One of the many characteristics about the residents of Hastings and Rye that I admire is our willingness to look beyond our shores and engage with the wider world.
As I write this column, it is one year since I was elected your Member of Parliament, a role I feel incredibly privileged and proud to have been elected to do.
The Covid pandemic has shown a light on the entrenched levels of inequality, deprivation and poverty in our country. In particular, it has highlighted the lack of support and early intervention services available to vulnerable families and children.
I have to admit to feeling very disappointed at the Prime Minister’s decision to increase restrictions nationally, as I have been an ardent supporter of the Government’s regional approach.
As a Conservative I believe in the autonomy and power of the individual to govern their own lives, making their own choices and taking responsibility for themselves, their actions and their futures.
Like many local residents, I have been appalled at the anti-social behaviour blighting our town centre. Many report witnessing street drinking, littering, shoplifting, drug dealing and vandalism.
On the first day back in Parliament after recess last week, I spoke in the second reading of the Fisheries Bill, following its passage through the Lords.
