2016

I was shocked when I heard that Jo had been shot and stabbed going to her surgery. Jo was a brilliant MP and had a great future ahead of her with her commitment to helping those less fortunate and the voiceless. Jo was utterly committed to the Labour Party and gave evidence to the Learning lessons Task Force. At the meeting we discussed how she managed to against the national swing, increase the majority in Batley and Spen. My last image of Jo was earlier in the week smiling at her as we passed in the Cloisters. I could not believe she had died. A conscientious MP doing her work for her constituents. I feel so sad for her husband Brendan and her young children Cuillan and Lejla. Jo was a talented and valued colleague and friend. May she rest in peace.

I attended the UK Music event hosted by Nigel Adams MP on the contribution of live music to the UK economy. I sang a Karaoke duet with my colleague Paula Sherriff MP.

On Tuesday 14 June 2016, together with Head teacher of Joseph Leckie Academy, Keith Whittleston, and Dennis O’Rouke, we met with the Minister of State for Schools, Nick Gibb MP, at the Department of Education to discuss the school’s Condition Improvement Fund (CIF).

On Tuesday 14th June, I asked a question on the treatment of women in prisons at Justice questions.

On Monday 13 June 2016 I chaired the All Party Parliamentary Group meeting on Epilepsy. The title of the meeting was Epilepsy in the workplace: Breaking down barriers.