Al Pinkerton Alert Sample


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View the Parallel Parliament page for Al Pinkerton

Information between 7th April 2026 - 17th April 2026

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Division Votes
15 Apr 2026 - Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 52 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 254 Noes - 144
15 Apr 2026 - Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 52 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 259 Noes - 136
15 Apr 2026 - Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 53 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 256 Noes - 150
15 Apr 2026 - Deferred Division - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 61 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 278 Noes - 73
15 Apr 2026 - Deferred Division - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 57 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 281 Noes - 70
15 Apr 2026 - Deferred Division - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 61 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 301 Noes - 157
15 Apr 2026 - Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 51 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 248 Noes - 139
15 Apr 2026 - Deferred Division - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 59 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 1 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 277 Noes - 158
15 Apr 2026 - Deferred Division - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted Aye - in line with the party majority and in line with the House
One of 60 Liberal Democrat Aye votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat No votes
Tally: Ayes - 356 Noes - 90
15 Apr 2026 - Deferred Division - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 61 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 291 Noes - 174
15 Apr 2026 - Deferred Division - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 61 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 299 Noes - 169
15 Apr 2026 - Pension Schemes Bill - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 59 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 277 Noes - 150
15 Apr 2026 - Pension Schemes Bill - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 59 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 273 Noes - 159
15 Apr 2026 - Pension Schemes Bill - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 60 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 275 Noes - 159
15 Apr 2026 - Pension Schemes Bill - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 59 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 269 Noes - 162
14 Apr 2026 - Crime and Policing Bill - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 60 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 307 Noes - 176
15 Apr 2026 - Unpublished Divisions: Crime and Policing Bill (14 April 2026) - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 57 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 281 Noes - 70
15 Apr 2026 - Unpublished Divisions: Crime and Policing Bill (14 April 2026) - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted Aye - in line with the party majority and in line with the House
One of 60 Liberal Democrat Aye votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat No votes
Tally: Ayes - 356 Noes - 90
15 Apr 2026 - Unpublished Divisions: Crime and Policing Bill (14 April 2026) - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 59 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 1 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 277 Noes - 158
15 Apr 2026 - Unpublished Divisions: Crime and Policing Bill (14 April 2026) - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 61 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 278 Noes - 73
15 Apr 2026 - Pension Schemes Bill - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 59 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 278 Noes - 158
15 Apr 2026 - Unpublished Divisions: Crime and Policing Bill (14 April 2026) - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 61 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 301 Noes - 157
15 Apr 2026 - Unpublished Divisions: Crime and Policing Bill (14 April 2026) - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 61 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 299 Noes - 169
15 Apr 2026 - Pension Schemes Bill - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 60 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 276 Noes - 155
15 Apr 2026 - Unpublished Divisions: Crime and Policing Bill (14 April 2026) - View Vote Context
Al Pinkerton voted No - in line with the party majority and against the House
One of 61 Liberal Democrat No votes vs 0 Liberal Democrat Aye votes
Tally: Ayes - 291 Noes - 174


Speeches
Al Pinkerton speeches from: Strategic Defence Review: Funding
Al Pinkerton contributed 1 speech (138 words)
Wednesday 15th April 2026 - Commons Chamber
Ministry of Defence
Al Pinkerton speeches from: Middle East
Al Pinkerton contributed 1 speech (93 words)
Monday 13th April 2026 - Commons Chamber
Cabinet Office
Al Pinkerton speeches from: Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill
Al Pinkerton contributed 1 speech (404 words)
Monday 13th April 2026 - Commons Chamber
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
Al Pinkerton speeches from: SEND Provision and Reform
Al Pinkerton contributed 2 speeches (581 words)
Monday 13th April 2026 - Commons Chamber
Department for Education


Written Answers
Air Pollution: Surrey Heath
Asked by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Monday 13th April 2026

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what progress she has made on reducing air pollution in Surrey Heath constituency.

Answered by Emma Hardy - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

Under the Environment Act 1995, local authorities have a duty to review and assess local air quality and to take action to reduce pollution where air quality objectives are exceeded.

Where these objectives are being met, as is the case in Surrey Heath, Defra’s Local Air Quality Management Statutory Policy Guidance 2022 states that local authorities should produce a Local Air Quality Strategy to enable a proactive approach to reducing air pollution. Surrey Heath Borough Council have a draft local air quality strategy for 2026 - 2029, setting out the actions they plan to take to maintain compliance with air quality objectives and continue improving air quality.

As set out in the Environmental Improvement Plan 2025, Government is committed to supporting local authority delivery and reducing the time and investment needed to act on air quality at a local level. To help with this, we are refreshing guidance, webinars and materials for air quality officers.

Roads: Repairs and Maintenance
Asked by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Monday 13th April 2026

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether her Department plans to review the funding formula used for (a) road maintenance and (b) pothole repairs.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government plans to review the funding formula that it uses to distribute capital funding to local highways authorities to see whether it can be adjusted to consider, for example, the conditions that affect the wear and tear of local roads.

However, the Government cannot commit to any changes to the allocation methodology until each option has been assessed for feasibility and deliverability, in line with the normal policy making process. The Government would also expect to engage with local highway authorities about any methodology to understand how any changes might impact on their services.

The Department’s review of the highways maintenance guidance it provides to local highway authorities in the Well Managed Highways Infrastructure Code of Practice will progress in addition to this and will be completed by the end of 2026.

Job Creation: Surrey Heath
Asked by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Monday 13th April 2026

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what steps he is taking to support the creation of well-paid jobs in Surrey Heath constituency.

Answered by Blair McDougall - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)

The Department for Business and Trade is supporting the creation of jobs and opportunities across the UK, including in the Surrey Heath constituency. We are doing this by supporting small and medium sized businesses to export, including developing a new Business Growth Service to simplify finding the advice and support they need. We are also supporting high streets by delivering long overdue reforms to rebalance the business rates system. We have also developed the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy and are investing in growth sectors like life sciences, advanced manufacturing and digital technologies.

Broadband: Surrey Heath
Asked by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Monday 13th April 2026

Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what steps she is taking to help ensure reliable broadband services in hard to reach areas of Surrey Heath constituency.

Answered by Kanishka Narayan - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)

Project Gigabit is the government’s programme to deliver gigabit-capable broadband to UK premises that are not included in suppliers' commercial plans.

As part of Project Gigabit, Openreach is delivering a contract to extend coverage to hard-to-reach areas of Surrey. This contract currently includes approximately 1,900 premises in the Surrey Heath constituency, of which almost 900 premises have already been given coverage.

We will aim to cover the remaining premises that are not currently included in Project Gigabit or suppliers’ commercial delivery plans as far as possible as funding becomes available, in line with the objective of achieving nationwide gigabit coverage by 2032.

Community Assets: Surrey
Asked by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Tuesday 14th April 2026

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what fiscal steps he is taking to support the community ownership of assets in Surrey.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

This Government is empowering communities to protect and take ownership of valued local assets through the new Community Right to Buy. This will give communities the first opportunity to purchase a registered asset of community value when it is put up for sale by its owner.

In addition, our £5.8 billion Pride in Place programme is supporting 284 of the most in-need areas with funding to support a range of local activities, including restoring or taking ownership of assets they value. The Pride in Place Impact Fund will also provide up to £150 million of funding to 95 places to support the development of community spaces, public space and to revitalise local high streets.

Driving Tests: Waiting Lists
Asked by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Tuesday 14th April 2026

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what progress she has made to help reduce waiting times for driving tests in (a) Surrey and (b) Surrey Heath constituency.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is working hard to reduce waiting times for car practical tests whilst upholding road safety standards. DVSA wants all learners to be able to access a driving test when they are ready to pass, to enable people to get to places of study or work and break down barriers to opportunity.

The table below shows the February 2026 average waiting time and number of tests booked and available at the driving test centres (DTCs) serving Hampshire and Surrey as of 23 March 2026. (DTCs in bold are the main DTCs serving Surrey Heath.

Driving test centre (DTC)

Average car practical driving test waiting time in weeks (February 2026)

Booked tests (as of 23 March 2026)

Tests available in 24 week booking window (as of 23 March 2026)

Basingstoke

24

1,037

38

Chertsey

24

2,819

145

Farnborough

24

3,945

129

Guildford

24

810

38

Lee on Solent

24

2,319

101

Mitcham

24

5,854

198

Newport (Isle of Wight)

24

1,401

59

Portsmouth

24

6,214

262

Redhill

24

1,797

81

Southampton

24

4,802

223

Tolworth

24

2,986

80

West Wickam

24

3,274

141

Winchester

16.5

1,585

67

Great Britain (National)

21.6 weeks

644,851

46,926

  • Between June 2025 – February 2026, at the DTCs above, DVSA conducted 2,996 additional car practical driving tests in overtime, when compared to the equivalent overtime scheme between June 2024 – February 2025. This increase can largely be attributed to the additional test allowance scheme the agency introduced in June 2025.

Railway Stations: Surrey Heath
Asked by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Tuesday 14th April 2026

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking to improve accessibility at train stations in Surrey Heath constituency.

Answered by Keir Mather - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

This Government is committed to improving the accessibility of the railway and recognises the significant social and economic benefits that enhanced accessibility brings to communities.

We are investing nearly £280 million to improve accessibility at stations through the Access for All programme. Funding for future rounds will be determined at a future spending review.

On 5 November 2025, we published our roadmap to an accessible railway, this sets out what we are doing now to improve the travelling experience for disabled passengers in the lead up to GBR being established.

Roads: Repairs and Maintenance
Asked by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Monday 13th April 2026

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the effectiveness of Government funding for repairing potholes in (a) Surrey and (b) Surrey Heath constituency.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Government is investing a record £7.3 billion in local highways maintenance over the next four years, which is in addition to a £1.6 billion investment in 2025/26, a £500 million increase on the previous year. The responsible local highway authority for the constituency of Surrey Heath is Surrey County Council. Surrey County Council is eligible to receive £164,080,000 over the four year period.

To support improvement, the Department has introduced a new annual traffic‑light rating system assessing each authority’s road condition, maintenance spending, and use of best practice. Surrey received an overall amber rating, and all ratings are available on GOV.UK.

These ratings encourage strong asset management and a preventative approach to reduce potholes. The Department is also providing £300,000 in development support to help councils adopt best practice, improve their ratings, and enhance the condition of their roads.

Pharmacy: Disability
Asked by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Thursday 16th April 2026

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps his Department is taking to ensure community pharmacy services are accessible to patients with disabilities in (a) Surrey and (b) Surrey Heath constituency.

Answered by Stephen Kinnock - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

The Department recognises the importance of ensuring community pharmacy services are safe and accessible to all patients, including those with disabilities and sensory impairments in Surrey and the Surrey Heath constituency.

In addition to the legal requirements under the Equality Act 2010 and the Human Rights Act 1998, pharmacy businesses have a duty to comply with the General Pharmaceutical Council’s (GPhC) standards for registered pharmacy premises. This requires pharmacies to provide an environment that is safe and accessible for all, taking reasonable steps to remove barriers for patients with disabilities. These standards emphasise the need for pharmacies to make adjustments to facilities and services, such as providing accessible entrances, clear signage, and assistance for individuals with mobility or sensory challenges.

To support community pharmacies, and meet their legal duties, the GPhC has issued equality guidance for pharmacies, which outlines best practice for supporting patients with a range of needs. NHS England is also rolling out a Reasonable Adjustment Digital Flag which enables the recording of key information about a disabled patient and the reasonable adjustments to care and treatment that they need, to ensure support can be tailored appropriately and equitably. This is being rolled out nationally across all healthcare settings and will help general practitioners and community pharmacies spot when a patient may need extra support.

Whilst no assessment has been made of the accessibility of community pharmacy services in the Surrey Heath constituency, the GPhC is responsible for holding pharmacy businesses to account and ensures compliance with regulatory standards and guidance as part of routine inspections and fitness to practice procedures.

Pharmacy: Disability
Asked by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Thursday 16th April 2026

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment he has made of the accessibility of community pharmacy services for people with sensory impairments in Surrey Heath constituency.

Answered by Stephen Kinnock - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

The Department recognises the importance of ensuring community pharmacy services are safe and accessible to all patients, including those with disabilities and sensory impairments in Surrey and the Surrey Heath constituency.

In addition to the legal requirements under the Equality Act 2010 and the Human Rights Act 1998, pharmacy businesses have a duty to comply with the General Pharmaceutical Council’s (GPhC) standards for registered pharmacy premises. This requires pharmacies to provide an environment that is safe and accessible for all, taking reasonable steps to remove barriers for patients with disabilities. These standards emphasise the need for pharmacies to make adjustments to facilities and services, such as providing accessible entrances, clear signage, and assistance for individuals with mobility or sensory challenges.

To support community pharmacies, and meet their legal duties, the GPhC has issued equality guidance for pharmacies, which outlines best practice for supporting patients with a range of needs. NHS England is also rolling out a Reasonable Adjustment Digital Flag which enables the recording of key information about a disabled patient and the reasonable adjustments to care and treatment that they need, to ensure support can be tailored appropriately and equitably. This is being rolled out nationally across all healthcare settings and will help general practitioners and community pharmacies spot when a patient may need extra support.

Whilst no assessment has been made of the accessibility of community pharmacy services in the Surrey Heath constituency, the GPhC is responsible for holding pharmacy businesses to account and ensures compliance with regulatory standards and guidance as part of routine inspections and fitness to practice procedures.

Pharmacy: Safety
Asked by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Thursday 16th April 2026

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps his Department is taking to improve patient safety in community pharmacy settings in Surrey.

Answered by Stephen Kinnock - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

The Department recognises the importance of ensuring community pharmacy services are safe and accessible to all patients, including those with disabilities and sensory impairments in Surrey and the Surrey Heath constituency.

In addition to the legal requirements under the Equality Act 2010 and the Human Rights Act 1998, pharmacy businesses have a duty to comply with the General Pharmaceutical Council’s (GPhC) standards for registered pharmacy premises. This requires pharmacies to provide an environment that is safe and accessible for all, taking reasonable steps to remove barriers for patients with disabilities. These standards emphasise the need for pharmacies to make adjustments to facilities and services, such as providing accessible entrances, clear signage, and assistance for individuals with mobility or sensory challenges.

To support community pharmacies, and meet their legal duties, the GPhC has issued equality guidance for pharmacies, which outlines best practice for supporting patients with a range of needs. NHS England is also rolling out a Reasonable Adjustment Digital Flag which enables the recording of key information about a disabled patient and the reasonable adjustments to care and treatment that they need, to ensure support can be tailored appropriately and equitably. This is being rolled out nationally across all healthcare settings and will help general practitioners and community pharmacies spot when a patient may need extra support.

Whilst no assessment has been made of the accessibility of community pharmacy services in the Surrey Heath constituency, the GPhC is responsible for holding pharmacy businesses to account and ensures compliance with regulatory standards and guidance as part of routine inspections and fitness to practice procedures.

Pharmacy: Access
Asked by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Thursday 16th April 2026

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether his Department plans to review accessibility provisions in community pharmacy services.

Answered by Stephen Kinnock - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

The Department recognises the importance of ensuring community pharmacy services are safe and accessible to all patients, including those with disabilities and sensory impairments in Surrey and the Surrey Heath constituency.

In addition to the legal requirements under the Equality Act 2010 and the Human Rights Act 1998, pharmacy businesses have a duty to comply with the General Pharmaceutical Council’s (GPhC) standards for registered pharmacy premises. This requires pharmacies to provide an environment that is safe and accessible for all, taking reasonable steps to remove barriers for patients with disabilities. These standards emphasise the need for pharmacies to make adjustments to facilities and services, such as providing accessible entrances, clear signage, and assistance for individuals with mobility or sensory challenges.

To support community pharmacies, and meet their legal duties, the GPhC has issued equality guidance for pharmacies, which outlines best practice for supporting patients with a range of needs. NHS England is also rolling out a Reasonable Adjustment Digital Flag which enables the recording of key information about a disabled patient and the reasonable adjustments to care and treatment that they need, to ensure support can be tailored appropriately and equitably. This is being rolled out nationally across all healthcare settings and will help general practitioners and community pharmacies spot when a patient may need extra support.

Whilst no assessment has been made of the accessibility of community pharmacy services in the Surrey Heath constituency, the GPhC is responsible for holding pharmacy businesses to account and ensures compliance with regulatory standards and guidance as part of routine inspections and fitness to practice procedures.

Unemployment: Young People
Asked by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Thursday 16th April 2026

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the Autumn Budget 2025 on levels of youth unemployment in (a) Surrey and (b) Surrey Heath constituency.

Answered by Andrew Western - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Work and Pensions)

This Government will not leave an entire generation of young people behind. For many years our young people have not had the opportunity and support they deserve. Under the last government, between 2021 and 2024, the number of young people not in education, employment or training increased by 250,000.

Building on the Youth Guarantee and Growth and Skills Levy announcement at Budget, the Government committed a further £1 billion for young people on 16th March 2026, taking total additional investment into the Youth Guarantee and the Growth and Skills Levy to £2.5 billion over the next three years. This investment will support almost one million young people and create up to 500,000 opportunities to earn and learn.

As part of this package, the Government is delivering eight Youth Guarantee Trailblazers in England, expanding Youth Hubs to more than 360 areas across Great Britain and introducing a new Youth Guarantee Gateway in Jobcentres. The Gateway will provide 16-24-year-olds on Universal Credit a dedicated session and follow-up support to help them move into work, training or education.

This investment will also create around 300,000 more opportunities to gain workplace experience and training, including up to 150,000 work experience placements and up to 145,000 employer designed training opportunities, such as Sector based Work Academy Programmes, which offer participants a guaranteed job interview at the end.

In addition, the Government is taking action to support employers to recruit and train young people, helping to unlock up to 200,000 more employment opportunities. This includes a new £3,000 Youth Jobs Grant for employers who hire 18–24-year-olds who have been on Universal Credit for over six months, a new £2,000 apprenticeship incentive for small and medium sized employers hiring 16–24-year-old, and the Jobs Guarantee scheme, providing long-term unemployed 18–24-year-olds with a fully funded six month job.

The Government will also prioritise prevention, building on measures announced in the Skills White Paper. The Government will improve support in schools, monitor attendance, increase access to work experience and work with local authorities to pilot auto-enrolling young people in further education, if needed.

In Surrey Heath, young people are already supported through Camberley Youth Hub, which provides high-quality, holistic support, including mental health, housing, essential and vocational skills, and employer engagement. Ensuring support for every young person, including those not claiming benefits, aged 16–24 has access to training, apprenticeships, or employment support.

The information requested on trends in levels of youth unemployment and economic inactivity is published and available at: https://www.nomisweb.co.uk/default.asp(opens in a new tab) and the guidance for users can be found at: https://www.nomisweb.co.uk/home/newuser.asp(opens in a new tab).

Employment: Young People
Asked by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Thursday 16th April 2026

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps he is taking to support young people into (a) employment, (b) education and (c) training in Surrey Heath constituency.

Answered by Andrew Western - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Work and Pensions)

This Government will not leave an entire generation of young people behind. For many years our young people have not had the opportunity and support they deserve. Under the last government, between 2021 and 2024, the number of young people not in education, employment or training increased by 250,000.

Building on the Youth Guarantee and Growth and Skills Levy announcement at Budget, the Government committed a further £1 billion for young people on 16th March 2026, taking total additional investment into the Youth Guarantee and the Growth and Skills Levy to £2.5 billion over the next three years. This investment will support almost one million young people and create up to 500,000 opportunities to earn and learn.

As part of this package, the Government is delivering eight Youth Guarantee Trailblazers in England, expanding Youth Hubs to more than 360 areas across Great Britain and introducing a new Youth Guarantee Gateway in Jobcentres. The Gateway will provide 16-24-year-olds on Universal Credit a dedicated session and follow-up support to help them move into work, training or education.

This investment will also create around 300,000 more opportunities to gain workplace experience and training, including up to 150,000 work experience placements and up to 145,000 employer designed training opportunities, such as Sector based Work Academy Programmes, which offer participants a guaranteed job interview at the end.

In addition, the Government is taking action to support employers to recruit and train young people, helping to unlock up to 200,000 more employment opportunities. This includes a new £3,000 Youth Jobs Grant for employers who hire 18–24-year-olds who have been on Universal Credit for over six months, a new £2,000 apprenticeship incentive for small and medium sized employers hiring 16–24-year-old, and the Jobs Guarantee scheme, providing long-term unemployed 18–24-year-olds with a fully funded six month job.

The Government will also prioritise prevention, building on measures announced in the Skills White Paper. The Government will improve support in schools, monitor attendance, increase access to work experience and work with local authorities to pilot auto-enrolling young people in further education, if needed.

In Surrey Heath, young people are already supported through Camberley Youth Hub, which provides high-quality, holistic support, including mental health, housing, essential and vocational skills, and employer engagement. Ensuring support for every young person, including those not claiming benefits, aged 16–24 has access to training, apprenticeships, or employment support.

The information requested on trends in levels of youth unemployment and economic inactivity is published and available at: https://www.nomisweb.co.uk/default.asp(opens in a new tab) and the guidance for users can be found at: https://www.nomisweb.co.uk/home/newuser.asp(opens in a new tab).

Driving Licences: Health
Asked by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Thursday 16th April 2026

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the adequacy of funding available to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency to process medical driving licence applications.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) aims to process all applications as quickly as possible. In the interests of road safety, the DVLA must be satisfied that the required medical standards are met before a licence is issued. Applications where a medical condition must be assessed before a licence can be issued can take longer to process as the DVLA is often dependent on information from third parties, including medical professionals.

In 2025/26 the average time to make a licensing decision in cases where a medical condition(s) must be investigated before a licence could be issued was 56.66 days.

The DVLA is currently experiencing an increase in both the volume and complexity of driving licence applications from people with one or more medical conditions. Unfortunately, this has led to longer waiting times for some customers.

The DVLA regularly reviews its funding requirements to process medical licence applications as part of its wider forecasting and business planning activity. Any financial pressures and opportunities which may arise are reported promptly to the Department for Transport as part of routine oversight. The Department and the DVLA continue to monitor demand levels and performance closely and funding priorities are kept under review to ensure resources are deployed effectively.

Where drivers indicate that their licence is required for employment and other urgent purposes, these applications are prioritised where possible.

It is important to note that most drivers may be able to continue driving while their application is being processed, providing they can meet specific criteria. More information can be found at: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1180997/inf1886-can-i-drive-while-my-application-is-with-dvla.pdf.

Driving Licences: Health
Asked by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Thursday 16th April 2026

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent estimate she has made of the number of driving licence applications delayed due to medical evidence requirements.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) aims to process all applications as quickly as possible. In the interests of road safety, the DVLA must be satisfied that the required medical standards are met before a licence is issued. Applications where a medical condition must be assessed before a licence can be issued can take longer to process as the DVLA is often dependent on information from third parties, including medical professionals.

In 2025/26 the average time to make a licensing decision in cases where a medical condition(s) must be investigated before a licence could be issued was 56.66 days.

The DVLA is currently experiencing an increase in both the volume and complexity of driving licence applications from people with one or more medical conditions. Unfortunately, this has led to longer waiting times for some customers.

The DVLA regularly reviews its funding requirements to process medical licence applications as part of its wider forecasting and business planning activity. Any financial pressures and opportunities which may arise are reported promptly to the Department for Transport as part of routine oversight. The Department and the DVLA continue to monitor demand levels and performance closely and funding priorities are kept under review to ensure resources are deployed effectively.

Where drivers indicate that their licence is required for employment and other urgent purposes, these applications are prioritised where possible.

It is important to note that most drivers may be able to continue driving while their application is being processed, providing they can meet specific criteria. More information can be found at: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1180997/inf1886-can-i-drive-while-my-application-is-with-dvla.pdf.

Driving Licences: Health
Asked by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Thursday 16th April 2026

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of delays in medical driving licence decisions by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency on the ability of affected people to (a) access employment and (b) education and (c) training in (i) rural and (ii) semi-rural areas.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) aims to process all applications as quickly as possible. In the interests of road safety, the DVLA must be satisfied that the required medical standards are met before a licence is issued. Applications where a medical condition must be assessed before a licence can be issued can take longer to process as the DVLA is often dependent on information from third parties, including medical professionals.

In 2025/26 the average time to make a licensing decision in cases where a medical condition(s) must be investigated before a licence could be issued was 56.66 days.

The DVLA is currently experiencing an increase in both the volume and complexity of driving licence applications from people with one or more medical conditions. Unfortunately, this has led to longer waiting times for some customers.

The DVLA regularly reviews its funding requirements to process medical licence applications as part of its wider forecasting and business planning activity. Any financial pressures and opportunities which may arise are reported promptly to the Department for Transport as part of routine oversight. The Department and the DVLA continue to monitor demand levels and performance closely and funding priorities are kept under review to ensure resources are deployed effectively.

Where drivers indicate that their licence is required for employment and other urgent purposes, these applications are prioritised where possible.

It is important to note that most drivers may be able to continue driving while their application is being processed, providing they can meet specific criteria. More information can be found at: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1180997/inf1886-can-i-drive-while-my-application-is-with-dvla.pdf.

Driving Licences: Health
Asked by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Thursday 16th April 2026

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the adequacy of average processing times for medical driving licence applications by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) aims to process all applications as quickly as possible. In the interests of road safety, the DVLA must be satisfied that the required medical standards are met before a licence is issued. Applications where a medical condition must be assessed before a licence can be issued can take longer to process as the DVLA is often dependent on information from third parties, including medical professionals.

In 2025/26 the average time to make a licensing decision in cases where a medical condition(s) must be investigated before a licence could be issued was 56.66 days.

The DVLA is currently experiencing an increase in both the volume and complexity of driving licence applications from people with one or more medical conditions. Unfortunately, this has led to longer waiting times for some customers.

The DVLA regularly reviews its funding requirements to process medical licence applications as part of its wider forecasting and business planning activity. Any financial pressures and opportunities which may arise are reported promptly to the Department for Transport as part of routine oversight. The Department and the DVLA continue to monitor demand levels and performance closely and funding priorities are kept under review to ensure resources are deployed effectively.

Where drivers indicate that their licence is required for employment and other urgent purposes, these applications are prioritised where possible.

It is important to note that most drivers may be able to continue driving while their application is being processed, providing they can meet specific criteria. More information can be found at: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1180997/inf1886-can-i-drive-while-my-application-is-with-dvla.pdf.



Early Day Motions
Monday 13th April

Supporting UK hauliers and reducing border friction through UK–EU cooperation

28 signatures (Most recent: 30 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
That this House notes with deep concern that post-Brexit trading arrangements have placed severe strain on the UK haulage sector, with the number of haulage companies entering insolvency nearly doubling between 2016–2020 and 2021–2025; regrets the Government’s failure to adequately support the sector in adapting to these conditions; further notes …


Early Day Motions Signed
Tuesday 28th April
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Wednesday 29th April 2026

Sir David Attenborough's 100th birthday

20 signatures (Most recent: 29 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Sarah Olney (Liberal Democrat - Richmond Park)
That this House wishes Richmond Park resident, Sir David Attenborough, a very happy 100th birthday, and commends his advocacy for the natural world, conservation and biodiversity; recognises his contribution to broadcasting and consequentially to communities around the world, who have enjoyed his programmes, encouraging insightful knowledge and engagement with nature …
Tuesday 14th April
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 20th April 2026

GP access

32 signatures (Most recent: 30 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Helen Maguire (Liberal Democrat - Epsom and Ewell)
That this House regrets the ongoing and sustained difficulties accessing GP appointments across the country; expresses concern that over 1,300 GP surgeries have closed since 2015; notes that one GP surgery a week has closed under this Government; recognises that GP surgeries are serving an extra 917 homes on average …
Monday 23rd March
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 20th April 2026

NHS funding for mental health services

35 signatures (Most recent: 30 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Danny Chambers (Liberal Democrat - Winchester)
That this House expresses deep concern over the recent news that mental health spending, as a share of total NHS expenditure, is due to fall for the third year in a row; highlights that over 2.2 million people are in contact with NHS mental health services; notes that while mental …
Tuesday 24th March
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 20th April 2026

Water sector reform

46 signatures (Most recent: 30 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Tim Farron (Liberal Democrat - Westmorland and Lonsdale)
That this House recognises the Government’s intention to publish legislation on water sector reform following the publication of their Water White Paper and that this Bill is due to be announced in the upcoming King’s Speech; further recognises the urgent need for structural reform of England’s water industry to rebuild …
Tuesday 24th March
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 20th April 2026

Online abuse and exploitation of Ukrainian refugees

42 signatures (Most recent: 30 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Pippa Heylings (Liberal Democrat - South Cambridgeshire)
That this House expresses grave concern at evidence of widespread abuse, racism, scamming and sexual exploitation targeting Ukrainian refugees within online groups established to facilitate sponsorship under the Homes for Ukraine scheme; notes reports of malicious or inactive administrators allowing such groups to become hostile environments for vulnerable people fleeing …
Monday 13th April
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 20th April 2026

Impact of the Iran war on transport costs

39 signatures (Most recent: 28 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Ed Davey (Liberal Democrat - Kingston and Surbiton)
That this House notes with alarm the impact of President Trump’s war with Iran on fuel prices and transport costs for people across the United Kingdom, with petrol up by 25p per litre and diesel up by 48p per litre since the war began; further notes that Government revenues from …
Monday 13th April
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 20th April 2026

Meta and YouTube and legal liability for addictive design and online harms

31 signatures (Most recent: 30 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Victoria Collins (Liberal Democrat - Harpenden and Berkhamsted)
That this House notes with alarm the findings of recent legal proceedings in the United States in which Meta and YouTube have been found liable for creating platforms with addictive features that cause mental health distress and social media addiction, and in which Meta has further been found liable for …
Monday 13th April
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 20th April 2026

NHS maternity services

22 signatures (Most recent: 30 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Helen Morgan (Liberal Democrat - North Shropshire)
That this House believes that the UK should be the safest country in the world to have a baby; regrets that 65% of maternity units do not meet the classification of good for standards of safety; recognises the serious harm caused to mothers and babies and the cost to the …
Monday 13th April
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 20th April 2026

A&E corridor care

21 signatures (Most recent: 30 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Helen Morgan (Liberal Democrat - North Shropshire)
That this House condemns the normalisation of corridor care in NHS hospitals; expresses alarm at recent reports of patients receiving end of life care in corridors; believes patients deserve better and should expect to receive care in privacy and with dignity; regrets that 2025 saw the worst level of 12 …
Monday 13th April
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 20th April 2026

Access to GP appointments

21 signatures (Most recent: 28 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Helen Maguire (Liberal Democrat - Epsom and Ewell)
That this House regrets that many people are struggling to access GP appointments; notes that on average one GP surgery a week has closed and month-long waits for GP appointments have increased by over 250,000 this Parliament; acknowledges that prolonged waits for GP appointments are terrible for patients' physical health, …
Monday 13th April
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 20th April 2026

Upland farmers and common land

15 signatures (Most recent: 23 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Tim Farron (Liberal Democrat - Westmorland and Lonsdale)
That this House notes with concern that thousands of upland farmers in England face exclusion from future environment schemes due to the absence of a mechanism for common land to apply to the 2026 Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) and Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier (CSHT); recognises that around 4,000 farming businesses …
Tuesday 14th April
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 20th April 2026

Support for hospitality businesses

27 signatures (Most recent: 29 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Victoria Collins (Liberal Democrat - Harpenden and Berkhamsted)
That this House notes with serious concern the cumulative cost pressures facing independent hospitality businesses across the United Kingdom; recognises that the simultaneous impact of rising National Minimum Wage, increased employer National Insurance contributions, rising energy costs, food price volatility, and the reduction of business rates relief is pushing viable, …
Tuesday 14th April
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 20th April 2026

Social care

27 signatures (Most recent: 30 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Alison Bennett (Liberal Democrat - Mid Sussex)
That this House believes everyone deserves high-quality care, to live independently and with dignity; condemns successive Governments for kicking meaningful reform of social care into the long-grass; recognises that the social care crisis is a millstone around the neck of our NHS and that many problems in the NHS cannot …
Wednesday 15th April
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 20th April 2026

Peregrine falcons in Woking

13 signatures (Most recent: 27 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Will Forster (Liberal Democrat - Woking)
That this House congratulates the Surrey Bird Club and the Woking Peregrine Project on the recent success of the peregrine falcons nesting at Export House in Woking; notes that the installation of a nest box in 2016 has supported the return of these remarkable birds of prey to the town …
Wednesday 15th April
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 20th April 2026

Introduction of reforms to Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief

28 signatures (Most recent: 28 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Sarah Dyke (Liberal Democrat - Glastonbury and Somerton)
That this House expresses concern over the Government’s decision to introduce reforms to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR), which took effect on 6 April 2026 and has limited the availability of full relief and created new thresholds on qualifying assets; recognises the Government’s decision to increase …
Thursday 16th April
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 20th April 2026

Food Bill

34 signatures (Most recent: 28 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Sarah Dyke (Liberal Democrat - Glastonbury and Somerton)
That this House recognises the growing importance of food security in the context of ongoing global instability and rising costs of food, fuel and energy; notes that the resilience of the food system must be treated as a core pillar of national security; further notes that England is the only …
Monday 13th April
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 20th April 2026

100th anniversary of the birth of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

101 signatures (Most recent: 21 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Adam Jogee (Labour - Newcastle-under-Lyme)
That this House notes, with affection and respect, the 100th anniversary, on 21 April 2026 of the birth of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II; reflects on the sense of loss that people throughout the United Kingdom, the realms, territories and Commonwealth still feel following Her late Majesty’s death on …
Thursday 26th March
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM as a sponsor on Monday 13th April 2026

Pip Atkinson's contributions to women's rugby

8 signatures (Most recent: 14 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Sarah Dyke (Liberal Democrat - Glastonbury and Somerton)
That this House celebrates Pip Atkinson’s outstanding contribution to Women’s Rugby in England; notes that having grown up in Butleigh and attended Millfield School, Pip was initially a keen pentathlete; understands that while studying at Loughborough University, Pip switched from the modern pentathlon to rugby union before going on to …
Thursday 5th March
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 13th April 2026

King's Guard's ceremonial bearskin caps

81 signatures (Most recent: 28 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Rachael Maskell (Labour (Co-op) - York Central)
That this House commends this Government's commitment to advancing animal welfare, as demonstrated by key reforms including a banning of trial hunting, a banning of boiling live crustaceans, recognising their capacity for pain and ending the cruel practice of puppy farming; acknowledges the dedicated efforts of People for the Ethical …
Monday 23rd March
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 13th April 2026

Cyprus and UK Sovereign Base Areas

13 signatures (Most recent: 15 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Christine Jardine (Liberal Democrat - Edinburgh West)
That this House recognises the strategic importance of the Sovereign Base Areas in Cyprus, including Akrotiri and Dhekelia, in supporting UK and allied operations in the Eastern Mediterranean; notes the United Kingdom’s role as a guarantor power under the Treaty of Guarantee 1960 and the responsibilities this entails for the …
Wednesday 25th March
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM as a sponsor on Monday 13th April 2026

Waste crime

13 signatures (Most recent: 14 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Tim Farron (Liberal Democrat - Westmorland and Lonsdale)
That this House expresses deep concern regarding the ongoing issues at the Flusco waste site in Newbiggin; highlights failures in gas and leachate management by Seletia, including their non-compliance with regulatory notices; calls for urgent reforms in waste management regulations to ensure accountability from operators; and urges the Government to …
Wednesday 25th March
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM as a sponsor on Monday 13th April 2026

Short breaks provision and support for carers in Surrey

9 signatures (Most recent: 14 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Zöe Franklin (Liberal Democrat - Guildford)
That this House expresses concern at proposed reductions to Short Breaks provision for disabled children in Surrey; notes the decision to end contracts with Crossroads Care Surrey for carer support services and the wider changes to support available to carers in the county; recognises that these changes come at a …
Wednesday 25th March
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 13th April 2026

Heating oil financial support

20 signatures (Most recent: 23 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Sarah Dyke (Liberal Democrat - Glastonbury and Somerton)
That this House notes with concern the ongoing price shocks rural residents that rely on heating oil and LPG are facing; appreciates the Government’s offer of financial support for the most vulnerable; is anxious about whether the package will alleviate the pressures rural residents face right now, especially since only …
Wednesday 25th March
Al Pinkerton signed this EDM on Monday 13th April 2026

Rural postal services

18 signatures (Most recent: 23 Apr 2026)
Tabled by: Lee Dillon (Liberal Democrat - Newbury)
That this House notes with concern the changes announced by Royal Mail and Ofcom to second-class postal services, which will result in deliveries taking place on alternate weekdays with no service on the remaining days; recognises the importance of reliable postal services, particularly in rural areas where communities rely on …



Al Pinkerton mentioned

Live Transcript

Note: Cited speaker in live transcript data may not always be accurate. Check video link to confirm.

13 Apr 2026, 4:40 p.m. - House of Commons
" Scott Arthur Al Pinkerton. Minister is absolutely right to suggest that the tremors provoked by this conflict will reverberate "
Dr Al Pinkerton MP (Surrey Heath, Liberal Democrat) - View Video - View Transcript
13 Apr 2026, 6:35 p.m. - House of Commons
" Liberal Democrat spokesperson Doctor Al Pinkerton. Doctor Al Pinkerton. >> Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. And can I genuinely thank the Minister for the statement today "
Dr Al Pinkerton MP (Surrey Heath, Liberal Democrat) - View Video - View Transcript
13 Apr 2026, 8:49 p.m. - House of Commons
" For Al Pinkerton. >> Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. Can I thank the hon. Member for Farnham and Bordon for calling this important debate? Like him, my "
Dr Al Pinkerton MP (Surrey Heath, Liberal Democrat) - View Video - View Transcript
14 Apr 2026, 7:17 p.m. - House of Lords
"question from the Liberal Democrat spokesman, Al Pinkerton in the other House about what the collapse "
Lord Coaker, The Minister of State, Ministry of Defence (Labour) - View Video - View Transcript
15 Apr 2026, 1:18 p.m. - House of Commons
" Al Pinkerton thank. >> Al Pinkerton thank. >> You, Mr. Speaker. Funnily enough, my question follows on perfectly on behalf of the previous member, Lord "
Dr Al Pinkerton MP (Surrey Heath, Liberal Democrat) - View Video - View Transcript


Parliamentary Debates
Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory Bill
46 speeches (6,468 words)
Tuesday 14th April 2026 - Lords Chamber
Ministry of Defence
Mentions:
1: Lord Lilley (Con - Life peer) My Lords, in response to a question from the Liberal Democrat spokesman Al Pinkerton in the other House - Link to Speech