As well as handling correspondence and emails from constituents, I have carried out a number of meetings, committees and events throughout the week, as seen below:
Monday 12th December:
I began my week by meeting Mr Yahav Lichner, the London Office Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), here discussed the role of the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on HIV/AIDS. The UNFPA is the lead UN agency for delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Ensuring and promoting women and girl's sexual and reproductive health and rights, including preventing and addressing gender-based violence and harmful practices against women such as female genital mutilation.
Later in the day I attend the Conservative Friends of Israel Annual Business Lunch. This event occurs every year and provides an opportunity to discuss the British – Israeli relationship and the current situation in the Middle East.
As a member of the APPG on British Jews it was a pleasure to have been invited to the Board of Deputies of British Jews’ annual Chanukah Reception, in the Houses of Parliament, where we talked over the contributions the Jewish community has made to Britain.
Tuesday 13th December:
In the evening I facilitated a tea room surgery in my role as Parliamentary Private Secretary (PPS) to the Secretary of State for Transport. This is where I meet with a number of MPs who wish to meet with the Secretary of State to raise concerns about transportation in their constituencies.
Wednesday 14th December:
Wednesday morning began with me congratulating and presenting the winners of my annual Christmas card competition at All Saints Church of England Primary School.
Later in the morning, whilst in the House of Commons, I asked the Minister for the Cabinet Office ‘what assessment he has made of the adequacy of the UK defences against cyber-attack?’ This is a topic relevant to our community as I have been approached by a number of local businesses that have been subjected to cyber-attack.
In the evening I hosted one of my Supper Clubs at my Constituency Office. These are regular events for local members and involve a prominent guest speaker, at this event we were honoured to have Andrew Stephenson MP, PPS to the Foreign Secretary, where we discussed his role as PPS, Brexit and the different challenges faced by northern and southern constituencies.
Friday 16th December:
In the morning I attended the debate on Istanbul Convention re domestic violence and violence against women and girls. You can view the full debate here: Istanbul Convention.
On Friday afternoon I recorded my appearance for the Sunday Politics, where the main topic of discussion was the issue of Homelessness in the Capital.