2020

I visited Ablewell Hotel on Saturday 19 December 2020 to deliver Christmas presents for those in need. I also handed over some baby clothes donated by Ray Simmons of the Refugee and Migrant Centre (RMC), a charity that supports vulnerable individuals and families. You can learn more about the work they do by visiting their website here: https://rmcentre.org.uk/about-us/ .    

On Thursday 17 December 2020, I responded on behalf of the Opposition to the debate on matters to be raised before the Adjournment. This debate was held before the house rose for Christmas recess and provides MPs with an opportunity to raise issues.  You can read my full speech below:

Responding to the Business Statement on Thursday 17 December, I criticised the awarding of government contracts without competition. Ahead of the Christmas recess I also paid tribute to House staff who have kept Parliament running in difficult circumstances. You can read my full speech below: 

On behalf of HM Opposition, I responded to a motion to appoint Helen Jones and reappoint Sir Robert Owen as ordinary members of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority. You can read my speech below: 

On Monday 14 December  2020  I attended a zoom call with the High Commissioner for Pakistan and the Deputy Shadow leader of the House Afzal Khan MP. It was good to meet with the High Commissioner to discuss various topics that are important to my constituents including Kashmir. The High Commissioner mentioned his concerns about interference and the use of fake identities in elections. When the pandemic is over I hope we can arrange to visit Pakistan.