EVESHAM’s MP Nigel Huddleston writes for the Observer…
As the war in Ukraine continues, the UK remains committed to doing its part in defending freedom and democracy in Europe and has provided significant further support to Ukraine. I have met some of the many Ukrainian families who have settled in our area through the Families scheme or the Homes for Ukraine scheme. I am proud at the outpouring of support from so many people in our area and across the country, who have so generously opened their homes.
Meanwhile, the cost of living understandably remains a top concern for many people. It was therefore very welcome that last month the Government unveiled a major new package of measures to help ordinary households up and down the country as our economy continues to recover from coronavirus. The Government is now providing support to families worth over £37 billion in 2022-23, to help with cost of living pressures.
Of course, the highlight of recent weeks has undoubtedly been Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee. It was fantastic to see everyone come together and celebrate the Queen’s 70 years of extraordinary service. I was fortunate to be able to attend some excellent events both in London and here in the constituency, including the Town Crier’s Jubilee Declaration in Evesham’s Market Square, the lighting of the Jubilee Beacon in Droitwich’s Vines Park, events in Broadway, and the opening of the magnificent wild flower ‘Superbloom’ in the moat of the Tower of London.
My ministerial responsibilities continue to keep me very busy. For example, this week I was very pleased to join a roundtable discussion with sporting bodies and supermarkets at Downing Street, that focussed upon how sports organisations and supermarkets are supporting holiday activities and food clubs in their local areas.
Looking ahead, there is much to look forward to. The summer sporting season is kicking into gear, and as we enter the final weeks ahead of the Women’s Euros and then the Commonwealth Games, my schedule is increasingly focussed upon delivering what promises to be a truly once in a generation event. I recently inspected the impressive Sandwell Aquatics Centre and the Alexander Stadium, and I can assure you that you will not want to miss these games!”
