In my first seven months as Member of Parliament for Bury St Edmunds, one lesson I quickly learnt is that the pace of political life is fast moving and planning ahead is essential. Therefore, this Christmas I took the opportunity to reflect on an exciting year and to think about my New Year’s resolutions.
In just a few short months, I have lead from the front for local, regional and international campaigns. Not long after May, the extent of the Syrian refugee crisis rapidly emerged before the UK. I am proud to have been among the first of my colleagues to put real pressure on this Government to deliver more aid. Since, I have been ensuring this country as a priority is delivering an education to the youngest refugees and I hope to visit one of the many refugee camps this New Year.
At home in my own constituency of Bury St Edmunds I have helped over 600 of my constituents so far and presented two of the severest cases to Parliament already; helping to secure rare drugs for a young man in acute need. The energy to do all that I can for my constituents never tires.
In the run up to Christmas I acted on the challenges which faced Suffolk and the region of East Anglia. In advance of the closure of the East Anglia Rail Franchise bid, I delivered a parliamentary debate supported by many of my regional colleagues. As the last opportunity for the next decade I urged the Minister to ensure this franchise delivers the stock, stations and services Suffolk and the region desperately needs. The efforts of my campaigning along with that of my colleagues will become clear when the winning franchise is announced in April.
Likewise, proposals to close courts across Suffolk including my Bury St Edmunds Magistrates Court, threatens access to local justice in leaving just one court available to the whole county. As the consultation closed in October, I left the Government in no doubt of my objections and the need for joined-up government; to consolidate the Court to a new and improved location with little expense. Justice must be served for Suffolk.
Yet as I reflect on a positive start, I am mindful of the difficulties which continue to hold this region as a net contributor to the economy, back. My attention is now fixed on delivering essential infrastructure like broadband and improvements to the A14, which will unleash the full potential of our whole region. This is my New Year’s resolution, I just hope 2016 delivers for us.
Published in the EADT