News from Westminster
Since my last column, British politics has had more changes, but we are now in a time of greater stability. I am very pleased that Rishi Sunak is our new Prime Minister. I believe that he is a talented and hardworking MP who has the skills and experience to tackle the big issues that we face, such as a global energy crisis, the war in Ukraine, the impact of Covid on our economy and health service and high inflation. He and I entered Parliament at the same time and I will continue to support him wholeheartedly.
As I write, people are preparing for Acts of Remembrance across the UK. Whilst we remember those who died in defence of our country, I know many people will also be thinking of those who are still fighting for freedom in Ukraine. I know our new Prime Minister will continue our support for Ukraine, including military training and arms, and support for refugees. As part of my role as Solicitor General I recently had a meeting with Ukraine’s Prosecutor General where we discussed the UK’s ongoing support for the prosecution of war crimes in Ukraine through the Atrocity Crimes Advisory Group and the work that the UK government is funding to train Ukrainian judges on domestic war crimes trials.
The Veterans All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) has just launched a short nationwide survey to gather information on the individual experiences of UK veterans when dealing with ‘Veterans UK’. If you have experience of this, please do contribute your view. https://forms.gle/oib1BhkTFrUohSGp9
In the constituency I have been out and about, visiting local businesses and meeting residents. With business owners in Wimborne we discussed the challenge of rising energy bills, and I am pleased that the Chancellor has put in place more help to non-domestic customers with a discount on energy use for at least 6 months. This will help businesses, charities, and other places such as schools, hospitals and care homes. One such organisation that will benefit is Tops Day Nursery in Bearwood which I opened recently. We also planted an apple tree, which seems to be a bit of a theme - I also planted a tree with the mayor of Wimborne in memory of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
My aim - and the aim for the whole of the Government - will be for a laser like focus on delivering on our commitments. I am determined to play my part as the Member of Parliament for Mid Dorset & North Poole.
I hope you all have a Happy Christmas, and a peaceful New Year.
