May I just wish you all a Happy New Year.
What a year we’ve just had. We commemorated the life of Her Majesty the Queen as King Charles III became our Monarch. We had 3 Prime Ministers. We witnessed Putin’s evil invasion of Ukraine. Like other nations, we’ve faced up to spiralling energy costs and post-pandemic pressures on our economy. I’m proud we’ve stepped up to support the Ukrainian people with military equipment, training, humanitarian aid, generators and welcomed thousands of refugees.
As well as representing our area in the House of Commons on a national level, I’ve continued to work hard as your Local Champion. There has been positive news locally. There’s a new £20 million Accident & Emergency unit under construction at HRI. Gigabit broadband is being rolled out. The Trans Pennine rail upgrade is underway (yes I know we need to sort out TPE!). There are new buildings for Greenhead College and the University of Huddersfield. I’m supporting Levelling Up Fund bids to regenerate Crowther Mills in Marsden and upgrade the Huddersfield-Penistone railway line which goes through Honley and Brockholes. There are hundreds of additional Police Officers for West Yorkshire Police. I’ve welcomed new Arts Council funding for local groups.
The Government has provided millions of pounds of support for families and businesses with their fuel bills. The Government has given millions of pounds to Kirklees Council to distribute to help the most vulnerable in our community with the Cost of Living. The Government’s multi-million pound Holiday Activity and Food fund is supporting thousands of local youngsters. The Government has uprated the State Pension and Benefits by inflation.
I’m not complacent though and realise there’s a lot more to do. I’m determined to crack on with my fab team serving our wonderful community. I look forward to standing at the next General Election in 2 years' time.
Here’s to a calmer and better 2023 for us all.
Jason
