News

There was a vote in the House without a debate on the Wednesday 13 March 2024: That the draft Strikes (Minimum Service Levels: Fire and Rescue Services) (England) Regulations 2024, which were laid before this House on 8 February, be approved. Draft Strikes (Minimum Service Levels: Fire and Rescue Services) (England) Regulations 2024 I voted

On Wednesday 13 March 2024 the House of Commons considered the National Insurance Contributions (Reduction in Rates) (No.2) Bill. The Bill introduces a cut in the rate of primary (employee) Class 1 National Insurance contributions (NICs) from 10% to 8% and a cut in the rate of self-employed Class 4 NICs from 8% to 6%.

  I was delighted to attend the St Patrick Day’s celebration hosted by Conor McGinn MP and Karen Smyth MP.  His excellency Ireland’s  Ambassador to the UK Martin Fraser was present and it was good to extend greetings on this special day. ☘️  

On Tuesday 12 March the Budget resolutions were debated following the Chancellor’s speech last Wednesday 6 March 2024.  I was called to speak during the debate just as   Madame Deputy Speaker imposed a 7 minute time limit on backbench speeches: Here is my speech:  Seven is my favourite number, Madam Deputy Speaker. It is a

I was delighted to drop into the World Book Day launch in the Attlee Suite , as a World Book Day Champion, to support  their mission to promote reading for pleasure.  The National Literary Trust found that 1 in15 children do not own a book of their own.  the theme this year is to encourage