Speech in Commons Chamber - Mon 17 Nov 2025 Asylum Policy
"The proposal to raise the threshold for indefinite leave to remain from five years to 20 years is deeply concerning. At a time when far-right groups are exploiting fear and spreading misinformation, our Government should lead with compassion and fairness, instead of forcing some of the most vulnerable in our …..." Steve Witherden - View Speech
"Survivors of domestic abuse and violence, along with their children, must be able to access affordable housing. The local housing allowance, introduced by the last Labour Government to cover the lowest 50% of private rents, now covers only 1% of private rents in Wales and 2.4% in England. Does the …..." Steve Witherden - View Speech
"It is a pleasure to serve under your chairship, Mr Dowd. I thank the hon. Member for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe (David Chadwick), with whom I share a health board, for securing this important debate.
Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr is served by two of the three Welsh local health boards …..." Steve Witherden - View Speech
"One in three children in my constituency is growing up in poverty. With the Budget approaching, what discussions has the Secretary of State had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer about scrapping the two-child limit—a policy widely recognised as one of the biggest drivers of child poverty in Britain today?..." Steve Witherden - View Speech
"It is a pleasure to serve under your chairship, Mr Twigg.
I thank the hon. Member for Caerfyrddin (Ann Davies) for securing this important debate to ensure that the Government’s proposed ban on new coal licences stays true to its legislative aim, while putting the safety of our constituents over …..." Steve Witherden - View Speech
"It is a pleasure to serve under your chairship, Ms Lewell.
Before being elected, I spent nearly two decades as a teacher. I know all too well the realities of working in a system that prioritises teaching to the test at the expense of a creative curriculum, broader educational experiences …..." Steve Witherden - View Speech
In 2025, more than 75% of pupils with SEND and over 90% of those with an education, health and care plan did not meet expected standards in their end-of-primary SATs. Many carry that label of failure into secondary school before they have even had the chance …..." Steve Witherden - View Speech
"Would the hon. Gentleman agree that if we narrow the curriculum, take out the music and drama lessons, fill the curriculum and stack it to the rafters with numeracy and literacy-heavy subjects, all the pedagogies, and teach to the test, with exams, exams, exams, that will lead to better PISA …..." Steve Witherden - View Speech
"Does my hon. Friend agree that, when a class element applies with less favourable outcomes for those who cannot pay, the very concept of universalism is in jeopardy?..." Steve Witherden - View Speech