Rise in Parliamentary Questions: Unpacking the Surge
Recent reports reveal that 2025 marked a significant rise in the number of Written Parliamentary Questions (WPQs) submitted by Members of Parliament (MPs) and peers in the UK. The figures are staggering: WPQs soared to 90,331, nearly double the previous year’s total of 49,125. This surge has prompted debates about the motivations behind these questions and the implications for government resources.
The Role of AI: A Controversial Factor
The introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a controversial factor in this uptick. While some speculate that AI tools are enabling MPs to generate questions more rapidly, the MPs themselves have firmly rejected claims that their inquiries are in any way frivolous or wasteful. No MP has openly admitted to utilizing AI for question preparation, despite suggestions from government sources that this could be behind the significant increase.
Departmental Pressures: A Closer Look
Certain departments have been disproportionately affected by this wave of inquiries. The Department of Health and Social Care reported an astounding 97% rise in WPQs, while the Home Office and Department for Education also saw increases of 92% and 97%, respectively. The housing department reported the highest increase at 101%. Such spikes could suggest heightened public scrutiny or pressing issues that require government transparency and accountability.
A Surge in Certain MPs’ Inquiries
Breaking down the numbers, certain MPs have been especially prolific. For instance, the activities of Lib Dem MP Al Pinkerton skyrocketed from 36 to 721 questions—a staggering increase of over 20-fold. Similarly, independent MP James McMurdock stood out with a remarkable 342 questions submitted in a single day, covering diverse topics ranging from international funding to local infrastructure concerns.
Public Perception and Resource Allocation
The leap in WPQs has brought with it accusations of resource diversion and public money being misused. Critics suggest that the extensive volume of questions may strain governmental resources, leading to delays and inefficiencies in responses. However, MPs defend their actions, asserting that each question aims to address genuine public interests and concerns, ultimately fostering accountability within the government.
Individual Inquiries: A Spotlight on Specific MPs
As we delve deeper, it becomes clear that a significant portion of the WPQs is concentrated among a small group of MPs. Notably, just 10 individuals accounted for a staggering 20% of the total WPQs in the latter half of 2025. This concentration raises questions about the efficacy and intent behind such prolific questioning. Are these MPs setting an example of accountability, or are they merely capitalizing on AI tools to amplify their visibility?
The Broader Implications
The implications of this surge extend beyond mere numbers. With MPs responding to constituents’ concerns and media scrutiny, the public interest remains at the forefront. Yet, this also raises questions about how Parliament will manage the bureaucracy and logistics of such an influx of questions. Will additional resources be allocated to handle the volume, or will this lead to a backlog that could hinder the responsiveness of government departments?
Looking Ahead: The Future of Parliamentary Inquiries
As we observe the trajectory of WPQs in the coming years, it’s clear that technology will continue to play a role in how MPs interact with government processes. The questions surrounding the use of AI in parliamentary procedures are just beginning to unfold, and they demand further investigation. Moving forward, stakeholders will have to balance the need for transparency against the potential for resource strain and administrative challenges.
This dynamic situation highlights the evolving nature of political inquiry and governance in the digital age. With weekly and daily parliamentary questions becoming a focal point of public dialogue, understanding this phenomenon is essential for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, politics, and society.