Westminster Report

BY David Burton-Sampson MP for Southend West & Leigh.

IT’S been a busy fortnight in Westminster. We’re moving forward with our plans, whether it’s rail nationalisation, taking back control of our buses, new planning rules or our flagship Great British Energy company.

 Back home in Southend it was a privilege to join the commemorations at the Merchant Navy Day Service at the start of the month. Thank you to all those who organised the event remembering the sacrifices of the often-forgotten Merchant Navy seafarers.

 I joined the mayor, Ron Woodley  and leader of the council Daniel Cowan, amongst others, as we acknowledged the amazing service me and women and the contribution the Merchant Navy makes to national life.

 In Westminster I met with and challenged OFWAT over the water quality on our beaches.

 I requested their attendance at our forthcoming water summit in November and we were pleased to gain their commitment to come along. The summit is aiming to become a blueprint for others to follow right across the country, as we bring together residents, swimmers, water companies and councillors to meet with us MPs.

 This is an important chance for ordinary people to hold water companies to account.

 Anglian Water have confirmed they will be there to meet all interested parties. Anglian Water is responsible for 66 outflow pipes in Southend and is one of five water companies rated as requiring improvement.

 I hope the outcome of this summit will be fruitful and I will be back with details of the progress made in clearing the scourge of sewage from our estuary in the not-too-distant future.

 I also met with the Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh, in the House of Commons. It was great to discuss the renationalisation of our railways and the development of Great British Railways.

 As well as the local transport needs affecting Southend and Leigh, which includes the lack of bus services in many areas, we also talked about the opportunity to bring bus services into local council control.

 Labour has announced new powers to allow communities to take control of their buses, honouring our manifesto pledge. The government’s plans will end the postcode lottery of bus services and will give communities new powers to set routes, fares and services.

 I have joined the Financial Education All Party Parliamentary Group to encourage young people to be educated about financial matters and ensure they are equipped to make informed financial decisions. This is a cause very close to my heart and something that is vitally important in the modern world.

 Many will be aware that we have had to make difficult decisions about winter fuel payments.

 We are having to target support to those who need it most to help balance the nation’s books. You will now only get the allowance if you are in receipt of pension credits. We encourage everyone to check whether they, or a member of their family, are eligible and please do get in touch if you are struggling. We are here to help.

 Fixing our housing crisis is another goal. I discussed long-term solutions to provide people with the homes they need with Kate Markey from the Nationwide Foundation at Westminster.

 It was very valuable to get the perspective and support of someone with experience in housing. I look forward to working together to reform the private rented sector and address the housing crisis for good.

 As a new officer of the Ukraine All Party Parliamentary group I shall be visiting the war torn country early next year as part of a parliamentary delegation. We aim to promote and strengthen relations between the two countries and soon I will be able to see for myself the real challenges they face. I shall report back after my visit.

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