Monday was dominated by the Local Audit and Accountability Bill which falls under the remit of the Department for Communities and Local Government. Readers will know that in my role as Parliamentary Private Secretary to Eric Pickles, I attend all the relevant debates and help with the delivery of legislation in this area. I also asked about domestic violence amongst hard to reach groups during Home Office Questions. The Minister’s answers and my questions can be found here.
Tuesday began with a meeting regarding the Grantham Project which seeks to commemorate the life and work of Mrs Thatcher. The discussion centred on how to link work here in London to celebrate her life with similar projects in her hometown of Grantham, Lincolnshire. Shortly after I met a constituent who wanted to discuss an issue with his pension before meeting with the All Party Group on Electoral Conduct. Please see the article on my website for further information on this. Later that day, I attended an Adjournment Debate on the Development of Crystal Palace.
This week also saw Diwali celebrations in the House of Commons. I joined the Hindu Forum of Britain in their Parliamentary celebrations.
I also had the pleasure of judging the Christmas card competition from local schools this week. As ever, the standard was very high but after much deliberation, I managed to choose winners! I will be attending the schools with the successful entries shortly.
I also had a short discussion with some students from City University regarding the Iranian hunger strikes that are occurring outside the US Embassy in London. I visited the hunger strikers recently so the students were keen to hear my opinions on the situation. This was covered in the Hendon Times, the article can be viewed here.
And of course, Friday was spent in the constituency. My Mobile Surgery was out in North Finchley between 0930 and 1130. This was a busy surgery with a wide variety of issues being discussed. I then held further surgery appointments at my constituency office.
On Sunday I visited Bhaktivedanta Manor for further Diwali celebrations and an excellent firework display!