Thank you to everyone who took the time to go and make their mark in the elections - no matter which party you voted for - our democracy is important and it's crucial we all take the opportunity to have our voices heard, especially our female residents as we approach 100 years of universal suffrage for women in 2028.
A huge thanks to everyone who voted for our Conservative candidates, we had some incredible ladies and gents standing for council for who genuinely care so much for our area and sadly for me some of my great councillors were not returned in one case missing out by 2 votes. Congratulations to all who were for whatever party – the hard work starts now and time to make positive change to resident’s lives in your patch.
Alongside our local elections, we also had the positive news on the day of the count that David Hinton had resigned from South East Water. This company sincerely needed wholesale new leadership, and it was right it happened after the Chair departed which was the message I gave. A long handover is not what is needed but swift action and a fresh start is what is. I’ll hold the new leadership to account as you would expect.
My constituents, their businesses and their experiences still need real recompense, and we need a clear plan on what might come this summer and beyond. Water is a precious resource we all need to look after and they need to get back to focusing on delivery, investment and giving real confidence to customers and businesses in my area and beyond.
Disappointed somewhat it was announced on a day many news outlets were caught up with a focus on the election outcomes.
I’m pleased to be hosting another of my Women’s Business Breakfast this Friday in a lovely venue near Forest Row with inspiring speakers. This is a fantastic chance to network with likeminded women, hear from our inspiring speakers local Adventurer and Conservationist, Tom Hicks, and retired Olympic Swimmer and local business woman, Karen Pickering MBE, whilst enjoying a delicious continental breakfast.
Register for the last few tickets here - https://mims-womens-business-breakfast.eventbrite.co.uk
I remind constituents that the public consultation on the Government’s proposed changes to SEND provision for children and young people closes at 11:59pm on 18th May. if you still haven’t had your say, there is still time get involved:
https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/send-reform-putting-children-and-young-people-first
I will be submitting my response MP response in next few days on behalf of my constituents, many of whom have already contacted and met with me with their concerns and worries about the local and national SEND picture. Please do get in touch and I’ll do my best to reflect your views, as your MP, in my response.
This week we returned to Parliament for the Kings Speech. We need this Labour Government to step up and deliver in this new session. I’m delighted to be back in the fray to battle for my constituents in Westminster.
