The New Year is very often a time for reflection, and politics is no exception. It gives me the opportunity to look back at the work I’ve done in the previous 12 months – and how I can best carry it forward in 2019.
Brexit will obviously be top of the agenda when the Prime Minister brings her deal back to Parliament next month. I hope that MPs from all parties will join me in supporting her proposals, which balance respecting the result of the referendum with the needs of major British manufacturers and exporters.
But normal life doesn’t stop for Brexit, and this year I will be working hard on several projects and campaigns I took up in 2018.
Next year will see the rolling out of the new policing funding settlement. Ministers have offered a rise, worth £970 million nationally, which could see West Midlands Police receive a cash boost £34.2 million in 2019-20 – including almost £9 million in fresh grants from central government.
My priority will be making sure that this money makes a difference on the ground in Solihull, rather than further lining the cash reserves of the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) as he oversees round after round of reductions to our town’s police presence.
That’s why I am supporting calls for Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands, to take over the functions of the PCC in our region. This would ensure joined-up decision making and help the public hold someone accountable for how their money is spent.
Spring will also see the publication of the Government’s consultation on the law governing unauthorised traveller sites. These have been a serious problem here in Solihull, and I will continue to work with the Council to make sure our green spaces are better protected this summer.
Finally, I know that many residents are concerned about proposals to relocate Post Office counter services to WH Smiths in Mell Square, and I will liaise directly with key decision-makers to make sure that our community has the level of service it needs.
Originally published in the Solihull Mail, 10/01/19.
