It has been another warm week, and we have had plenty going on locally for people to enjoy the sunshine and all our towns and villages have to offer. 

On Saturday, I joined the Armed Forces Day event in the Pump Room Gardens in Leamington. It saw a fantastic turnout with people coming out to thank and honour current and previous members of our armed forces. 

The sacrifices made by our armed forces, and their families, to defend our freedoms are immense and deserve recognition. It was wonderful to see so many people out over the weekend to celebrate them and all they do to keep us safe.  

It was an honour and privilege to meet serving personnel from all across our services and personally thank them for all they do. 

I know many were particularly taken by the Lancaster which flew over to mark the occasion. My father flew Lancasters, Hurricanes and Spitfires during the war having signed up in Autumn 1940 so it was poignant to see one flying over 85 years on. 

Turning to the national news, many of you will have seen there has been widespread discussion around the Government's Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill. 

I back the need for reforming the welfare system. Too many people struggle to get the support they need and find themselves jumping through endless hoops. Clearly too many people who want to work are not getting the support they need to get back into the workforce and in some cases, we're seeing payments go to those who shouldn't be receiving them. It is an outdated system that needs updating. 

However, I do not believe we can do this reform at the expense of some of the most vulnerable in our society and firmly believe that changes must be made in consultation with disabled people. They are the people who use the system and know where the flaws lie. If we are to reform the system, we need to do it properly and effectively, not create other issues which will need resolving again in the years to come. 

advertisement

As a result, I joined over 120 colleagues in signing a Reasoned Amendment to the Bill which stated that we would not give the Bill a Second Reading if we did not see the changes we believed were necessary. I did not sign this amendment lightly and know the significance such amendments hold. I have been an MP for 8 years and my small team and I have helped many people access the support they need. This is very rarely an easy process for that individual and is often incredibly stressful. Many residents also raised their concerns with me in person and via email. I found these contributions incredibly value in helping me decide the next steps I would take. It ultimately led me to signing the amendment.  

We have now seen significant changes announced to the Bill after this amendment and campaigning from many others. I believe the Government appreciates the strength of feeling and the need to address this issue with the voices of as many as possible included. As I write this, on Monday afternoon, I am continuing to decide whether I believe these changes are significant enough for me to back the Bill for a Second Reading. I will of course keep you updated on how I choose to vote. 

As always, please do not hesitate to get in touch if you have any issues or concerns you would like to raise with me. I can be reached at [email protected] or on 01926 882006.