65th Weekly Newsletter
It has been one of those Westminster weeks where the distractions threaten to drown out the things that really matter. While serious questions continue to swirl around Peter Mandelson and wider decision-making at the top of government, families and businesses are still dealing with interest rates stuck higher for longer, uncertainty over Labour’s handling of foreign affairs, and worrying signals on justice reform. Even Reform found time to publish a pubs plan that does not survive a basic reality check. Amid all the noise, my focus remains firmly on accountability, economic common sense, and making sure our community’s voice is heard above the Westminster chatter.
Greg
FEATURED THIS WEEK
Starmer’s credibility hangs in the balance
Sir Keir Starmer’s judgement is under serious question. At PMQs on Wednesday, he acknowledged appointing a British Ambassador despite knowing of that individual’s close links to Jeffrey Epstein. Later that afternoon, I set out why this raises real doubts about whether the Prime Minister still meets the standards expected in public life.
Y Plus at Woodlands Community Hall
YPlus has significantly increased use of its site in Headley Down since last summer, with activities now running throughout the week and the reopening of Woodlands Little Treasures nursery later this month a real boost for local families. I am pleased to support the next stage of this work.
ITV’s The Last Word
I appeared on our regional ITV political show to discuss a range of national issues, including the Mandelson appointment and recent political defections. It was a robust but constructive discussion, and an important chance to set out a clear Conservative case to viewers across the region.
Bordon Garrison Nursery
With the nursery closing in July, I met senior Hampshire County Councillors who will now assess local early years provision, including nursery and childminder capacity, while work continues to identify alternative sites. It is essential that regeneration and new housing do not come at the expense of families’ access to early years provision.
MY DEBATE ON THE TAX BURDEN FOR SMALL BUSINESS
I led a debate in Parliament on the growing tax burden facing small and medium-sized businesses. I set out how, since the 2024 Budget, many SMEs have been hit by a perfect storm of higher taxes, rising employment costs and soaring energy bills, with little sign that the Government understands the pressure this is placing on businesses that underpin our local economy. Owners across the constituency tell me the same thing again and again: costs are rising faster than revenues, confidence is draining away, and planning for the future is becoming increasingly difficult.
I also challenged Ministers on policies that are hitting high streets hardest, particularly changes to business rates, national insurance and VAT. I highlighted real examples of viable local businesses facing dramatic cost increases, leading to fewer staff hours and postponed investment.
I was clear that continued tax rises on small businesses will only lead to fewer jobs, less investment and weaker high streets, and that a different approach is now urgently needed.
CHINA AND BRITAIN’S NATIONAL INTEREST
Following the Prime Minister’s visit to China last week, I have been clear that warm words and photo opportunities do not amount to serious foreign policy. China is a hostile power that represses its own people and shows little regard for democratic values or international norms. Any engagement must be grounded in realism, strength and clarity of purpose. On that test, the Government’s approach is falling badly short. I asked the Prime Minister how he thinks he is standing up for victims of Chinese aggression - including in our own country.
While Ministers talk up their diplomacy, their actions tell a different story. Approving a new Chinese embassy that raises national security concerns, including proximity to sensitive data infrastructure, directly undermines claims of strength. At the same time, the Government continues to flirt with proposals that would see Britain pay to relinquish sovereign military territory in which China has clear strategic interest. Our national interest demands firmness, consistency and an approach that matches words with action.
THIS WEEK’S CASEWORK 'WINS’
This week I was pleased to receive confirmation of progress on broadband infrastructure in Passfield and look forward to sharing further updates with residents as this work moves forward. I was also glad to see a longstanding case concerning service charges for leasehold properties finally resolved, bringing long-overdue clarity for those affected. I am also delighted that the Waverley has agreed to reconsider funding to complete the perimeter fencing around the play area at The Chantrys, rather than limiting work to the roadside only. This would make a real difference for families using the playground, and I will continue to push for a full solution.
Alongside this, I have been raising concerns on behalf of constituents about delays to Blue Badge renewals, with some applications now exceeding the advised 12-week timeframe; I have asked the Department for Transport about possible grace periods for expired badges. I have also contacted National Highways regarding persistent litter along the A3 and have been reassured that work is underway with Hampshire and Surrey County Councils to address what has become a daily eyesore for many residents.
