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Across Westminster, conversations about economic direction, global security, and public services have converged into a broader question of political credibility, an issue weighing heavily on both the government and opposition as they try to shape the narrative for the next year.

Economic debates continued to drive much of the discussion. The Chancellor’s recent fiscal announcements in the Autumn Budget are still rippling through Parliament, prompting renewed scrutiny of whether the government’s approach can foster meaningful growth. Labour sought to strengthen its argument that a long-term industrial strategy and green investment are essential to rebuilding stability, while ministers pointed to gradual improvements in inflation and employment as signs that their stewardship is beginning to pay off. Businesses, meanwhile, voiced a desire for greater predictability, warning that investment appetite remains fragile.

Concerns about migration persisted in the background as the Home Office faced questions about processing capacity and the practical challenges of reducing backlogs. Ministers attempted to reassure MPs that reforms are underway, but criticism from Labour and charities highlighted the tension between enforcement, humanitarian responsibilities, and public expectations. MPs and advocacy groups alike are pressing ministers to ensure the asylum system works efficiently and fairly, highlighting the political reality that policy is judged not on announcements but on outcomes.

International events have added another layer of complexity. The resignation of Andriy Yermak, a key figure in Ukraine’s wartime leadership, following anti-corruption investigations, has sent ripples through diplomatic circles. Ministers are watching closely to see how this change impacts the ongoing negotiations with the US and whether any change in strategy of Ukraine’s European partners will be needed.

Public services remain under pressure, particularly in health and local government. NHS leaders warned of the difficult winter ahead, calling for improved staffing support and long-term reform rather than short-term crisis management. Councils continued to express concern about tightening budgets and rising demand, pushing for more sustainable funding arrangements.

Environmental issues also cut through as campaigners, local authorities, and industry raised concerns about the pace and coherence of the UK’s path to net zero. Recent severe weather underscored weaknesses in local infrastructure and fuelled arguments for more decisive action on climate resilience. Ahead of warnings that the UK will face a month’s worth of rain in 24 hours, the government reiterated its commitment to a pragmatic transition, while Labour used the moment to press its case for a stronger clean-energy agenda and investment-led growth. 

Headlines

What’s on in Parliament

Monday 1st December 

House of Commons 

  • Oral Questions: Education 

  • Financial Statement: Continuation of the Budget debate 

  • Westminster Hall Debate: e-petition 722377 relating to the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill 

House of Lords 

  • Oral Questions: South Sudan 

  • Oral Questions: World Aids Day 2025: eliminating AIDS as a public health threat 

  • Legislation: Sentencing Bill – Committee Stage (Day 2) 

Tuesday 2nd December 

House of Commons 

  • Oral Questions: Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office 

  • Westminster Hall Debate: Reform of gambling regulation 

  • Ten Minute Rule Motion: Domestic Energy Efficiency (Call for Evidence) 

House of Lords 

  • Oral Questions: Cultural and heritage organisations: the right of consumers to cancel subscription contracts 

  • Oral Questions: Adults with learning and communication difficulties: online communications for access to public services 

  • Legislation: Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Bill - Second Reading 

Wednesday 3rd December 

House of Commons 

  • Prime Minister's Question Time 

  • Westminster Hall Debate: Mental health support for people with terminal illnesses 

  • Ten Minute Rule Motion: Fireworks (Noise Control etc) 

House of Lords 

  • Oral Questions: Improving social mobility for careers in the arts and creative industries 

  • Oral Questions: The supply of blood and blood products this winter 

  • Legislation: Sentencing Bill - Committee Stage (Day 3) 

Thursday 4th December 

House of Commons 

  • Business Statement: Business Questions to the Leader of the House 

  • Backbench Business: War in Ukraine 

  • Oral Questions: Cabinet Office 

House of Lords 

  • Orders and regulations: Immigration Skills Charge (Amendment) Regulations 2025 

  • Oral Questions: Age verification: access harmful material online 

  • Debate: Debate on the Autumn Budget 2025 

Friday 5th December 

House of Commons 

  • The House will next sit on 8th December.  

House of Lords 

  • Legislation: Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill - Committee Stage (Day 3) 

  • Legislation: Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Bill - Third Reading

Consultations

Statistics