This week I return to Parliament to pay my respects and grieve for a dear colleague and friend, Sir David Amess. David was brutally killed on Friday. Stabbed to death at his constituency surgery which was being held in a church. David was the Member of Parliament for Southend West....
Calling time on threatening behaviour
I am calling for zero tolerance of threatening and abusive behaviour to public service workers, including MPs. I have previously condemned extremists who attacked my constituency office causing my staff fear. Too often some people subject public sector workers, including Members of Parliament, to abuse and insults, as well as...
New relief road opened in Deal
I welcomed the opening of a new relief road in middle Deal. The road will reduce pressure on Albert Road, a key link road between the middle and North Deal areas. I cut the ribbon on the road opening with Sarah Dance, deputy chair of the South East Local Enterprise...
Demanding maternity service improvements
Recently I demanded improvements in East Kent Hospitals maternity services following the publication of a damning report. I wrote to hospital bosses to understand why new failings have emerged. Key improvements to maternity services had been put in place following previous failings by the Trust. I have been working with...
House of Commons: Tribute to Sir David Amess
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Fighting for improved transport and infrastructure for our area
This week I held meetings on two vital transport projects for our area: the dualling of the A2 through to Dover and the return on all day high speed train connections through to Walmer, Martin Mill and Deal. As we have moved through the pandemic, the Government has hugely subsidised...
Celebrating our COVID heroes
Last Thursday I was honoured to join the HRH Princess Royal to celebrate the volunteers and public services heroes of the pandemic. In a packed event at Dover Castle, Princess Anne thanked many of the volunteers and public service workers who helped made such an incredible difference in our community....
Hailing progress on Betteshanger visitor centre and mining museum
I welcomed the progress that has been made on the new visitor centre and mining museum at Betteshanger country park. The new mining museum and visitor centre are key improvements being made to the Betteshanger country park by the owners. Previously owned by Hadlow College, the site was rescued by...
Welcoming the new Diagnostic Centre for Dover’s Buckland Hospital
I welcomed the announcement that Buckland Hospital has been selected as one of 40 sites across England that will receive a new Diagnostic Centre. The new centre will provide services closer to home for people in Dover, Deal, Walmer and the villages as part of the Government’s plan to ensure...
Securing Flood Action Taskforce for Deal
I have secured a Flood Action Taskforce for Deal. The taskforce will address longstanding sewage issues in the town – particularly Albert Road. The taskforce will report jointly to me and Ian McAulay, Chief Executive of Southern Water. It will be supported by Dover District Council, Kent County Council and...