THIS year has undoubtedly been one of the most politically divisive in recent times and it’s therefore important to pause this festive season and reflect on the values we share, rather than the disagreements we hold against each other.
We respectfully marked the centenary of the Armistice which ended the First World War. It was a humbling occasion which reminded us of the true nature of sacrifice.
In happier news, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex – Harry and Meagan – married in Windsor and announced the coming arrival of their first royal baby soon after. England defied expectations and captured imaginations across the country with an unexpected run to the semi-finals of the World Cup, finally falling valiantly to Croatia after extra-time.
It was a year which allowed us to raise our eyes from the manic developments in Westminster and appreciate the contributions of servicemen and women, public service figures and sportspeople elsewhere across the UK and around the world.
We live in a country brimming with talent, endeavour and selflessness and amidst the uncertainty of the political landscape we must not lose sight of that. We are home to some of the world’s greatest minds, as the sad passing of
Professor Stephen Hawking earlier this year reminded us, and we remain one of the most visited and admired countries on the planet.
We have a culture and heritage which is the envy of the world and we talk with genuine pride about our fantastic military and treasured public services. I wish them all well this Christmas, whether a soldier posted abroad or a doctor working through the night on Christmas Day – and indeed the private sector employees working in hospitality or transport sectors this festive season who enable us to spend such enjoyable times with our families.
They are all in our thoughts this Christmas and they are what make the UK a country that we are all still so very proud to be a part of.
Merry Christmas and best wishes to all.
Nigel Huddleston
MP for Mid Worcestershire
