Point of Order

Debate between Nusrat Ghani and Sorcha Eastwood

Wednesday 21st October 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sorcha Eastwood (Lagan Valley) (Alliance)]

On a point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker. This House may be aware of alarming press reports that Jeffrey Donaldson, a former Member of this House and my predecessor in Lagan Valley, is under police investigation over allegations of rape within these Houses of Parliament. This follows his sentencing last week to 15 years for 18 charges of non-recent child sexual abuse crimes, including the rape of a child under the age of 13.

Clearly, this is a live police investigation, and I would not wish to prejudice it. However, I know that former and current members of staff on the estate may be deeply affected by these reports. What advice can the Chair give on how we can support those who are distressed by this news and on how we can encourage anyone with concerns to come forward?

[Madam Deputy Speaker (Ms Nusrat Ghani)]

I thank the hon. Member for bringing the point of order to my attention. These will, of course, be highly concerning allegations for all in the parliamentary community. The Parliamentary Health and Wellbeing Service can advise and assist on the range of support available for anyone affected by these reports, and there are established mechanisms for anyone with concerns who wishes to come forward. Any criminal allegations should, of course, be made to the appropriate authorities.

Civil Service Pensions

Debate between Nusrat Ghani and Sorcha Eastwood

Monday 6th July 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sorcha Eastwood (Lagan Valley) (Alliance)]

I also must declare an interest, as my husband is a civil servant and is currently paying into a pension. Does the Minister agree that this is one of the best examples we have of the social contract falling apart? People who have literally worked for the state are now unable to be paid by the state. I really welcome your statement about insourcing. You have said that it is important that the taxpayer not have to foot the bill—

[Madam Deputy Speaker (Ms Nusrat Ghani)]

Order. I have not said anything. End your question quickly.

[Sorcha Eastwood]

There has been a cost to the taxpayer in people’s lives. What can you do to restore confidence in the system?

[Madam Deputy Speaker]

Order. What can I do to restore confidence, or what can the Minister do? You mean the Minister?

[Sorcha Eastwood]

indicated assent.

[Madam Deputy Speaker]

Good.

Debate on the Address

Debate between Nusrat Ghani and Sorcha Eastwood

Wednesday 13th May 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sorcha Eastwood (Lagan Valley) (Alliance)]

I agree entirely with the hon. Member. To me, we have one of the most business-hostile environments. You made comments about young people not getting work. Do you agree that that is made worse by the national insurance hikes that have seen almost a generation being unable to get employment? Do you agree with me in that contention?

[Madam Deputy Speaker (Ms Nusrat Ghani)]

Order. Let us start the Session as we mean to go on, with no “you” or “your”, because the hon. Member is not talking about me.

Life Sciences Innovative Manufacturing Fund

Debate between Nusrat Ghani and Sorcha Eastwood

Wednesday 22nd October 2025 Commons Chamber

[Sorcha Eastwood (Lagan Valley) (Alliance)]

You mentioned the sector’s relevance and benefit to the whole of the United Kingdom. Would you agree that Northern Ireland has a rich manufacturing and life sciences heritage and that we have a huge role to play?

[Madam Deputy Speaker]

Order. Ms Eastwood, it was only at the start of the week that I had to reprimand you twice for using the word “you”, and it has come up twice again.

[Sorcha Eastwood]

I apologise.

Pride in Place

Debate between Nusrat Ghani and Sorcha Eastwood

Wednesday 15th October 2025 Commons Chamber

[Sorcha Eastwood (Lagan Valley) (Alliance)]

Minister, the statement makes reference to engaging with the Northern Ireland Executive. Can you tell me what discussions you have had with my colleagues in the Northern Ireland Executive?

[Madam Deputy Speaker (Ms Nusrat Ghani)]

Order. It is not “Can you tell me?”; it is “Can the Minister tell me?”. Yes? Quick!

[Sorcha Eastwood]

Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. Can the Minister please tell me what discussions you have had with my colleagues in the Northern Ireland Executive? You will be aware of the fact that the shared prosperity fund, which other Members have referenced, is not being replaced. The local growth situation is already jeopardising jobs in Northern Ireland. Can you make any comment on that, Minister? Thank you.

[Madam Deputy Speaker]

Correction twice—it is not “Can you make a comment?” Let us please make sure we get our words right next time around.