Welcome to my November update, here’s a snapshot of what I have been up to in Parliament and Luton South this month.

Calling for a Ceasefire in Gaza

The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to be an extremely challenging time for our communities. Earlier this month, I took the only opportunity we have had in Parliament to vote for an immediate ceasefire on all sides, to see the end to violence against innocent civilians, the release of all hostages and vital access of humanitarian aid into Gaza.

In order to do this, I broke the Labour Party line and had to resign from my position as a Shadow Minister. But I had to vote with my constituents, my head and my heart for a ceasefire, as I believe this is the best pathway to peace in the Middle East.

Rest assured, I will continue to push the Government to call for an immediate ceasefire between all parties and continue my meaningful action and stand up for the views of people in Luton South from the backbenches.

I have raised my concerns about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza in Parliament, you can watch me press the Government on access to humanitarian aid in Gaza, below.

King’s Speech Debate on the NHS

Earlier this month, I took part in the debate on the King’s Speech relating to ‘Building an NHS fit for the future’. The cornerstone to a good life is ours and our family’s health, and at the coalface is our NHS. This example of socialism in action is the jewel in the British crown. A proud creation of the post-war Attlee Labour Government. A creation that has now been pushed to breaking point by this Government,

The Government’s King’s Speech failed to address the fact that the NHS is currently facing the biggest crisis in its history. However, a Labour government will:

• Provide two million more appointments.
• Invest in the latest cutting-edge technology and equipment.
• Support more care in the community.

Supporting British Farming

It was great to visit my constituent Tom, alongside his brother Jim and dad Gary, at their family farm in Pepperstock.

We had a wide-ranging discussion about issues faced by our farming businesses, including cuts to the Basic Payment Scheme, issues with the Sustainable Farming Incentive scheme, the impact of inflation on farming businesses (including skyrocketing fertilizer costs) and the importance of our UK food security.

It was lovely to meet their herd, including bulls Romeo and Arsene, and see their newest addition to the Hereford family, born just a couple of weeks ago.

Luton Friends of the Earth’s ‘United for Warm Homes’ Campaign

I joined Luton Friends of the Earth as part of the United For Warm Homes day of action. They showed me their ‘Warm Homes Luton’ quilt and presented me with their petition. The petition calls for urgent support with energy bills, more home insulation, and a shift to more renewable energy.

I raised their ‘United for Warm Homes’ campaign in Parliament on Fuel Poverty Awareness Day. There are 36 energy crisis hotspots in Luton South, where below average incomes meet high fuel bills. We need an emergency government insulation programme to help homes hardest by the energy crisis.

Citizens Advice Luton’s AGM

Citizens Advice Luton do vital work supporting those who are struggling, whether it’s giving housing advice, debt advice, support with utility bills, or issuing food bank vouchers.

I was proud to be invited to their AGM last week, where I spoke about the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on Luton. It was interesting to hear more from Chief Exec, Stephanie Simeon, about the wide range of work they do across our town, working closely with partnership organisations, to support those in need. This year, their incredible team of staff and volunteers have helped 9,193 people.

Find out more here.

Supporting Human Appeal’s Winter Wrap Up

Earlier this month, I donated my pre-loved coats at Human Appeal’s Winter Wrap Up donation point at Safestore Self Storage in Cosgrove Way. It was lovely to meet Human Appeal Regional Team Leader, Ishrat, and Store Manager Rahat to talk about the campaign.

Human Appeal distributes donations to charities supporting those in need across Luton.  Find out more information here.

Read my Latest Luton News Article

In my latest Luton News article, I write about my Luton South Small Business Awards. I’m looking forward to celebrating this year’s winning businesses this weekend, on Small Business Saturday.

Read my full article here.