Valerie with co-chairs of the PPA, Nathalie Loiseau MEP and Sir Oliver Heald QC MP

On 10 May 2022 a new Parliamentary session was opened with the State Opening of Parliament. The Queen was unable to attend who was represented by the Prince of Wales. 

Darlaston won the Playoff Final 2-1 on Saturday 7 May 2022 with an outstanding goal in the 96th minute, winning promotion to the Midland League Premier Division. I was at the exciting game against Stapenhill to see Darlaston go up alongside 500 other supporters.
The family of former Darlaston striker Leon Taylor were in the crowd

In Walsall South there were 2 new Councillors elected.  I am delighted that Ms Shakila Hussain and Mr RK Mehmi were elected as new Labour Councillors on Thursday 5 May 2022 for Palfrey and Pleck wards respectively. I congratulate Shakila, who is a solicitor, and Mr Mehmi, a local businessman, on their victories and wish both

The Hucker Road Allotments offer excellent relaxation and exercise for allotment owners in Pleck, as well as plenty of fruit and vegetables.

Darlaston Town 1874 FC played Dudley Town in a crucial match in the Midland League Division One Playoff Semi-Final on Tuesday 3 May 2022. It was a fantastic performance by Darlaston, who remained in control throughout the game winning 4-0. There was a great turnout by fans of both sides with a record-breaking attendance of

The House of Commons was prorogued on Thursday 28 April 2022, ending the Parliamentary session. During prorogation, the House will not be sitting, meaning that no debates will be held and no Questions can be tabled until the start of the new session.

On Monday 17 January 2022 I spoke at the Report Stage of the Elections Bill. I called on the Government to pause the legislation and reconsider provisions to dictate the priorities of the Electoral Commission, introduce mandatory photo ID to vote and further regulation of ‘joint campaigning’ by third party organisations and political parties. It is