I’m delighted to be returning with my regular column in the Daily Echo. As someone who worked in local media before entering politics I recognise the huge contribution that it makes and the important role that it plays within our communities. I’m really hoping that those of you reading will enjoy my weekly reporting back!
In May this year I had the huge honour of joining members from across Hampshire to celebrate the 100 year centenary of the WI in Hedge End, and it was just as great to be invited to be the Guest Speaker for the Netley WI recently. Needless to say I had a great time speaking about life at Westminster, Women’s Suffrage and so much more! Like so many others, Netley WI is thriving, and it was great to see this group of ladies – including many friends as well as some new local ladies – assisting with the local Red Box Project!
Over the summer I received an email from a constituent driving for Sainsbury’s online to say how proud he was that the company is investing in our local area by expanding their Hedge End depot, and asked if I would like to visit. My answer, of course, was yes! It was really great to meet with the team, listen to why they have decided to invest £1.3 million in to their Hedge End depot, and the benefits that this will bring for local people like you and me! It was great to see just how excited everyone was that this investment was being made! My thanks to everyone who gave me such a warm welcome and took time out of their day to meet with me.
As we head through autumn and towards winter, it’s really important that we all make preparations, and of course for many of us that includes getting our annual flu jab! At the end of last month I dropped in to see Mark at Everetts Pharmacy to get my jab, and also to speak about why it is so important for people of all ages, and much easier than many of us think! To find out more, visit my website www.mimsdavies.org.uk
And finally for this week, I’m looking ahead to a busy return to Westminster following a similarly busy few days at the Conservative Party Conference. All parties need renewal and fresh ideas so this time for all parties is important. For me it was a really positive few days in Birmingham, with more young people than I think I’ve ever seen, 20% of the attendees at Conference being under the age of 25! There were also some really important announcements which will hugely benefit all of us, from the Government's new Cancer Strategy, boosting peoples’ chances of survival through diagnosis, to freezing Fuel Duty for the 9th year in a row; creating new laws to make sure staff in hospitality don’t have a percentage of their tips deducted by their employer, to increasing support for our service personnel, their families and veterans.
On Brexit, the Prime Minister confirmed that the Government will continue to act in the national interest, taking back control of our borders, laws and money, while delivering a deal that is good for jobs and good for the union. To see my full reflection on this year’s Conservative Party Conference, visit my website!
Wishing you all an enjoyable week!