This week is National Hate Crime Awareness Week, which is all about bringing people together, embracing our differences and working better together to make our local communities safer. We all have a role to play in eliminating hate from our society, and it’s so important to challenge hate crimes where we see it, whether its online or on the street. Please visit the website for more information: https://nationalhcaw.uk/
We had another boost for our travel and tourism sectors last week, with 47 countries and territories being removed from the red list. From Monday, the red list has reduced to just 7 countries and proof of vaccination will be recognised from 37 new countries and territories. Our brilliant vaccines are continuing to help us end restrictions, which is so vital for areas like ours when it comes to opening up international travel, which has taken an almighty hit over the last 18 months and I know constituents working in the sector will be very pleased to see normality on the horizon.
Meanwhile, the Government will continue to roundly engage with energy intensive industries affected by the continuing global gas spike, which I know is a huge worry to so many. We will continue to protect consumers with our Energy Price Cap and ensure everyone will get the gas supply they need over the winter months. This Cap will remain at the same level this winter, and my colleagues are confident in our energy supply.
After another non-stop Conference week in Manchester and a barnstorming speech from the PM on what matters to people and how we are getting on with the job, it came as a real relief to be able to get back home to Mid Sussex, with the added bonus of some lovely autumnal sunshine!
Last Friday, I had the wonderful opportunity of visiting the Step-by-Step School in Sharpthorne, for children with Autism, for the opening of their fantastic new wing. It was great to see all their new facilities, and to meet the dedicated teachers and parents who provide incredible support for children, especially after the last 18 months.
On Saturday, I was delighted to be invited by Croudace Homes to cut the ribbon at the handover of the wonderful new Kings Weald Community Centre. This fantastic building will be run by Age UK to create a multi-generational space for all the community to enjoy Spring next year. Later that day, I had a fabulous time at the “Women Together” evening at the All Saints in Lindfield. We all had a lovely time as we listened to the Janine, the Children’s Pastor, tell her story – huge thanks to everyone at All Saints for such a warm welcome.