Leadership decisions and successful local campaigns
Last week, I set out my view that the Prime Minister should set a timetable for his departure and for a new leader to be chosen to lead the Labour Party and the country.
It was clear to me from the many conversations I have had with voters that the PM’s loss of authority with parliamentary colleagues and voters will impede the Government’s ability to deliver the change that people voted for at the general election.
Taken alongside our generational responsibility to stop Reform’s hatred and division taking over our great country, I believe this was the right decision.
I appreciate that there will be mixed views on my decision, but I will always do what I believe is right for my constituents.
In the constituency, it was wonderful to join the World of Widewater for their AGM to celebrate our successful campaign to save the Widewater Lagoon with the replacement of the pipe that feeds the lagoon with water from the sea.
Over in Worthing, I met with teachers and pupils at Worthing High School to celebrate the installation of a new zebra crossing on St Lawrence Avenue after a campaign I’ve worked on with them. Road safety around schools remains a priority for me.
Adur Health Partnership welcomed me to the Shoreham Health Centre, where we talked about the new e-consult system that allows people to consult their GP online – making it easier to access healthcare at a time of your choosing, though increasing demand for GP services overall. I also met with the Chair of the Sussex Police Federation to learn about issues facing the police officers who keep us safe.
I was also glad to visit the Sussex MS Centre in Southwick, meeting with service users and learning about the therapies and activities they provide for people living with multiple sclerosis – including oxygen therapy in their hyperbaric chamber.