3 July 2017

Thank you

Firstly, I thank everyone who voted for me and giving me the honour and privilege of representing the people of Waveney in Parliament again. I would also like to thank everyone who helped me in my campaign and all the council staff and others who helped run the election so efficiently.

Whilst it is true that nationally the result did not go as we had hoped, the election did give me an opportunity to tour the constituency and meet many residents. The Queen's Speech - minus many of the more unpopular elements of the manifesto - has been passed in Parliament and we will now focus on the complicated process of negotiating our exit of the EU.

With Fisheries and Agriculture Bills in the Queen’s Speech, there is a once in a lifetime opportunity to reset the policy frameworks for these industries which are so important to the Waveney area. I intend to scrutinise these bills closely, liaising with those involved in them locally, to ensure that they provide every opportunity for those working in them to prosper, whilst nurturing the marine and rural environments for future generations.

Roll-out of Universal Credit in Waveney

I secured one of the first Adjournment Debates of the new Parliament this week and led a debate on the roll-out of universal credit in Lowestoft.

Adjournment debates are one of the best opportunities for back bench MPs to raise issues with Ministers directly. There have been significant problems with the roll-out in Lowestoft, with many vulnerable people placed in very difficult situations, and at times the system has struggled to cope. The position is now better than it was six months ago, but significant challenges remain.

I wanted to highlights our experiences as it is important for lessons to be learned before the roll-out to other areas accelerates this autumn and for remaining problems to be dealt with here in Lowestoft.

Read my speech

Speaking in Parliament

Suffolk Day

I joined other Suffolk MPs to unfurl the county flag by the Silver Jubilee Fountain in New Palace Yard at Parliament.

Suffolk Day

East Coast College - Apprentice of the Year

Congratulations to Joshua Bryenton on winning the apprentice of the year award. As sponsor of the award I was sorry I could not be there and I thank Mark Bee for making the presentation on my behalf.

Joshua Bryenton and Mark Bee

Surgery Dates

8th July - Beccles

5th August - Lowestoft

Call  01502 586568 to make an appointment.