How can it be that 2024 is coming to an end? The political year has flown past, sped on its way by local elections, a General Election, and a leadership contest. All the campaigning has, delightfully, given me plenty of opportunity to walk around my constituency (on average more than 15 miles a day during the general election) and talk to hundreds of constituents.
Being re-elected in July has enabled me to continue campaigning for a lift at Platform 4 on Brentwood Station, a Weight Restriction Order in Ongar, and against the onshore pylons planned to dominate parts of Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex. I’ve helped resolve the ‘Ongar Smell’ with the help of some tenacious locals and a change of management at the composting site which was causing the odour.
I’ve visited schools, including re-opening Brentwood County High School after its huge redevelopment to replace crumbling sixties science blocks. I’ve spent time with Essex Police on Brentwood High Street and seen behind the scenes at the Royal Mail sorting office.
And in London I campaigned for Kemi Badenoch to be the new leader of the Conservative Party and now work closely with her as Shadow Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, and Shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster. The latter role meant facing my first PMQs, or battle of the deputies as it became known, against Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner which was a marvellous, if challenging experience.
It was good to show Kemi round Brentwood last week, when she visited the brilliant Bakers’ Labels to talk about manufacturing, Employers’ National Insurance and helping small businesses – and farmers – survive the Labour Government’s terrible management of the entrepreneurs who make the UK such a great place to do business.
And as the year draws to a close, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those across the constituency who have worked throughout the year to keep our villages, churches, playing fields, and public spaces looking good and our voluntary organisations busy and running. We are lucky to have your dedication.
May I wish you all a very happy Christmas and all the very best for the year ahead
