Primrose Meadow
I am very much aware that Primrose Meadow is valued by many in the community and shares your concern about reports that it could be used for housing. I believe that the Meadow currently provides a much needed green space in the town and, while there may be a case for a community facility there, on […]
GP access in Maldon
I have recently been contacted by a number of constituents who have experienced difficulties accessing GP services locally. As a patient registered at a local surgery who has used primary care during the pandemic, I have seen first-hand the incredible job that GP surgeries have done in some very difficult and challenging circumstances. Locally, GP surgeries have […]
New Testing Centre in Maldon
I was very pleased to learn that NHS Test and Trace are opening a new testing centre for Maldon residents in the Blackwater Leisure Centre Car Park. Although those who come into close contact with someone who has tested positive no longer have to self-isolate if they are double vaccinated or under 18, it is […]
John opens new offices for HomeInstead
On Monday 16th August, John Whittingdale opened the new offices for HomeInstead in South Woodham Ferrers. HomeInstead provides personal care allowing elderly people to continue living in their own homes. Part of a national network, the South Woodham Ferrers office covers South Woodham, the Dengie Peninsula and Rayleigh, adjoining the existing offices in Chelmsford and […]
Afghanistan
Over the last two decades, 150,000 members of our Armed Forces have served in Afghanistan, mainly in Helmand province which was, from 2006 onwards, a focus of the UK operation. Working with Afghan security forces – our Servicemen and women sought to bring development and stability. My heartfelt regret is that 457 British service personnel […]
National Data Strategy Forum
I was delighted to co-chair the first National Data Strategy Forum last week, along with Sue Daley of techUK. I would like to express thanks to Sue and the techUK team for working with us to make this happen. I have always said that Government cannot – and should not – deliver on the ambitions […]
MP for a week – why not see how you would do?
MP For A Week drops you into the shoes of a backbench MP. And the job, as they say, is what you make of it. Will you debate the governments controversial Homework Bill or help Mrs Billingsley sort her rubbish collection? Want to hear what a climate change lobbyist has to say, or ask the […]
Cuts to Foreign Aid Spending
This country has been and always will be open and outward-looking, leading in solving the world’s toughest problems and striving to be a force for good in the world. Whether it’s stepping up to support desperate Syrians and Yemenis in conflict zones, leading the way in eradicating Ebola and malaria, or supporting millions of children […]
July Update
I am very pleased that Covid restrictions have now been lifted. It is a huge step along the Government’s roadmap and, after such a difficulty year, it is a decision that I am sure will be welcomed by many. The decision to introduce such restrictions was very difficult and one that I and my ministerial […]
Review of the Gambling Act 2005
The Minister for Media and Data (Mr John Whittingdale) I begin by congratulating my hon. Friend the Member for Blackpool South (Scott Benton) on obtaining this debate, which comes hard on the heels of the debate we had last week in Westminster Hall about casinos. I also thank him for his work as chair of […]