From the moment one met David Amess one was effectively won over by his genial smile and cheery remarks.  His first sighting was as Basildon Man, first elected in 1983 representing a bell weather constituency that predicted the outcome of an election. Later, as Southend Man, David gained cross party cheers at every end of term debate, questions to Ministers or Prime Ministers raising the stakes to make Southend a city.

On Thursday 13 October 2022 I spoke in the Second Reading of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Bill. You can read my speech below:

An Urgent Question was agreed asking the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs to make a statement on the death of Mahsa Amini. The death of Mahsa Amini, and what is happening to women across Iran is deeply disturbing and heart-breaking. I stand in solidarity with those in Iran who are calling for freedom and the protection of their human rights.

Treasury Questions took place on Tuesday 11 October 2022. The EU agreed as part of the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement to provide the UK with access to a range of science, innovation and space programmes – including Horizon Europe, Copernicus and Euratom. However, the EU is refusing to resume talks and grant the UK 'association' until Brexit related disagreements are resolved. 

There was a good turnout for the opening of the Darlaston All Active Community Garden on Thursday 30 September 2022. Sharon who runs the Community Centre together with volunteers have turned this space into an upcycled communal area. The tables were made from donated old wooden spools and there were plants and vegetables grown over the summer. As well as the community who use the Town Hall, many from the local people including the Post Office and  Seva Kitchen who cook and donate food were there to celebrated the opening including the Lady Mayoress of Walsall Council.