June Highlights

June has been another busy month, balancing my ongoing Parliamentary duties, casework, and activities across the constituency. Alongside my regular meetings and surgeries, I’ve been involved in several important national debates and local initiatives.

In Parliament, as part of the Football Governance Bill Committee, we have been scrutinising reforms aimed at improving the governance of football in the UK, a sport that plays such a vital role in our communities. As a member of the Housing, Communities & Local Government Select Committee (HCLG), I have been engaged in critical discussions about tackling the housing crisis and making sure everyone has access to safe, affordable homes.

Two significant votes dominated much of the month’s Parliamentary business. The first involved amendments to abortion law under the Criminal Justice Bill. This is a deeply important and sensitive issue, touching on women’s rights and healthcare access. I have written about why I support reforming abortion laws, recognising the need for compassionate, safe, and legal access for women here.

The second major vote was on the Assisted Dying Bill, a subject that demands careful thought, empathy, and respect for those facing terminal illness. I took the time to consider the ethical complexities and the voices of families and patients affected by this issue. My reflections on this ca

n be found here, where I argue for compassion alongside careful consideration.

In addition to these votes, I was pleased to convene a successful cross-party farming conference this month. It was a valuable opportunity to bring together voices from across the political spectrum and farming community to discuss the challenges rural areas face. I look forward to driving forward the next steps to support farmers and rural livelihoods.

I’ve also been working closely with the Department for Education on SEND-related casework, ensuring that children with special educational needs receive the support they need to thrive. A briefing on space defence reminded me of the importance of keeping the UK safe and prepared in emerging areas of security.

Carer’s Week provided a chance to recognise the vital role unpaid carers play in our society, and I lent my support to Fur Free Britain, campaigning to end fur farming in the UK—a cause many constituents care deeply about.

Other key issues I’ve been engaged with include social mobility, rural crime, and pharmaceutical policy, all critical to improving lives across the country. Other key events this month include the Great Parliamentary Get Together, an event inspired by Jo Cox MP’s legacy, celebrating community spirit and kindness.

Locally, I’ve continued to meet with a range of organisations and community groups. Dingley’s Promise continues to do remarkable work supporting children with disabilities, and I enjoyed a visit to iCollege to discuss youth opportunities. Congratulations to Avon Fish Bar for winning the constituency’s best fish and chips on Fish and Chip Day, a delicious accolade well earned!

Productive meetings with West Berkshire Council have helped progress important casework. The Nature Discovery Centre and Newbury Cycle Festival offered great opportunities to celebrate conservation and active travel, while the Race for Life at Newbury Racecourse was inspiring as people raised funds for vital cancer research.

I also met with the Berkshire Music Trust, their dedication to enriching young people’s lives through music is fantastic, and celebrated the opening of new community gardens at Benedict Court, providing green spaces for local residents.

Engaging with McCarthy and Stone, Shadwell Estates, and Connecting Communities initiatives continue to focus on housing development and strengthening social ties. Meeting with the teams organising the Dementia Hub and The SEND Cafe allowed me to hear more about the work they are doing and the challenges they are facing.