Another busy week working hard for Chipping Barnet both locally and in Parliament. Here’s what I’ve been up to:

Monday: In Parliament 

I started the week spending time with my team and agreeing priorities for the week. I then attended a meeting of the Ecclesiastical Committee, a lesser-known Parliamentary Committee that considers matters relating to the Church of England of relevance to Parliament. Later, in between votes in the chamber, I met with the Treasury in my role as Mission Champion for Economic Growth, then I joined Iain Dale on LBC’s Cross Question to debate the key issues of the week. 

You can listen back here. 

Tuesday: Housing and Social Security in focus 

A busy day of meetings in Parliament, including a discussion about housing development in Barnet. In the Chamber, I contributed to the debate on Social Security Benefits, highlighting the upcoming pension increase in April. Over 20,000 pensioners in Chipping Barnet will benefit from either a £470 uplift if they are on the new state pension or a £360 uplift on the basic rate. I know firsthand the invaluable contributions older people make to their families and communities. At almost every local event, I see retired residents dedicating their time to churches, charities, and good causes. Ensuring security in retirement remains a top priority for me. 

Wednesday: Tackling the housing crisis 

Housing remains one of the biggest inequalities in Britain today. At the Waltham Forest Council Inclusive Growth Summit, I reiterated my support for the government’s commitment to the biggest social housing building programme in a generation. Fixing the housing crisis isn’t just about providing roofs over people’s heads. It strengthens our high streets, enhances community cohesion, and improves economic security for families. 

Later, at the APPG for London, I questioned representatives from the Greater London Authority, developers, and housing associations on how we can build good quality and affordable homes for Londoners. A multi-level approach is crucial if we are to address the capital’s housing crisis. 

Thursday: Connecting with constituents 

I spent most of today working through the inbox (we receive hundreds of emails each week) and held virtual surgeries with residents, discussing a range of issues and offering support on concerns affecting them. Hearing directly from constituents is invaluable in influencing action locally and my work nationally in Parliament. I also went on a visit to a major construction site – more on this next week! 

Friday: Out and about  

My team and I hosted in-person surgeries in High Barnet, where I spoke with residents about how I can support them and take action on their concerns, including taking on rogue builders and raising the need for life-long care for those with Cerebral Palsy. 

In the afternoon, I hosted another Tea with Tomlinson event in East Barnet, which had a brilliant turnout. My team and I had lots of engaging discussions over many cups of tea! We covered a range of key local issues, such as our health service and increased neighbourhood policing, which I will take forward in Parliament. 

Today was the first day this year that the sun set after 5pm in London – roll on the summer!