Mail Weekly Column: 26 June 2023
I’ve been thinking a lot this week about responsibility, and what that means for those fortunate enough to do the job that I do, and those in other areas of public life.
On Monday, I voted on the Commons’ Privileges Committee’s report on former Prime Minister, and now former MP, Boris Johnson, about whether or not he lied to Parliament about what he knew of parties at No 10 during Covid lockdowns. You can quibble about whether you think the punishment meted out was – or wasn’t – harsh. But such Committees work incredibly hard, across political parties, to be independent: and the Privileges Committee acts as a vital check and balance on those who would otherwise be beyond scrutiny.
We all feel let down and betrayed by what happened. Honesty and propriety in public life matter and so it was important for me to turn up and register that, and support the Committee’s findings. No matter who you are, you should be accountable. As your MP, I have always sought to be, and to be honest and reliable, and will remain so.
Also on Monday, I was honoured attend an event, led by the Speaker, where serving personnel raised the Armed Forces Day flag at Westminster. Similar ceremonies nationwide marked the beginning of Armed Forces Week, providing an opportunity to thank those who defend our way of life, protect British citizens around the world, and strengthen our relationships with our allies. There is no greater responsibility than to lay your life on the line for our national ideals, particularly in this increasingly uncertain world. It was poignant to take time to honour those who have fought, or continue to fight, for our democracy.
That was brought home to me on Tuesday when Vera Hay passed away. Vera was 101 years young, and a Normandy veteran. She served in a field hospital shortly after D-Day and, in recognition of her service, was awarded France’s highest distinction, the Legion d’Honneur. She was a hero and one of our own – a real reminder of the sacrifices people made, and continue to make, to secure our future. It was my honour to attend the ceremony of Remembrance and Thanksgiving at the War Memorial in Ulverston on Saturday and very poignant to see the flag outside the Royal British Legion at half mast in her honour. May she rest in peace.
Finally, I know from my surgeries and from talking to many of you on your doorsteps, just how worrying the latest news on the economy has been. Following Treasury Questions this week, I spoke to the Chancellor about this. He has held a roundtable with mortgage providers asking them to deal with people as flexibly as they possibly can. His message, however, is that we must continue to fight inflation, as it is this that makes every pound in our pocket worth less. And he is right. But if you are struggling, please do contact my office and talk to one of my amazing team who will be able to help, or signpost you to various sources of help and advice.
