{"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions.json?page=11&state=with_response","first":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions.json?state=with_response","last":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions.json?page=15&state=with_response","next":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions.json?page=12&state=with_response","prev":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions.json?page=10&state=with_response"},"data":[{"type":"petition","id":727356,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/727356.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Keep 5-year ILR terms to Hong Kong British National (Overseas) visas","background":"We urge the Government to exempt BN(O) visa for Hongkongers from the proposed immigration reforms. We think the current ILR terms must remain unchanged:\r\n \r\n1. Five years of UK residency\r\n2. B1 level English proficiency\r\n3. Passing the Life in the UK Test\r\n","additional_details":"Many Hongkongers on the BN(O) visa, including retired seniors, have started a new life in the UK after the imposition of the National Security Law. They followed the rules with the understanding that after five years, they could settle permanently if they met the English and civic knowledge requirements. We think changing these terms would break the UK's promises and cause stress and uncertainty for those who trusted in this humanitarian route. We urge the Government to honour its original commitment.","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":114605,"created_at":"2025-05-12T14:38:59.382Z","updated_at":"2025-12-26T00:00:19.784Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-06-25T09:49:33.469Z","closed_at":"2025-12-25T23:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2025-05-12T17:40:10.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-06-26T07:41:20.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-07-11T07:55:20.235Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":"2025-07-04T21:46:20.000Z","debate_scheduled_on":"2025-07-18","scheduled_debate_date":"2025-09-08","debate_outcome_at":"2025-09-09T09:44:32.234Z","creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-07-11","summary":"We are firmly committed to the existing Hong Kong community in the UK and all those who will arrive in future. Further details of measures in the Immigration White Paper will be set out in due course.","details":"Settlement in the UK is a prerequisite for becoming a British citizen and brings lifelong benefits. Settlement is also an important step in integrating and contributing to local communities and the wider country.\n\nAs stated in the Immigration White Paper, published on 12 May, we therefore intend to reform the current rules around settlement so that individuals must earn their right to that privileged immigration status in the UK through the long-term contribution they bring to our country. It is also important that those coming to the UK are able to integrate into society. English language requirements along with the Life in the UK test are essential in supporting that integration.\n\nThe reforms to earned settlement set out in the White Paper will be set out in detail later this year, and there will be an opportunity for everyone to contribute to the consultation on those changes. We recognise how important this issue is to the Hong Kong community, and we will listen carefully to what they tell us in that consultation before taking any final decisions on how the new rules will operate, which immigration routes they will affect, and when the changes will take effect. In the meantime, the current rules for settlement under the BN(O) route will continue to apply. \n\nThe detail of the new English Language requirements in relation to specific routes will be set out in due course when changes to the Immigration Rules introducing the new requirements are brought forward, as well as any further details about changes to the Life in the UK Test. Again, we will take all views submitted to the Home Office by the Hong Kong community into account as part of that process.\n\nWe thank the petitioners for sharing their views ahead of the consultation and look forward to hearing from them again once they have had the chance to review the final proposals in detail. We will also continue to engage regularly with representatives of the Hong Kong diaspora in the UK on any other issues related to the BN(O) visa as part of our ongoing commitment to support that community.\n\nHome Office","created_at":"2025-07-11T07:55:20.233Z","updated_at":"2025-07-11T07:55:50.508Z"},"debate":{"debated_on":"2025-09-08","transcript_url":"https://hansard.parliament.uk/commons/2025-09-08/debates/25EC2767-BBFF-4FE8-8F52-65B2C28CED10/IndefiniteLeaveToRemain","video_url":"https://www.youtube.com/live/sGBlfyO5VhI?si=qz7pcnWmcaYyv4CI","debate_pack_url":"https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cdp-2025-0172/","public_engagement_url":"","debate_summary_url":"","overview":""},"departments":[{"acronym":"HO","name":"Home Office","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/home-office"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":723991,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/723991.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Abandon DWP Pathways to Work Green Paper & create National Disability Strategy","background":"The DWP Green Paper Pathways to Work proposes what we think are devastating cuts to disability benefits. We think the Government must drop these proposals and instead begin a process of co-production with disabled peoples representative organisations to create a whole government disability strategy.","additional_details":"1. Abandon the DWP Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working Green Paper.\r\n2. Establish and resource a disability strategy co-production infrastructure working with Deaf and Disabled People's Organisations (Organisations run by and for disabled people) to create a National Disability Strategy to inform Labour market, Employment rights and Social Security reform that provides an adequate standard of living in line with the UNCRDP.\r\n3. Protect the income of disabled people from further shocks.","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":11036,"created_at":"2025-03-31T10:41:24.189Z","updated_at":"2025-10-29T19:54:50.000Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-04-28T13:03:49.693Z","closed_at":"2025-10-28T23:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2025-03-31T11:43:40.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-06-26T05:47:30.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-07-10T16:07:33.280Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":null,"debate_scheduled_on":null,"scheduled_debate_date":null,"debate_outcome_at":null,"creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-07-10","summary":"We will not abandon the principles of the Green Paper, but we are changing the Bill to ensure disabled people are protected and more involved, via co-production of the PIP assessment review. ","details":"The Pathways to Work Green Paper announced a range of plans and proposals to reform health and disability benefits and boost employment support. The reforms are designed to protect the most vulnerable, while supporting those who can work to do so – and to give disabled people the equal choices and chances to work that they deserve. We will not abandon the reform principles set out in the Green Paper or our commitment to improve the system and deliver proper employment support for disabled people. \n\nMany of the proposals were part of the public consultation which invited disabled people to share their views and received over 45,000 responses before closing on the 30 June. We are now carefully reviewing responses as we further develop proposals, alongside facilitating other ways to involve disabled people in the reforms. This includes the Collaboration Committees we launched on the 2 July, which bring together groups of disabled people and other experts for specific work areas to collaborate and provide discussion, challenge, and recommendations.\n\nThe Collaboration Committees will cover a range of areas, including the employment support plans outlined in the Green Paper – the biggest investment in employment support for disabled people and people with health conditions in at least a generation. Our new guarantee of support for all disabled people and people with health conditions claiming out of work benefits is backed up by £2.2bn over four years. The Collaboration Committees, alongside consultation responses, will help ensure we get the new employment support offer right. The Disability Advisory Panel announced in the Get Britain Working White Paper, will further ensure the perspectives of disabled people inform our work.\n\nSome reforms announced in the Green Paper were brought forward via the Universal Credit (UC) and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Bill, which was introduced to Parliament on the 18 June. This Government is committed to protecting the incomes of disabled people and we have listened to the concerns raised – that is why we have proposed changes to the Bill. The changes will go further to protect existing claimants and those meeting the Severe Conditions Criteria or considered under the Special Rules for End of Life. In addition to receiving the higher UC health payment, the proposed changes ensure that from April 2026, these customers will see their UC standard allowance combined with UC health rise at least in line with inflation each year for the next four years. For those who meet the Severe Conditions Criteria, we have also legislated that they will not be called for a reassessment of UC – removing unnecessary stress, anxiety and uncertainty.\n\nWe have also announced that any changes to PIP eligibility, will only come after a comprehensive review of the benefit, led by the Minister for Social Security and Disability. To underline this commitment, we have proposed an amendment to the UC and PIP Bill to remove the changes that it proposed to the PIP eligibility criteria. The wider review will consider whether the PIP assessment is fair and fit for the future in a changing world and helps support disabled people to achieve better health, higher living standards and greater independence.\n\nThe PIP assessment review will be co-produced with disabled people, the organisations that represent them, clinicians, experts, MPs and other stakeholders, so a wide range of views and voices are heard. We have published Terms of Reference for the review, and we will engage widely over the summer to design the process for its work. \n\nThe National Disability Strategy was an initiative of the previous Government. We will provide further updates on the Government’s longer-term priorities for disability policy in due course.  We are committed to engaging disabled people meaningfully in our reforms to social security – and the PIP review underlines this commitment. This Government strongly values the voices and interests of disabled people – and that is why there is a Lead Minister for Disability in every government department, to represent the interests of disabled people and champion disability inclusion and accessibility. As we drive forward progress on the Government’s manifesto commitments and five missions, we will continue to collaborate across government to champion the rights of disabled people and people with long-term health conditions. \n\nDepartment for Work and Pensions","created_at":"2025-07-10T16:07:33.278Z","updated_at":"2025-07-10T16:07:33.278Z"},"debate":null,"departments":[{"acronym":"DWP","name":"Department for Work and Pensions","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-work-pensions"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":726413,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/726413.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Apply for the UK to rejoin the EU fully - do not just 'reset' the relationship","background":"I think the UK needs to rejoin the EU fully for maximum economic benefit and to restore influence rather than merely 'reset' relations.","additional_details":"A 'reset', Customs Union or Single Market membership may offer some advantages but I think full EU membership alone can provide the growth, security and global standing we need.\r\n\r\nAs the UK faces economic challenges and global uncertainties, I think it is more important than ever to work jointly with European partners. I believe rejoining the EU would increase and strengthen the economy, enhance international cooperation, improve security, and help protect the UK against external pressures.\r\n\r\nI think partial measures fall short of what is needed. Only full EU membership ensures stability, influence and security.","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":26756,"created_at":"2025-04-30T16:34:38.643Z","updated_at":"2025-11-14T00:00:01.744Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-05-13T14:58:33.986Z","closed_at":"2025-11-13T23:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2025-04-30T17:20:00.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-06-17T09:15:30.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-07-10T11:15:30.213Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":null,"debate_scheduled_on":null,"scheduled_debate_date":null,"debate_outcome_at":null,"creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-07-10","summary":"Britain will stay outside the EU, but we must make Brexit work. In May, the Government announced a new strategic partnership with the EU which will deliver economic and security benefits for the UK.","details":"Britain will stay outside the EU, and we will seize the opportunities of Brexit to make it work.\n\nThe Government was elected last year with a clear and emphatic mandate to strengthen our relationship with the EU but which committed to not rejoining the EU, the single market, customs union or returning to freedom of movement.  Since taking office, we have reset our relations with European partners to improve the lives of working people and make the people across the UK safer, more secure and more prosperous. \n\nOn 19 May, following the first ever Summit between the UK and the EU, the Prime Minister announced a deal with the EU and a renewed agenda for UK-EU cooperation, which will deliver on what the British public voted for last year. This deal is good for bills, good for jobs, and good for our borders. The package agreed at the Summit delivers for the public by providing greater security via a Security and Defence Partnership, which will allow for closer defence industrial collaboration by unlocking the opportunity to access the EU’s €150bn SAFE fund.\n\nIt will increase safety for UK citizens through strong borders: we have taken a significant step towards a comprehensive migration partnership and will boost our relationships with key EU agencies, supporting information sharing to tackle crime and working together on returns of irregular migrants.\n\nFinally, the deal we have struck will boost prosperity through removal of trade barriers through an SPS agreement, energy efficiency through cooperation on electricity trading, and a cheaper transition to net zero through linking our Emissions Trading Schemes. The deal will reduce costs for businesses, meaning better prices and more choice to consumers.\n\nThe deal means the UK has unprecedented access to the EU market – the best of any country outside the EU or EFTA, and by 2040 the agreement will deliver a £9 billion boost to the UK economy.\n\nOur new relationship will also ensure that we remain influential on the world stage in addressing global issues through e.g. our membership of NATO, G20 and G7.  Being outside the EU also allows the UK to agree economic and trade deals with other countries, as the Prime Minister announced in May with the US and India, which will provide further economic benefit to the UK.\n\nCabinet Office","created_at":"2025-07-10T11:15:30.211Z","updated_at":"2025-07-11T09:14:46.913Z"},"debate":null,"departments":[{"acronym":"FCDO","name":"Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/foreign-commonwealth-office"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":716935,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/716935.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Put the dangers of methanol poisoning on the school curriculum","background":"Young people are dying needlessly of methanol poisoning, most recently in Laos, Turkey and Vietnam. \r\n\r\nWe think that children should be taught the dangers of consuming bootleg alcohol as part of the PSHE and/or Biology curriculum in school.","additional_details":"","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":12442,"created_at":"2025-02-05T22:03:49.469Z","updated_at":"2026-05-05T07:18:57.734Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-04-15T10:37:25.168Z","closed_at":"2025-10-15T22:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2025-02-05T22:37:10.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-06-09T17:14:20.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-07-08T10:55:16.315Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":null,"debate_scheduled_on":null,"scheduled_debate_date":null,"debate_outcome_at":null,"creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-06-19","summary":"The statutory guidance for Health Education requires all pupils in state-maintained schools to be taught the facts about legal and illegal harmful substances.","details":"The statutory guidance for Health Education requires all pupils in state-maintained schools to be taught the facts about legal and illegal harmful substances and the associated risks to physical and mental wellbeing, including smoking, alcohol use and drug-taking. Pupils should be taught that there are some legal substances that people sometimes misuse and that any substance used for purposes other than those intended can be dangerous and could even cause death.\n\nThis complements content about substances within the national curriculum for science. \n\nIn 2020, the Department published resources for schools, including a teacher training module on drugs, alcohol and tobacco, as part of a wider suite of teacher training materials: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/teacher-training-drugs-alcohol-and-tobacco.\n\nIn addition, we have worked with the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) and the PSHE Association to make sure good quality teaching resources are available for teachers delivering drug, alcohol and tobacco education. Lesson plans on drugs, alcohol and tobacco are available on the PSHE Association’s website: https://www.pshe-association.org.uk/curriculum-and-resources/resources/drug-and-alcohol-education-%E2%80%94-lesson-plans. \n\nSchools have the freedom to ensure the curriculum meets the needs of their pupils.  This flexibility will allow schools to respond to local public health and wider community issues, including current global issues presented on the news, and adapt material and programmes to suit the needs of pupils.\n\nThe RSHE statutory guidance is currently under review. The department is looking carefully at responses to the public the consultation conducted last year, considering the relevant evidence and discussing with stakeholders before setting out next steps to make sure the guidance draws from the best available evidence. As part of this process, the department will explore whether additional content is required.\n\nDepartment for Education","created_at":"2025-07-08T10:55:16.313Z","updated_at":"2025-07-08T10:58:52.564Z"},"debate":null,"departments":[{"acronym":"DfE","name":"Department for Education","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-education"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":707685,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/707685.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Allow families with SEN children 10 days term-time holiday without being fined","background":"We believe SEN children are already excluded from society and education. Many children with disabilities or SEN can find it hard to deal with crowds, noise and the general hustle and bustle of travelling in peak times. Yet, these families are penalised for removing children from school for holidays.","additional_details":"It's not the case that these families fancy being awkward, simply that their children cannot cope. We feel this leaves those families with two choices, go in school holidays and spend most of the time stressed, or ask for flexibility. We believe this would give these families the same chance to a break as families without SEN.","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":18610,"created_at":"2024-12-04T08:00:40.350Z","updated_at":"2025-07-29T19:00:50.000Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-01-28T16:23:35.211Z","closed_at":"2025-07-28T22:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2024-12-04T13:50:20.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-06-22T22:46:50.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-07-08T09:48:06.297Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":null,"debate_scheduled_on":null,"scheduled_debate_date":null,"debate_outcome_at":null,"creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-07-08","summary":"All children, including children with SEND, have a right to a full-time education. We are determined to break down barriers to opportunity by supporting every child to achieve and thrive at school.","details":"We understand that there can be considerable additional pressures on families of children with SEND, but we do not believe that the solution is to endorse additional time away from school.\n\nWe sympathise with parents who, for a variety of reasons, face barriers to securing their children’s school attendance. This is why the government is taking a new approach to tackling absence based on responsibility, partnership and belonging. This involves working with schools and local authorities to tackle barriers to school attendance and ensuring schools are able to deliver an excellent education, meeting children’s needs and creating a welcoming, engaging and inclusive environment for children. The government takes seriously its responsibility to ensure that schools are equipped to meet children’s needs and help them succeed, but that is matched by parents’ legal responsibility to send their children to school every day that they can.\n\nStrong attendance is vitally important for all children’s attainment, mental wellbeing and long-term development. Attendance is just as important for children with SEND. They have the same need and legal right to a full-time education as other children.\n\nWe are currently facing an absence epidemic in this country, with 1 in 5 children persistently absent, missing a day each fortnight. For children with SEND, this increases to 1 in 3 children missing a day each fortnight. If children are not in school, it does not matter how effective or well-supported teaching and learning is, as they will not benefit. If children are taken out of school for a two week holiday every year and have an average number of days off for sickness and medical appointments, then by the time they finish year 11 at age 16 they will have missed the equivalent of an entire year of school.\n\nA steady churn of absences also disrupts the learning of every child in a class, disrupting teachers’ ability to plan and sequence learning. It also has a significant detrimental impact on the hard work of school staff to cultivate a sense of community and belonging.\n\nWhilst family holidays can be enriching and important activities, the school year is structured in such a way as to provide plenty of time for holidays outside of term time. and schools also have considerable flexibility to plan term dates themselves, and hold inset days and other occasional days at less busy times of the year. We understand that holiday activities may be busier in school holiday time, but we do not believe this justifies absence from school. \n\nIn addition, there is some room for flexibility within the attendance rules and regulations.  All schools have the discretion to grant leave of absence in exceptional circumstances, but because holidays can be taken outside of term time, it is unlikely that such a request will be exceptional. However, schools are expected to consider each application individually taking into account the specific facts and circumstances and relevant background context behind the request. \n\nOn the attendance of children with SEND specifically, we know that pupils with SEND can face more complex barriers to attendance than their peers. Schools and wider partners are expected to work with families to consider adjustments to help your child attend, as well as a duty to make formal reasonable adjustments where your child has a disability. These could include adjustments to uniform, transport, routines, access to support or lunchtime arrangements. They should also ensure your child receives the right pastoral care. For pupils with Education, Health and Care plans, schools must help ensure that the support set out in the plan is delivered.\n\nDepartment for Education","created_at":"2025-07-08T09:48:06.295Z","updated_at":"2025-07-08T09:48:06.295Z"},"debate":null,"departments":[{"acronym":"DfE","name":"Department for Education","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-education"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":728715,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/728715.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Review possible penalties for social media posts, including the use of prison","background":"We call on the Government to urgently review the possible penalties for non-violent offences arising from social media posts, including the use of prison. ","additional_details":"There is serious public concern about the proportionality of sentencing in cases involving opinion-based online speech. We believe imprisoning individuals for posts on social media sets a dangerous precedent and raises wider questions about freedom of expression, proportionality in sentencing, and the misuse of limited prison resources. We consider that alternative sanctions, such as fines or community service, would be more appropriate.","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":191591,"created_at":"2025-05-27T18:05:08.578Z","updated_at":"2026-04-27T10:00:26.084Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-06-20T12:02:52.796Z","closed_at":"2025-12-20T23:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2025-05-27T18:12:30.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-06-20T15:14:00.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-07-07T12:07:13.039Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":"2025-06-21T09:35:00.000Z","debate_scheduled_on":"2025-10-31","scheduled_debate_date":"2025-11-17","debate_outcome_at":"2025-11-18T10:17:47.743Z","creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-07-25","summary":"The government is committed to ensuring penalties are proportionate and uphold freedom of expression.","details":"Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of our democratic society. It is a long-standing tradition in this country that people are free to demonstrate their views, however uncomfortable these may be to the majority. The government is committed to protecting this right while also ensuring that laws are in place to address harmful, criminal behaviour.\n\nThe UK’s Online Safety Act 2023 (“the Act”) reflects this careful balance. It requires platforms to take proportionate steps to tackle illegal content and protect children from harmful material. At the same time, it has been designed to safeguard legal free speech, uphold privacy, and support innovation. The Act does not prevent adults from accessing legal content, nor does it restrict people from posting content that others may find offensive. It is not about individual posts. Instead, Ofcom will assess the systems and processes platforms have in place to manage risks and respond to harm. There are also protections against the over-removal of content, ensuring that lawful speech is not wrongly taken down.\n\nWhere an individual is convicted for an offence related to opinion-based online speech, the independent judiciary are responsible for determining appropriate sentences based on the facts of each case and the relevant sentencing guidelines.  The sentencing framework provides courts with a range of sentencing powers alongside imprisonment, including fines, community sentences, and suspended sentences. The law also makes clear that imprisonment should only be imposed where no other sentence would be appropriate.\n\nThe government commissioned a comprehensive review of sentencing powers through the Sentencing Review. This was a wide-ranging and evidence-led process that examined the full spectrum of sentencing options—from fines and community orders to custodial sentences—to ensure the framework is robust, proportionate, and fit for purpose.\n\nThe government has accepted the majority of the Review’s recommendations in principle and intends to legislate to implement them as soon as Parliamentary time allows. This includes targeted reforms to strengthen public protection and reduce reoffending.\n\nWe do not consider it necessary or appropriate to revisit the sentencing framework and we currently have no plans to review the penalties for these types of offences.\n\nWe are committed to ensuring that our justice system protects the public, upholds fundamental rights, and uses custodial sentences only where they are necessary and proportionate. \n\nMinistry of Justice\n\nThis is a revised response. The Petitions Committee requested a response which more directly addressed the request of the petition. You can find the original response towards the bottom of the petition page (https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/728715)","created_at":"2025-07-07T12:07:13.037Z","updated_at":"2025-09-03T12:56:39.563Z"},"debate":{"debated_on":"2025-11-17","transcript_url":"https://hansard.parliament.uk/commons/2025-11-17/debates/336B2076-DEEC-4137-B2A1-2431F12C2A71/SocialMediaPostsPenaltiesForOffences","video_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VP3uuuZGxvE","debate_pack_url":"https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cdp-2025-0214/","public_engagement_url":"","debate_summary_url":"","overview":""},"departments":[{"acronym":"MoJ","name":"Ministry of Justice","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ministry-of-justice"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":722303,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/722303.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Require by law all sports netting to be tied up when not in use","background":"We want the government to make it a legal requirement that all sports netting on sports fields, in schools and domestic gardens is tied up to prevent ensnaring wildlife and pets. Make it a fineable offence for the net owners not to do so.","additional_details":"Every year hundreds of wild animals and pets are trapped in sports netting that has been left in place. Many animals die or suffer horrific constriction injuries. We think this suffering is preventable with a little thought by net owners. We feel they need to be forced to take action by law.","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":12131,"created_at":"2025-03-15T12:19:25.234Z","updated_at":"2025-10-16T19:48:20.000Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-04-15T10:47:01.981Z","closed_at":"2025-10-15T22:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2025-03-15T12:33:00.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-06-01T17:53:00.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-07-04T18:52:51.850Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":null,"debate_scheduled_on":null,"scheduled_debate_date":null,"debate_outcome_at":null,"creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-07-03","summary":"The Government agrees the suffering of animals caught in sports netting is preventable but through promoting awareness of the hazards to animals and responsible use of netting, not new legislation. ","details":"The Government is committed to reducing the suffering caused to wild animals and pets. Animals being caught in untied sports netting can be prevented by simply packing away or tying up all sports netting. Therefore, while there are no specific health and safety regulations related to tying up sports nets, good practice is to tie them up safely in between usage and the Government urges owners of sports netting to do this as a matter of routine. \n\nMore broadly, under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, members of the public must ensure they do not cause any unnecessary suffering to wild or companion animals that are being restrained, permanently or temporarily, by their actions. This includes animals that have been caught in a net. Therefore, as there are existing protections, DEFRA has no plans to introduce new legislation to make the leaving of netting untied a fineable offence.\n\nWildlife management is a devolved matter, and the response provided therefore relates to England only. \n\nDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs","created_at":"2025-07-04T18:52:51.847Z","updated_at":"2025-07-04T18:53:52.883Z"},"debate":null,"departments":[{"acronym":"DEFRA","name":"Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-environment-food-rural-affairs"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":701540,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/701540.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Seek to Rejoin the EU Pet Passport Scheme","background":"Cut the cost of pet travel by seeking to rejoin the EU pet passport scheme. This does not require EU membership; Norway, Switzerland and Andorra are members, as is NI. The scheme allows vaccinated pets to travel freely without needing expensive documentation every time.","additional_details":"When owners could get pet passports in GB, our microchipped and vaccinated pets could travel free of extra certification to the EU, and return freely (with particular requirements for tapeworm treatment for dogs).\r\n\r\nGB leaving the scheme has added admin costs of about £100+ for EVERY trip to the EU. It costs time and money to get the required paperwork every time.\r\n","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":10612,"created_at":"2024-11-12T08:03:40.169Z","updated_at":"2025-08-11T23:00:07.966Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-02-11T12:17:22.205Z","closed_at":"2025-08-11T22:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2024-11-12T08:47:40.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-06-16T05:51:50.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-07-04T13:34:36.571Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":null,"debate_scheduled_on":null,"scheduled_debate_date":null,"debate_outcome_at":null,"creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-07-04","summary":"The Government is working toward a deal with the EU that will improve and streamline pet travel for GB pet owners to and from the EU. This will make taking pets to the EU easier and cheaper.","details":"The pet health and documentary requirements for non-commercial pet travel to EU countries are determined by the EU under the EU Pet Travel Regulations.\n\nDEFRA applied to the European Commission in February 2020 for the United Kingdom (UK) and Crown Dependencies to be listed as a ‘Part 1’ third country for the purposes of the EU pet travel scheme. However, the EU formally listed the UK as a ‘Part 2’ third country, meaning pet owners can no longer use pet passports issued in GB for travel to the EU and instead need a single use Animal Health Certificate, which allows entry into the EU and re-entry into GB. \n\nAs announced at the UK-EU Leaders' Summit on May 19 2025, the UK and EU have agreed to work towards a common Sanitary and Phytosanitary Area, which would make taking pets on holiday into the EU easier and cheaper. Instead of getting an Animal Health Certificate each time you travel, pet owners would be able to get a multiuse pet passport valid for travel to the EU. \n\nIt is important that we get the right agreement for the UK, so the Government is not putting an arbitrary deadline on negotiations. We will provide more information on pet passports valid for travel to the EU in due course.\n\nIn the meantime, owners will still need an Animal Health Certificate for their dog, cat or ferret(s) if they are travelling from Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland) to an EU country. Current guidance on taking your pet to the EU is available at: https://www.gov.uk/taking-your-pet-abroad. \n\nDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs","created_at":"2025-07-04T13:34:36.569Z","updated_at":"2025-07-04T13:34:36.569Z"},"debate":null,"departments":[{"acronym":"DEFRA","name":"Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-environment-food-rural-affairs"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":719124,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/719124.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Transfer UK Warrior Infantry Fighting Vehicles to Ukraine","background":"The UK has approximately 632 Warrior IFVs: 80 awaiting near-term disposal and the rest expected to be scrapped by 2030. The Government should offer to transfer them to Ukraine. We think this would provide an increase in Ukraine's capabilities, without incurring cost to the Treasury.","additional_details":"We believe Infantry Fighting Vehicles have proved to be an extremely effective tool on the battlefields of Ukraine. We think they provide an increased amount of protection, mobility and firepower when compared to lighter wheeled vehicles and could save lives. With public finances stretched, this transfer may be beneficial as it comes with no new cost to the taxpayer.","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":20067,"created_at":"2025-02-24T20:12:09.730Z","updated_at":"2025-11-02T07:57:10.662Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-04-04T10:35:57.538Z","closed_at":"2025-10-04T22:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2025-02-26T00:49:30.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-05-30T21:52:00.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-07-03T10:31:42.185Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":null,"debate_scheduled_on":null,"scheduled_debate_date":null,"debate_outcome_at":null,"creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-07-03","summary":"Warrior Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFV) are key platforms for the British Army to meet Defence Commitments. We continue to work with Ukraine to identify how to help them to resist Russian aggression.","details":"Thanks to all those who have signed this petition for raising this issue. The Warrior Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) remains a key platform for the British Army to fulfil the UK’s Defence Commitments. Although small numbers are scheduled for disposal, these will have been selected in line with serviceability and suitability for role. As such, without substantial investment, they are not likely to offer significant capability to Ukraine and providing such small numbers would only increase the diversity of Ukraine’s armoured vehicle fleet – increasing their logistic and training burdens. We continue to test Ukrainian appetite for gifting of expiring UK kit and this will include conversations about Warrior.\n\nPlease be assured that the UK will continue to be at the heart of the international response and will continue to work with Ukraine to identify how best to help them to resist Russian aggression. This includes considering a range of platforms, weapons and equipment that could be available to meet Ukraine’s requirements and help them successfully defend their nation from threats and aggression, while ensuring that the UK and our security interests are protected. This Government remains committed to providing at least the current level of support of £3 billion each year to Ukraine for as long as it takes and supporting Ukraine to achieve a just and lasting peace.\n\nMinistry of Defence","created_at":"2025-07-03T10:31:42.180Z","updated_at":"2025-07-03T10:31:42.180Z"},"debate":null,"departments":[{"acronym":"MoD","name":"Ministry of Defence","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ministry-of-defence"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":711368,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/711368.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Don’t abandon the Chalk Stream recovery pack ","background":"We think the chalk stream recovery pack would increase investment, regulation and transparency; improving the state of all rivers. We feel Chalk streams’ rarity, cultural and ecological importance should make them a priority for conservation, sustainable water management and restoration initiatives.","additional_details":"Chalk streams are among the rarest freshwater habitats globally, with over 85% located in England, primarily in the south. These streams provide crystal-clear, mineral-rich water that maintains a stable temperature year-round, supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna (brown trout, water voles, kingfishers, and crowfoot).\r\n\r\nHowever, they face significant threats from pollution and over-abstraction of water. We believe they should be protected for future generations.","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":13081,"created_at":"2024-12-27T17:38:58.959Z","updated_at":"2026-02-05T10:54:37.776Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-02-25T14:07:22.832Z","closed_at":"2025-08-25T22:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2024-12-27T19:33:30.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-05-29T16:19:00.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-07-01T10:30:08.932Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":null,"debate_scheduled_on":null,"scheduled_debate_date":null,"debate_outcome_at":null,"creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-09-15","summary":"The government has secured £2 billion from water companies over the next five years to deliver more than 1,000 targeted actions for chalk stream restoration as part of our Plan for Change.      ","details":"Chalk streams are a source of national pride.  As one of Britain’s most nature rich habitats, they support some of our rarest wildlife – from chalk salmon to trout, they are home to beloved and endangered species. \n\nThis Government will restore our chalk streams to better ecological health, fixing the systemic issues in the water system is essential to address the multiple pressures facing chalk streams. \n\nChalk streams are embedded in our plan to reform the water industry. The Government has announced an ambitious programme of reforms to clean up our rivers, lakes, and seas for good. Subject to consultation, we will abolish Ofwat and create a new, powerful, and integrated regulator, including a regional element to ensure greater local involvement in water planning and allow all sources of pollution to be addressed across the river catchment.  Our focus is now on delivering this revolution across the entire water sector, ensuring chalk streams, alongside all our rivers, lakes, and seas, benefit from this era of reform. As such, the Chalk Stream Recovery Pack— which was announced by the previous government— falls short of these wider ambitions and is no longer being taken forward. \n\nWe are already taking action to hold water companies to account through the Water (Special Measures) Act 2025. The Government has launched the largest crackdown on water companies in history. The era of profiting from pollution is over. Unfair bonuses have now been banned for six polluting water companies. In the largest criminal action against water companies in history, a record 81 criminal investigations have been launched into sewage pollution. Polluting water bosses who cover up their crimes now face two-year prison sentences. \n\nAlongside our programme of ambitious reforms, we are taking immediate action to clean up chalk streams:\n\n• Water companies will invest £2 billion over the next 5 years to deliver more than 1,000 targeted actions for chalk stream restoration as part of our Plan for Change.\n\n• Furthermore, the government is investing £1.8 million through the Water Restoration Fund and Water Environment Improvement Fund for locally-led chalk stream clean-up projects across affected regions. And over £100m in fines and penalties levied against water companies will be reinvested into projects to clean up our waters which could include local programmes to address pollution in chalk streams.\n\n• Our Environmental Land Management (ELM) schemes, funding for which will increase by 150% to £2bn by 2028/2029, are providing incentives for farmers and land managers to farm more sustainably – six of our Landscape Recovery projects are being developed in chalk stream catchments, with potential to benefit up to 350km of chalk stream habitat\n  \n• We're tackling one of the biggest impacts on chalk streams by reducing the risk of harmful abstraction by an estimated 126 million litres daily by 2030, through the amendment of water company abstraction licences, protecting vital water flows to these fragile ecosystems.\n  \n• Our Storm Overflows Discharge Reduction Plan ensures chalk streams are prioritised for improvement as part of the record £11 billion investment to improve nearly 3,000 storm overflows nationwide.\n  \n• We are also rebuilding the entire water network through one of the largest infrastructure projects in this country’s history with a record £104 billion investment to upgrade crumbling pipes and cut sewage spills, which will help to protect chalk streams.\n\n• In June 2025, the Environment Agency's updated its National Framework for water resources which set out the importance of chalk streams and how we will include their needs in all water resources planning and decision making.\n\nOur protections through the Water (Special Measures) Act and our ambitious programme of reforms following the Independent Water Commission will ensure these iconic British habitats are preserved for future generations.  \n\nDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs\n\nThis is a revised response. The Petitions Committee requested a response which more directly addressed the request of the petition. You can find the original response towards the bottom of the petition page (https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/711368)","created_at":"2025-07-01T10:30:08.929Z","updated_at":"2025-10-15T15:37:41.400Z"},"debate":null,"departments":[{"acronym":"DEFRA","name":"Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-environment-food-rural-affairs"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":708358,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/708358.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Introduce a distinct attendance code for flexischooling (Code F).","background":"We want the Department for Education to introduce a new attendance code for flexischooling (Code F). We want this code to act in a similar way to code B (educated off site) in that it would not negatively impact attendance data, recognising that the child is receiving a full time education.","additional_details":"Flexischooling is a legal arrangement where a child receives a full time education, partly in school and partly as home education. Current DfE guidance states that FS should be marked as Code C, authorised absence. As this code is used for multiple purposes, it is impossible to obtain accurate data on the number of flexischooling pupils - a point Sir Martyn Oliver recently made. Some schools are hesitant to agree to FS if they feel it will negatively impact their attendance data.","committee_note":null,"state":"closed","signature_count":10869,"created_at":"2024-12-06T11:07:35.752Z","updated_at":"2025-07-25T17:02:40.000Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-01-24T16:54:45.573Z","closed_at":"2025-07-24T22:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2024-12-06T11:16:40.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-06-13T23:24:00.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-07-01T08:20:52.863Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":null,"debate_scheduled_on":null,"scheduled_debate_date":null,"debate_outcome_at":null,"creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-06-30","summary":"The Government has no current plans to introduce an attendance code for flexi-schooling. Attendance codes were updated in 2024 after extensive consultation and will be reviewed again in due course. ","details":"Following extensive consultation, the DfE reviewed and updated the attendance and absence codes in 2024 in the new School Attendance (Pupil Registration) (England) Regulations 2024 and in the relevant section of our Working together to improve school attendance guidance (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/working-together-to-improve-school-attendance), both of which came into effect in August 2024. Therefore, the government no current plans to introduce a code for flexi-schooling arrangements. The attendance and absence codes will be reviewed again in due course and any changes would be made at that point. \n\nThe government wants every child to receive a high quality, safe and supportive education which enables them to achieve and thrive. Flexi-schooling is an arrangement where a child is home-educated. However, a school has agreed to provide part of the schooling for that child. Schools are under no obligation to agree to such arrangements, which are wholly at the discretion of the headteacher, but some are happy to do so and there are many examples of this arrangement working well. \n\nWhere a child is flexi-schooled, it remains the responsibility of the parent to ensure that the child receives a suitable full-time education overall.\n\nAs noted in the petition, attendance code B is used by schools where a child is attending an approved educational activity. It is important to note that this will be under the supervision of a person considered by the school to have appropriate skills, training, experience and knowledge to ensure the activity fulfils the educational purpose for which the pupil’s attendance has been approved by the school. \n\nThe proposed code would not be an appropriate way for schools to record the attendance of children whose parents are responsible for their full-time education needs. It is not for the school to judge whether a child’s time outside of the school setting is appropriate to meet the parent’s duty under section 7 of the Education Act 1996 to ensure their child receives a suitable full-time education. Moreover, the school has no supervisory role in the child’s education for the sessions they are not expected to be in school, and also has no responsibility for the welfare of the child while they are at home. \n\nIf a school has agreed to a flexi-school arrangement with a family, the child’s absence from school is recorded as a leave of absence using code C. \n\nConcerns have sometimes been raised that such absence may have a detrimental effect for the purpose of Ofsted inspection, but this is not the case; many schools with significant flexi-schooling numbers have had good outcomes from Ofsted inspections.\n\nDepartment for Education","created_at":"2025-07-01T08:20:52.861Z","updated_at":"2025-07-01T08:20:52.861Z"},"debate":null,"departments":[{"acronym":"DfE","name":"Department for Education","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-education"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":723131,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/723131.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Prohibit the wearing of all full-face coverings in public spaces","background":"We call on the Government to prohibit full-face coverings in public, including niqabs, burqas, balaclavas and ski masks, to strengthen social cohesion, preserve cultural values, enhance security and promote gender equality. We believe this will ensure fairness, safety and a more unified Britain.","additional_details":"We believe face coverings hinder social cohesion, alienate communities and discourage integration. We believe they undermine British values of openness and interaction while also posing security risks. Current policies allow exemptions for some while restricting others, which may foster resentment. Also, we think they disproportionately impact women, limiting their visibility and participation in public life. We feel a clear, fair policy could enhance safety, equality and unity.","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":71144,"created_at":"2025-03-23T10:44:37.391Z","updated_at":"2026-04-27T10:00:26.094Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-05-02T10:11:48.137Z","closed_at":"2025-11-02T23:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2025-03-30T17:58:20.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-06-05T05:37:00.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-07-01T07:40:48.760Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":null,"debate_scheduled_on":null,"scheduled_debate_date":null,"debate_outcome_at":null,"creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-06-30","summary":"It is not government policy to ban the burka or other face coverings in public.","details":"Britain has a proud tradition of religious tolerance within the law. The government is committed to creating a strong and integrated society in which hatred and prejudice are not tolerated and in which all people are free to express their religious identity without fear of it resulting in harassment, discrimination or attack. We recognise the huge contribution of people of faith to public life, locally and nationally, and are committed to celebrating and promoting this. There is no current legislation that bans the wearing of religious or non-religious face coverings and the government has no intention to introduce any.\n\nUnder the Human Rights Act 1998 (Article 9 of the European Convention on Human Rights), everyone has the legal right to freedom of religion, including the right to express their religion. This includes the right to wear religious attire except where limitations are prescribed by law for specific limited purposes. Restrictions on face coverings that are worn for religious reasons engage this right and must be carefully justified. The government does not currently consider there are reasons to change the approach set out in UK legislation on this issue.  A similar approach applies to face coverings worn for non-religious purposes, which in some cases will be a form of personal and cultural expression protected under the fundamental right to freedom of expression (Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights). \n\nMinistry of Housing, Communities and Local Government","created_at":"2025-07-01T07:40:48.758Z","updated_at":"2025-07-01T07:42:47.074Z"},"debate":null,"departments":[{"acronym":"MHCLG","name":"Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ministry-of-housing-communities-local-government"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":717489,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/717489.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Hold a UK referendum before joining any defence and security pact with the EU.","background":"The UK Government is seeking a UK-EU security pact. We are concerned that such a decision could affect UK sovereignty and should be subject to a vote of the whole country before it can be implemented. ","additional_details":"Such a pact could require UK participation in: \r\n• European Defence Fund\r\n• PESCO\r\n• European Defence Agency\r\n• All binding legal commitments these structures require\r\n• Security of Information Agreement on the ‘timely’ delivery of intelligence products between the UK’s intelligence agencies and the EU Intelligence Directorate.\r\n","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":23529,"created_at":"2025-02-10T18:15:50.352Z","updated_at":"2026-04-27T10:00:26.134Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-04-15T11:41:43.013Z","closed_at":"2025-10-15T22:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2025-02-10T19:39:10.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-04-25T20:31:50.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-06-24T11:48:24.990Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":null,"debate_scheduled_on":null,"scheduled_debate_date":null,"debate_outcome_at":null,"creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-07-11","summary":"The UK and the EU agreed a Security and Defence Partnership at the UK-EU Summit to strengthen our continent’s security. The UK retains full sovereign control over how it engages with EU initiatives.","details":"The Government would like to thank the members of the public that have engaged with this issue at this once-in-a-generation moment for the collective security of our country and continent. Global instability, Russian aggression, climate change and rapid technological disruption are all contributing to a more challenging security landscape that requires all of Europe to work cooperatively to safeguard our security.\n\nNATO is, and will remain, the cornerstone of Europe’s collective defence. But the European Union (EU) has an important role to play. As the Government set out it in its Manifesto, it is committed to strengthening the UK’s security and defence relationship with the European Union, as part of the wider EU ‘Reset’. As a first step in strengthening our security and defence relationship, the UK and the EU agreed a Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) at the UK-EU Summit on 19 May in London.\n\nThe SDP sets the framework for a new era of cooperation between the UK and the EU across a broad range of issues that were not covered by the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement. The Government looks forward to working closely with EU partners to implement the SDP in ways that strengthen our long-term security and prosperity. The SDP has been designed to complement our core bilateral security partnerships and to support the Government’s NATO First policy, recognising that NATO remains the cornerstone of Euro-Atlantic Security. A renewed defence and security relationship between the UK and the EU makes Europe safer and ensures the interests of the British people and British industry continue to be represented at the highest level across our continent, through increased regular engagement with EU leaders.\n\nWhile the SDP is ambitious and creates a strong basis for strengthening UK-EU cooperation, the UK retains full sovereign control over where and how it engages with EU initiatives and how it brings the EU into our national activities. The EU, similarly, has full control over its decision-making. All future cooperation enabled by the SDP will be in-line with our respective decision-making processes whilst strengthening the security of our shared continent at this generational moment for our collective security. The Government does not currently plan to hold a referendum on its Security and Defence partnership with the EU.\n\nWe thank you for engaging on this issue.\n\nMinistry of Defence \n\nThis is a revised response. The Petitions Committee requested a response which more directly addressed the request of the petition. You can find the original response towards the bottom of the petition page (https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/717489)","created_at":"2025-06-24T11:48:24.986Z","updated_at":"2025-07-17T12:12:08.419Z"},"debate":null,"departments":[{"acronym":"MoD","name":"Ministry of Defence","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ministry-of-defence"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":705383,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/705383.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Stop financial and other support for asylum seekers","background":"This petition is to advocate a cessation of financial and other support provided to asylum seekers by the Government. This support currently includes shelter, food, medical care (including optical and dental), and cash support.","additional_details":"I believe that such provisions may inadvertently incentivise illegal migration, particularly via the English Channel. \r\n \r\nThis petition is to urge the Government to discontinue these support measures and payments.","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":427447,"created_at":"2024-11-27T11:30:36.204Z","updated_at":"2026-04-27T10:00:26.104Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-01-20T16:07:53.467Z","closed_at":"2025-07-20T22:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2024-11-27T15:19:50.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-06-01T13:51:50.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-06-24T10:24:00.851Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":"2025-06-03T19:54:40.000Z","debate_scheduled_on":"2025-09-16","scheduled_debate_date":"2025-10-20","debate_outcome_at":"2025-11-04T11:33:09.681Z","creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-06-23","summary":"We are determined to tackle illegal migration and end the use of asylum hotels but in the meantime there is a legal requirement to support asylum seekers who would otherwise be living on the streets.","details":"We are grateful to everyone who took the time to sign this petition. In response, we will first explain the background to the current situation, and then set out what the Government is doing about it.\n\nBackground:\n\nSince the 1950s, the UK has been legally obliged under the Refugee Convention to properly consider the claims of asylum-seekers arriving in our country. There is also a long-standing legal requirement to provide support to those asylum-seekers who would otherwise be left destitute on our streets.\n\nApplicants for support must provide details of their income and assets, so an assessment can be made of their risk of destitution. If they provide misleading information, break the rules of their accommodation, or do anything else to breach the conditions of their support, it can be suspended or withdrawn. \n\nWhen this Government came to office last July, it inherited an asylum system under unprecedented strain, with tens of thousands of cases waiting to be considered, and asylum hotels being used across the country to house the asylum-seekers caught in that backlog. At their peak in autumn 2023, they had 400 hotels in use, at a cost of almost £9 million per day.\n\nOur Plan for Change:\n\nAs part of the Government’s Plan for Change, we are restoring order to the asylum system by clearing the backlog, ending the use of hotels, and increasing the removal of individuals with no right to be in the UK.\n\nFirst, on clearing the asylum backlog, we have significantly increased the numbers of cases being processed each month. In the last full quarter, from January to March 2025, the second highest number of initial decisions was taken since records began in 2002, more than double the number taken in the three months before the election.\n\nSecond, on the use of asylum hotels, we will reach the point this summer where the number of hotels in use will have halved from its peak under the last government, and our commitment remains to end their use entirely by the end of this Parliament. As a result of the action we have taken already, £500 million has been cut from the annual cost of asylum hotels. \n\nThird, on removing people with no right to be here, our new enforcement programme put almost 30,000 people on flights out of the UK up to 18th May, including the four biggest returns charter flights in our country’s history. That includes 8,511 former asylum cases, an increase of almost a quarter compared to the same period twelve months earlier. \n\nWe will continue to take action in all three areas above, so that the cost of providing support to asylum-seekers is reduced by as much as possible as quickly as possible. However, we cannot end this problem entirely overnight. There are still tens of thousands of people in the backlog, and even though we are working as fast as we can to process their cases, there is still a legal requirement to provide many of them with support in the interim. \n\nThe petition’s proposals:\n\nThe petition proposes ending that support immediately, and while we understand the objective behind that proposal, we have to recognise that – in many cases – the people currently receiving that support would end up living on the street instead, including many women and children. According to the latest official data, the number of rough sleepers in England in autumn 2024 \nwas 4,667, so if we immediately ended the support given to every asylum-seeker, it would increase that number by multiple amounts.\n\nWe believe a better approach is to continue speeding up the processing of asylum claims, so that people who are genuine refugees can be accepted, those who are not can be rejected and removed, and either way, we can keep working to cut the amount of money spent on asylum support. In addition, we will continue taking strong action to reduce the number of people entering the UK asylum system in the first place:\n\n• Through the work of our Border Security Command and the new counter-terror style powers in our Border Security Bill, we are doing what should have been done many years ago, and going after the organised criminal gangs who make millions bringing people across the Channel in small boats. We have also agreed with the French authorities that – for the first time – they will start intercepting those boats in the shallow waters off the French coast, and taking the passengers back to shore, something which their internal rules have previously prevented them doing; and\n\n• In our Immigration White Paper, we have not only set out plans to reduce net migration substantially from the record levels reached under the last government, we have also announced new proposals to crack down on abuse of the asylum system, in particular to prevent people coming here on student and work visas, and then claiming asylum at the end of their stay. For too long, the previous government turned a blind eye to those abuses and let the system run out of control, but this Government is determined to restore order to the system, and save the taxpayer money. \n\nHome Office","created_at":"2025-06-24T10:24:00.848Z","updated_at":"2025-06-24T10:24:00.848Z"},"debate":{"debated_on":"2025-10-20","transcript_url":"https://hansard.parliament.uk/commons/2025-10-20/debates/5B57404B-1EB6-4652-93C9-26B8F084AEFA/AsylumSeekersSupportAndAccommodation","video_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OqocyL8XpV8","debate_pack_url":"https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cdp-2025-0184/","public_engagement_url":"","debate_summary_url":"","overview":""},"departments":[{"acronym":"HO","name":"Home Office","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/home-office"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":706513,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/706513.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Every school & college to be obliged to have an evacuation chair & training","background":"I believe the government should make it a legal requirement for all schools and colleges to have evacuation chairs, and for all staff to be trained in using them.","additional_details":"Fires can spread very quickly.  Sign so disabled people feel safer!","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":104197,"created_at":"2024-11-29T18:11:28.685Z","updated_at":"2025-12-05T18:48:04.050Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-02-18T16:21:42.902Z","closed_at":"2025-08-18T22:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2024-11-29T18:38:10.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-05-31T21:55:40.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-06-23T11:09:56.445Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":"2025-08-05T14:07:50.000Z","debate_scheduled_on":"2025-11-20","scheduled_debate_date":"2025-12-01","debate_outcome_at":"2025-12-05T18:48:04.050Z","creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-06-23","summary":"In a school or college, where a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP) requires an evacuation chair, it must be provided. Staff and the person needing the chair must be trained in its use.","details":"The safety of all pupils and staff in schools and colleges is paramount. \nUnder the Equality Act 2010, schools and educational premises have a duty to make reasonable adjustments where necessary for anyone with a disability. All disabled learners and staff should have a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP) in place should they need one, whether they have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or not.\n\nUnder current fire safety legislation, those who have responsibility for the building need to provide a fire safety risk assessment that includes an emergency evacuation plan for all people likely to be in the premises. This includes disabled people. When a learner with a disability, requiring assistance with building evacuation, is enrolled in a school or college, their PEEP should be developed with them as part of the admissions process. \n\nA PEEP is a tailored plan to ensure someone who may need assistance in a building evacuation can safely reach a place of safety. It is designed for individuals with impairments or disabilities that might make it difficult for them to evacuate on their own. PEEPs are developed collaboratively between the individual and relevant staff, such as managers, fire safety officers, or disability advisors, to ensure the plan is effective and meets their needs.\n\nA PEEP is a personal document relating to a specific individual. The requirements and preferences of individuals may vary, even when the disability is similar. While some disabled people will require the use of an evacuation chair, others would not welcome this as a means of escape. Additionally, almost half of schools in England are only single-storey buildings. This is why it is important the use of evacuation chairs should be determined on a case-by-case basis, at a local level based on the specific needs of the individual required one.\n\nAn evacuation chair looks like a deckchair with skis and wheels underneath. When placed on the stairway, it slides down the stairs. There are wheels at the back that facilitate movement on the flat, but they are not suitable for long distances.  \nAn evacuation chair is operated by one or two people and requires training and practice to use. Not all disabled people feel comfortable using these chairs and it is not always possible for wheelchair users to transfer into an evacuation chair or to maintain a sitting position once seated in one. Therefore, evacuation chairs should not be considered as an automatic solution to the escape requirements of wheelchair users.\n\nThe preferred options for escape of many people with mobility impairments are by horizontal evacuation to outside the building, horizontal evacuation into another fire compartment, or fire evacuation lift, eventually arriving at a place of safety. This is the preferable option for some disabled people. Within this group, many people will be able to manage stairs and to walk longer distances, especially if short rest periods are built into the escape procedure, although this won’t apply to all.\n\nPractice for PEEPs will depend on the type of escape required. Generally, escape plans should be practised on a regular basis and at least every six months. If the disabled person wants or needs to practise their route and plan more frequently, this should be written into their PEEP. For an evacuation chair to be used safely both the user and the operators must be well trained and familiar with the piece of equipment.\n\nAs well as comprehensive training regular practice should also take place. In most instances, these may not need to include the disabled person, although some may wish to practise being moved in the evacuation chair. It is more appropriate for the people who are trained to operate the evacuation chair to take it in turns during practices rather than involve the disabled person. This will also increase their confidence in using the equipment. Using an evacuation chair in practice may put the disabled person at unnecessary risk from injury, so it is best to limit their use by disabled people to the real situation.\n\nAll schools and colleges must also comply with Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, which means they must have an up-to-date fire risk assessment, appropriate fire alarms and regular fire drills. This is to ensure they are as safe as possible and well prepared in the event of a fire.\n\nDepartment for Education","created_at":"2025-06-23T11:09:56.442Z","updated_at":"2025-06-23T11:09:56.442Z"},"debate":{"debated_on":"2025-12-01","transcript_url":"https://hansard.parliament.uk/commons/2025-12-01/debates/47AB5506-6501-4D6F-8005-EB2827CC31A8/EvacuationChairsSchoolsAndColleges","video_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZpbQvroz9lw&list=PLj3mInRJqIemzke3yWcmPaR5ZTW4S4bur&index=2","debate_pack_url":"https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cdp-2025-0228/","public_engagement_url":"","debate_summary_url":"","overview":""},"departments":[{"acronym":"DfE","name":"Department for Education","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-education"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":717817,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/717817.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Reverse guidance stopping refugees gaining citizenship","background":"The 'Nationality: good character requirement' guidance was updated on 10 February 2025, preventing many refugees from ever becoming British citizens. We urge ministers to urgently reverse this policy or update the guidance to confirm refugees are exempt.","additional_details":"The guidance states that anyone who entered the UK illegally/having made a dangerous journey will “normally” be refused British citizenship.\r\n\r\nMany refugees who entered the UK through irregular means will therefore be prevented from ever becoming British - no matter how long they live in the UK or the contributions they make.\r\n\r\nWe believe this policy breaches Article 31 and Article 34 of the Refugee Convention. \r\n","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":30637,"created_at":"2025-02-13T14:52:05.219Z","updated_at":"2025-11-13T00:00:02.284Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-05-12T14:11:50.411Z","closed_at":"2025-11-12T23:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2025-02-13T15:07:20.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-05-25T00:56:00.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-06-17T08:31:17.872Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":null,"debate_scheduled_on":null,"scheduled_debate_date":null,"debate_outcome_at":null,"creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-06-17","summary":"We expect people applying for British citizenship, including refugees, to respect our laws.  The good character policy is compliant with the Refugee Convention, and there are no plans to reverse it.","details":"For many generations, refugees who have arrived on resettlement routes and who have settled in the UK have been able to apply for British citizenship if they meet the conditions. Those wishing to naturalise need to meet the statutory requirements set out in the British Nationality Act 1981, which include the requirement that the individual should be of good character. \n\nThere is no definition of good character in primary legislation, nor is there statutory guidance as to how this requirement should be interpreted or defined. Changes to the good character policy are therefore at the discretion of the Home Secretary, and it is left for them to determine how it is applied.\n\nThe previous government's Illegal Migration Act introduced a statutory ban on granting citizenship to anyone who arrived in the country through irregular routes, a measure that proved completely unworkable, contained minimal discretion to recognise exceptional circumstances, and was never properly implemented. \n\nFor example, it would have meant that someone smuggled into the UK against their will in the back of a lorry and forced to work in a sweatshop or brothel could have been rescued from that servitude, and provided with support to recover from their treatment, but would still never have been eligible to become a British citizen.\n\nThat measure has been repealed by the current Government, and replaced with the new guidance published in February, including provision to exercise discretion where appropriate depending on the circumstances of each case.\n\nHowever, the Government is also clear that we must also do all we can to prevent people making dangerous small boat crossings, putting their lives in the hands of organised criminal gangs who earn millions of pounds from facilitating that illegal traffic across the Channel. \n\nThe good character guidance issued in February therefore makes it clear that anyone who enters the UK illegally, or who arrives without a required valid entry clearance or electronic valid authorisation having made a dangerous journey, including small boat arrivals regardless of their date of entry, will normally be refused British citizenship.\n\nWe consider that people seeking to become British citizens should demonstrate equal regard for immigration legislation as we expect them to show for other aspects of the law, including the Criminal Justice System.  \n\nThis is compatible with Article 31 of the 1951 Refugee Convention, which states that refugees may be refused citizenship if they entered illegally having first travelled across several safe countries. We have always been clear that those seeking protection are expected to seek it in the first safe country they reach, and without delay. They should not, for example, travel across several European countries to claim asylum in the UK.  \n\nIrregular arrivals by small boat are, by their very nature, unlikely to have reached the UK without being present in a safe third country beforehand. Consequently, and in line with international obligations, refugees and those granted humanitarian protection may be refused citizenship where they entered illegally having travelled across several safe countries. \n\nNevertheless, and as a key difference from the blanket policy proposed by the previous government, each citizenship application will continue to be considered on a case-by-case basis considering all positive and negative factors. The Secretary of State may choose to apply discretion on an exceptional basis where, despite factors that would normally lead to refusal on grounds of poor character, there are particularly exceptional, compelling, or mitigating circumstances. \n\nWe consider that to be a more proportionate means of addressing the concerns raised by the petitioners than scrapping the good character requirement for refugees seeking to apply for citizenship that has been part of our legal system since 1981. As such, we are unable to accept that proposal.\n\nHome Office","created_at":"2025-06-17T08:31:17.868Z","updated_at":"2025-06-17T09:21:24.008Z"},"debate":null,"departments":[{"acronym":"HO","name":"Home Office","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/home-office"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":727360,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/727360.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Keep the 5-Year ILR pathway for existing Skilled Worker visa holders","background":"Do not apply the proposed 10-year ILR rule to existing Skilled Worker visa holders. Keep the 5-year ILR route for those already in the UK on this visa. Apply any changes only to new applicants from the date of implementation.","additional_details":"Many skilled visa holders moved to the UK for better opportunities and in return have contributed to the UK economy, paid taxes, and supported critical sectors like health, care, and engineering. We think that changing ILR rules mid-journey is unfair and causes stress for families. Apply the 10-year rule only to future Skilled Worker entrants, not those already building a life here under the current system.","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":188125,"created_at":"2025-05-12T16:07:54.265Z","updated_at":"2025-12-12T16:34:17.043Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-05-23T11:09:16.240Z","closed_at":"2025-11-23T23:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2025-05-12T16:17:20.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-05-23T16:12:50.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-06-17T08:04:22.149Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":"2025-05-25T13:21:00.000Z","debate_scheduled_on":"2025-07-18","scheduled_debate_date":"2025-09-08","debate_outcome_at":"2025-09-09T09:43:08.564Z","creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-06-17","summary":"As with several other measures in the Immigration White Paper, the proposals on earned settlement will be subject to a formal consultation process, and we welcome this contribution to that process.","details":"The Immigration White Paper, published on 12 May 2025, includes proposals for Earned Settlement.\n\nSettlement in the UK is a prerequisite for becoming a British citizen and brings lifelong benefits. Settlement is also an important step in integrating and contributing to local communities and the wider country.\n\nThere were 162,000 grants of settlement in 2024, up 35% from 2023. This rise reflects the increase in individuals coming to the UK between 2015 and 2019 on entry clearance visas who have since become eligible for settlement and citizenship. As things stand, more people are likely to become eligible for settlement and then citizenship over the next few years as a result of the extremely high level of net migration between 2019 and 2024.\n\nThe share of people who go on to claim settlement varies considerably by the type of visa people were initially granted to enter the UK, 18% of those coming on work visas between 2010 and 2018 secured settlement by 2023, compared to 75% on the Family route.\n\nIt has been a long-standing principle that settlement in the UK is a privilege and not a right. Under the current system settlement is primarily qualified for on the basis of length of time spent in the UK alongside a knowledge of life test which is used to verify knowledge of British customs, history, traditions, laws and political system.\n\nThese criteria alone do not reflect our strongly held belief that people should contribute to the economy and society before gaining settled status in our country and they fail to promote integration, which limits the wider benefit from long term migration into the UK and increases pressure on public services.\n\nWe therefore intend to reform our settlement rules by expanding the Points-Based System and increasing the standard qualifying period for settlement to ten years. \n\nIndividuals will have the opportunity to reduce the qualifying period to settlement based on contributions to the UK economy and society.\n\nWe will continue to offer a shorter pathway to settlement for non-UK dependants of British citizens to five years, who have remained compliant with their requirements, and we will retain existing safeguards to protect the vulnerable, including settlement rights for victims of domestic violence and abuse.\n\nWe will consult on the details of the proposed policy changes later this year, including any proposed transitional arrangements for those already in the UK. These are important changes. We recognise how important this issue is to people, and we will listen carefully to what they tell us in that consultation. \n\nWe are grateful to the petitioners for setting out their views on this announcement ahead of that consultation process, and we look forward to hearing from them again when they have had the opportunity to study the final proposals in detail.\n\nHome Office","created_at":"2025-06-17T08:04:22.141Z","updated_at":"2025-06-17T08:04:22.141Z"},"debate":{"debated_on":"2025-09-08","transcript_url":"https://hansard.parliament.uk/commons/2025-09-08/debates/25EC2767-BBFF-4FE8-8F52-65B2C28CED10/IndefiniteLeaveToRemain","video_url":"https://www.youtube.com/live/sGBlfyO5VhI?si=qz7pcnWmcaYyv4CI","debate_pack_url":"https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cdp-2025-0172/","public_engagement_url":"","debate_summary_url":"","overview":""},"departments":[{"acronym":"HO","name":"Home Office","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/home-office"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":700184,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/700184.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Commission a public inquiry into the impact of the UK exiting the European Union","background":"Given that it has stated its aim of growing the UK economy, we think the Government needs to quantify the effects of exiting the European Union as soon as possible by setting up an inquiry.","additional_details":"I believe having left the European Union our economy has been significantly damaged. Additionally I think that the UK has been marginalised.","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":10653,"created_at":"2024-10-31T15:58:05.603Z","updated_at":"2025-07-08T09:12:23.158Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2024-11-08T17:31:05.458Z","closed_at":"2025-05-08T22:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2024-10-31T21:08:10.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-05-05T17:58:40.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-06-13T13:09:05.131Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":null,"debate_scheduled_on":null,"scheduled_debate_date":null,"debate_outcome_at":null,"creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-06-13","summary":"The Government has no such plans. On 19 May, the Government announced a new strategic partnership between the UK and the EU, which will make the UK safer, more secure and more prosperous.","details":"The Government has no plans to hold a public inquiry into the impact of the UK’s exit from the European Union. \n\nThe Government was elected with a clear and emphatic mandate to strengthen our relationship with the EU. Since taking office, we have reset our relations with European partners to improve the lives of working people and make the people across the UK safer, more secure and more prosperous.\n\nOn 19 May, the Prime Minister welcomed the Presidents of the European Commission and Council to Lancaster House, for the first ever Summit between the UK and the EU. At the Summit, he announced a deal with the EU which will deliver on what the British public voted for last year. This deal is good for bills, good for jobs, and good for our borders.\n\nThe full deal, as agreed at the Summit, can be found on GOV.UK (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ukeu-summit-key-documentation). \n\nCabinet Office","created_at":"2025-06-13T13:09:05.128Z","updated_at":"2025-06-13T14:04:23.095Z"},"debate":null,"departments":[{"acronym":"FCDO","name":"Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/foreign-commonwealth-office"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":720491,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/720491.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Strengthen the Animal Welfare Act 2006","background":"Amend the Animal Welfare Act 2006 to include the following policies:\r\n \r\n-Registered Breeder Index\r\n-Canine Competency Certificate\r\n-Cruelty Policing Unit\r\n-Harsher criminal penalties","additional_details":"We believe there is an animal welfare crisis and that these policies could address it. \r\n \r\nWe think that since the introduction of the XL Bully ban there has been an increase of neglect, cruelty and abandonment cases to all dogs around the UK.\r\n \r\nWe think that police officers do not have the time/resources to combat this and believe the RSPCA do not have sufficient legal powers to investigate or prosecute therefore a vicious circle occurs, animals suffer, perpetrators can escape justice and rescues pick up the damage in a never ending battle. ","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":21392,"created_at":"2025-03-01T17:00:02.536Z","updated_at":"2025-10-22T23:13:50.000Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-04-22T16:06:05.803Z","closed_at":"2025-10-22T22:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2025-03-01T18:02:30.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-05-19T18:28:40.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-06-12T07:47:45.872Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":null,"debate_scheduled_on":null,"scheduled_debate_date":null,"debate_outcome_at":null,"creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-07-10","summary":"The Animal Welfare Act provides comprehensive powers to tackle animal welfare offences. We continue to collaborate with animal welfare organisations on this and on promoting responsible dog ownership.","details":"The Animal Welfare Act 2006 (the 2006 Act) provides comprehensive powers to tackle animal welfare offences. \n\nRegarding the suggestion of a registered breeder index, the Government committed to ending puppy farming in its manifesto. DEFRA is considering the most effective way to deliver this and will be setting out next steps in due course. \n\nMore widely on dog breeding, under the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018 (the 2018 Regulations), anyone in the business of breeding and selling dogs and/or who breeds three or more litters in a 12-month period needs to have a valid licence from their local authority. Licensees must meet strict statutory minimum welfare standards, which are enforced by local authorities who have powers to issue, refuse, vary or revoke licences. DEFRA has completed a post-implementation review of the 2018 Regulations in line with the requirements of the Regulations’ review clause. The report into the review can be found here: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2018/486/impacts. The Government is considering the report’s findings and will be outlining more detail on next steps in due course. \n\nOn the suggested creation of a canine competency certificate, the Government has reconvened the Responsible Dog Ownership Taskforce, which will explore how education and training (for dogs and owners) can promote more responsible dog ownership. The taskforce will also provide recommendations on enforcement and data collection.\n\nRegarding policing and enforcement, the 2006 Act grants powers to local authorities, the Animal and Plant Health Agency and the police to investigate allegations of animal cruelty or poor welfare. Where animal welfare offences have occurred, the 2006 Act makes various enforcement options available, ranging from guidance, warning letters and improvement notices to regulatory actions, and prosecution. Local authorities will often work in close partnership with others, including animal welfare charities, such as the RSPCA, to protect the welfare of animals. Local authorities must be allowed to decide how to enforce the 2006 Act based on local priorities and resources.\n\nPowers under Section 18 of the 2006 Act also allow the police and local authority inspectors to seize an animal if a veterinary surgeon certifies that the animal is suffering or is likely to suffer if its circumstances do not change. The police or inspector may act without veterinary certification if it is not reasonably practicable to wait for a veterinary surgeon. They may also take steps where it is immediately necessary to alleviate that suffering, such as to arrange for veterinary treatment. If further steps are needed, for example further veterinary treatment or rehoming an animal, a court order may be applied for.\n\nThere are also already strict penalties in place for animal welfare offences. The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act 2021 introduced a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine for animal cruelty offences. The addition of penalty notices under the Animals (Penalty Notices) Act 2022 brought in a middle ground deterrent that provides a financial penalty of up to £5000. Penalty notices could be issued for offences such as animals living in a poor environment or animal breeders operating without a licence.\n\nMoving forward, the Government published its response to the Animal Sentience Committee’s report on animal welfare legislative compliance and enforcement. This can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/government-response-to-the-animal-sentience-committees-report-on-animal-welfare-legislation-enforcement. This sets out some of the work we are doing to improve our enforcement regime, including reforming the way we collect and publish supporting data, reviewing whether our current enforcement tools are effective, proportionate, and transparent, and considering what more could be done.\n\nThe Government has been clear that the ban on XL bullies is an important measure to protect public safety and it is committed to ensuring that the ban is fully enforced to safeguard our communities from dangerous dogs. DEFRA continues to engage closely with the police, local authorities, and rescue and rehoming organisations to monitor the impacts of the XL Bully dog ban. More broadly, DEFRA continues to work with the police, local authorities and animal welfare groups to encourage responsible dog ownership.\n\nThis Government was elected on a mandate to introduce the most ambitious plans to improve animal welfare in a generation. DEFRA has initiated a series of meetings with animal welfare groups as part of this work and it will be publishing an animal welfare strategy later this year.\n\nDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs\n\nThis is a revised response. The Petitions Committee requested a response which more directly addressed the request of the petition. You can find the original response towards the bottom of the petition page (https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/720491)","created_at":"2025-06-12T07:47:45.870Z","updated_at":"2025-07-17T11:47:12.721Z"},"debate":null,"departments":[{"acronym":"DEFRA","name":"Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-environment-food-rural-affairs"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":705918,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/705918.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Pay pensioners the equivalent of the living wage of a 35 hour week.","background":"The full rate of the new state pension is currently £11,502.40 a year, while the annual income derived from the living wage for a 35-hour week will from April be above £22,000. We think there is a distressing discrepancy between these two figures.","additional_details":"We must not allow our senior citizens, who have contributed so much to our society, to struggle through their sunset years. We consider that it is a matter of fairness and respect. We all deserve a decent life when we get old. We believe that all pensioners must receive the equivalent of the living wage at 35 hours a week as a minimum. This could ensure a better quality of life for our country's senior citizens and help ensure that no elder person in our society has to face financial hardship.","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":15606,"created_at":"2024-11-28T09:54:49.573Z","updated_at":"2025-07-21T16:02:10.000Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-01-20T10:54:54.884Z","closed_at":"2025-07-20T22:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2024-11-28T10:34:30.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-05-29T08:05:30.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-06-11T15:20:55.110Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":null,"debate_scheduled_on":null,"scheduled_debate_date":null,"debate_outcome_at":null,"creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-06-11","summary":"The Government has no plans to pay pensioners the equivalent of the living wage of a 35-hour week. Support for pensioners is available via the State Pension and a suite of other benefits. ","details":"We are committed to ensuring economic security for people at every stage of their life, including when they reach retirement.  \n\nThis petition suggests increasing the State Pension to equal 35 hours a week at the National Living Wage (NLW). The two have different purposes and a direct comparison cannot be drawn. The NLW aims to protect low-income workers and provide an incentive to work by ensuring that workers benefit from being employed. Comparisons made in this petition between headline State Pension payments and the NLW do not consider the full package of measures available to support people in retirement. \n\nThis year, the Government will spend over £174 billion directly on the State Pension and benefits for pensioners in Great Britain in 2025/26. The full rate of the new State Pension has risen to £230.25 per week, which is over £12,000 per year, following an increase in line with average earnings \n\nThe basic State Pension has also increased to £176.45 per week, which is over £9,200 per year. These increases reflect our commitment to the Triple Lock and to protecting pensioners from the rising cost of living. Maintaining the Triple Lock throughout this Parliament will mean the annual spending on people’s State Pensions is forecast to rise by around £31 billion, this will see pensioners’ yearly incomes being up to £1900 higher.\n\nSupplementary benefits provide additional support, including Pension Credit (which guarantees a minimum level of income for low-income pensioners). Pension Credit passports pensioners to receive other benefits (help with council tax, fuel bills and a free TV licence for those over 75). \n\nThe Government has announced that everyone over the State Pension age in England and Wales with an income of, or below, £35,000 a year will benefit from a Winter Fuel Payment this winter. This extends eligibility to the vast majority of pensioners, with around 9 million, or over three quarters, benefitting. \n\nOther key supplementary benefits for low-income pensioners include the Warm Home Discount (rebate on energy bills); Housing Benefit (help with rent) and Discretionary Housing Payments. The Household Support Fund in England also provides discretionary support towards the cost of essentials, which the Government has extended until 31 March 2026. Pensioners also qualify for free eye tests and NHS prescriptions, and free bus passes.\n\nPensioners with a long-term health condition or disability may also be eligible for additional-costs disability benefits. In England and Wales these are Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance and Personal Independence Payment. In Scotland, where this is a devolved matter, they are the Scottish Government’s Pension Age Disability Payment, Adult Disability Payment and, from March 2025, Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance. All these reserved and devolved benefits also give rise to a disability addition in Pension Credit. Entitlement to Carer’s Allowance, or to the Scottish Government’s Carer Support Payment, gives rise to a carer addition in Pension Credit.\n\nDepartment for Work and Pensions","created_at":"2025-06-11T15:20:55.108Z","updated_at":"2025-06-11T15:20:55.108Z"},"debate":null,"departments":[{"acronym":"DWP","name":"Department for Work and Pensions","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-work-pensions"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":701290,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/701290.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Ban wind farms on protected peat land in England","background":"In its recent consultation on new onshore wind planning regulations, the government asked if some habitats, such as those containing peat soils, need extra protection from renewable energy development. We say YES! As did 90% of respondents to this question.","additional_details":"We think the unintended consequence of building wind farms on protected peat land would be to worsen the nature and climate crisis - peatland's stored carbon would be released as a result of infrastructure construction. Reliable analysis shows there's plenty of available land in England for all the onshore wind farms needed for the green transition, without building on protected peatland. The Government should apply the precautionary principle - there is nothing to lose by doing so.","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":15437,"created_at":"2024-11-09T15:07:37.226Z","updated_at":"2025-07-24T23:00:04.758Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-01-24T16:02:59.577Z","closed_at":"2025-07-24T22:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2024-11-10T07:12:10.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-05-24T14:02:50.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-06-10T12:31:52.502Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":null,"debate_scheduled_on":null,"scheduled_debate_date":null,"debate_outcome_at":null,"creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-06-10","summary":"We will not ban windfarms on peatland in England. Protections in the planning system and best practice guidance ensure development on peatland is carefully considered, mitigated, and compensated. ","details":"Government will not ban onshore wind from development on peatland in England. As a low carbon emitting technology, onshore wind is a crucial part of the Government’s plans to mitigate against the devastating impacts of climate change. \nA recent study in 2022 from the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe estimated that, even taking into account emissions from manufacturing and construction, lifecycle carbon dioxide emissions from onshore wind are up to 65 times lower than the lowest fossil fuel gas turbine generators (https://unece.org/sed/documents/2021/10/reports/life-cycle-assessment-electricity-generation-options). \n\nBy displacing dirty fossil fuels from the grid – which are the primary cause for climate change and contribute to biodiversity loss – building more onshore wind will reduce power system carbon emissions and ensure climate mitigation and adaptation. To deliver clean power by 2030, we are therefore committed to radically increasing onshore wind energy to 27-29GW by 2030, from around 14GW in Great Britian today. \n\nEqually however, Government understands concerns that building windfarms on peat land could have a detrimental impact on our natural environment and lead to increased carbon emissions. Government recognises that our peatlands are vital habitats for biodiversity, carbon, and water; that peatlands are sensitive habitats that are important for many species of flora and fauna; and that peat soils are rich in carbon and disturbance can lead to climate impacts.\n\nThat is why we have existing protections within the planning system which require careful consideration by developers and the relevant planning authority when onshore wind farm developments are proposed on peatlands. These require developers to put in place measures to avoid, reduce, mitigate or compensate for these potential impacts.\n\nThe National Planning Policy Framework protects ‘irreplaceable habitats’ from development unless there are wholly exceptional reasons and suitable compensation strategies. Approximately half of England’s deep peat, and a quarter of all of England’s peat soils, are afforded specific protection through being classed as ‘irreplaceable habitat’.\n\nGovernment is also consulting on updates to the National Policy Statements for renewable energy development. This includes new guidance for the development of onshore wind farms, including those proposed on peatlands. The draft guidance sets outs protective provisions, such as: \n• applicants should seek and rule out other locations before siting developments on peatland;\n• applicants should take all opportunities to identify habitat enhancement opportunities in development design;\n• construction methods should be designed to minimise soil and hydrology disturbance; and\n• applicants should undertake avoidance, management, mitigation or compensatory measures, for example, restoring disturbed peatland habitats and carrying out additional nature restoration on or off-site.\n\nThe consultation and draft version of this guidance can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/planning-for-new-energy-infrastructure-2025-revisions-to-national-policy-statements. The consultation closed on 29 May 2025. We are currently analysing feedback and our response to this consultation will be published within 12 weeks of the closing date.\n\nIn addition to protections within the planning system, guidance is available to ensure that best practice is followed when onshore windfarms are developed on or near peatlands. Developers should follow the guidance on good practice during wind farm construction, published by Scotland’s Nature Agency: https://www.nature.scot/doc/good-practice-during-wind-farm-construction. \nThis ensures that considerate construction methods are used to reduce the impact on peatlands; for example, positioning infrastructure in areas of shallower peat and considering the use of ‘floating roads’ on areas of deeper peat. Developers can further mitigate impacts by restoring peatlands as soon as possible after disturbance, and they should consider compensatory restoration to reduce total carbon emissions and ecosystem disruption. \n\nTo enable nature’s recovery while not impeding Government commitments to Net Zero and clean power by 2030, we must take a balanced approach to onshore wind development and peatland protection. Imposing a ban of onshore farms on protected peatlands removes the flexibility to consider proposed windfarm developments on a case-by-case basis. Instead, protections within the planning system and best practice guidance will continue to be used to carefully consider onshore wind development on peatland. \n\nDepartment for Energy Security and Net Zero","created_at":"2025-06-10T12:31:52.500Z","updated_at":"2025-06-10T12:31:52.500Z"},"debate":null,"departments":[{"acronym":"ESNZ","name":"Department for Energy Security and Net Zero","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-energy-security-and-net-zero"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":718660,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/718660.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Introduce Licensing and Regulation for Dog and Cat Rescues to Protect Welfare\r\n","background":"Many UK animal rescues operate without clear legal oversight, creating opportunities for unethical practices. Some rescues have been linked to supporting irresponsible breeding, neglecting animals, or misusing public donations. ","additional_details":"Without enforceable standards, there is a risk that animals suffer in poor conditions, and public trust is undermined. We call on the Government to introduce mandatory licensing and regular inspections to ensure rescues operate transparently and uphold high welfare standards. Regulation is essential to prevent cruelty, improve accountability, and ensure all rescued animals receive proper care.  \r\n \r\nBy introducing clear legal requirements, the Government can safeguard animal welfare, protect public confidence in rescues, and prevent organizations from operating irresponsibly.  ","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":109647,"created_at":"2025-02-21T07:32:44.335Z","updated_at":"2026-03-18T16:55:27.633Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-04-08T14:27:32.559Z","closed_at":"2025-10-08T22:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2025-02-27T21:44:50.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-05-16T17:49:00.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-06-06T07:49:36.733Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":"2025-09-17T07:50:20.000Z","debate_scheduled_on":"2025-12-19","scheduled_debate_date":"2026-01-26","debate_outcome_at":"2026-01-27T09:50:42.023Z","creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-07-10","summary":"Animal rescue organisations must meet existing statutory welfare requirements. Moving forward, the Government is developing an animal welfare strategy and will outline more detail in due course.","details":"The Government appreciates the important work that responsible animal sanctuaries as well as rescue and rehoming organisations do, often on a voluntary basis, to ensure that animals taken into the care of these organisations are offered the opportunity of a forever home. \n\nThere are existing protections under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, whereby any person responsible for an animal, whether on a permanent or temporary basis, has a duty to ensure the welfare of the animals in their care. Companion animal rescue and rehoming organisations in England and Wales must therefore comply with statutory welfare requirements set out in the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Therefore, the Department encourages individuals to report any concerns regarding whether these standards are being met to the relevant local authority, which has powers to investigate.\n\nMembers of the public can also check if the rescue centre they use is a member of the Association of Dogs and Cats Homes, which has set clear standards for animal assessments, neutering and rehoming procedures that all members adhere to.\n\nMore broadly, the Department is developing an overarching approach to animal welfare and, as part of this, is actively considering the animal welfare protections in place in rescue and rehoming centres, including whether there is a need for additional guidance or regulation. The Department has also initiated a series of meetings with key animal welfare stakeholders as part of this wider work. We will be outlining more detail in due course.\n\nDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs\n\nThis is a revised response. The Petitions Committee requested a response which more directly addressed the request of the petition. You can find the original response towards the bottom of the petition page (https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/718660)","created_at":"2025-06-06T07:49:36.731Z","updated_at":"2025-07-17T10:45:39.625Z"},"debate":{"debated_on":"2026-01-26","transcript_url":"https://hansard.parliament.uk/Commons/2026-01-26/debates/D4C51DDC-9C32-4F43-B598-CB8C3C82B90F/AnimalRescueCentres","video_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZuVIHqnrV5M","debate_pack_url":"https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cdp-2026-0013/","public_engagement_url":"","debate_summary_url":"https://ukparliament.shorthandstories.com/licensing-regulation-animal-rescues/index.html","overview":""},"departments":[{"acronym":"DEFRA","name":"Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-environment-food-rural-affairs"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":711021,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/711021.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Retain legal right to assessment and support in education for children with SEND","background":"Support in education is a vital legal right of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). We ask the government to commit to maintaining the existing law, so that vulnerable children with SEND can access education and achieve their potential.","additional_details":"It has been reported that the government is considering making changes to The Children and Families Act 2014, which sets out the legal rights to assessment and statutory support in education for disabled children. We believe that these rights do not only help vulnerable children and their families - they also reduce costs to the state in adulthood. We think that removing statutory obligations on local authorities could mean many children do not get the support they need to reach their potential.","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":132789,"created_at":"2024-12-22T17:55:09.795Z","updated_at":"2025-10-15T11:27:42.401Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-04-09T13:48:17.393Z","closed_at":"2025-10-09T22:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2024-12-22T18:30:50.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-05-18T20:13:00.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-06-04T14:48:16.778Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":"2025-06-11T20:55:50.000Z","debate_scheduled_on":"2025-07-28","scheduled_debate_date":"2025-09-15","debate_outcome_at":"2025-10-15T11:27:42.401Z","creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-08-05","summary":"There will always be a legal right to additional support for children with SEND. No decisions have been made on changes to legislation. We are engaging with families on improvements to SEND provision.","details":"As part of our Plan for Change, we are determined to improve the system of support for children with SEND and their families. We are working to restore families’ trust by ensuring early years, schools and post-16 settings have the tools to better identify and meet need earlier and ensure more children and young people can receive their education in inclusive mainstream settings with their peers.\n\nWe are committed to:\n\n• ensuring a legal right to additional support for children and young people with SEND;\n• ensuring all children and young people have the support they need to achieve and thrive;\n• improving inclusivity and expertise in mainstream schools, as well as ensuring swift access to special schools for children and young people with the most complex needs; and\n• restoring confidence in the system of support for children and young people with SEND so that they all get the chance to achieve and thrive in their education.    \n\nAny changes we make will improve support for families, stop parents from having to fight for support, and protect effective support currently in place. \n\nDetails of the government's intended approach to strengthening the SEND system will be set out in a Schools White Paper in the autumn. \n\nAs part of developing our approach, we are working with parents and young people, organisations which represent parents, local authorities, SEND organisations and education settings across the country, as well as sector experts. \n\nWe share the widespread view that improvements to the SEND system are badly needed. The forthcoming consultation on the White Paper will be key to shaping the reforms to the SEND system, so that every child and young person can achieve and thrive and we continue to break down barriers to opportunity.\n\nDepartment for Education\n\nThis is a revised response. The Petitions Committee requested a response which more directly addressed the request of the petition. (https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/711021)","created_at":"2025-06-04T14:48:16.776Z","updated_at":"2025-09-03T13:55:46.761Z"},"debate":{"debated_on":"2025-09-15","transcript_url":"https://hansard.parliament.uk/Commons/2025-09-15/debates/E7A26973-7F7B-41E0-8A02-689BEA99F336/ChildrenWithSENDAssessmentsAndSupport","video_url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5TymDgNxR8","debate_pack_url":"https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/sn07020/","public_engagement_url":"","debate_summary_url":"","overview":""},"departments":[{"acronym":"DfE","name":"Department for Education","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-education"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":724432,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/724432.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Make neurodiversity training mandatory for all education staff","background":"We want the government to introduce mandatory neurodiversity training for all teachers and support staff as part of core training.","additional_details":"We think this will help tackle inaccessible education, improve inclusion for neurodivergent pupils, and reduce mental health risks through better understanding, early support, and inclusive practices.\r\n \r\nMany neurodivergent pupils face barriers in school due to a lack of understanding and support. Only 14% of secondary school teachers have received more than half a day’s training on autism, and autistic pupils are twice as likely to be excluded. We believe this contributes to poor mental health and emotional distress.\r\n \r\nMandatory training could help staff create inclusive classrooms, recognise distress early, make reasonable adjustments, and ensure neurodivergent children feel safe, supported, and able to thrive.","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":30556,"created_at":"2025-04-04T18:57:53.857Z","updated_at":"2025-10-30T00:00:02.374Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-04-29T09:55:46.727Z","closed_at":"2025-10-29T23:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2025-04-09T21:54:40.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-05-22T06:06:00.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-06-04T12:07:52.719Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":null,"debate_scheduled_on":null,"scheduled_debate_date":null,"debate_outcome_at":null,"creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-07-10","summary":"The Department currently has no further plans for mandatory neurodiversity training beyond what is set out in the new Initial Teacher Training and Early Career Framework, which we will review in 2027.","details":"The Department is committed to improving support for all children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), including neurodiversity. We are focusing on improving inclusivity and expertise in mainstream schools and are working with families and education and care experts to deliver this in the best interests of all children. \n\nSEND training is mandatory for all new teachers. All Initial Teacher Training and Early Career Teacher training must cover adaptive teaching and SEND, and this includes training which would support the effective teaching of neurodiverse pupils. \n\nThe combined Initial Teacher Training and Early Career Framework (ITTECF), sets out a minimum entitlement to training and must be used by providers of Initial Teaching Training and those delivering provider-led early career training. Our review of content for the ITTECF paid particular attention to the needs of trainees and Early Careers Teachers when supporting pupils with SEND, and we tested this approach with SEND educational experts. We do, however, recognise that continuous improvement is essential and have recently committed to a full review of the Early Career Teacher Entitlement in 2027 to ensure it continues to provide the best possible basis for Initial Teacher Training and Early Career Teacher support. This review will focus on the support we provide new teachers in teaching pupils with SEND.\n\nIn addition to mandatory Initial Teacher and Early Career Training, the leadership National Professional Qualifications (NPQs) give new, existing, and aspiring leaders the tools and skills to transform their settings and offer the best possible outcomes for the staff who they work alongside as well as the children in their diverse communities. The NPQ for SENCOs, which began delivery in Autumn 2024, is consistent with this. Providing participants with the essential knowledge and skills needed to set the strategic direction of SEN policy in a school and the conditions in which pupils with SEND can thrive.\n\nIn addition to teachers, school support staff also play a vital role in children’s education, including for pupils with SEND and who are neurodiverse. Schools are responsible for the employment of their support staff and decide on appropriate training for them. However, we recognise that training and career progression opportunities for school support staff help ensure schools have the skilled staff they need to deliver high-quality education. For example, the Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant apprenticeship is a new training opportunity that allows Teaching Assistants to specialise in one of three areas – SEND, Social and Emotional Wellbeing or Curriculum provision.\n\nThe What Works in SEND research programme, led by a research team from the University of Warwick and supported by SEND academics from the University of Birmingham, will soon begin researching tools that schools can use to identify the needs of neurodivergent children. The research is expected to be completed by March 2026, and once published, will provide practical guidance to teachers and other professionals in mainstream settings, helping them to identify the needs of children and young people.\n\nOn a wider scale, Partnerships for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools (PINS) is a national programme, backed by £22m of investment. PINS brings together Integrated Care Boards (ICBs), local authorities, and schools, working in partnership with parents and carers to support schools to better meet the needs of neurodivergent children and their families. PINS deploys specialists from both health and education workforces to build teacher and staff capacity to identify and better meet the needs of neurodivergent children in mainstream primary schools. This includes whole staff training as well as communication and environmental audits.\n\nDepartment for Education\n\nThis is a revised response. The Petitions Committee requested a response which more directly addressed the request of the petition. You can find the original response towards the bottom of the petition page (https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/724432)","created_at":"2025-06-04T12:07:52.717Z","updated_at":"2025-07-17T11:06:57.401Z"},"debate":null,"departments":[{"acronym":"DfE","name":"Department for Education","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-education"}],"topics":[]}},{"type":"petition","id":725716,"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/725716.json"},"attributes":{"action":"Protect Northern Ireland Veterans from Prosecutions","background":"We think that the Government should not make any changes to legislation that would allow Northern Ireland Veterans to be prosecuted for doing their duty in combating terrorism as part of 'Operation Banner'. (1969-2007)","additional_details":"","committee_note":"","state":"closed","signature_count":209956,"created_at":"2025-04-22T12:02:34.522Z","updated_at":"2025-11-10T16:55:20.000Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2025-05-09T09:07:12.736Z","closed_at":"2025-11-09T23:59:59.999Z","moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2025-04-22T18:02:20.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":"2025-05-10T12:48:30.000Z","government_response_at":"2025-06-04T08:14:45.623Z","debate_threshold_reached_at":"2025-05-22T16:45:50.000Z","debate_scheduled_on":"2025-06-19","scheduled_debate_date":"2025-07-14","debate_outcome_at":"2025-10-15T11:17:37.950Z","creator_name":null,"rejection":null,"government_response":{"responded_on":"2025-06-03","summary":"The last Government’s Legacy Act was wrong and was found to be unlawful. It was opposed by many, including some families who lost relatives serving in Operation Banner.","details":"This Government's commitment to our Armed Forces community is unshakeable. Veterans who served in Operation Banner ultimately helped bring about the peace that Northern Ireland now enjoys and we owe them a huge debt of gratitude. We will always recognise the extreme circumstances under which our Armed Forces were operating during Operation Banner; the split second judgements that had to be made, and the restraint that was so often required in the face of danger. There will be no rewriting of history. \n\nThe approach taken by the last Government to the legacy of the Troubles was wrong. The Legacy Act - which would have also given immunity to terrorists - has been found to be unlawful and was opposed by many, including families who lost relatives whilst serving in Northern Ireland. Any Government would have to repeal unlawful legislation. This Government is therefore committed to repeal and replace the Legacy Act in a way that is lawful, fair and that enables families, including military families, to find answers.\n\nThe Government recognises the strength of feeling within the veterans and wider armed forces community, especially since the Clonoe Inquest findings in February this year which the Government is appealing. We recognise that legacy mechanisms need to be human rights compliant and be able to command support and confidence across communities, and the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland is working closely with the Defence Secretary and Minister for Veterans and People on how to ensure that veterans who engage with legacy processes are fully supported with welfare and, where appropriate, legal support.\n\nAs the Government prepares new legislation, the Secretary for State for Northern Ireland will continue to discuss this issue with all interested parties. The Government owes it to those who were affected by the Troubles across the United Kingdom, including our Armed Forces community, to get this right.\n\nNorthern Ireland Office","created_at":"2025-06-04T08:14:45.620Z","updated_at":"2025-06-04T08:14:45.620Z"},"debate":{"debated_on":"2025-07-14","transcript_url":"https://hansard.parliament.uk/commons/2025-07-14/debates/EF85E9A5-B0C4-4F47-AA30-303D0D456657/NorthernIrelandVeteransProsecution","video_url":"https://www.youtube.com/live/OO_CMKBb8K4","debate_pack_url":"https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cbp-10304/","public_engagement_url":"","debate_summary_url":"","overview":""},"departments":[{"acronym":"NIO","name":"Northern Ireland Office","url":"https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/northern-ireland-office"}],"topics":[]}}]}