Question 1

The War in the Middle East

Accepted Answer

Over the past months, the horrifying accounts of the crisis in Gaza, the West Bank have left many of us in shock. I have heard moving testimonies from constituents with loved ones in danger, and like you, I am deeply troubled by the brutal impact of this conflict.

As your Member of Parliament, I am committed to representing your views and influencing government actions to bring this situation to an end. The urgent plight of civilians, especially children, cannot be ignored; we must act now to stop the violence, agree to a ceasefire, secure the release of all hostages, and work towards a lasting peace that has been needed for so long. 
 
My Urgent Call for Action 
I am advocating for an immediate ceasefire in Palestine. The suffering of civilians, especially children, must end now. I'm pushing for the release of all hostages as a critical step towards de-escalation. In the long term we must have a two-state solution that ensures both a secure Israel and a viable Palestinian state.   
 
My Diplomatic Engagement 
I have been actively representing your concerns through various diplomatic channels. Regular meetings with Middle East Minister Hamish Falconer MP have allowed me to communicate the strength of feeling on these critical issues. I've engaged with key regional figures, most notably Palestinian Authority Ambassador Husam Zomlot, with whom I've developed a close understanding. Our discussions on October 22nd focused on enhancing UK support for international law. These ongoing dialogues are crucial in our efforts to push for peace and a just resolution to the conflict. 
 
My Support for International Law 
I firmly believe that all conflicts must be governed by international law. As such, I strongly support institutions like the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in their role to determine and uphold these laws. Our government has taken a clear stance on this matter, dropping the previous administration's attempt to intervene in the ICC's process regarding potential arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over alleged war crimes in Gaza. We've also affirmed our belief that the ICC has jurisdiction over Gaza. We've implemented sanctions against individuals and entities responsible for human rights abuses against Palestinian communities in the West Bank, demonstrating our commitment to upholding international law and condemning illegal settlements. I will continue to support our government's efforts to hold all parties accountable and advocate for strict adherence to international law in this conflict and beyond. 
 
Arms Export Review 
On September 2nd, our government took a significant step by conducting a thorough review of UK arms exports to Israel. This rigorous process, aligned with our legal obligations, concluded that there is a clear risk that military exports to Israel, if used in Gaza operations, might contribute to serious violations of international humanitarian law. As a result, we've suspended all licenses for exports to Israel for items that could potentially be used in the current conflict, whether in Gaza, the West Bank, or Lebanon. I've personally requested ongoing reviews of arms licenses and raised specific concerns about the international supply chain for F-35s.   
 
Government Actions 
Since July, the UK Government has taken a number of steps to address the conflict. On July 14th, Foreign Secretary David Lammy visited Israel and the West Bank, calling for an immediate ceasefire and a two-state solution. On September 2nd, the government suspended arms export licenses to Israel after determining a clear risk of serious violations of international humanitarian law. We've also provided critical humanitarian support, including releasing £21 million to UNRWA and £5.5 million to UK-Med for field hospitals in Gaza. The government has maintained consistent diplomatic pressure, with multiple ministerial visits to the region and ongoing calls for the release of hostages. Ministers have been clear about the need to end the conflict, with continuous diplomatic engagement aimed at de-escalation and supporting international legal frameworks. 
 
Going Forward 
I remain dedicated to pushing for immediate action towards a ceasefire and working within our government to progress towards an independent Palestinian state. I will keep you, my constituents, informed about ongoing efforts and developments as we navigate this complex situation. I assure you that I will continue to do everything in my power to represent your views and advocate for peace in this region. While the challenges are significant, I am committed to pursuing a just and lasting resolution that reflects our shared values and aspirations for a better future.

Note on the Use of Term Genocide
Genocide is the most serious crime against humanity, and seeking to prevent, halt, and punish it is a responsibility shared by everyone across the world. I believe that the best way for us to uphold this responsibility is by bolstering dedicated institutions, including the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court. This system of international rules and justice is under ever greater threat of collapse. Upholding it today is essential for ensuring international justice tomorrow.

As we know, the International Court of Justice has an ongoing case on this, between South Africa and Israel. The interim judgement the Court has made shows that the allegation of genocide in Gaza has sufficient plausibility to proceed further. I will continue to support the independence of the ICJ and the ICC, including their justice processes on Palestine and Israel.

As an RAF officer, I led our airdrops on Mount Sinjar to help the Yazidi victims of the genocide by Daesh. What happened to the Yazidis, while the numbers were much smaller than the Palestinians affected in Gaza, is recognised by the UK as a genocide due to an international court judgement.

This court judgement came after the UK humanitarian action I was a part of. This illustrates that whether or not something has been determined to be a genocide does not prevent action in support of people who are clearly at terrible risk. Questions about legal terminology should not hold us back from action. This knowledge shapes my support for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, a flood of humanitarian aid to those suffering, and the continuation of international justice processes.

As an MP, I am contacted by constituents about many cases around the world, including others where there is ongoing investigation or judicial proceedings involving genocide and other crimes against humanity. This includes the people of Darfur and the rest of Sudan, the Rohingya victims who have fled Myanmar, and the people of Ukraine. There are many more people around the world who do not have ongoing international legal cases, including victims of the recent Tigray war in Ethiopia, human rights violations against the Uighurs in China, and many more. I believe we need to support people on an equal basis, rather than treating any of these situations of international injustice or atrocity as exceptional.

Based on all of these reasons, I do not believe that it is helpful for me, as an MP, to use legal terms like ‘genocide’. This is for courts to decide, not politicians.

Question 2

Social Security Reform

Accepted Answer

After 14 years of appalling Conservative rhetoric and failed policies, I understand why people are fearful when they hear about changes to the benefits system. Recent weeks have seen unacceptable language and policies in the media. This must change. I will never stand for rhetoric which unfairly targets the most vulnerable people in our society as scapegoats for budgetary or social problems.
 
Engaging with Stakeholders 
Throughout April and May, I have continued to engage with Ministers, MPs, and affected constituents to understand the impact of the proposed changes and to advocate for an approach with compassion at its heart. This includes a meeting with Waltham Forest Stand Up for Your Rights on 28 May, after which I met with the Chancellor on 2 June. I plan to continue these meetings with constituents and colleagues over the coming weeks.

In February, I joined Labour colleagues in Downing Street, where we put forward a clear message about the unacceptability of some of the ideas that have been floated. I believe the package of proposals that has now been officially announced has been improved as a result. What we need is an approach which puts compassion at the heart, while recognising that parts of the social security system are not helping people with disabilities to live full lives as part of our society.

The Importance of Disability Benefits 
The role of disability benefits cannot be overstated, it provides essential financial support that helps cover the additional costs associated with living with a disability. Any reforms to the benefits system mustn't undermine the financial stability of our most vulnerable. I believe we must recognise that some people will never be able to work, and they must be protected, and I welcome potential changes for those with long-term ‘ongoing’ Personal Independence Payments (PIP) entitlements, which aim to reassure recipients that their ongoing payments are secure.

Currently, regular reviews can cause unnecessary stress as people feel their award is at risk of being stripped away, even though the impact of their condition is unlikely to improve. Likewise, the government has said they will ensure that people on Universal Credit with the most severe and unchanging disabilities and health conditions will receive a new additional premium payment and will never be subject to a reassessment. I welcome this.

Addressing Concerns about the Green Paper  
Speculation about these changes has unnecessarily fuelled real fear and anxiety in our communities. It is right that we have been given the reassurance that no one's payments from social security will change until April 2026 at the earliest, and that no financial changes are being proposed for people receiving PIP. Instead, above-inflation increases in the standard Universal Credit allowance of £775 per year by 2029/30 are set to be phased in for both existing and new claimants, while reducing the Universal Credit health top-up, for new claims only, from April 2026. The government plans to deliver additional support to help people get back to health and work, backed by £1bn of new investment. I will be seeking clarity about how many people in Leyton and Wanstead could gain or lose financially from these changes.

Support for Those Seeking Work 
Alongside these steps to rebalance social security payments, proposed reforms are being designed to create security so that people with existing health or disability-related support can try work without having to be reassessed if the job doesn’t work out for them. This is important because, as we know, it remains the case that too many employers and jobs are not providing the tailored adjustments and support necessary for people to work with their conditions.

People with disabilities and health conditions enrich our community in numerous ways, and for most, that includes work. It is not good for any of us if our social security system supports people better only if they are disengaged and excluded from the world of work. There is clear evidence that increasing numbers of people are being pushed away from work by the large financial gap that has been created between disability and work-related support by Tory cuts to social security, alongside their failed economic policies. Since the pandemic, there has been a 45% increase in the number of claimants for disability benefits, whilst most of our neighbouring European countries have seen a decrease in disability benefit spending. We cannot ignore this, but I am concerned by reports about the speed and scale of the reductions in the health-related element of UC that are planned, and I am seeking a better understanding of the impact of the proposals to change eligibility for PIP.

Protecting the Most Vulnerable 
If the current situation continues without change, public support for the social security system will fall away. So, I believe it is important for government policies to address this over the coming years – but this must happen in a way that protects the most vulnerable and prioritises respect and dignity for people who are struggling, not least because of the continuing consequences of the cost of living crisis. It is important to see reforms as part of a package of change, alongside the action we are taking to drive down NHS waiting lists, increase workers’ rights, create more good jobs, and improve the support that is available to everyone looking for work.

The powerful personal accounts I am hearing from people in Leyton and Wanstead are shaping my response to this issue.  Please do continue to engage with me, now that the government’s concrete proposals have been published. I will continue to make representations to Ministers in favour of a compassionate and respectful approach to this issue.

Contact and Support 
If you have concerns relating to your individual case involving social security claims, please do contact us separately, as my team will support you if we can: calvin.bailey.mp@parliament.uk

Question 3

Assisted Dying

Accepted Answer

My Position on the Assisted Dying Bill 
The debate surrounding assisted dying is complex and emotive, with strongly held ethical and moral views on all sides. As your representative, I approach this issue with careful consideration and an open mind. 
 
Key Points: 
This is a matter of individual conscience for MPs, not government policy. 
Any change in law will come through a Private Members' Bill, not government legislation. 
My decision will be pragmatic, based on policy quality and supporting infrastructure. 
I have no ideological position and aim to consider all perspectives. 
Strong safeguards are vital if the law changes. 
Assisted dying should not replace high-quality palliative and end-of-life care. 
 
I believe in striving for the widest possible consensus while ensuring the protection of vulnerable individuals.  
 
My decision on the upcoming bill and any future legislation will be informed by: 
The quality of the proposed policy. 
The robustness of supporting infrastructure and resources. 
The effectiveness of safeguards to protect the vulnerable. 
The potential impact on palliative and end-of-life care. 
 
Commitment to Constituents 
I am committed to reading and considering every message from constituents on this important issue. Your views and experiences will help shape my decision when the time comes to vote.  Regardless of the outcome, I believe we all share the goal of ensuring dignity in dying and providing the best possible care for those nearing the end of their lives.

Question 4

The Climate & Nature Emergency

Accepted Answer

The climate and nature crisis is an urgent and escalating challenge that demands immediate and decisive action. Recent reports from the Climate Change Committee highlight that we are currently off track in meeting our legally binding climate targets. I call for rapid action to rectify this situation, emphasising the need to restore our commitment to climate goals at home so that we can effectively lead international efforts. 
 
Immediate Government Actions 
I support the Government for its proactive measures taken within just a few months of taking office. Key initiatives include: 
 
Lifting the ban on onshore wind: This move allows for greater investment in renewable energy sources. 
Ending new oil and gas licences: This decision is crucial for transitioning towards sustainable energy while ensuring a fair transition for workers in the North Sea. 
Approval of 1.3GW of solar energy projects: This significant step will enhance our solar capacity. 
Increased funding for renewable energy auctions: The budget has been raised by over 50% to £1.5 billion, facilitating more clean energy projects. 
Establishment of Great British Energy: This publicly owned company will manage clean power initiatives across the nation. 
 
Commitment to Green Prosperity 
I am proud to support the Government’s green prosperity plan, which aims to deliver clean power by 2030. This ambitious plan includes: 
 
Creation of a National Wealth Fund: With £7.3 billion allocated over the Parliament, this fund will invest in future industries in partnership with businesses. 
Goals for renewable energy expansion: The plan aims to double onshore wind, triple solar power, and quadruple offshore wind capacity by 2030. 
Investment in home energy efficiency: An additional £6.6 billion will be directed towards upgrading five million homes. 
This green transition represents not only an environmental imperative but also an opportunity to generate good jobs across various sectors. Alongside government initiatives to ensure a genuine living wage and new employment rights, I am optimistic about improving the livelihoods of working people. 
 
Enhancing Public Transport and Biodiversity 
Reforms in public transport are essential for improving air quality and combating climate change. I am committed to empowering local mayors to develop active travel networks and expand nature-rich habitats. This includes: 
 
Planting millions of trees 
Restoring peat bogs 
Creating new woodlands 
 
Biodiversity 
Biodiversity loss poses a significant threat that must be addressed alongside climate change. The UK is among the most nature-depleted countries globally, making it imperative that we prioritise nature recovery efforts. A comprehensive review of the previous Government's Environmental Improvement Plan is underway, focusing on: 
Cleaning waterways 
Reducing waste 
Halting species decline by 2030 
Global Leadership and Local Action 
 
While domestic efforts are crucial, they must be complemented by global collaboration. We need a unified approach that places local communities at the forefront of decision-making processes. I welcome the Government's initiative to establish a Global Clean Power Alliance, which aims to mobilise significant global financing for renewable energy transitions in developing nations. I support our Foreign Secretary's commitment to ratifying key international treaties focused on ocean protection and plastic pollution, ensuring that at least 30% of our planet's land and oceans are safeguarded by 2030.In conclusion, addressing the climate and nature emergency requires urgent action, innovative policies, and collaborative efforts both domestically and internationally. Together, we can forge a sustainable future that benefits not only our environment but also our economy and society as a whole.

Question 5

Animal Rights

Accepted Answer

I am deeply committed to championing animal rights and welfare, recognising that our treatment of animals reflects our values as a society. Every creature, great or small, deserves compassion, protection, and the opportunity to live free from suffering. Together, we can advocate for stronger laws and practices that ensure the humane treatment of animals, promote their welfare, and foster a harmonious coexistence between humans and the natural world.  I will provide updates periodically as new legislation or policies emerge from the Government. 
 
Banning Hunting Trophies and Trail Hunting 
I firmly support the ban on the import of hunting trophies and advocate for stricter legislation to end trail hunting. In my view, there is no place for such a cruel sport in our nation, and I believe the previous Government failed to take adequate action on this matter. 
 
Bovine Tuberculosis and Badger Cull 
I back the current Government's commitment to collaborate with farmers and scientists to eradicate bovine tuberculosis (bTB) and to phase out the ineffective badger cull. It has been nearly six years since a comprehensive review of bTB strategies, and I trust that this Government will heed advice from a broad spectrum of expert advisors as we aim for bTB-free status by 2038. 
 
Ending Puppy Smuggling and Cruel Practices 
I am dedicated to outlawing illegal practices such as puppy smuggling and farming by criminal gangs that exploit animals. Furthermore, I advocate for an end to the sale of animals with cropped ears, the importation of dogs and cats subjected to fashion-based mutilations, and the importation of heavily pregnant animals. 
 
Foie Gras and Fur Farming 
The production of foie gras through force-feeding is awful and has been banned in the UK for 17 years, aligning with our animal welfare laws. Similarly, fur farming has been prohibited since 2000 in England and Wales, although importing and selling fur from certain species remains legal. A 2018 report highlighted that real fur was misrepresented as fake by various retailers, which is deeply concerning. I will continue to advocate for the law to be upheld in this area. 
 
Animal Testing 
I support the Government’s initiative to partner with scientists, industry, and civil society in efforts to phase out animal testing. The UK has made significant strides since banning cosmetic testing on animals in 1997, extending this ban to cosmetic ingredients in 1998. I believe synthetic biology holds promise for addressing testing challenges while promoting non-animal methodologies. I will continue to push for the ending of animal testing.  
 
Wildlife Crime 
The Government acknowledges the importance of combating wildlife crime by funding the National Wildlife Crime Unit. While there are currently no plans to classify all wildlife crimes as notifiable, police have the discretion to investigate non-notifiable wildlife crimes based on community priorities. 
 
Regulation of Primates as Pets 
I am concerned that regulations introduced by the previous Government will licence keeping primates as pets rather than implementing a full ban as previously pledged. I will continue to push for a full ban on keeping primates as pets.  
 
Farm Animal Welfare 
My commitment to animal rights extends to improving welfare standards for farmed animals. I support close collaboration with the farming sector to enhance animal welfare practices while recognising that food security is vital for national security. I advocate for a national land-use framework that balances agricultural needs with environmental protection. 
 
Environmental Priorities 
Restoring nature and enhancing food security are among the new Government's core environmental priorities. As one of the most nature-depleted countries globally, we must work with communities, and civil society to protect our natural environment and expand habitats for wildlife. 
 
 I continue to advocate for a compassionate future where every animal is treated with dignity and respect, and where their rights are upheld as a reflection of our humanity.

The War in the Middle East

Social Security Reform

Assisted Dying

The Climate & Nature Emergency

Animal Rights

Where does Calvin stand on...

Calvin is Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for the Armed Forces Community.