FOLLOWING the publication of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement, Westminster has been dominated by debates and discussions about the agreement and the political declaration on our future relationship with the EU.
I have listened to the views of hundreds of constituents and local businesses on the deal and opinion is divided – as it was during the referendum campaign itself. While I accept the deal is not perfect, I believe the viable alternatives are unpalatable so I am intending to support the agreement when it is brought to a vote in January. In the meantime I hope the Prime Minister can obtain additional assurances on the Irish backstop that many people are seeking.
While Brexit may have dominated debate, it was not the only item on Parliament’s agenda and I was pleased to play my part in the passage of the Stalking Protection Bill and Parking (Code of Practice Bill). I also helped advance legislation to increase children’s safety online and was delighted that after months of lobbying, the Government announced that it intends to secure a Tourism Sector Deal.
Other issues I raised with Ministers this past month include prison officer safety, social mobility and school funding, NATO and support for councils enhancing their use of technology. Outside of the Chamber, I joined Fred Sirieix for a meeting with the Justice Secretary about improving employment prospects for former prisoners and met with Defra Minister David Rutley to press for further action on puppy smuggling. I also attended a briefing session with West Mercia’s PCC and met with the leaders of Worcestershire County Council.
The festive season is in full swing in Worcestershire so in addition to meeting with local businesses, charities and schools across the constituency, I especially enjoyed attending the Freedom Daycare Christmas Pantomime in Badsey and I am looking forward to continuing the festive celebrations back home when parliament goes into recess later this week. I would like to take this opportunity to wish all my constituents a happy Christmas and send my heartfelt good wishes for the New Year.
