really concerns me is that I have met a number of parents who have had to leave work because of the unmet need of their children with special educational needs and disabilities. Children who are already really vulnerable are ending up being forced into poverty because there is not the support from…
Hansard · 8 Dec 2025 · parliament.uk
Topical Questions2 Dec 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Last month, I met Anoosheh Ashoori and opened his exhibit “Surviving Evin” at a Harrogate district Amnesty International branch event at Ripon cathedral. Given the continued use of arbitrary detention and state-sponsored kidnapping and hostage-taking by Iran, what steps are the Government taking to strengthen protections for British nationals when abroad?
Hansard · 2 Dec 2025 · parliament.uk
New Clause 43 - Charges payable by undertakers executing works in maintainable highways24 Nov 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I tabled new clause 28, which would make provision for a new form of regional governance. The explanatory statement specifically mentions that it would make provision for a Cornish assembly. I understand that when the hon. Member was on the Bill Committee, he might have abstained on such a measure. Can he elaborate on his…
Hansard · 24 Nov 2025 · parliament.uk
Petition - Sale of Disposable Barbecues24 Nov 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
On a point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker. During the course of the previous debate, I waited over four hours to speak. In the Minister’s winding-up speech, she did not acknowledge any of my contribution or the amendments. I believe I was the only Yorkshire MP to speak in the debate, and this underlines the…
Hansard · 24 Nov 2025 · parliament.uk
Energy Efficiency Schemes: Consumer Confidence18 Nov 2025
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Tom Gordon
What steps he is taking to improve consumer confidence in energy efficiency schemes.
Hansard · 18 Nov 2025 · parliament.uk
China Espionage: Government Security Response18 Nov 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I have previously mentioned that the Joint Committee on Human Rights report on transnational repression specifically singled out China for having the most comprehensive TNR campaign in the UK of any country. The report called for China to be on the enhanced tier of FIRS. If all the actions the Chinese Government are taking—the espionage,…
Hansard · 18 Nov 2025 · parliament.uk
Support for Disabled Veterans28 Oct 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
The armed forces covenant all too often does not live up to what people expect. I have a constituent who has struggled to access housing suitable for his needs. He has two children, but because he suffers with post-traumatic stress disorder and wakes up in the night with night terrors, the children are not able…
Hansard · 28 Oct 2025 · parliament.uk
Alleged Spying Case: Role of Attorney General’s Office23 Oct 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I previously asked the Security Minister about the lack of inclusion of China on the enhanced tier of the foreign influence registration scheme. What input or advice has the Attorney General or the Solicitor General given to the Government on that? Given the ongoing situation, will she now reconsider and push for the Government to…
Hansard · 23 Oct 2025 · parliament.uk
Business of the House23 Oct 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Last week I held a drop-in with the Great Start in Life Foundation, which supports health visitors and school nursing services across much of the north of England, helping children and families to get the best start in life. Will the Leader of the House congratulate that organisation on its work and find time for…
Hansard · 23 Oct 2025 · parliament.uk
Business of the House16 Oct 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Rural families across North Yorkshire, including those in villages such as Killinghall and Hampsthwaite in my constituency, have been left stranded by changes to home-to-school transport rules, with children living in the same villages now set to go to different schools and parents facing having to give up work to get them there. Will the…
Hansard · 16 Oct 2025 · parliament.uk
Engagements15 Oct 2025
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Tom Gordon
Much like the hon. Member for Bishop Auckland (Sam Rushworth), my constituents are served by the Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys mental health trust. They face travelling to York or Middlesbrough for local in-patient beds, with some people being sent as far afield as Glasgow or Southampton. This is completely unacceptable, and we need a…
Hansard · 15 Oct 2025 · parliament.uk
Official Secrets Act15 Sep 2025
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Tom Gordon
The Joint Committee on Human Rights, of which I am a member, published an inquiry report into transnational repression earlier this year. It welcomed the introduction of a foreign influence registration scheme but expressed concern about the absence of China on the enhanced tier. Its absence risks undermining the credibility and coherence of the scheme.…
Hansard · 15 Sep 2025 · parliament.uk
Topical Questions11 Sep 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
In response to a recent written parliamentary question, the Department confirmed that it is shelving improvements to Skelton junction outside York. That will have an impact on the proposed improvements to rail services for commuters in Harrogate and Knaresborough. How does that align with the Government’s vision for growth?
Hansard · 11 Sep 2025 · parliament.uk
UK Ambassador to the US: Appointment Process11 Sep 2025
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Tom Gordon
It seems that there is a broad consensus across the whole House that this felt as though it was a question of when, not if. So during the extended vetting procedure, was there ever any interference or pressure from either No. 10 or the Prime Minister?
Hansard · 11 Sep 2025 · parliament.uk
Life Sciences Investment11 Sep 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
This is just the latest in a series of blows to UK life sciences. Companies have been pulled towards the US with incentives and tariffs, while we have no detailed industrial strategy, an uncompetitive tax regime from the Treasury, and a Department of Health and Social Care that undervalues drug access. When the Government announced…
Hansard · 11 Sep 2025 · parliament.uk
Business of the House11 Sep 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Last weekend, I met residents of New Park, alongside local Liberal Democrat councillor, Monika Slater. Residents are frustrated about the new Tesco that has been built and its impact on local businesses, with contractors regularly flouting the planning rules to work outside permitted hours. Will the Leader of the House allow for a debate in…
Hansard · 11 Sep 2025 · parliament.uk
Regional Transport Inequality11 Sep 2025
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Tom Gordon
My hon. Friend makes a really interesting point about dualling of line. I have been campaigning in my constituency of Harrogate and Knaresborough to dual the line between Knaresborough and York for the exact same reasons and benefits that my hon. Friend is describing. Does he agree that, if this Government want to get on…
Hansard · 11 Sep 2025 · parliament.uk
New Clause 38 - Use of zero-emission vehicles for local services in Scotland10 Sep 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I will start by speaking to new clause 2, which stands in my name and is supported by over 70 colleagues from across the House. It calls for the removal of time restrictions imposed on disabled bus passes. Under the English national concessionary travel scheme, eligible disabled people are entitled to free local bus travel.…
Hansard · 10 Sep 2025 · parliament.uk
Armed Forces: Recruitment and Retention8 Sep 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
What steps he is taking to improve recruitment and retention in the armed forces.
Hansard · 8 Sep 2025 · parliament.uk
Business of the House4 Sep 2025
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Tom Gordon
I sit on the Joint Committee on Human Rights. One of the issues concerning me is what scrutiny and accountability the Equality and Human Rights Commission’s new code of practice and guidance will have from this House. My understanding is that it will be laid before the House as a negative statutory instrument, meaning that…
Hansard · 4 Sep 2025 · parliament.uk
Early Education and Childcare4 Sep 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I welcome the positive step towards providing affordable childcare. Coppice Valley primary school in my constituency is part of phase 1 of the scheme that the Minister outlined. However, it worries me that what he has outlined might come at the expense of private and voluntary sector providers, which deliver the majority of early years…
Hansard · 4 Sep 2025 · parliament.uk
Hospitality Sector3 Sep 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I recently visited the General Tarleton in Ferrensby, which has just reopened. A fantastic group of people have created the Jeopardy Hospitality project, which reopens pubs that have closed down; those involved include the celebrity chef Tommy Banks and Matt Lockwood. Pubs are the heart of the community. Does my hon. Friend agree that people…
Hansard · 3 Sep 2025 · parliament.uk
Diabetes in Sport3 Sep 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I am chair of the all-party parliamentary group for diabetes, and over the summer, we visited the Northern general hospital in Sheffield. We met healthcare professionals who spoke about their one-stop shop for people with diabetes. They want to deliver services in communities, and in places with grassroots community sports. Does she agree that this…
Hansard · 3 Sep 2025 · parliament.uk
Solar Development: Newark2 Sep 2025
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Tom Gordon
My constituency has a similar situation to the one the right hon. Gentleman is describing. The village of Scotton, which is home to the house where Guy Fawkes grew up, risks being encircled by a similar sort of development. People on the ground are pragmatic, but the issue comes down to planning rules and laws.…
Hansard · 2 Sep 2025 · parliament.uk
Rebuilding Schools21 Jul 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
A number of years ago, Woodfield school in Bilton in my constituency was closed. It has been rebuilt as a specialist school for children with autism. It was meant to open in September last year, but that was delayed until September this year. Will the Minister meet me and confirm whether it will open on…
Hansard · 21 Jul 2025 · parliament.uk
Hospitality Sector17 Jul 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
What steps he is taking to support the hospitality sector.
Hansard · 17 Jul 2025 · parliament.uk
Strategy for Elections17 Jul 2025
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Tom Gordon
There is lots in the strategy that the Liberal Democrats and I welcome. Could the Minister explain why there is a difference between Westminster elections and combined mayoral elections? We know that the majority of the British public want to see the scrapping of first past the post, and we know from when we had…
Hansard · 17 Jul 2025 · parliament.uk
NHS Pensions: Frontline Patient Care17 Jul 2025
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Tom Gordon
I would like to take this opportunity to put my thanks on the record to the Minister. I have spoken to her outside this place about the money we have secured for removing reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete at Harrogate district hospital, which I have been campaigning on for years. It is great having state-of-the-art hospital…
Hansard · 17 Jul 2025 · parliament.uk
Business of the House17 Jul 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
A couple of weeks ago at a Quaker Asylum and Refugee Network event in Harrogate, I met constituents who came to the UK from Afghanistan under the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy scheme, and who still have family living in Afghanistan. They showed me photos of their loved ones, some smiling and some a lot…
Hansard · 17 Jul 2025 · parliament.uk
Science, Innovation and Technology Committee17 Jul 2025
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Tom Gordon
I am a member of the Select Committee over which the hon. Lady presides as Chair, and I thank her and all the staff who helped with this report and inquiry. I know that many of us in this place wear not one, but multiple hats; I also sit on the Joint Committee on Human…
Hansard · 17 Jul 2025 · parliament.uk
Joint Committee on Human Rights17 Jul 2025
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Tom Gordon
I am grateful to the Government for engaging with the Joint Committee on Human Rights report, “Accountability for Daesh crimes”, and for the response they have provided. There are some areas of welcome agreement; for instance, the Government have reiterated their commitment to ensuring justice for survivors. They rightly agree that where there is evidence…
Hansard · 17 Jul 2025 · parliament.uk
Leasehold Reform14 Jul 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
At a recent surgery, a constituent brought to me the leasehold problems that she is experiencing with her housing association. Despite paying a considerable amount in service charges, leaseholders have been whacked with a £7,000 bill for improvements to the property’s roof, with the expectation that they will pay within 30 days of completion. There…
Hansard · 14 Jul 2025 · parliament.uk
Future of the Post Office14 Jul 2025
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Tom Gordon
I thank the Minister for his statement, and I add my thanks to our postmasters, including Andrew Hart in my constituency. Last year, residents in Knaresborough faced a prolonged period without a Post Office service. I had extensive communication with Post Office officials about service continuity, minimum standards, types and awards of contracts, and I…
Hansard · 14 Jul 2025 · parliament.uk
Business of the House10 Jul 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Last week, I asked the Leader of the House if she would join me in wishing good luck to Freedom Performing Arts, which was performing at the world championships in Spain. I am sure she will be pleased to hear that the six to nine-year-olds secured a bronze medal. Amy and the team are really…
Hansard · 10 Jul 2025 · parliament.uk
Disabled Bus Passes10 Jul 2025
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Tom Gordon
It is a pleasure to stand here today and raise, once again, the issue of restrictions on the use of disabled bus passes. The Minister will be well aware of this matter, which I have raised with him on a number of occasions, and I have already had the opportunity to discuss it with him…
Hansard · 10 Jul 2025 · parliament.uk
Giving Every Child the Best Start in Life7 Jul 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Some of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged children are those who have been adopted or are receiving kinship care. Will the Best Start family hubs provide any specific help for those who have lost out on access and support as a result of the cuts in the adoption and special guardianship support fund?
Hansard · 7 Jul 2025 · parliament.uk
Business of the House3 Jul 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Freedom Performing Arts, a dance school in Knaresborough, is currently representing England at the dance world cup in Spain. It had to raise £30,000 from the local community, businesses and parents to get there, and it still faces a funding shortfall. Will the Leader of the House join me in wishing Amy and the entire…
Hansard · 3 Jul 2025 · parliament.uk
NHS 10-Year Plan3 Jul 2025
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Tom Gordon
I welcome the 10-year plan; its focus on prevention is right. I notice that there are a number of references to diabetes in the plan, but none to type 1 diabetes. We already have simple blood tests for biomarkers that identify people who are likely to develop type 1 diabetes, and immunotherapy, which can delay…
Hansard · 3 Jul 2025 · parliament.uk
Culture, Media and Sport Committee3 Jul 2025
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Tom Gordon
Earlier this year, “Tinsel Town” was filmed in Knaresborough. The benefit of seeing the film industry come to my constituency was clearly apparent from the get go. It has given a real buzz and excitement to the local community. I would like to see more on the regional investment side. Channel 4 is headquartered in…
Hansard · 3 Jul 2025 · parliament.uk
Women’s State Pension Age: Financial Redress3 Jul 2025
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Tom Gordon
It is a pleasure to be called to speak so early in the debate. I congratulate the hon. Member for Salford (Rebecca Long Bailey) on securing this debate. There is not much more that can be said, as she has put the case so eloquently, but there is one key point I want to get…
Hansard · 3 Jul 2025 · parliament.uk
Topical Questions26 Jun 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
When the Government introduced the increased £3 bus cap, it saw the cost of a number of shorter journeys with local bus providers increase by more than inflation. What steps is the Minister taking to ensure that people are not feeling the effects of Labour’s bus tax?
Hansard · 26 Jun 2025 · parliament.uk
Business of the House26 Jun 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
In recent weeks and months, Harrogate has been gridlocked, with seemingly unco-ordinated roadworks blocking our town. It is particularly difficult for businesses when those works go on for protracted periods of times—and when they already face Labour’s jobs tax. Will the Leader of the House agree to look at a compensation scheme for businesses affected…
Hansard · 26 Jun 2025 · parliament.uk
G7 and NATO Summits26 Jun 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I welcome the increase to defence spending and the revised targets. Earlier this year, at the spring statement, we saw cuts to official development assistance—the overseas aid budget—to fund defence increases. The ODA budget is integral to our international security abroad, so will the Prime Minister rule out any further cuts to this budget for…
Hansard · 26 Jun 2025 · parliament.uk
China Audit24 Jun 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
The Foreign Secretary mentioned Hong Kong in his statement. Would he consider speaking to colleagues in the Home Office about rethinking the changes to indefinite leave to remain, to ensure BNO passport holders do not end up facing questions about their status?
Hansard · 24 Jun 2025 · parliament.uk
Speed Cameras: Installation Criteria24 Jun 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I thank my hon. Friend for giving way and congratulate her on securing her first Adjournment debate. Many people in my constituency have written to me about this issue, particularly those in villages around the towns, such as Ferrensby. Does she agree that in rural areas like mine, there needs to be a proactive stance…
Hansard · 24 Jun 2025 · parliament.uk
UK Modern Industrial Strategy23 Jun 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I welcome the industrial strategy, but I want to push the Secretary of State on skills. Harrogate college often tells me that it struggles to access funding for technical and vocational training that meets the needs of local business. In the next academic year—in just a couple of months—it will face a £90,000 reduction in…
Hansard · 23 Jun 2025 · parliament.uk
UK Military Base Protection23 Jun 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Let me associate myself with the remarks about Armed Forces Week from Members across the House and the condemnation of the escalation of the situation in the middle east. Is the Minister able to explain to me if there will be any additional security measures at the Army Foundation College in Harrogate, given the unique…
Hansard · 23 Jun 2025 · parliament.uk
Pride Month23 Jun 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I will be brief, given the time limit that has been set. I must say I was slightly disappointed that there were not more musical numbers and puns from the Minister in his speech at the start—I am sure we will get some later. I am really proud to represent Harrogate and Knaresborough. At the…
Hansard · 23 Jun 2025 · parliament.uk
Access to GPs23 Jun 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I have been working with Lib Dem councillor Hannah Gostlow to tackle some of the issues that local health services and GP surgeries in Knaresborough are facing. I recently visited a surgery and was told that it had the staff that it wanted to get in place, but did not have the consulting rooms. The…
Hansard · 23 Jun 2025 · parliament.uk
UK Infrastructure: 10-year Strategy19 Jun 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Last week something amazing happened: I actually found myself in agreement with the Labour Mayor for York and North Yorkshire, when he said that spending review “announcements fall well short”, and that this “government had a real chance to show it was serious about rural…areas—but it missed it.” Does the Chief Secretary to the Treasury…
Hansard · 19 Jun 2025 · parliament.uk
Warm Home Discount19 Jun 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
The Minister knows that I have a lot of time for her, and I welcome her announcement today, but it will be of little relief to those who are living with spray-foam insulation that was inadequately installed, and there has been no support from the Government to fix that. Putting that aside, I wondered what…
Hansard · 19 Jun 2025 · parliament.uk
Cancer Diagnoses17 Jun 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Every 17 minutes, someone in Yorkshire is told that they have cancer. Tomorrow, I will be launching a report for Yorkshire Cancer Research, which is based in my constituency, that will set out key recommendations. Will the Minister meet us to talk about how we can feed them into the national cancer plan?
Hansard · 17 Jun 2025 · parliament.uk
Prostate Cancer Treatment17 Jun 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I thank the hon. Lady for securing this important Adjournment debate. We have heard from a number of Members who have constituents who are affected or have frustrations with the current system. I met a gentleman called David in the run-up to the general election who has metastatic prostate cancer and is not eligible for…
Hansard · 17 Jun 2025 · parliament.uk
New Clause 13 - Regulation of approved substances and devices for self-administration13 Jun 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I rise to speak to amendment 3 in my name, which would do the exact opposite of the amendments of the hon. Member for Newcastle-under-Lyme (Adam Jogee) —in fact, it would see the commencement period reduced from four years to three years. As a member of the Bill Committee, when we had the initial conversation…
Hansard · 13 Jun 2025 · parliament.uk
Business of the House12 Jun 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
This weekend, with the team from my parliamentary office, I will be taking part in the Knaresborough bed race, a fantastic local community event, to raise money for Knaresborough Town AFC. Will the Leader of the House congratulate in advance all those who take part and hopefully finish, as well as the organisers of the…
Hansard · 12 Jun 2025 · parliament.uk
Spending Review: Health and Social Care12 Jun 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I welcome the funding announced to repair hospitals with RAAC, which will hopefully include Harrogate district hospital in my constituency. It has already received some money to remove RAAC in one building, which has since been demolished, but it still has a £15 million business case waiting with the Department of Health and Social Care…
Hansard · 12 Jun 2025 · parliament.uk
Nuclear Power: Investment10 Jun 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Happy birthday, Mr Speaker. I would like to ask the Secretary of State what guarantees are in place to ensure that these jobs go to local people rather than to overseas contractors? Also, what investment in training and skills will be provided to make sure that they go to local people on the ground?
Hansard · 10 Jun 2025 · parliament.uk
New Clause 10 - No obligation to provide assistance etc16 May 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I start by thanking the hon. Member for Spen Valley (Kim Leadbeater) for introducing the Bill and for giving me the opportunity to serve on the Bill Committee. I rise to speak in favour of my amendment 4, which goes to the very heart of what the Bill is all about: dignity, compassion and choice…
Hansard · 16 May 2025 · parliament.uk
Business of the House15 May 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
A number of weeks ago, I mentioned the inaugural Harrogate town council elections. Will the Leader of the House join me in congratulating all those who were elected? May we have a debate in Government time on local government reorganisation? Harrogate borough council used to receive 0.5% of profits from Harrogate Spring Water, but that…
Hansard · 15 May 2025 · parliament.uk
Solar Farms15 May 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I have a solar development in my constituency, and there are proposals for a battery storage solution. The hon. Gentleman mentions safety. I am hoping to address that through an amendment to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill that would require relevant fire authorities to be statutory consultees. Would he support that?
Hansard · 15 May 2025 · parliament.uk
Infected Blood Inquiry: Government Response14 May 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
A constituent of mine infected with hepatitis C and under the special category mechanism has written to express their distress that earlier this year supplementary regulations removed the provisions, which they had previously been promised, to bring their compensation in line with those with cirrhosis. The group were assured that there would not need to…
Hansard · 14 May 2025 · parliament.uk
British Nationals Murdered Abroad: Support for Families12 May 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I congratulate my hon. Friend on securing this important debate. He eloquently outlined the steps that would ensure that people who suffer bereavement abroad receive justice. Does he agree that as well as having a framework for going forward, we also need the Foreign Office to look retrospectively at historical cases to ensure that people…
Hansard · 12 May 2025 · parliament.uk
Climate Resilience Plans8 May 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
If he will publish updated climate resilience plans.
Hansard · 8 May 2025 · parliament.uk
Victory in Europe and Victory over Japan: 80th Anniversary6 May 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
My constituency has the largest Commonwealth war graves site in the north of England. We regularly put on fantastic events throughout the year, including the Remembrance Sunday services and Christmas services. Will my hon. Friend join me in congratulating those involved for the fantastic work they do in making sure that we do not forget?
Hansard · 6 May 2025 · parliament.uk
Headingley Incident28 Apr 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
A number of people have mentioned to me that they have been to university in Leeds, or have kids who live in “Below Clarey” in Harrogate and go to university in Leeds. There is quite a high-density student population in the area. What conversations have the Government had with local authorities and other partners to…
Hansard · 28 Apr 2025 · parliament.uk
Child Rape Gangs28 Apr 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
The Minister has outlined money for local inquiries. Is she able to comment on what resources will be made available for people who might come forward as a result of those local inquiries? Obviously, there is a backlog in provision of mental health support, talking therapies and all sorts of resources that people who have…
Hansard · 28 Apr 2025 · parliament.uk
Business of the House24 Apr 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Harrogate’s LGBT community was appalled by homophobic comments made by Anthony Murphy, a Conservative town council candidate, who described it as a “truth” that acts of homosexuality are of “grave depravity” and “intrinsically disordered”. An organisation he directs even claimed that AIDS is a disease spread by the depraved, and he called on the Church…
Hansard · 24 Apr 2025 · parliament.uk
Sewage23 Apr 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
The wonderful River Nidd runs through my constituency, which similarly has paddleboarding, kayaking and all sorts of wonderful activities—including the Knaresborough bed race, which runs through the river at one point. Does the hon. Lady not feel regret that the Conservative Government did not take the steps she is outlining now?
Hansard · 23 Apr 2025 · parliament.uk
“For Women Scotland” Supreme Court Ruling22 Apr 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
The Minister says that the ruling provides clarity, but for the trans constituents I met and corresponded with over the weekend it provides anxiety and fear. Last week, a local media outlet, The Stray Ferret, published an article documenting a 60% increase in trans hate crime in the last decade in North Yorkshire alone. I…
Hansard · 22 Apr 2025 · parliament.uk
Business of the House3 Apr 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Last weekend, I attended the ninth Harrogate K. R. Ali Taekwondo Academy mayor’s cup tournament in my constituency. More than 400 people attended from across the UK and overseas, and it was a fantastic event. Master Ali, who runs the taekwondo academy, had to fund the event himself and could not find access to any…
Hansard · 3 Apr 2025 · parliament.uk
UK-US Trade and Tariffs3 Apr 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
The pharmaceutical sector appears temporarily to have avoided tariffs, but that may well change. However, medical devices and diagnostics do not appear to have that same exemption. The UK is home to many medtech and diagnostic companies, and the tariffs will have an impact on them both here and abroad and may well push up…
Hansard · 3 Apr 2025 · parliament.uk
Adoption Breakdown3 Apr 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I am pleased to have secured this debate on this important issue, which is rarely discussed, yet profoundly impacts thousands of families across the UK: the crisis of adopted children leaving the family home prematurely. I want to highlight this issue of adoption breakdown, which sometimes might be days, months or even years after an…
Hansard · 3 Apr 2025 · parliament.uk
Adoption and Special Guardianship Support Fund1 Apr 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I would like to thank my hon. Friend the Member for Twickenham for securing this urgent question and the Minister for her commitment on the £50 million. I have secured an Adjournment debate on Thursday on adoption breakdown, and over the past few days I have been asking people to tell me their stories. I…
Hansard · 1 Apr 2025 · parliament.uk
Railway Capacity27 Mar 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
What steps she is taking to increase capacity on the railways.
Hansard · 27 Mar 2025 · parliament.uk
PIP Changes: Impact on Carer’s Allowance27 Mar 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
As someone who lives with ulcerative colitis, I am all too acquainted with the fact that health conditions can vary wildly. We know that people with conditions such as Crohn’s and colitis and their carers already have issues accessing PIP and carer’s allowance. What consideration has the Minister given to conditions such as those in…
Hansard · 27 Mar 2025 · parliament.uk
Business of the House27 Mar 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
At PMQs yesterday, we were joined by my constituent Harry Brown and his family, who were in the Speaker’s Gallery. Harry battled childhood cancer and overcame it. After PMQs, I spoke to him about his experience. He told me how, throughout his treatment, he had to travel from the Royal Victoria infirmary in Newcastle to…
Hansard · 27 Mar 2025 · parliament.uk
Support for Veterans24 Mar 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
What steps he is taking to ensure that veterans receive adequate support after leaving the armed forces.
Hansard · 24 Mar 2025 · parliament.uk
Health and Disability Green Paper19 Mar 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Whether she has had discussions with Cabinet colleagues on the potential impact of the upcoming health and disability Green Paper on the finances of disabled people.
Hansard · 19 Mar 2025 · parliament.uk
North Sea Vessel Collision11 Mar 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I have been in communication with Liberal Democrat councillors in the East Riding of Yorkshire and also the Liberal Democrat administration in Hull. Yesterday, the leader of the council, Mike Ross, raised the call for a rapid response from Government, and I really push the Minister to provide clarity on what exactly we should be…
Hansard · 11 Mar 2025 · parliament.uk
Business of the House6 Mar 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I recently visited the beautiful village of Burton Leonard in my constituency for the 100th anniversary of its women’s institute branch. Will the Leader of the House join me in celebrating the fact that it has made it to 100 and hope that it has many more years to come? Will she also consider whether…
Hansard · 6 Mar 2025 · parliament.uk
Type 1 Diabetes and Disordered Eating Services5 Mar 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I congratulate my friend, the hon. Member for Cannock Chase (Josh Newbury) , on securing this debate. As was mentioned, I used to work for the type 1 diabetes charity JDRF, as it was then—it is now Breakthrough T1D. We used to regularly have meetings with Ministers in the Department of Health and Social Care.…
Hansard · 5 Mar 2025 · parliament.uk
Business of the House27 Feb 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I recently met volunteers who run the Harrogate Competitive Festival for Music, Speech and Drama, a charity that has been going for almost 90 years. It has over 250 different classes and categories, 800 entries to its competitions, and more than 1,300 children taking part every year. I heard about how it gives confidence, and…
Hansard · 27 Feb 2025 · parliament.uk
Child Maintenance Service26 Feb 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
The Minister mentioned that the taskforce would look at all options. Would that include scrapping the two-child benefit cap?
Hansard · 26 Feb 2025 · parliament.uk
Retail Crime24 Feb 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Harrogate has a wealth of independent stores that attract people to the town from across the region—including shoplifters, unfortunately. I have been speaking with Harrogate business improvement district about what it can do to help tackle shoplifting. It has an increasingly good relationship with North Yorkshire police. What steps is the Minister taking to encourage…
Hansard · 24 Feb 2025 · parliament.uk
Local Bus Services13 Feb 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Last week I held a two-hour question and answer session with Disability Action Yorkshire. One issue that came up was the inability of disabled people to use their bus passes before 9 o’clock, limiting them in getting to work, accessing leisure opportunities or seeing family and friends. Does the Minister agree that one of the…
Hansard · 13 Feb 2025 · parliament.uk
Topical Questions13 Feb 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
When the previous Government cancelled High Speed 2, they promised more than £4 billion for projects in the north and the midlands. Do the Government still plan to deliver on that, and when should we expect to see that money in the north?
Hansard · 13 Feb 2025 · parliament.uk
River Health6 Feb 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
What steps he is taking to help reduce sewage in rivers.
Hansard · 6 Feb 2025 · parliament.uk
Hate Crime Prosecution6 Feb 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
What steps she is taking to help ensure the effective prosecution of people who commit hate crime.
Hansard · 6 Feb 2025 · parliament.uk
Business of the House6 Feb 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Last week, I met the Harrogate branch of the National Autistic Society and heard first-hand stories of issues faced by people with autism, including getting a diagnosis, getting help and support into employment, and stigma. Will the Leader of the House provide Government time for a debate on the challenges that autistic people face and…
Hansard · 6 Feb 2025 · parliament.uk
Pension Credit Take-up3 Feb 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
In recent days and weeks, household bills across my constituency have gone up and up and up. Many who miss out on pension credit because they are just above the cut-off will now be wondering where they will find that extra money. Will the Government think again about the removal of the winter fuel payment…
Hansard · 3 Feb 2025 · parliament.uk
AstraZeneca3 Feb 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
The Minister said that the numbers no longer added up for AstraZeneca, but in response to the hon. Member for Sleaford and North Hykeham (Dr Johnson) , he said that employer national insurance contribution increases were not a factor. How can both those things be right? When I speak to the local science sector and…
Hansard · 3 Feb 2025 · parliament.uk
Topical Questions27 Jan 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I recently visited a school in my constituency in a building that is hundreds of years old. Its school condition allocation does not cover the work needed to keep the school warm, safe and up to date. What steps are the Government taking to ensure that classrooms in older buildings are fitted out?
Hansard · 27 Jan 2025 · parliament.uk
Business of the House23 Jan 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
A year ago today, the former MPs Theresa May and Sir George Howarth launched their inquiry report into type 1 diabetes and disordered eating. The report made a number of recommendations to ensure the funding and continuation of the T1DE pilot services that have been started around the country. Since then, two services have shut…
Hansard · 23 Jan 2025 · parliament.uk
ECO4 and Insulation Schemes23 Jan 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
I am sure the Minister will recall our intimate Adjournment debate before the House rose for the Christmas recess—it was just her and me here. [Interruption.] Yes, and it was the day after our Christmas party, so it was an interesting debate. I sincerely welcome the steps that the Minister has outlined for solid wall…
Hansard · 23 Jan 2025 · parliament.uk
Business of the House16 Jan 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Last week, I met representatives of the Environment Agency at Knaresborough lido, which was granted bathing water status last year thanks to the hard work of local campaigners and the former MP, Andrew Jones. The Environment Agency has said that, unlike other rivers with sewage and pollution issues, which are usually due to adverse weather…
Hansard · 16 Jan 2025 · parliament.uk
Local Government Reorganisation15 Jan 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
My constituents in Harrogate and Knaresborough recently underwent local government reorganisation. As part of that, the North Yorkshire (Structural Changes) Order 2022 granted five years to develop a new North Yorkshire council-wide local plan. Work on local district plans halted to prioritise that new plan, which has now been compromised by the introduction of new…
Hansard · 15 Jan 2025 · parliament.uk
Mental Health Services7 Jan 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
What steps his Department is taking to improve access to mental health services.
Hansard · 7 Jan 2025 · parliament.uk
Pro-democracy Campaigners: Arrests7 Jan 2025
TG
Tom Gordon
Harrogate and Knaresborough is blessed to have a small but thriving group of Hongkongers who have made it their home and opened up a number of local businesses, adding to the fabric of our towns. My worry is that, with the latest arrest warrants and transnational repression, Hongkongers will not want to be visible in…
Hansard · 7 Jan 2025 · parliament.uk
Provisional Local Government Finance Settlement18 Dec 2024
TG
Tom Gordon
We have heard a lot from colleagues about the delivery of rural services. Harrogate and Knaresborough was one of the areas that saw local government reorganisation, and we are now geographically the largest council in England. So what reassurances will there be on making sure that rural services can be provided? One of the biggest…
Hansard · 18 Dec 2024 · parliament.uk
Women’s State Pension Age Communication: PHSO Report17 Dec 2024
TG
Tom Gordon
The constituents I represent include thousands of WASPI women who will be disappointed by today’s statement. A number of references have been made to the campaigning that the Secretary of State has done with WASPI women. Does she feel regret that she has led them up the garden path towards believing that they might get…
Hansard · 17 Dec 2024 · parliament.uk
Spray Foam Insulation: Property Value6 Dec 2024
TG
Tom Gordon
The green homes grant voucher scheme was introduced in July 2020 under the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy. The scheme was part of the Department’s green recovery from the pandemic and promised to contribute to the goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Some £1.5 billion of funding was made available by…
Hansard · 6 Dec 2024 · parliament.uk
NHS Dentists: Access19 Nov 2024
TG
Tom Gordon
Earlier this year, I was at an orthodontist’s practice that carries out work on behalf of the NHS. It said the issue is that when people are referred to it by their general dentist, it cannot go on to do the orthodontic work because their teeth are in too bad a state, so they are…
Hansard · 19 Nov 2024 · parliament.uk
Warm Homes Plan12 Nov 2024
TG
Tom Gordon
In the light of the warm homes plan, is the Minister aware of challenges faced by homeowners who used the green homes grant for spray foam insulation? Many now find their homes unmortgageable, and face significant costs for removal and repair. Will the Minister consider measures to support such homeowners as part of the warm…
Hansard · 12 Nov 2024 · parliament.uk
Road Fuel Market6 Nov 2024
TG
Tom Gordon
One of the interesting things brought to my attention by residents in Harrogate and Knaresborough is that while we are quite rural, being on the periphery of North Yorkshire, there is an aspect about being an area with tourists, along with higher housing and other costs more generally. When we are talking about trying to…
Hansard · 6 Nov 2024 · parliament.uk
Income Tax (Charge)5 Nov 2024
TG
Tom Gordon
There are two key points that stick out in the Budget. The first has been referenced by colleagues from across the House, and it is the elephant in the room to which Liberal Democrats keep referring: social care. Members have eloquently made the point that if we do not fix social care, we will not…
Hansard · 5 Nov 2024 · parliament.uk
Vocational Training4 Nov 2024
TG
Tom Gordon
The largest provider of vocational education and training opportunities in my constituency is Harrogate college, which was previously promised more than £20 million in a combination of loans and grants under the FE capital transformation fund. I have written repeatedly to the Government to ask if they can secure an extension to that funding period…
Hansard · 4 Nov 2024 · parliament.uk
Grassroots and Non-league Football17 Oct 2024
TG
Tom Gordon
What steps she is taking to support grassroots and non-league football.
Hansard · 17 Oct 2024 · parliament.uk
Research and Development16 Oct 2024
TG
Tom Gordon
I recently visited Yorkshire Cancer Research in my constituency. It is coming up to 100 years since it was founded, and it has created amazing drugs, such as tamoxifen, to extend people’s lives and help them fight cancer. We know that less than 5% of medical research investment is spent on R&D in Yorkshire. Given…
Hansard · 16 Oct 2024 · parliament.uk
Access to Primary Healthcare16 Oct 2024
TG
Tom Gordon
Let me begin by congratulating my Liberal Democrat colleagues on some fantastic maiden speeches, which have given me a lot to live up to. While I am on the subject of thanking people, let me confess that I committed a cardinal sin at my election count: I reeled off my Oscars award-style speech recognising everyone…
Hansard · 16 Oct 2024 · parliament.uk
Trams: Leeds and West Yorkshire10 Oct 2024
TG
Tom Gordon
Sorry, Mr Speaker. West Yorkshire borders my patch. Will the Minister ensure that a mass transit system in Leeds connects with places such as Harrogate just across the border, so that there is a combined approach for the entire region?
Hansard · 10 Oct 2024 · parliament.uk
Topical Questions8 Oct 2024
TG
Tom Gordon
The Institution of Civil Engineers has called for a spatial energy plan to utilise new and emerging technologies to facilitate future net zero infrastructure planning. Will the Government look to bring forward a spatial energy plan and meet me to discuss that?
Hansard · 8 Oct 2024 · parliament.uk
Tom Gordon — Hansard Social