Today, I was out and about in Walton with two of the most impressive people I know in the voluntary sector. Dr Helen Bowcock is now the High Sheriff of Surrey, and has a stellar track record as both a sociologist and philanthropist. Jackie Lodge is the Chief Executive of Walton Charity, the 800 year […]
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I have tabled an amendment to the Immigration Bill, with cross-party support, to make it easier to deport foreign criminals. In a column for the Daily Mail today, I set out the case for reform. You can read it here.
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Prisoners serving ‘whole life’ sentences are challenging the right of the UK justice system to sentence them to jail for the rest of their lives on human rights grounds. Today, on the Today program, I debated whether - for the worst crimes - life should mean life. You can listen to the discussion on this […]
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On Thursday, Walton was graced with a Royal visit from Princess Anne, to open the Citizens Advice Bureau’s (CAB) new office at the Elmbridge community hub. Our CABs do a marvellous job locally, advising on a range of issues from debt to housing. We also paid tribute to their Domestic Abuse Service’s tenth anniversary. It […]
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This week, Channel 4, The Guardian and The Independent broke the latest Edward Snowden disclosures about US surveillance - and UK involvement. They provide further evidence of the scale of US/UK surveillance and the indiscriminate techniques used. The US have announced sweeping reforms to deal with concerns about intrusions into personal privacy, but the UK has […]
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Today, I visited The Hub Walton, a local charity serving as a one-stop shop of advice for those with disabilities, the elderly and carers. Matt Seaby (below) showed me around and explained how his team fit into the community hub in Walton. He has a team of around 13, mostly volunteers, and they are […]
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What is a credible Conservative policy to help the lowest paid and ease pressure on the cost of living ? Today, I have written a column for the London Evening Standard, which addresses the menu of options - and which are more likely to add value. You can read it here.
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On Saturday night, Thames Ditton residents, led by Ruth Lyon and Karen Randolph, organised another fabulous New Year’s panto. The brilliant Charles Court Opera performed ‘Buttons’ at a packed Vera Fletcher hall. Erika and I attended, and enjoyed a great meal and a terrific evening. The funds go towards new equipment for Thames Ditton hospital - a […]
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