Over the last few weeks we have had a number of significant votes on issues ranging from children’s safety to justice and the digital world. Parliament has also marked national and international events.
I voted against the Government’s proposals to remove for most people the right to trial by jury.
Jury trials are a cornerstone of our justice system and allow members of the public to participate directly in decisions that can lead to conviction and imprisonment. Removing that safeguard risks undermining confidence in the fairness of our courts.
Hundreds of constituents have contacted me about a potential social media ban for under-16s, either directly or through the survey on my website.
After careful consideration I voted in favour of banning social media access for under-16s as part of the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, reflecting the concerns raised by many parents, teachers and young people themselves about the potential harm these platforms can cause.
The Labour Government blocked the ban, opting instead for more delay and consultation instead of decisive action. Meanwhile, Reform MPs didn’t vote at all.
I also voted in support of stronger protections for children with severe allergies in schools through what is known as Benedict’s Law. The proposals would require schools to have clear allergy policies, keep spare emergency treatments such as adrenaline auto-injectors and ensure staff are properly trained to respond to anaphylaxis.
This month in parliament I marked a number of national and international events. World Book Day highlighted the importance of reading for pleasure and developing confidence, imagination and curiosity among young people.
I also attended the Commonwealth Day ceremony in parliament, celebrating the partnership between 56 nations across the globe and shared history, cultural ties and trading relationships that continue to connect our countries.
The Chancellor delivered her Spring Statement, which came against the backdrop of slowing economic growth and rising unemployment. It was an opportunity for the Government to change course and support businesses and working people, but unfortunately that opportunity was missed. With the situation in the Middle East escalating this is really the time for the Chancellor to re-think her fuel duty policies.
In my role as Shadow Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, I used Departmental Questions to raise two important issues. I asked the Government about an incident during the BAFTAs where involuntary comments made by a person with Tourette’s were broadcast by the BBC despite a time delay being in place.
The incident caused understandable concern and should be properly investigated. I also pressed ministers on the Listed Places of Worship Scheme, after the Government cut the budget and the fund subsequently ran out of money, delaying vital repair work to churches. I urged the Government to restore funding and provide clarity about the replacement scheme.
I was also pleased to mark English Tourism Week, which celebrates the vital contribution tourism and hospitality make to our economy and communities. The sector supports millions of jobs across the country, including many here in Worcestershire. I encourage everyone to visit a tourist site.
Developments in the Middle East mean that travel advice has changed and the Foreign Office now advises against any travel at all to Israel and Palestine – and against all but essential travel in several other countries.
Information on travel advice by country can be found here:
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
In addition, British nationals in the region should register their presence with the local embassies and consulates.
This can also be done online by clicking on the individual country sites in the link above or by telephone on +44 20 7008 5000.
Many airlines have currently halted flights in and around the Middle East and should be in touch with passengers about resumption of flights.
If any constituents have difficulty please get in touch with my office and we will always endeavour to assist. [email protected]
I know many constituents are concerned about the rising price of heating oil and I am aware that in some cases existing orders are being cancelled, only for customers to be forced to re-order at a far higher price.
There are approximately 10,000 off-grid households in my constituency and I am concerned about the impact this is having on constituents, many of whom have contacted me directly.
I have therefore raised my concerns with Ministers at the Treasury, the Department for Energy, the CMA and with specific providers. I am concerned that the limited intervention recently announced by the Government will not help many of my constituents.
Nigel Huddleston MP
Member of Parliament for Droitwich, Evesham and the Villages
Shadow Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport
