The use of swift bricks debated by MPs
4 July 2023
On Monday 10 July, MPs debate a petition relating to the use of swift bricks in new housing
- Watch the debate (from 4.30pm, Monday 24 April)
- Read the debate transcript (available shortly after the conclusion of the debate).
- Follow the Committee on Twitter and join the discussion using #SwiftBricks #PetitionsDebate
Matt Vickers MP, a member of the Petitions Committee, has been asked by the Committee to open the debate. MPs from all parties can take part, and the Government will send a minister to respond.
Make swift bricks compulsory in new housing to help red-listed birds
The petition, which has more than 109,000 signatures, states: “Swifts have declined by over 50% in the UK. Adult swifts, known for site-fidelity, return to the same nests. We want swift bricks to be required in all new housing, to provide homes for these birds.”
In its response to the petition, provided on 1 December 2022, the Government said: “We welcome actions by developers to provide “swift bricks”, however Government considers this a matter for local authorities depending upon the specific circumstances of each site.”
What are petitions debates?
Petitions debates are 'general' debates which allow MPs from all parties to discuss the important issues raised by one or more petitions, and put their concerns to Government Ministers.
Petition debates don’t end with a vote to implement the request of a petition. This means MPs will not vote on the request of the petition at the end of the debate.
Petition debates are scheduled by the Petitions Committee. Only e-petitions started on the parliament petitions site are considered by the Petitions Committee.
Further information
- Find out more about the role of the Petitions Committee
- Find out more about select committees
- About Parliament: Select committees
- Visiting Parliament: Watch committees
Image credit: Tyler Allicock/UK Parliament