Business of the House

Martin Rhodes Excerpts

Thursday 12th February 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I will certainly join my hon. Friend in congratulating Lily and Kieran on their well-deserved awards. It is National Apprenticeship Week, but these hard-earned skills are not just for this week—they are for life. That is why we have backed our guarantee that all 18 to 21-year-olds will have access to training, apprenticeships or help finding work with a record £3 billion apprenticeship budget. I wish Lily and Kieran all the very best for their working life going forward.

[Martin Rhodes (Glasgow North) (Lab)]

I recently hosted a drop-in advice surgery with my hon. Friend the Member for Glasgow West (Patricia Ferguson) for people living with dementia and their carers. I was struck by the vital role played by local dementia support groups, such as Dementia Heroes in the west end of Glasgow. Will the Leader of the House make time for a debate on recognising the importance of these community-led organisations?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

Volunteer and community-led organisations are at the heart of our local communities, and the work that they do brings so much support to those in need. I join my hon. Friend in thanking organisations such as Dementia Heroes in his constituency. Every week, we hear from Members about the work of volunteers across our country, so if he sought a debate on the subject, I am sure that it would be popular.