March Highlights

While the headlines are often dominated by international crises and major debates in Westminster, these events have a real, tangible impact on life here in Newbury and West Berkshire. This update is just a snapshot of the many, many issues we have been working on simultaneously to ensure our community’s voice is heard at every level.

Global Volatility and the Local Impact

While the conflict in Iran may feel a world away, its effects are being felt directly on our doorsteps. The news of a two-week ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is a welcome relief, but we must acknowledge how we were brought to this point by the actions of three reckless regimes in Washington, Jerusalem, and Tehran.

The dangerous ambiguity regarding whether this deal includes an end to hostilities in Lebanon remains a major concern for global stability. The UK Government must seek immediate clarity; we simply cannot rely on a Trump-led America to protect our interests. It is vital that Keir Starmer redoubles efforts to strengthen our bonds with reliable, stable allies in the EU and the Commonwealth to ensure we aren't left vulnerable to such international volatility.

Easing the Rural Squeeze

Here in Newbury and West Berkshire, the global impact isn't just a news headline, it is a bill at the petrol pump. Even with a ceasefire, prices remain sky-high as the consequences of months of disruption reach Britain. Our rural communities, where a car is a necessity rather than a luxury, are being hit hardest by these rising costs.

That is why I am joining calls for an emergency transport package to provide immediate relief. This includes a 10p cut to fuel duty, which would save drivers 12p a litre at the pump and help counter the price hikes caused by "Trump’s war." Whether you are commuting to work or running a local business, you shouldn't be forced to pay the price for international instability.

Standing up for Road Safety

Road safety continues to be a massive part of the team's daily workload. This month, I was proud to present a cross-party backed petition in the House of Commons, calling for legal minimum passing distances and speeds to protect horses and riders.

On a more frustrating note, the Government’s decision to omit the A34 from its latest Road Investment Strategy (RIS3) is a significant blow for residents in East Ilsley, Beedon, and Chieveley. However, the team and I are not letting this drop; we are already coordinating with neighbouring MPs and National Highways to ensure that safety improvements remain at the top of the agenda.

Protecting Our Environment and Infrastructure

The heavy rainfall at the start of the year has highlighted the ongoing failures of our water infrastructure. While we have seen some minor progress at Hambridge Lane, the frequency of sewage dumping in our precious chalk streams remains a disgrace. I have continued to press the Secretary of State through written questions, demanding the real-time data we need to hold Thames Water to account properly.

Compounding these infrastructure concerns is the disappointing news that Newbury has been overlooked in the latest flood defence plans. Despite the clear risks and recent experiences of our residents, the Environment Agency's updated programme fails to include the necessary investment for our town. The team and I are challenging this decision to ensure Newbury is not left vulnerable while other areas receive priority funding.

A Tireless Team Effort

Beyond these major themes, the team and I are dealing with hundreds of individual cases, from hosting SEND reform roundtables for local parents, resolving housing issues, dealing with problems with the DVLA, NHS, and dentistry issues, to fighting for WASPI justice and Park Homes comission fees. We are also working closely with our next generation of young farmers to ensure they have the support they need to thrive.

Whether it is a global crisis or a local concern, my office is here to help. If there is an issue you would like to raise, please do not hesitate to get in touch.