Business of the House

Rachel Blake Excerpts

Thursday 26th February 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

The hon. Gentleman raises concerning matters. I encourage him to seek an Adjournment debate, where he can not only set out his concerns in more detail but get a response from the relevant Minister.

[Rachel Blake (Cities of London and Westminster) (Lab/Co-op)]

This week, one of my constituents experienced a homophobic attack on Oxford Street from a shopkeeper who runs one of the American candy stores. This is a stark reminder of not only the rogue traders who are operating on Oxford Street but the ongoing presence of homophobia in our society. Will the Leader of the House help me to secure a meeting with the relevant Minister, to ensure we get rid of these rogue traders on Oxford Street for good?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I thank my hon. Friend for championing unity, not division, and working to make our high streets safer. All forms of hatred are completely unacceptable and have no place in our communities, and the Government are clear that those who commit hate crimes will face the full force of the law. I will ensure that my hon. Friend gets the meeting she requests, but I also encourage her and other Members to attend the debate on community cohesion scheduled for next Tuesday.