Today the Chancellor delivered his 2020 Budget. The spread of coronavirus crisis is understandably causing a lot of worry, for families and for businesses. We have been pressing the government to make sure they put enough support in place and I welcome the Chancellor’s commitment today to supporting the NHS, expanding the safety net provided … Continue reading Budget 2020
Today I was proud to lead the first Petitions Debate in Parliament on free childcare. Over 146,000 people signed this petition, including over 600 in Newcastle. Childcare is a huge expense for families and it prevents many parents from returning to work after having children because it is just not cost effective. We know that … Continue reading Petitions debate: Investing in free childcare
Today the government have finally given the green light to the HS2 rail line. We desperately need a new north-south mainline railway in the UK and this crucial investment has been held back by dithering and delays for too long. It was first announced by the last Labour government in 2009 so this is … Continue reading HS2 given the green light. East Coast Mainline needs investment too!
Today I spoke in the second reading debate on the European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Bill 2019-20, which provides for the UK to leave the EU at the end of January 2020. I pointed out that although the election of a majority Conservative Government means we will be leaving the EU next year, it doesn’t mean … Continue reading European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Bill 2019-20
I was officially ‘sworn in’ as a returning Member of Parliament this evening – the process every MP must go through before they can take their seat, vote or speak in the House of Commons. This short, but very solemn, procedure brings home the immense privilege of being re-elected to represent Newcastle North– and the … Continue reading Swearing in as MP for Newcastle North
