A Busy and Positive Start to 2026

The new year has got off to a busy and positive start, both in Westminster and here in Newbury and West Berkshire.

Parliament returned after recess, and I was really pleased to welcome students from St Bart’s to Westminster. Spending time hearing their views and answering their questions is always energising, and a good reminder of why the decisions we take now matter.

Remembrance, responsibility, and protecting the vulnerable

January marked Holocaust Memorial Day, and I joined colleagues in signing the Book of Remembrance and taking part in events across Westminster to honour the six million Jewish people murdered in the Holocaust, as well as all victims of genocide. At a time when hatred and division can feel increasingly visible, remembrance is more important than ever.

I’ve continued pressing for stronger action to hold big tech companies to account and to ensure our children are properly protected online. Technology moves fast, but safeguarding must keep up, and parents deserve confidence that platforms are doing more than paying lip service to safety.

Standing up for fairness and our environment

In Parliament, I raised the long-standing injustice faced by WASPI women and co-signed a cross-party letter urging the Government to act. I also spoke in debates on leasehold and commonhold reform, calling for a fairer system for homeowners, and highlighted the brilliant work of Newbury Cycle Club, which plays such an important role in our community.

Protecting our environment has also been a key focus. I’ve been scrutinising the Government’s Water White Paper and pushing for stronger action to protect our precious chalk streams here in West Berkshire. Pollution, over-abstraction, and sewage discharges continue to threaten these rare habitats. This month, I hosted a virtual roundtable with Thames Water, the Environment Agency, and Action for the River Kennet to discuss what more can be done.

Listening locally and raising issues

Casework continues to come in, and my team and I are working through issues raised by residents while holding regular surgeries. I’ve enjoyed getting out and about, from visiting Rocket Propelled Games and celebrating Thai Pongal with the Newbury Indian Community, to meeting Newbury BID to discuss the challenges facing the town centre, visiting Baldev's dental practice, Falkland school, and many more.

Thatcham Level Crossing continues to be a major source of frustration for many residents and businesses. I held a productive meeting with Network Rail this month, and I want to thank everyone who has been in touch. I can assure you that a lot of work is happening behind the scenes, and I will continue to push for progress.

I’ve also raised concerns directly with AWE about its restructuring and redundancy process. This is ongoing, and I’m continuing to work with AWE, Prospect, the MOD and fellow MPs to seek clarity and fairness for those affected.

Housing, rural issues, and community voices

Housing continues to be one of the defining challenges facing families. I’ve been working in Parliament to improve housing standards, pushing for better construction quality and homes that are energy-efficient and fit for the future. As a member of the Housing, Communities and Local Government Select Committee, I will continue to hold the Government to account on delivering the right homes, supported by the infrastructure our communities rely on.

Supporting our rural economy and community safety remains a priority. I’ve continued working closely with the equestrian community and recently held a Westminster Hall debate on horse and rider road safety, highlighting the very real risks riders face on our roads.

Community spirit in action

It’s always inspiring to see the dedication of local people and organisations. I was delighted to attend the volunteer recruitment fair at the Corn Exchange, visit the Community Furniture Project, and meet Kelvin and his team, who do so much to support people across our area.

Other highlights included a SEND roundtable with local parents, meeting Newbury BID to discuss challenges facing the town centre, and joining Kennet School’s Sixth Form Question Time.

As ever, thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and experiences. It’s a real privilege to represent such a passionate and engaged community, and I’ll continue listening, raising issues locally and nationally, and pushing for practical change where it’s needed most.