About

Built by Dave Cross.

Powered by Perlanet

Subscribe

Feed Subscribe
OPML OPML

Sources

Stephen Morgan MP has thanked NHS staff in Portsmouth for their hard work in continuing to get waiting lists down, as the Labour government marked a year since the publication of its Elective Reform Plan designed to cut waits.  

Across England, the NHS saw the waiting list fall by more than 86,000 in November to 7.31 million, as new data today shows staff faced record demand in 2025.  

The progress came despite the NHS’s busiest ever year, with 27.8 million A&E attendances in 2025 – over 367,000 up on 2024, with 2.33 million attendances in December alone.  

At Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, waiting lists have fallen by 6,055 since the election. 

In the year since the Elective Reform Plan was launched, Labour have brought in record investment and real modernisation to cut waiting lists – including creating more evening and weekend clinics, new and expanded community diagnostic centres and surgical hubs, crack teams of experts being sent to 20 hospital trusts across England with the highest levels of economic inactivity, and cutting unnecessary appointments by sending patients “straight to test” rather than multiple clinic visits.  

However, Mr Morgan warned that winter pressures continue to persist as hospitals battle the flu, and urged anyone eligible in Portsmouth that it’s not too late to take up the flu vaccine to protect themselves and others.  

Commenting, Stephen Morgan, MP for Portsmouth South, said:  

“NHS staff in Portsmouth have worked incredibly hard to shrink down the waiting list while seeing a record surge in patients last year.  

“Thanks to the Government’s Elective Reform Plan, our record investment and modernisation, over 6,000 more patients got a faster diagnosis in Portsmouth and received quicker treatment or the all-clear since the election.  

“This is despite services facing consistently high levels of pressure and experiencing another record year for A&E and ambulances.  

“It will be a long road, but Labour is fixing our health service in Portsmouth and making it fit for the future and beyond”. 

The post Portsmouth sees major waiting lists drop in November – as England sees second biggest drop in the waiting list in 15 years appeared first on Stephen Morgan MP.

Making the case for Heartlands Hospital Refurbishment

Liam Byrne (Birmingham Hodge Hill and Solihull North)

It was great to meet the Health Minister, Karin Smyth MP, to make the case loud and clear for a new urgent and emergency care department at Heartlands Hospital. Plans are now in development for what would be a transformational investment in local NHS services. It is a huge project, but a vital one. Every day, NHS staff at Heartlands work round the clock, performing absolute miracles under intense pressure. They deserve facilities that match their skill, commitment and dedication - and our...

• Llanelli MP Dame Nia Griffith hails Labour UK Government’s backing for forces families as 780 forces family homes in Wales set for a boost with landmark new legislation brought forward today.

• New Defence Housing Service to be put into law as the Armed Forces Bill is introduced to Parliament, turbocharging biggest renewal of military housing in a generation.

• UK Government also delivers on manifesto commitment to boost support for brave personnel as Armed Forces Covenant to be extended improving services for tens of thousands of serving personnel and veterans.

780 military homes across Wales will benefit from new legislation, newly introduced to Parliament, to create a new, publicly owned Defence Housing Service to renew tens of thousands of military homes and address years of underinvestment.

The new service is backed by Labour’s record £9bn Armed Forces Housing strategy to end the scandal of poor-quality military housing and build homes fit for heroes.

The legislation will establish the Defence Housing Service and turbocharge a generational renewal of nine in ten forces homes while kickstarting the development of 100,000 homes on surplus defence land, with personnel and veterans the first in line.

This announcement was made possible by Labour’s deal to bring 36,000 forces family homes back into public ownership earlier this year, including 780 homes in Wales. This ended a disastrous 1996 Tory privatisation of military housing which cost the taxpayer billions. Labour’s landmark buy-back saved over £200 million per year in rent payments, savings which are now being reinvested in fixing forces homes.

The Armed Forces Bill will also for the first time extend the Armed Forces Covenant across all areas of central government, devolved governments and local authorities – fulfilling a manifesto promise. This means social care, employment support and other public services will be legally required to consider the unique circumstances faced by forces personnel and their families.

The move will benefit hundreds of serving personnel in Wales and over 7,200 veterans in Carmarthenshire.

The plan delivers on Labour’s manifesto commitment to back Britain’s Armed Forces community after years of chronic underinvestment by the Conservatives drove down military morale driving many to leave the forces.

Confirming the major boost for local military families, Dame Nia Griffith, MP for Llanelli said:

“This new legislation will put forces and their families first, delivering the support that they rightly deserve.”

“Thousands of current and former service personnel will benefit from improved access to local services, delivering on our manifesto commitment, and through our new publicly-owned Defence Housing Service, we will be deliver the biggest boost to military homes in a generation.”

The Cellular Pathology department at the RVI examines samples from 60,000 patients per year

Helping to ensure they receive the right treatment.

It was great to meet the dedicated staff and see the expertise and innovation that make this a nation-leading service.

 

 

I spoke to BBC Look North about why I’m calling the Government to take bold action to protect our children online. I was pleased to speak to the Today programme on BBC Radio 4 about the call from over 60 MPs in Parliament to the Prime Minister to act on protecting children under 16 from […]

Preet Kaur Gill - My Weekly Update - 16 January 2026

Preet Kaur Gill (Birmingham Edgbaston)

This week the Government announced the development of the first-ever guidance on screen use for under-five  and is asking residents to share their views on how to navigate the use of screens with their youngest children.  

Meg's Weekly Round-Up: Friday 16 January

Dame Meg Hillier (Hackney South and Shoreditch)

See here for what I've been up to in Hackney and Westminster this week.

Business Question on the Sickle Cell Day Unit’s Closure

Bell Ribeiro-Addy (Clapham and Brixton Hill)

Sickle cell anaemia remains the UK’s fastest growing genetic condition, with nearly 300 babies born with it every year. Instead of seeing an increase in capacity for specialist treatment to meet this growing demand, we are now seeing the trial closure of the Sickle Cell Day Unit at the Royal London Hospital. The loss of this service will put further pressure on neighbouring services, extend emergency travel time, and place patients at serious risk during a crisis. Please consider signing the petition to protect this vital service.

The last government failed to heed the advice of the Sickle Cell APPG’s landmark report, ‘No One’s Listening’. I asked ministers to remedy this failure and deliver a national strategy for specialised sickle cell treatment.

The post Business Question on the Sickle Cell Day Unit’s Closure appeared first on Bell Ribeiro-Addy.

12 January 2026
George Freeman calls for urgent review of rates revaluation and targeted relief for Mid Norfolk pubs

The impact of the Government’s changes to business rates on pubs and hospitality businesses threatens the viability of many pubs, cafes, B+Bs and small hotels in Mid Norfolk.

Rachel Reeves’s stealth tax on pubs, with the average town or village pub facing an additional £6,000-£7,000 per year in business rates represents a huge 63% rise in business rates bills with some pubs seeing their rateable valuations double or even triple.

The impact? With households also reeling from the wave of Budget taxes on working people meaning less disposable income, and unemployment rising fast, we are going to see more & more hospitality businesses lost across Norfolk.

Nationwide forecasts show 000’s of hospitality business closures and the loss of c*15,000* jobs.

Many small and self employed hospitality businesses closed with the pandemic and Ukraine War cost of energy surge.

The survivors are even more vital to our local towns and villages.

The Government’s hike in business rates simply must be stopped if we want to save our last local pubs, cafes and hospitality businesses.

While there is growing speculation that ministers will change course, any decision must properly recognise the enormous contribution pubs and hospitality businesses make - not just to the local economy, but to the wider community.

Across this Mid Norfolk rural constituency, pubs are quite literally the beating heart. They create jobs, bring people together, support tourism, and sustain our high streets and villages.

At a time when landlords are already grappling with rising energy costs, staffing pressures and high taxes, this increase in business rates could not have come at a worse moment.

The confusion and uncertainty created by last year’s Budget has been deeply damaging for many pub operators.

Tourism is the number one earner for Norfolk; Treasury decisions are basically hammering this industry and they must think again. Driving people out of business with bad taxes does not support growth or the UK economy.

That’s why I’ve been a longstanding supporter of The Pubs The Hub campaign and in 2024 launched the All Party Fair Funding for Rural Areas Campaign and Manifesto.

Ministers and policymakers in London don’t seem to understand that in rural areas our family farms and small businesses, pubs and cafes are the lifeblood of our local economy.

That’s why I have written this letter to Ministers asking them to

🚩 urgently review the impact of the revaluation on pubs
🚩 bring forward targeted relief to safeguard this vital sector
🚩 meet me & delegation of hospitality businesses and publicans from Mid Norfolk to hear what these proposals will mean on the ground

🔗 Details of my Fair Funding for Rural Areas campaigns here: https://www.georgefreeman.co.uk/rural_premium 

Jeff Smith MP has welcomed the Labour Government’s response to the consultation on pavement parking, following years of delay from the previous government.

Pavement parking has been raised repeatedly with Jeff by Manchester Withington constituents, particularly disabled people, older residents, parents with pushchairs and those who rely on pavements being clear and safe. Jeff has pressed the Government for action, including raising the issue in Parliament.

The consultation on pavement parking closed over five years ago, but no action was taken under the previous Conservative government. The Labour Government has now published its response and set out a clear route forward.

Under the proposals, local authorities will be given stronger and clearer powers to tackle pavement parking at a local level, rather than through a one-size-fits-all national ban. New enforcement powers will also be introduced through secondary legislation in 2026 to deal with unnecessary obstruction of pavements, alongside statutory guidance to support councils in applying the rules fairly and consistently.

Jeff Smith MP said:

“Residents in Manchester Withington have been raising pavement parking with me for a long time, particularly those who face real barriers getting around safely when pavements are blocked.

“This consultation sat unanswered for years under the Conservatives. I’m pleased that the Labour Government is now taking action and giving councils the tools they need to deal with this problem locally, so pavements are safer and more accessible for everyone.”

The measures are intended to improve accessibility, safety and confidence for people using pavements, while allowing councils to reflect local street layouts and community needs when applying the new powers.

Families in Portsmouth North are more than £1,500 better off when taking out a typical mortgage since Labour came to office, new analysis has found. 

A household taking out a new, representative, mortgage on a £245,000 house in December 2025 – the median price in Portsmouth – will pay £1,570 a year less than if they took out an identical mortgage in June 2024, at the time of the election. 

This means that families taking out a new mortgage are saving around £130 each month – putting money back in people’s pockets. 

These savings have been felt by households in every corner of Portsmouth North. 

If quoted mortgage rates fall by a further 0.5ppts over the coming year, that saving will rise to £1,960. 

Following the disastrous Liz Truss mini-budget, two-year fixed mortgage rates shot up to over six per cent in October 2022. That piled misery onto families, adding hundreds of pounds onto their monthly bills when buying a home or remortgaging in the period that followed. 

Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ management of the economy since the General Election has meant that interest rates on typical mortgages fell from 5.16% in June 2024 to 3.97% in December 2025. 

That stands in stark contrast to the Tories’ catastrophic record which saw the economy crashed and family finances fleeced. 

Nigel Farage’s Reform have promised to go further than the Tories’ disastrous policies, splurging billions on unfunded pledges, which risks interest rates rising again, and putting up every mortgage in the country. 

 The news on mortgages comes alongside a wider package of measures introduced by the Labour government that will give security to and protect the pockets of working people in their living arrangements. 

As mortgage holders benefit from reduced costs, the Renters’ Rights Act – coming into force on 1 May 2026 – will see ‘no fault’ evictions banned, and it will become illegal for landlords and letting agents to: 

  • Increase rent prices more than once a year 
  • Ask for more than one month’s rent payment in advance 
  • Pit prospective tenants against one another through rental bidding wars 
  • Discriminate against potential tenants, because they receive benefits or have children. 

Commenting, Amanda Martin, MP for Portsmouth North said: “I am proud to be part of a Labour Government that is delivering upon its manifesto commitments to tackle the issues that matter most for people across Britain. 

“These figures clearly demonstrate that our approach to bringing down the cost of living is working, and I am happy to see that change is being felt across the country and including here in Portsmouth. 

“I know that this will make a meaningful difference to many people across this city.” 

James Murray MP, Labour’s Chief Secretary to the Treasury, said: “The Tories dealt a hammer blow to family finances when they crashed the economy and sent mortgages, rents and bills soaring. 

“Labour is bringing the cost of living down. We’ve stabilised the economy, leading to six interest rate cuts and lower mortgage costs. 

“We’re also cutting £150 off average energy bills, freezing rail fares, freezing prescription fees, raising the minimum wage and lifting over half a million children out of poverty. This is the year when working people across Britain will start to feel the benefit of the change Labour is delivering.” 

The post Families securing cheaper mortgages across Portsmouth South as costs fall by over £1,500 annually since the election appeared first on Amanda Martin MP.

December Newsletter

Mohammad Yasin (Bedford)

Dear Constituent,

As another year draws to a close (where has the time gone!), I want to take a moment to wish you all a restful Christmas and New Year. Serving our communities here in Bedford and Kempston is an absolute privilege, and as always, I will strive to be a strong voice in Parliament for us all in 2026 and beyond. 

I’m excited to see what the new year has in store, and I look forward to everything we can achieve together.  

Yours sincerely,

Mohammad Yasin MP

Constituents get in touch

Since the start of the year, my office has created over 7,200 new cases for constituents, receiving nearly 17,000 emails, as well as letters and phone calls, and issues raised at my drop-in surgeries. 

Being here to listen, and offer my help and support, is my first priority as your MP. My team and I will always do all we can to help, or direct people to alternatives on issues that we can’t assist with ourselves.  

In addition to casework, constituents have been writing in on a lot of important campaign issues this month. Many of you have recently written to me about animal testing, and actions to reduce its use in the UK. 

Like many of my constituents, I am committed to phasing out animal testing in the long-term. I welcome the Government’s new animal testing strategy which was published in November 2025. Nobody in this country of animal lovers wants to see suffering. I recognise the urgency of the transition away from animal testing and I am determined to support meaningful change. 

Phasing out the use of animals in science and product development must be supported by reliable and effective alternative methods, so this strategy aims to create a system that drives their use. I welcome £60 million allocated to establish a hub to bring together data, technology and expertise, promoting collaboration between researchers, and to create a separate new centre to make the path to regulatory approval for new alternatives as straightforward as possible. I am also pleased that £15.9 million has been committed by the Medical Research Council (MRC), Innovate UK and the Wellcome Trust to advance promising ‘human in vitro models’ of scientific testing. 

However, as this strategy is implemented, I recognise some animal research will continue. I understand Ministers will focus on supporting well-justified and designed animal research where alternatives do not yet exist. I believe this strategy is an important step forward for animal welfare in the UK. Through our scientific excellence, we can deliver real benefits for animal welfare and advance innovative research that improves lives. I am pleased to note the strategy has been welcomed by groups including the RSPCA and Cruelty Free International. 

  

Although it will likely take many years of scientific and technological effort to fully replace animals in testing, a great deal of progress can still be made in the short-term. The Government is working closely with experts from across the many fields involved, including regulators, academics, industry and civil society organisations, to ensure this strategy remains up to date and focused on the key issues. I am optimistic about moving towards a future where animal testing is only ever a last resort.  

In the constituency

  • I shared the news that Universal Studios has received the green light, with the Special Development Order granted and set to come into force on 12 January! I’m delighted at this decision, and what it means for the region.  
  • I wrote to Marks & Spencer CEO Stuart Machin following news that M&S was considering returning an M&S Food Hall to Bedford. I advocated for a town-centre location, and made clear that many of my constituents would welcome the store’s return.  
  • I opened a new restaurant, Bites of Punjab, on Cauldwell Street opposite Bedford College. It’s been great to see the recent growth of new businesses and the continued success of long-standing businesses in Bedford and Kempston.  
  • I attended the 25th Annual Christmas Tree Festival at St Paul’s Church, raising funds for Bedford Hospital and St Paul’s Church charities.   
  • I visited the Addison Centre Christmas Fayre in Kempston to support local artists and stallholders.   
  • I attended the Bedford Borough Council Speaker’s Civic Carol Service at St Martin’s Church, which supported the church’s food bank through collections.   
  • I joined the Linking Lives Befriending Service at Woodside Church. Loneliness affects not only older adults but also young people in an increasingly virtual world. Weekly visits or phone calls can be a lifeline. Thank you to the incredible volunteers for giving their time to this service, it captures the true spirit of Christmas.  
  • I met with members of Red Flag Awareness at Biddenham School, a student-led campaign created through the Harpur Trust’s “Ready2Lead” programme, where students develop campaigns on issues they care about. The group is raising awareness about the impacts of domestic abuse; delivering assemblies, speaking with local leaders, and highlighting that nearly half of teens have experienced controlling or violent behaviour in relationships. We discussed the importance of open conversations about wellbeing and healthy relationships with young people.  
  • I visited M&J Group (Construction & Roofing) Ltd’s Training Centre to see the opportunities being created for young people and career-changers in Bedford and Kempston. The company, with 81 local staff, is investing in high-quality skills, apprenticeships, and training, and its Bedford training centre has already helped 25 young people start skilled careers in roofing, with plans to expand.    
  • I took part in a community litter pick around Moor Lane Skatepark alongside Cauldwell Councillors Atiq, Sultan, and Thapar, as well as local residents. We tackled a lot of litter and gave the skatepark a much-needed Christmas clean.  
  • I attended the Salvation Army Christmas carol service, enjoying the brass musicians and the festive atmosphere. The Salvation Army do incredible work in supporting people experiencing homelessness and serving the community.  
  • I joined Bedford Foodbank at the rail station for an evening event supported by Beds & Herts Community Rail Partnership and Marston Vale Community Rail Partnership to raise money and awareness. I’m really thankful for the volunteers who work all year round to run the foodbank, and to those who stopped by and donated. 
  • I attended the Bijoy Dibosh – Bangladesh Victory Day flag-raising celebration in Harpur Square, invited by Cllr Ralley Rahman, to mark the birth of an independent nation. I joined Cllr Akbor (Mayor of Kempston Town Council), Cllr Thapar, PCC John Tizard, and local residents in observing the day.  
  • I attended the official opening of Kumar’s Kitchen at 50 Ram Yard in Bedford. I wish the new business every success. 

In Westminster

I’m proud that the Employment Rights Bill has passed through Parliament and will become law before Christmas. Some of the watershed measures this Bill delivers: 1. Banning exploitative zero hours contracts, 2. Sick pay for all from day one, 3. Expanding paternity, parental and bereavement leave, 4. Strengthening protections for pregnant women, whistle-blowers and victims of sexual harassment, 5. Making flexible working the default, 6. Repealing Tory anti-union laws. Unions and workers have long campaigned for these vital rights. Finally, working people will enjoy more security, better pay and dignity at work thanks to this Bill.

I spoke in a Westminster Hall debate on the Oxford–Cambridge Growth Corridor, highlighting the East of England APPG’s “Opportunity East: One Year On” report to showcase our region’s potential. I discussed major investment opportunities including Universal Studios and East West Rail (while maintaining my objection to house demolitions), addressed housing shortages, and focused on water security, warning about the East of England’s projected 800-million-litre-per-day water shortfall by 2050. Water, sewage capacity, and other infrastructure must be central to planning, objected to any development on Kempston’s flood plain, and welcomed the Minister’s response emphasising sustainable growth.

I asked a question in the DWP session about Social Security and Disability to the Minister, Sir Stephen Timms, regarding how the Government plans to tackle age discrimination in the workplace. I raised the issue after hearing from a constituent in their mid-50s who was struggling to find a job due to adverts seeking applicants with under 15 years’ experience. I highlighted that men and women in their 50s can feel vulnerable to this “hidden” discrimination, noted that age discrimination is unlawful under the Equality Act 2010, and pointed out practical support available through the Equality Advisory Support Service and 50 Plus Champions across the Job Centre network.

I welcomed the Government’s new Child Poverty Strategy, a historic plan that will make a real difference for families in our community. The strategy aims to lift over 550,000 children out of poverty, including nearly 3,000 in Bedford and Kempston, by ending the two-child limit, boosting support for working parents with upfront childcare costs, extending free school meals to more families, introducing free Best Start breakfast clubs, ending the use of Bed & Breakfasts for homeless families beyond six weeks, and investing in councils to reduce unsuitable temporary accommodation. I emphasised that these steps must be measurable, which is why I asked the Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, how progress will be tracked. I stressed the need for clear, transparent data to ensure families are genuinely lifted out of poverty and children are moved out of temporary accommodation, so that every child truly has the best start in life.

I raised a question in Parliament with the Minister for Victims and Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls, Alex Davies-Jones, about the urgent need to protect women and girls from online misogyny and violent pornography. I highlighted progress locally in Bedfordshire, including Clare’s Law disclosures increasing by 250% in two years, trauma-informed training, improved responses to complex domestic abuse, and the doubling of Domestic Violence Protection Orders. I also drew attention to national issues, citing Baroness Bertin’s Independent Pornography Review and Ofcom guidance under the Online Safety Act, which show widespread exposure of young people to misogynistic content, deepfake abuse targeting women, and harassment of public figures. I asked what measures the Government will take to ensure tech companies properly protect women and girls online, emphasising that local progress in policing and safeguarding cannot be undermined by unsafe online spaces.

I attended a Parliamentary Reception on wearable technologies in diabetes care, invited on behalf of Julia Hammac (General Manager, UK & Ireland at Abbott Diabetes Care). I learned how wearables can improve outcomes for people living with diabetes and align with the NHS 10-Year Plan for technology-enabled, preventative healthcare. The event brought together MPs, NHS leaders, clinicians, and innovators, and I heard directly from users about how technology supports diabetes self-management, which is particularly important given that diabetes prevalence in Bedford and Kempston stands at 9.56%.

I welcomed the news that the UK and EU will reinstate the Erasmus scheme, allowing students to study for a year at a partner university abroad while paying the same fees as local students. Joining Erasmus+ in 2027 will expand opportunities for young people from all backgrounds to study and train abroad, and will also benefit educational, youth, and sport staff.

I met with carers from Bedford, organised by UNISON, to hear about the impact of the proposed changes to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) rules. I heard firsthand how these carers, who look after our parents, grandparents, and loved ones daily, face low pay, exhausting workloads, and constant anxiety due to visas tying them to employers. I highlighted that the proposed ILR changes would deepen their insecurity and push dedicated workers to the brink. I’m grateful to UNISON and the carers for sharing their stories and I’m committed to continuing to raise these concerns in Parliament.

During a statement on the Local Government funding settlement, I pressed the Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution, Alison McGovern, to go further, asking her to make a special case for additional funding for Bedford Borough, particularly given the Universal Studios announcement and the new pressures it will place on local public services and infrastructure. I was pleased that the Minister agreed to meet with me to discuss this directly, and I will be arranging that meeting in the new year. I noted that the settlement is a strong start – £40 million for Bedford, a 20% increase in spending power, and a clear break from Conservative neglect – but emphasised that I will keep pushing to ensure Bedford gets the support it needs for the opportunities ahead.

I welcomed the Government’s new Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Strategy, praising its bold measures to better protect children from misogyny and abuse. The strategy’s focus is on healthy relationships, consent, and early prevention, aiming to keep the next generation of girls and boys safer while steering boys and young men away from harmful online influences. I noted concerning statistics: nearly 40% of teenagers in relationships experience abuse, and over 40% of young men hold positive views of online influencers who promote misogyny. I welcome the £20 million investment to empower teachers and families to challenge dangerous attitudes, promote positive role models, and tackle harmful myths about women and relationships.

A word from my work experience students

This month it was a pleasure to be joined by Louis and Selim for a week’s work experience. I hope it was eye-opening, and that you both learnt a lot about the behind the scenes of an MPs office. Both lads have written up some lovely reflections on their week. If you are interested in work experience with my office, please email me for more information!

Louis:

“I was extremely lucky to be selected to undertake a week’s Work Experience shadowing our local MP Mohammad Yasin, gaining key insights into the world of politics as this is a career I would be interested in pursuing. 

The week started with writing up a Select Committee debate briefing on a local or national issue. I was able to highlight key work done in our area regarding Town Centre regeneration, and explained some new ideas on how to make the area safer and drafted questions to be raised to Ministers 

Tuesday began with an exciting trip on the underground before walking up the stairs to see The Houses of Parliament. Once inside, we were given an indepth tour of the entire building, exploring the House of Lords and meeting the Leader of the Opposition in the Lords. The afternoon included sitting in on a Treasury Select Committee and further getting to know the work of our MP and those around him. 

An unfortunately cancelled train didn’t stop us from making Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday, also getting to see Mr Yasin ask a question regarding the safety of women and girls in our country. Observing MPs debate and critique each other was an incredible experience – waving at the Prime Minister while he ate his Christmas Lunch was also a highlight! 

Thursday followed with another day in the Constituent Office. The first task was to plan a youth constituency survey on Universal Studios, asking important questions regarding their top priorities for the project, transport and any concerns. I was then given the opportunity to write a response email to a constituent concern regarding fireworks – this was a great learning opportunity to see how the MP communicates with constituents. 

The final day of the experience consisted of a trip to Biddenham International School, to listen to a new initiative created by their Sixth Form students regarding domestic abuse, and accompanying Mr Yasin to meetings around Bedford.  

I have thoroughly enjoyed the week and am very grateful to have been given this unique opportunity. I have learned many new aspects to politics and further increased my confidence in the subject. Learning how to write important reports and gaining experience surrounded by the building of Westminster have been enjoyable and will be useful for my future aspirations. My favourite part of the experience was watching Prime Minister’s Questions from the gallery and my days in Parliament, surrounded by key political figures and seeing first hand the everyday workings within politics, as well as spending time with Mr Yasin and getting to know him and all the hard work he does. I would strongly recommend this opportunity to anyone interested in politics as seeing how your representatives work and carry out their roles is an incredible experience. I would like to thank Mohammad Yasin MP and all his staff for making me feel so welcomed and giving me the opportunity to carry out this fantastic work experience.”

Selim:

“Over the past week I’ve been lucky to work in Mohammad Yasin’s offices, alongside his brilliant team and another sixth-form student. Every day was different, I got stuck into policy research, preparing briefings and surveys. It was a real eye-opener into how political communication and constituency work actually happens behind the scenes, and it really deepened my understanding of how theory connects to public service.

Visiting Parliament on Tuesday was a highlight. I’d been before, but the tour amazed me all over again. Standing in the Lords Chamber, spotting MPs and peers, taking in the intricate, beautiful architecture and artwork, then working in an MP’s office inside Portcullis house for the rest of the day gave me a unique perspective on how Parliament works behind the scenes. Later, watching the Treasury Committee in action really showed me how impressive parliamentary democracy can be.

Wednesday started with a cancelled train, but made it just in time to see Mr Yasin raise a question on tackling violence against women and girls online. After that came Prime Minister’s Questions, where I saw the lively exchanges between the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition. We explored Westminster afterwards, which was just as memorable, I even spotted Sir Keir Starmer enjoying his lunch.

Thursday brought us back to the office for a closer look at the daily rhythm of an MP’s work. We were given a few research tasks and draft responses to work on, then sat down with a member of staff who talked us through their own approach and gave feedback on what we’d prepared. It gave me a glimpse of the core of the office’s operations: the meticulous attention to each constituent’s concern and the ongoing balancing act between many tasks. By the end of the day, I had a much clearer sense of how an office stays on top of things, and how even small, careful contributions help keep everything moving.

On Friday, Mr Yasin was in Bedford for constituency meetings. We joined him at multiple times, including one meeting with the Redflag Awareness group; a brilliant team of sixth-form students working to raise awareness of domestic violence. Their dedication and enthusiasm inspired me and demonstrated to me the critical role that youth can play in influencing community discussions.

I learned this week how crucial empathy, precision, and clarity are in political communication. Being trusted to contribute to worthwhile projects, witnessing how even little efforts can benefit constituents, and, of course, visiting parliament were what I most loved. I now have a complete understanding of what it means to represent a community because of the combination of local involvement and legislative perspective.

One issue that really stood out for me, and which I am deeply passionate about, is the challenge of mental health among young people. Many face pressures from education, social media, and uncertainty about the future. Awareness has grown, but access to timely support remains uneven. Tackling this is about making sure young people can thrive, feel heard, and take part fully in society without feeling disillusioned or detached.

I’m deeply grateful to Mr Yasin and his team for this invaluable opportunity. It has strengthened my desire to contribute to public life and to support the vital work being done in our community, and it’s really reinforced my ambition to go into politics.”

The post December Newsletter appeared first on Mohammad Yasin MP.

I am proud to have voted for the biggest upgrade to workers' rights in a generation Parliament has passed the landmark Employment Rights Act: the biggest uplift to workers’ rights for years.   This is a major win for working people in Bristol South and in every part of the country.  The Act will decisively tilt the balance of power towards workers allowing for pride, security and respect in work. For many people, the world of work in Tory Britain was far too often characterised by poor...

Banbury Museum Petition

Sean Woodcock (Banbury)

The closure of Banbury Museum would be a devastating blow for our town. I have created this petition to urge Cherwell District Council to find alternative funding, so the museum can continue to serve our community. Please see the petition below: https://www.change.org/p/save-banbury-museum-and-gallery-urge-cherwell-to-source-alternative-funding

The post Banbury Museum Petition appeared first on Sean Woodcock, MP for Banbury.

Time to unwrap some welcome Budget measures

Liz Twist (Blaydon and Consett)

Festive decorations may be up, but things are far from winding down in Westminster. The Budget, delivered on November 26, has set the stage for a busy advent period as MPs like me will be spending December unpacking its contents. There is much to welcome in this budget. It is one which prioritises public services […]

Budget 2025: Reaction from Liz

Liz Kendall (Leicester West)

This Budget is about making fair choices for the British people. 

We’re stabilising the economy and doubling down on driving growth. 

We’re supporting our high streets and tackling the cost of living. 

We’re building a stronger, fairer country – one where child poverty falls and living standards rise. 

After years of decline, there is a lot of work to do. But this government is committed to making the right choices for our country.

The post Budget 2025: Reaction from Liz appeared first on Liz Kendall.

Local beauty businesses and students showcased their contribution at a special event in Westminster.

Nesil Caliskan, Member of Parliament for Barking, helped local beauty businesses “take over Parliament” to celebrate this year’s British Beauty Week. Hairdressers, nail salons and beauty academy students – all from Barking and Dagenham – were invited to Parliament by the MP for a special reception and tour.

British Beauty Week is promoted by the British Beauty Council every year to celebrate the contribution of beauty businesses to our economy and high streets.  

The theme of this year’s Beauty Week is the future of beauty, highlighting the industry’s innovation and sustainability. The UK beauty industry contributes over £31 billion to the economy each year and supports more than 85,000 jobs in London. 

Nesil Caliskan, Barking MP, speaking to guests at her Beauty Week reception in Parliament in front of a lecturn.

Commenting on the takeover, Nesil Caliskan, Member of Parliament for Barking said: “I invited local beauty businesses and students to takeover Parliament to celebrate their contribution, let them know how important they are for our community, and how much this government values them. 

“They employ hundreds of local people, bring life to our high streets, and help people feel great every day. They are vital for our local economy, and today’s takeover proved the future of beauty is undoubtedly in Barking and Dagenham.” 

Victoria Brownlie, Chief of Policy & Sustainability at the British Beauty Council, who was at the event, said: “The hair and beauty industry provides so much to so many and events like this help those working in the industry to feel seen, recognised and appreciated, just as they deserve to. Their social, cultural and economic contribution cements them as serious businesses, not just fluffy stuff that girls do, and we’re so grateful to Nesil for shining a light on this during British Beauty Week.”

Nesil Caliskan, Barking MP, with Erica Brobbey, owner of Empress Hair & Beauty - a business in Barking - and her daughter Tiana at a reception in Parliament.

Erica Brobbey, from Empress Hair and Beauty, a business in Barking, said: “It was an honour to join fellow beauty professionals in Parliament and proudly represent Barking and Dagenham’s thriving beauty community. Meeting other business owners and speaking with Victoria from the British Beauty Council was truly inspiring. The event highlighted the real impact our industry has, not just economically, but in the confidence and wellbeing it brings to people every day.  

“I’m proud to be part of a community that continues to empower others and contribute so positively to the local economy. Events like this show that the future of beauty is bright, and it’s happening right here in Barking and Dagenham.” 

Judith has welcomed today's announcement that Bradford Bulls have been promoted to the Super League - Rugby League's highest division next season. "A huge congratulations to the Bradford Bulls on their promotion to the Super League! From fighting to get the Bulls back to their rightful home at Odsal Stadium to developing the club over the last few seasons, this has been a hard-fought win for the team. It is a testament to the years of hard work from everyone involved with Bradford Bulls, and...

Sure Start was life-changing for so many people in Bassetlaw, transforming the lives of children by putting in place family support in the earliest years of life. Sure Start, introduced by the last Labour government, helped level the playing field for children from lower income families, with research showing that children who attended a Sure Start centre were much more likely to perform better at school.

The previous Government cut community services, scrapping Sure Start, leaving a gaping hole in family services. When they left government, one in four families with children under five couldn’t access local children’s centres, rising to one in three lower income families. Speaking to local families in Bassetlaw, I hear time and again an ask for more support around SEND, youth services, and early development.

I welcome the news that the Government are building on the proud legacy of Sure Start, and reviving family services by rolling out 1,000 ‘Best Start Family Hubs’ by April 2026, including here in Bassetlaw.

Best Start Family Hubs will be a one stop shop for parents needing support, including on difficulty breastfeeding, housing issues or children’s early development, and other services such as:

  • Activities for children aged 0-5
  • Domestic abuse support
  • Early language support
  • Health Visiting
  • Infant Feeding Support
  • Midwifery/maternity services
  • Parenting Support
  • SEND support and services
  • Youth services

The post Giving Children in Bassetlaw the Best Start in Life appeared first on Jo White MP.

MP Column | It’s All Downhill From Here

Dave Doogan (Angus and Perthshire Glens)

At this stage in the electoral cycle at Westminster any new government, especially one with a 160-seat majority, should be at the peak of...
Friday 20 June 2025 marked a joyous and inspiring celebration of World Refugee Day at the Change Centre in Dundee, where eight refugee football teams from across Dundee, Glasgow, Perth, and Angus competed in the inaugural World Refugee Day Cup Football Tournament. The event was the vision of Sandy Greene, Chief Executive of ScrapAntics in ... Read more

Source

It was great to call into Neighbourhood Watch in Pelsall again and catch up with Edwin and Andrew. 

We discussed a range of local issues across the Rushall, Shelfield, Pelsall, and Brownhills Neighbourhood Watch area. Our focus was on how we can work together as one community to address these challenges.  

It was also fantastic to hear about Project Phoenix – a pilot community-run initiative launched by Walsall Council! This project is dedicated to building a stronger community right across our Borough, and I’m really keen to see the positive impact it will have. 

The Third Runway: A Monument to Mediocrity

Kit Malthouse (North West Hampshire)

An abridged version of this article ran in The Times on 3rd February 2025

In 2007, in the pages of this newspaper, I argued that Britain should seize the moment and move Heathrow to the Thames Estuary, freeing up the congested west London site for much-needed housing while creating a world-leading transport hub fit for the 21st century. It was an ambitious plan—perhaps too ambitious for a nation that has lost its appetite for grand infrastructure. Seventeen years later, what do we have? The same tired debates, the same dithering, and now, a third runway proposal that represents the absolute minimum of what could be done. It is not a vision; it is a concession to stagnation.

Throughout history, Britain built infrastructure that transformed cities and continents. The Victorians laid thousands of miles of railways across India and Africa. British engineers built the world’s first underground railway in London, the great docks of Hong Kong, and the vast shipping hubs that made global trade possible. Ours was once a nation that saw scale and complexity as challenges to be overcome, not reasons to prevaricate. Today, while China constructs floating airports in Hong Kong and Dalian, we are still arguing over a few extra miles of tarmac at an aging airport hemmed in by suburban sprawl.

The case for expanding Heathrow is undeniable. The airport operates at near capacity, with any disruption causing delays that ripple across the global aviation network. Additional capacity is needed. But the third runway is not a bold leap forward—it is an unimaginative compromise. The design is a relic of a bygone era when Britain was still willing to approve large infrastructure projects but had already begun its slow descent into cautious incrementalism. Surely for a solution we should be looking beyond the immediate horizon, daring to create something transformative.

Compare this to the grand infrastructure ambitions of Asia. Hong Kong’s Chek Lap Kok, which replaced the legendary but perilous Kai Tak airport in the 1990s, was built on reclaimed land. It was a marvel of engineering (mostly British), completed in just six years. Now, China is taking the concept even further: Dalian is constructing a floating airport, pushing the boundaries of what is possible. This is a country that doesn’t simply accept geographic limitations—it overcomes them. Britain, meanwhile, is paralysed by protest groups, endless consultations, and political hand-wringing.

A floating airport in the Thames Estuary—an idea proposed and swiftly dismissed—would have been a statement of ambition. London could have had its own Chek Lap Kok, a world-class hub unencumbered by the constraints of Heathrow’s location. Instead, we are left with a piecemeal expansion of an outdated site, in a project that will take decades and still leave Britain trailing behind.

The environmental argument against expansion is often cited as a reason for delay, but it is a red herring. Modern aviation is rapidly advancing towards lower emissions and greater efficiency. If the concern is air pollution and carbon footprints, the answer is not to stifle airport expansion but to embrace new technology, support cleaner aviation fuels, and invest in modern air traffic management. Britain should be leading these efforts, not using environmental concerns as an excuse for stagnation.

The economic cost of our hesitation is immense. Aviation is a key driver of trade, tourism, and investment. Heathrow’s constraints mean we lose out to European rivals, with airlines shifting long-haul routes to Paris, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt. The third runway, even if built, will do little to reclaim lost ground. By the time it is operational—assuming it even survives the judicial challenges that will inevitably come—other nations will have long since surpassed us.

What Britain needs is a fundamental shift in mindset. We must stop viewing major infrastructure projects as necessary evils to be endured and start treating them as national priorities. This requires reforming our planning laws, streamlining approval processes, and fostering a political culture that celebrates engineering excellence rather than recoiling from it.

The third runway at Heathrow is not the answer—it is a symptom of our decline. Instead of an afterthought tacked onto an aging airport, we should be considering radical alternatives: offshore airports, high-speed rail integration to regional hubs, and a renewed commitment to infrastructure that places Britain at the forefront of global connectivity. We were once a nation that built the world’s most advanced transport networks, that pioneered engineering breakthroughs others only dreamed of. We can be that nation again—but only if we stop settling for mediocrity and start daring to think bigger.

The world is not waiting for Britain to catch up. While we squabble over a single new runway, China is building entire new airports on water. The contrast is stark, and the lesson is clear: boldness breeds success, hesitation ensures decline. If Britain truly wishes to remain a global player, we must abandon the timid incrementalism of the third runway and embrace the kind of audacity that once made us great.

Kit Malthouse 1st February 2025

Dan Jarvis' Christmas Message

Dan Jarvis (Barnsley North)

Christmas is a very special time. It's when we come together with friends and family to take stock, and give thanks for what we have.

Some years – in the best of times, this is cause for celebration.

Other years – it's more complicated if we're missing loved ones,
affected by illness, or facing money worries, homelessness, or loneliness.

Sometimes – let’s be honest, for many reasons, Christmas can just be about getting through it, and that's ok!

Because regardless of the year that’s been, or the circumstances you find yourself in, Christmas offers everyone a precious gift – hope.

Last week I was sworn in as the MP for South Shields for the fifth time, and each time it strikes me how incredibly honoured I feel that you have put your faith in me as the first female MP to represent you in Parliament. It was a truly historic night as the UK elected […]

The post It is the honour of my life to be re-elected as your MP for South Shields appeared first on Emma Lewell MP.

ICC FILES ARREST WARRANTS

Brendan O'Hara (Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber)

Made by @davorg / Last built: Tuesday 20 January 2026 06:31