Business of the House

Navendu Mishra Excerpts

Thursday 2nd July 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

The Government share the hon. Gentleman’s view that it is important that we support farmers, and agree with him about the importance of food security and food production as we go forward. As he alluded to, we need to ensure that what is happening in certain areas of farming and the Government’s plans on water are joined up, because we need to get this right. In order to get an answer from the relevant Minister, I encourage him to apply for an Adjournment debate so that he can hear from them directly.

[Navendu Mishra (Stockport) (Lab)]

Vernon Building Society, which was established in 1924, offers financial services to people in Stockport and across Greater Manchester. It is a true mutual, owned by members, not shareholders. However, as the building society sector grows, there are concerns about meaningful democratic engagement for members. In particular, in Nationwide, which is the largest building society in the world, concerns have been raised about a virtual-only annual general meeting, a lack of member-nominated directors and the quick vote mechanism. When members are owners, they must have a meaningful voice in how the organisation is run and governed. As such, may I ask the Leader of the House for a debate in Government time on the Building Societies Act 1986 and the need for a meaningful democratic voice for the membership?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

My hon. Friend raises some interesting concerns, particularly around transparency, and he rightly points out that building societies are a vital and growing part of our economy. I suggest that he should seek an Adjournment debate or a Westminster Hall debate so that he can hear directly from a Minister how his concerns might be addressed.