I’m still to this day incredibly grateful for the people of Birmingham Northfield for putting their trust in me to deliver for local people.
It’s been a tough year. When I first went to Westminster after being elected I thought my year would be consumed with levelling up programs and delivering on the issues which so many people voted for in the election.
Covid-19 has turned the world upside down. Many have sadly lost loved ones. People have sadly lost their jobs. Businesses have been in great difficulty.
But, there has also been some heartwarming moments too. Seeing communities come together to look after one another. Charities redeploying resources to help those in the most need. Inspirational figures like Colonel Tom. The dedication shown by our front line workers to make sure we all remained safe and that the country could continue to function.
A special mention has to go to the NHS staff on the front line, and more specifically the ones serving on covid-19 wards. It’s been incredibly tough for them and we should all recognise the risk they put themselves in. Their dedication to look after thousands of people is something we shall always remember.
It’s not been all covid though. It was an honour to vote on the EU Withdrawal Deal to leave the EU on 31st January. To support the government on new laws to protect our troops and deliver an immigration system which works for the UK first.
Locally it’s been great to meet and speak to so many of you, listening to your concerns and helping when I can.
Without doubt the most complex case I’ve been dealing with is the liquidation of MG Rover. Its deeply troubling to me that 15 years on 6,000 people are still owed money and I’m determined to get that sorted.
And working with St Modwen to unlock the final 150 acres of Longbridge to provide thousands of jobs.
They have some very exciting plans and I look forward to hopefully sharing more soon!
I’m often asked what I like so much about being an MP, and there are two things.
1) The variety. This week alone has seen me meeting with ambassadors of Africa talking about conflicts. Meeting with experts on how we can improve the quality of homes. Sitting on a committee about animal welfare and invasive species to visiting schools to hand out my certificates for the Christmas Card competition.
It’s very varied and that’s what makes it so great.
2. Helping local people and having an impact. My office and I have worked on over 7000 cases in 12 months alone. It’s not always easy and we don’t have all the answers but trying to do the most we can for local people is the bread and butter of why I am a politician.
There is light! With the vaccine starting to be rolled out we have light at the end of the tunnel. After a difficult year for many it’s vital that we stick to the rules to keep the virus down. When you’re asked to go for the vaccine, go! It’s our public duty. If we all want life to return to normal we need to get vaccinated.
Next year will be difficult for a lot of reasons but I have every faith we will recover from covid-19, make a success of Brexit and level up and transform our great country.
Thank you again for your support, it’s an immense pleasure to sit on the green benches on behalf of Birmingham Northfield
