Last week, I visited Rowan Preparatory School for girls in Claygate (pictured below with students and headteacher, Kathy Kershaw). I spoke a bit about the role of an MP and took questions. It is always interesting to hear back what students think an MP does - and indeed what he or she should do! It […]
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Today, in the Scopolla case, the European Court of Human Rights has demanded the UK introduce legislation to give prisoners the right to vote within 6 months. I responded to the ruling on the BBC here. Update (23 May): At PMQs, the PM rules out capitulating to Strasbourg, giving a clear signal that Britain will […]
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International negotiations continue this week, in Bonn, on climate change - in the aftermath of December’s stalled Durban summit. I have written an article for City AM on the two lessons that need to be learnt from experience under the Kyoto Protocol. You can read it here.
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I have been campaigning for targeted sanctions on the henchment of despots and dictators, in light of the tragic Russian case of murdered lawyer, Sergei Magnitsky. I blogged on the issue here. A short film, linked here, gives an overview of the various initiatives across the world seeking justice and accountability, including the House of Commons […]
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The Cobham Mill Preservation Trust do a fantastic job keeping this wonderful local historical gem, dating back to the sixteenth century, in great working order for people to enjoy today. I dropped by, last week, to visit the team, having worked together to get their lease of the mill renewed by the Environment Agency. They gave me a […]
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On Friday, I met up with the local branch of the Federation of Small Businesses (pictured below), to hear directly their concerns. The feedback from local entrepreneurs focused on finance, red-tape and the burden of taxation. I have signed up for their campaign aimed at addressing the challenges faced, and sought their advice in particular on measures to […]
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Today, I was briefed by Victim Support on the local dimension in our community. Victim Support assess those who are the victims of crime, identifying a need for support in around a third of all cases (in the South East). They are backed up by community-based volunteers, who can help with emotional counselling, practical support […]
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Last week, I met up in Parliament with two local lads, Nick Taylor and Tom Parker (pictured below), to raise awareness of type 1 diabetes. The event was organised by the charity JDRF. Type 1 diabetes is a chronic, life-threatening condition which can afflict young children and stays with them through life. It affects the immune system, […]
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