Dear Constituent,
It’s been a busy and eventful week in Parliament, with much of my work focused on the issues that matter most to our community. From raising concerns about defence spending and rural crime to tackling the rising challenges faced by small businesses under Labour’s punishing tax policies, my efforts this week have centred on ensuring that the government listens and takes action. Labour’s approach to taxes continues to crush entrepreneurialism and threaten the future of family businesses, undermining the generations of hard work that sustain them.
This week, I also raised the very real concerns of constituents who’ve been struggling with ongoing issues such as the supply of medicines, DVLA licence renewals, and problems with Universal Credit claims. I continue to write to the relevant authorities, organisations, and Government departments on behalf of those affected, and I will continue to do so as long as there are issues that need addressing.
BREAKING NEWS: Closure of The Royal School, Haslemere
On a local note, I was deeply saddened to learn that The Royal School in Haslemere will be closing its doors. This decision will undoubtedly have a significant impact on local families and the wider community, both in terms of education but also regarding the future use of the site. It's another example of how Labour policies are negatively affecting vital services across our area. I will be working with the relevant authorities to ensure that the needs of local families and staff are prioritised as we navigate this difficult situation. As your MP, I will continue to push for practical solutions to support those affected, and to hold the Government accountable for its role in these closures.
I also received a number of emails this week from constituents raising concerns about the A3’s state and the growing litter problem along its carriageways. I have already written to both Surrey County Council and Hampshire County Council about the sections that run through our constituency, and I will be escalating this to National Highways.
In addition to local matters, I am still actively working with network providers such as Vodafone, EE, and Openreach to improve broadband and mobile coverage across our area. I strongly encourage you to take part in my Broadband and Mobile Coverage survey, as your input will help push for the infrastructure improvements we need.
While I strive to keep you informed through this newsletter, you can also find real-time updates on my work in Parliament and in the constituency through my social media platforms:
As always, if there is anything I can do to help or if you’d like to share your experiences regarding these issues, please don’t hesitate to contact me at [email protected].
Thank you for your continued support.
With every good wish,
WHAT’S GOING ON IN WESTMINSTER
LABOUR’S ATTACK ON SMALL AND FAMILY BUSINESSES
This week in Parliament, I raised serious concerns about the devastating impact of Labour’s policies on small and family-run businesses in our constituency. These businesses are the backbone of our economy—creating jobs, supporting communities, and driving growth. Yet Labour’s tax hikes and new regulations are putting them at risk.
The family business tax and cap on business property relief are already squeezing local businesses like Hamilton’s Tea Room in Farnham, R. Miles & Son in Haslemere, and Liphook Travel Worldchoice. These long-standing community pillars now face an uncertain future, with warnings that Labour’s policies could cost 125,000 jobs.
It’s not just shops and cafés feeling the pain. Family farms such as Kilnside Farm and Mathias Nurseries are under threat from Labour’s so-called family farm tax, while rural pubs and village shops struggle under mounting costs. The Employment Rights Bill piles even more red tape on small businesses, making it harder for them to survive.
Labour is prioritising union interests over hardworking business owners. Their short-sighted policies stifle growth and put livelihoods on the line.
As a Conservative, I stand for enterprise, economic growth, and job creation. We will fight to reverse these damaging policies and defend the future of our family businesses and rural communities
You can click here to read my full speech in Hansard or watch the video below on YouTube.
DEFENCE SPENING: A STEP FORWARD, BUT MORE TO DO
In my Herald column this week, I highlighted the urgent need for Britain to provide clear, firm commitments to our strategic partners. In an increasingly uncertain world, our allies, and the international community, need certainty about Britain’s defence commitments.
This week, I pressed the Prime Minister on his pledge to raise defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, a target I have consistently championed in the House of Commons. While this increase is a step in the right direction, it must be backed by a clear and timely Strategic Defence Review (SDR). The SDR is essential for outlining Britain’s military strategy and demonstrating to our allies that we remain a reliable and committed security partner.
Many of you have raised concerns about potential delays to the SDR with me, and I was reassured to hear the Prime Minister confirm that it remains on track. However, Labour must not drag its feet. This review cannot be kicked into the long grass. It must be delivered on time and with a clear strategy for how defence spending will be used effectively.
Britain’s security depends not just on how much we spend, but how we spend it. Every penny must be used wisely to strengthen our armed forces, protect the British people, and uphold our global commitments.
The time for action is now. Britain must show leadership, strength, and clarity in our approach to defence.
BATTLE FOR RURAL BANKING SERVICES
This week, I raised concerns in a Debate titled ‘Bank Closures in Rural Areas’ about the recent closure of Barclays Bank in Farnham (which shut its doors for the last time on Friday, 21st February).
With only Santander and Nationwide remaining in Farnham, we urgently need a plan to introduce Banking Hubs in both Farnham and Liphook. The success of the Haslemere Banking Hub shows just how crucial these services are, and I’m pleased that Whitehill & Bordon will soon have one as well.
However, with bank closures outpacing the rollout of new hubs, the Government must act fast and accelerate the implementation of these vital services.
To read my speech in full, click here:
Below is a short video of my intervention, explaining why rural banking access is essential to supporting our constituency of 101,000 people
SCHOOLS TAX: CLOSING DOORS ON VULNERABLE CHILDREN
The Government has introduced a policy to impose VAT on independent schools without conducting a full impact assessment on the local area, county councils, surrounding state schools, and, most importantly, the children it will affect - particularly those with more complex needs, such as those under EHCPs or with SEND.
The Minister’s response confirms that no regional data has been collected. This is why I am calling on the Department for Education to conduct a full impact assessment before our children pay the price of this reckless policy.
I have spoken with Surrey and Hampshire County Councils, both of which have expressed deep concerns about the short- and long-term consequences of this policy. They warn that the effects will be felt strongly over the next 18 months, placing immense strain on our already overstretched and overcrowded state schools.
Even more troubling, my own research, supported by the Taxpayers’ Alliance, shows that the £1.8 billion this VAT aims to raise will ultimately result in a net loss to the Treasury. The Government will need to increase spending to accommodate the additional children moving into mainstream education, covering the cost of extra spaces, resources, and teachers to support the transition of 35,000 children.
WHAT’S GOING ON IN FARNHAM AND BORDON
DISCUSSING WHITEHILL AND BORDON’S HEALTHCARE
On Monday, I met with the Chief Executive and Directors of Primary Care and Strategic Engagement from Hampshire’s Integrated Care Board (ICB) to discuss the Health Hub project and the future of Chase Community Hospital.
As many of you know, I’ve raised serious concerns and wrote to the Health Secretary and NHS England about the ICB’s ability to deliver promised improvements to local healthcare. To date, I’ve received no response from Wes Streeting.
I support any changes that genuinely improve healthcare for people in Whitehill and Bordon, as long as they have the backing of doctors and local health professionals, and have evidence to demonstrate that it is an improvement to local people. Likewise, I still believe The Chase should continue to be used for healthcare in some form if the Health Hub is built.
The meeting with the ICB was productive overall, and I was pleased that the Chief Executive agreed with me: residents should not feel they are losing services without proper consideration or alternative provision. I focused on the urgent need for better communication and, while I remain cautious, I hope this meeting marks a step forward.
The ICB will join a special task force meeting I’m convening in just over a week. I look forward to seeing the results of our discussions, alongside input from other local stakeholders.
URGENT APPEAL: HELP SAVE ‘CHANGE OF SCENE’, FARNHAM’S LIFE-CHANGING CHARITY
Next week, I’ll be visiting Change of Scene, a remarkable charity near Farnham that supports young people facing education and mental health challenges.
They provide a safe space for children with special educational needs, autism, ADHD, and anxiety to build confidence, resilience, and life skills through hands-on experiences with animals, gardening, carpentry, and more.
However, after 17 years of service, Change of Scene is at risk of closing. They urgently need to raise £600,000 to relocate after losing their current site.
This is where we can all help. If you know of any land for lease or sale - at least 12 acres within 40 minutes of Farnham - or can support their Crowdfunder, please do. Every bit of awareness and generosity makes a difference.
Find out more and donate here: https://crowdfunder.co.uk/p/change-of-scene-securing-the-future
NET ZERO BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
Centrica are currently offering £100,000 grants for net zero projects, which could support organisations in Farnham and Bordon who have a bright idea to tackle climate change, lower energy bills and deliver a real impact to people and communities.
They are searching for projects seeking to bring affordable, accessible, and sustainable energy to their local communities. We want to help green innovations and community projects that will help reach net zero – in particular, projects that demonstrate one or more of the following:
- Support sustainable and innovative solutions that reduce carbon emissions by transforming how communities manage their energy - and help the UK reach net zero.
- Engage individuals to better understand how they impact the environment and inspire them to do things differently for a more sustainable future.
- Help communities to collaborate and use energy in a more sustainable way, while providing a powerful vision for their future.
Applications are welcome from charities, community interest companies, registered community groups, not-for-profit and for-profit companies. Applications are now open – with a deadline of 17th April – and further information is available here.
STATE PENSION INJUSTICE
I’ve challenged the Government again on a glaring injustice: why is the full new State Pension £7,000 less than the minimum wage?
A full-time worker on the minimum wage earns £18,900 per year, soon to rise above £21,000. Yet, the full new State Pension is only £11,500. This shocking gap leaves many pensioners struggling to afford even the basics, made worse by the Government’s plan to remove the Winter Fuel Payment.
When I raised this issue in Parliament, Ministers had no real answer. Their refusal to act means pensioners are being left behind. This isn’t just a number; it’s a harsh reality for those who’ve contributed to society their whole lives. While the Government boasts about economic growth, it continues to ignore the financial struggles of retirees.
My question caught the Government off guard, and it’s now being reported by The Express. Ministers can no longer ignore this injustice. It’s time they face the full scale of the problem and are held accountable for policies that continue to harm so many.
Pensioners deserve better, and I will keep fighting for the support they’ve earned. If this affects you or someone you know, please get in touch. The more voices we have, the harder we are to ignore.
Please also share your experiences with the cut to the Winter Fuel Payment, so I can continue pressing Labour Ministers ahead of the 2025/26 winter season: My survey
THIS WEEK’S SURGERY AND CASEWORK BREAKDOWN
This week, I’ve received several emails from constituents about the state of the A3 and the increasing litter along its carriageways. I’ve written to both Surrey County Council and Hampshire County Council about the sections within my constituency and will be raising the issue with National Highways as well.
Other casework this week has included concerns over medicine supply, DVLA licence renewals, and Universal Credit claims. I’m continuing to engage with relevant authorities, organisations, and Government departments on behalf of my constituents.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you think I can help with any issues you’re facing.
