Preet Kaur Gill MP - My Weekly Update: 19-23rd October
This week...
The Government laid a new Private Parking Code of Practice before Parliament
This week, the Government announced that drivers will get new rights to challenge unfair private parking charges under new rules. This includes a guaranteed 5 minutes to decide whether to park and 10 minutes to leave once their session ends, and the right to have charges cancelled on appeal for issues they can’t control. 
Under the new Private Parking Code of Practice laid in Parliament, charges will be scrapped on appeal for honest mistakes, like stopping briefly to check directions, and for situations like a medical emergency, breakdown or broken ticket machine. 
For smaller slip-ups, like forgetting a parking permit, entering the wrong vehicle's registration or forgetting to confirm it in the machine when parking, drivers will face a maximum charge of £20 on appeal. 
The Code also freezes the maximum parking charge at £100. Operators who don't comply risk losing access to DVLA data, meaning that even if they issue a charge, it will be far more difficult to identify the registered owner to pursue payment. 
In addition, unscrupulous second-hand car dealers who wind back odometers to disguise a vehicle’s true mileage will also face tougher action. Known as car clocking, fraudulently selling a clocked car is already illegal, but adding it to the official list of banned practices will make it easier for enforcers to crack down, protecting buyers and backing honest businesses. 
These changes are the latest measures in the Prime Minister’s series of everyday fixes, tackling the frustrations that cost people time and money to give families more room to breathe. 
This action follows moves to stop unfair airline charges, tackle subscription traps, rogue traders, and rip-off school uniform costs. 
This Labour Government has also promised to go further still, by consulting as soon as possible next year on private parking debt recovery fees, including on whether to cut an existing ÂŁ70 cap or scrap the fees altogether.
Data shows just under 17 million private parking charges were issued in the UK last year. In 2025, the government set out proposals to improve standards by consulting on a new Private Parking Code of Practice.
Today's response sets out the measures being brought in to protect motorists. Parliament will now have time to scrutinise the new Code, before ministers press ahead to bring it into force as soon as possible.
This Code brings in, for the first time, a fully independent Scrutiny and Oversight Board, and requires operators to share more information with government, giving drivers stronger protections than ever before.
Since taking office, the Government has also launched a review of airport drop-off charges, cut VAT on electricity bills this winter, frozen fuel duty and rail fares, and raised the Minimum Wage, as it continues to take action to ease the cost of living.
The Government is releasing ÂŁ220m to councils across England for pothole repair and road maintenance
Nearly 7,000 miles of road resurfacing – the equivalent of travelling between London and Singapore – will be completed this year according to new figures published this week, as this Labour Government looks to give drivers more breathing space and help with the cost of living.
Figures from local councils shows over 10% more resurfacing than took place last year as data also shows that councils are starting to properly invest in their roads with ÂŁ4.9 billion total being spent this year, ÂŁ800 million more than before this government came to power.
The record figures show that the Government’s £7.3 billion in funding for road maintenance is starting to deliver better roads for communities that have suffered from potholes, helping the average driver save up to nearly £600 pounds on costly repairs.
Following the publication of today’s data, the government has gone even further and unlocked £220 million in incentive-based funding to councils across England for meeting performance-based targets. Further funding will be released later in the year only if councils reach their performance targets, and can be withheld if they fail to reach them as part of the government’s efforts to hold councils to account.
Potholes continue to be a daily nuisance for drivers across the country, whether they’re travelling to work, the school run or a hospital appointment. But record funding and new measures to hold councils to account and make transport better, also shown in the recent announcement to tackle antisocial behaviour on transport, including £100 fines on buses and a crackdown on loud music on trains.
The reports councils submitted to the government show that 94% of councils will complete preventative roadworks this year, stopping the same part of road being patched over and over again, and stamping out potholes before they have the chance to form in the first place.
It shows councils are doing more preventative works than last year, where only 76% did this work, showing that councils are changing behaviour as a result of clear direction from government, record funding and strict monitoring – meaning more money stays in the pocket of drivers.
Meanwhile additional figures released last week show local road conditions improved in the year ending March 2026, with less minor roads needing maintenance as a result of works last year.
Read more here: Record funding, record results: 7,000 miles of smoother journeys as government tackles potholes - GOV.UK
Introduced new Industrial Strategy Jobs Plans
As part of the Industrial Strategy, the government is working with industry, trade unions, local partners and wider stakeholders to develop Jobs Plans that address the workforce needs in each of the 8 growth-driving sectors, and in the Construction sector, and deliver opportunities across the country.
These plans complement the Sector Plans published in 2025 and support delivery of the government’s Industrial Strategy.
They set out the workforce and skills challenges facing priority sectors, helping to inform implementation of the post-16 education and skills white paper and the pathways to priority occupations measure. Together, they support a more joined-up and responsive skills system that is better aligned to future workforce needs, supports employer engagement and helps encourage economic growth.
To read the respective digital, business, construction, financial, life sciences, creative, or defence industry jobs plans, click here: ÂŁ140 million boost to urgent care to ease winter pressures on NHS - GOV.UK
Approved Jackdaw gas field
The Energy Secretary has agreed that the regulator can grant consent for gas to be produced at the licensed Jackdaw field
The project will start to supply gas to British homes and businesses from as early as the end of this month, helping heat millions of homes and protecting hundreds of jobs
New Energy Wealth Fund to be established by the Chancellor with a ÂŁ2 billion downpayment to reinvest oil and gas revenues into the climate transition.
Jackdaw will start to supply gas to British homes and businesses from the end of this month, after the Energy Secretary agreed that the regulator can grant consent for gas to be produced at the field.Â
The Jackdaw decision is expected to increase domestic gas production by around 6% at its peak – supporting the UK’s gas supply over its lifespan of up to 11 years, boosting our energy security, protecting hundreds of jobs and adding an estimated £2.9 billion to the UK economy.
Recent events in the Middle East have triggered global energy shocks and pushed up bills for families across the country. At a time of global instability, homegrown energy can be a source of national strength.
The Chancellor is also announcing today the establishment of a new Energy Wealth Fund, which will use tax revenues from North Sea oil and gas to invest in renewable and low carbon energy projects and support the green transition. Reflecting our commitment to the North Sea, this will start with an initial £2 billion injection of funding, with future revenues from the North Sea flowing into the fund over time.
The announcement comes ahead of the Budget, which will set out the government’s plan to deliver good growth in every postcode. By reinvesting Britain’s energy wealth in renewable and low carbon energy infrastructure, the Fund will unlock investment, back the industries of the future and create skilled jobs across Scotland and the UK.
This investment in renewable energy will substantially delink gas and electricity by the end of this Parliament. By investing in and building more renewable and low carbon power, gas will set the price of electricity less often, helping end Britain’s exposure to volatile international gas markets and help get bills down for good in the long term.
The Energy Secretary assessed among other points, that the Jackdaw project will not prevent the UK from being able to meet its legally binding limits on carbon emissions and achieve net-zero by 2050.
The heatwaves and extreme weather events experienced this year highlighted the importance of tackling the climate crisis. The government remains committed to the green transition and net zero – moving away from fossil fuels and towards renewable and nuclear energy. But even on the path to net zero, the UK will still require oil and gas as part of our energy needs for decades to come. Â
The decision is consistent with the government’s manifesto commitment not to issue any new licences to explore new fields while managing existing fields for the entirety of their lifespan. The Jackdaw gas field is already licensed and the North Sea Transition Authority’s decision to grant consent now gives the developer the green light to begin operations at the field.
Read more here: Jackdaw gas field gets green light - GOV.UK
Local News - In Birmingham Edgbaston
I welcomed urgent care boost at QEHB ahead of Winter
This week I welcomed confirmation that Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham’s urgent treatment centre is among 25 new or expanded urgent care sites providing extra capacity for patients this winter.
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Urgent treatment centres treat illnesses and injuries that need urgent attention but are not life-threatening. They help patients get appropriate treatment without needing to be seen in A&E, allowing emergency departments to focus on the most seriously ill patients.
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The QE’s centre is already open, meaning this additional service is in place for local residents ahead of the colder months.
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The announcement comes alongside almost ÂŁ140 million for 14 new urgent care schemes across England, including new urgent treatment centres, same-day emergency care services, ambulance fleets and emergency department upgrades. Same-day emergency care allows suitable patients to be assessed, diagnosed and treated without an overnight hospital stay.
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The wider winter package also includes:
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* Expanded Pharmacy First services, helping people get treatment for common conditions at their local pharmacy.
* More evening, weekend and out-of-hours GP appointments during the colder months.
* More community pharmacies offering flu vaccinations, with eligibility extended to include more vulnerable groups, including people experiencing homelessness.
* Digital tools to make vaccination bookings easier for parents, schools and vaccination teams.
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I said:
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“For local residents, this means another service at the QE where they can get urgent treatment for illnesses and injuries that are not life-threatening. The centre is already open, providing extra capacity ahead of winter and helping A&E staff focus on patients who need emergency care.”
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“I welcome the Government’s investment in urgent care, alongside more evening and weekend GP appointments and greater access to treatment through local pharmacies. Getting help earlier can stop someone’s condition worsening and reduce the need for a hospital visit.”
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“Our NHS staff need the facilities and support to deliver safe, timely care. For my constituents, the test will be whether they can get the treatment they need, when they need it.”
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“If you are eligible for a flu jab, please come forward. It can help protect you and your family from serious illness and ease pressure on our NHS this winter.”
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Nationally, the Government is investing almost ÂŁ2 billion in urgent care capital projects up to 2030, alongside ÂŁ1.5 billion already confirmed to address urgent maintenance problems across the NHS estate.
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More than 7.4 million flu vaccinations had been delivered in England by 11 October, with more children vaccinated than at the same point last year.
I wrote to Birmingham City Council about Supported Exempt Accommodation regulation
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Following Panorama's investigation on Supported Exempt Accommodation, I have written to Birmingham City Council's CEO.
New regulations are vital, but the Council can do more to protect tenants and tackle crime in Supported Exempt Accommodation.
Good providers rebuild lives. They must not be undermined.
I helped scrutinise the Civil Aviation Bill
This week in the Civil Aviation Bill Committee, I welcomed the Government removing the compensation limit for wheelchairs damaged on domestic flights.
I also asked about prompt repairs and suitable temporary replacements, so disabled passengers can maintain their independence.
I co-sponsored a University of Birmingham initiative to support Youth Suicide Prevention
Suicide is a leading cause of death amongst young people aged 10-24 in the UK.
On average, 554 children and young people lost their lives to suicide every single year over the last 10 years in the UK. That’s more than 1, lost every day, leaving devastated families, friends and colleagues behind.
I spoke to representatives from the University of Birmingham and the Insitute for Mental Health about how we can ensure young people with lived experience of self-harm or suicide are routinely involved across all service delivery, planning, and future policy.
Youth suicide is preventable, but the current system needs to be improved so that we can fully support young people experiencing mental health challenges.
In Parliament, I welcomed work to help school pupils recognise and challenge antisemitism
I welcomed Government funded work between the Archdiocese of Birmingham and the Board of Deputies to help pupils recognise and challenge antisemitism, including conspiracy theories spread through online Government.
See my question to the Secretary of State for Education above.
Media
BBC Politics Midlands - Birmingham Reform Councillors' comments
"If she was my daughter, it would still be bath night on a Thursday. I'll wash you properly this time."
This was the sickening comment made by a Reform Councillor in Birmingham.
I spoke to Politics Midlands about it.
GB News - Supported Exempt Accommodation
This week I spoke to GB News about the urgent need for action on Supported Exempt Accommodation.
I have campaigned for reform since 2018. Stronger regulation is essential, but Birmingham City Council must use its existing powers to protect vulnerable tenants and tackle rogue providers.
Watch my full interview above.
Birmingham must take action on Exempt accommodation
I have been campaigning for stronger action on exempt accommodation because, when supported housing works well, it changes lives. It gives someone leaving prison the chance to turn a corner, helps a person escape homelessness, and enables those dealing with addiction, poor mental health, or domestic abuse to rebuild their lives.
In 2021, I worked alongside local residents, Birmingham City Council and West Midlands Police to secure the closure of Saif Lodge in North Edgbaston after serious concerns were raised about poor living conditions, inadequate support for vulnerable residents, and antisocial behaviour affecting the local community.
Birmingham has some excellent supported housing providers that offer safe accommodation, proper support, and a route towards independence. However, their work is being undermined by a broken system that has allowed unscrupulous operators to exploit vulnerable people and extract vast sums from the taxpayer.
We need to do more to support reputable providers while preventing exploitative operators from taking advantage of vulnerable people. Everyone deserves access to safe, high-quality supported housing that helps them move forward with their lives, and Birmingham cannot afford to wait any longer for action.
Read more here:Â Birmingham cannot wait any longer for action on exempt accommodationÂ
You may have missed...
The Government has announced a consultation on Support Exempt Accommodation regulation
When it works, Supported Exempt Accommodation saves lives and money.
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However, as I have seen time and time again across Birmingham Edgbaston, bad actors have been allowed to exploit the system and profit from the neglect of people who are suffering.
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I welcome the Government's consultation on new regulation, and encourage all stakeholders - including residents - to have their say by completing the survey below.
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Complete the survey here: Supported housing licensing regime: consultation on draft regulations - GOV.UK
Birmingham Airport announces a major public consultation on its future – Edgbaston residents can have their say
Birmingham Airport has announced its ambition to become the Midlands’ gateway to the world. It is consulting on a draft Master Plan, which sets out a long-term vision for how the Airport could grow and evolve over the period to 2041.
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The Airport is consulting from 8 October 2026 to 4 December 2026. Our consultation closes on 4 December 2026.
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A local drop-in consultation event will take place at:
·      St Mary’s Parish Centre, Harborne, B17 0DN, on Wednesday 28 October 11am–3pm
How to get involved:
·      Online – Share your thoughts in a feedback form on our website: www.birminghamairport.co.uk/masterplan/
·      Email – Send your feedback to: masterplan@birminghamairport.co.ukÂ
·      Post – MASTER PLAN 2026-2041, Birmingham Airport, Birmingham, B26 3QJÂ
·      Drop-in events – Come along to learn more and speak with the project team Find out more: www.birminghamairport.co.uk/masterplan/
First Banking hub opened in Birmingham
After campaigning to protect access to face-to-face banking in Harborne, it was an honour to open Birmingham’s first Banking Hub on Harborne High Street.
The new Hub provides everyday banking services for customers of all major banks, including cash withdrawals and deposits, cheque deposits, bill payments and balance enquiries. Individual banks will also provide face-to-face appointments on dedicated days each week.
This is a significant achievement for Harborne and Birmingham. I promised residents I would fight to protect face-to-face banking, and I am delighted that together we have delivered Birmingham’s first Banking Hub for our high street.
I was pleased that this story was featured in Birmingham Post in print; please read below.
Read more here:Â Birmingham Edgbaston MP opens first Banking Hub in BirminghamÂ
Green at Sir Richard's Drive Secured
When Calthorpe Estates put the Green on Sir Richard’s Drive up for sale, I wrote to local residents and called a public meeting to bring everyone together to find a solution. More than 130 people came. I continued working with Calthorpe Estates. Mark and Sally led the residents’ effort to buy the land for the community.
I am delighted that the Green has now been secured. Mark and Sally kept the community effort moving, and residents backed it by coming together around a shared plan to protect this much loved space. Mukesh of Murria Solicitors gave his legal expertise voluntarily to help turn that plan into a structure that could hold the Green for the community.
Thank you to Mark, Sally, Mukesh, Calthorpe Estates and every resident who played a part. This is a real achievement for Quinton.
UK Parliament Teacher Ambassador Programme 25-27 January 2027
Applications for the UK Parliament Teacher Ambassador Programme in January 2027 are now open. Teachers from schools and colleges across the UK are eligible to apply for the three-day immersive training programme, with the opportunity to hear from MPs and those working in key roles across UK Parliament. The tools developed will help teachers lay the foundation to gaining Teacher Ambassador status.Â
Deadline to apply is Sunday 1 November.
Find out more here:Â https://learning.parliament.uk/en/session-workshop/uk-parliament-teacher-ambassador-programme/Â
Community wins
In North Edgbaston:
I helped remove a considerable amount of fly-tipped waste in North Edgbaston after a constituent brought this to my attention at my monthly advice surgery.
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In Quinton:
I secured access for a constituent to their Government Gateway account along with compensation from HMRC.
In North Edgbaston:
I secured the inspection of a poorly-operated Supported Exempt Accommodation property, resulting in the full renovation of the home and the regular inspection of the managing agent's other SEA properties across the city.
If you have any issues you would like to raise with me, please get in touch.
Phone: 0121 392 8426Â
Email: preet.gill.mp@parliament.uk Â
Have your say on Pride in Place funding for Woodgate and Bartley Green
Calling on Woodgate and Bartley Green residents - I want to hear how you think the ÂŁ20 million Pride in Place investment should be spent.
After years of campaigning I've secured ÂŁ20 million for Woodgate and Bartley Green as part of the Pride in Place programme.
Woodgate and Bartley Green have long faced challenges with limited opportunities for young people, and closure of community facilities. This investment aims to reverse years of underfunding, and rebuilding pride in local neighbourhoods.
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I am asking residents to share their thoughts on how the money should be used. It could be for more youth services, a community hub, improved outdoor spaces or more support for skills and employment. All ideas are welcome and will inform the plans for how the funding will be spent with the goal to benefit as many residents as possible. Â
Please complete the survey here.Â
Mobile Household Waste Centre dates and locationsÂ
Birmingham City Council arranges Mobile Household Waste Centres across the city. Â
Bartley Green | ||
Date | Location | Time |
31 October 2026 | Woodgate Valley Park car park, Clapgate Lane, B32 3DS | 8:00am to midday |
North Edgbaston | ||
Date | Location | Time |
25 October 2026 | George Dixon Academy, Portland Road, B16 9GD | 8:00am to midday |
To find the next pick-ups near you, please visit: Mobile Household Waste Centre dates and locations
Police drop-in sessions across all wards
West Midlands Police hold regular drop-ins and PACT meetings providing residents with the opportunity to speak directly with officers about concerns relating to crime in the community. Please see below a list of the drop-in sessions coming up in my constituency.
PCSO walkabout
 4:00PM - 5:00PM, Thu 29 October 2026
 QE Hospital, Mindelsohn Way
PCSO walkabout
 4:00PM - 6:00PM, Sat 07 November 2026
 Hagley Road, Edgbaston
Drop in Surgery
5:00PM - 6:00PM, Tue 10 November 2026
Quinton Library, Ridgacre Road, Birmingham, B32 2TW
Cuppa with a Coppa
 10:00AM - 11:00AM, Mon 02 November 2026
 Holloway Hall, Holloway, Bartley Green, Birmingham
Cuppa with a Coppa
 10:30AM - 11:30AM, Wed 11 November 2026
 St Francis Centre, Glen Side, Bartley Green, Birmingham
Find more information here: Birmingham | West Midlands PoliceÂ
To receive regular updates about the police in your area, sign up for WM Now updates here.
Here’s some things from last week you may have missed:
·      The Government announced major partnership with UKHospitality to deliver 100,000 jobs for NEETs
·      The Government launched a national Fostering recruitment campaign
·      Announced a consultation on Support Exempt Accommodation regulation
Read last week's update here: Preet Kaur Gill MP - My Weekly Update: 12-16th October
As always, if you have an issue you'd like to discuss, please contact my office at 0121 392 8426 or preet.gill.mp@parliament.uk, or through my website.
With warm regards,
Preet Kaur Gill MP
Member of Parliament for Birmingham Edgbaston, covering Bartley Green, Edgbaston, Harborne, North Edgbaston and Quinton
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