Welcome to my April newsletter! March was a great month and I’ve been out and about throughout the constituency as well as meeting with Government ministers promoting the interests of the Chippenham Constituency.
If you have any questions, queries or if I can help you with anything please do get in touch with me either by email at [email protected] or by visiting my contact page here.
Read all about what I’ve been up to as your Conservative Parliamentary Candidate below. If you haven’t already, you can follow my social media for more frequent updates!
‘Stick to the plan’ as further cost of living support is delivered to more families this month.
I have welcomed the further cost of living support that was announced by the Government which comes into force this month, sticking to the plan and supporting more families across the Chippenham Constituency. By sticking to the plan, and more than halving inflation from 11.1. per cent to 3.4per cent, the Conservatives are tackling the cost of living, with wages continuing to grow and mortgage rates starting to come down.
This month the Conservatives are going further to support households, with the Local Housing Allowance increasing to support 1.6 million families by an average of £800 and Universal Credit being uprated to support ten million families with higher costs. To further support those on low incomes, the National Living Wage will increase from £10.52 an hour to £11.44 an hour this month–boosting the wage of a full time worker on the National Living Wage by £1,800 a year.
This month will also see the effects of the new energy price cap as it comes into force and marks the lowest level since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, protecting households. This support builds on the Conservative Government’s work to reduce inflation, which is the number one thing to support the cost of living–sticking to the plan to help families build a brighter future.
My Residents Survey!
On the 28th June 2023, the Independent Boundary Commission for England published its final recommendations following a review into the Parliamentary Constituencies. This meant that the Chippenham Constituency is changing at the next general election.
Each area has its own hidden gems and its own issues. I want to hear your views on your local area and hear what you want to change!
Click here to complete my survey!
Siemens Mobility's Decision to Invest in Chippenham: A Testament to Community Potential
The recent announcement of Siemens Mobility's decision to invest in Chippenham has sparked waves of excitement and anticipation throughout the town and beyond. This significant investment stands as a testament to the unwavering potential of our community and is poised to catalyse a new era of growth and prosperity in Chippenham.
For decades, Chippenham has been a vibrant hub of commerce, culture, and community spirit. Nestled in the picturesque Wiltshire countryside, the town boasts a rich history dating back centuries. From its humble beginnings as a market town to its emergence as a key player in the modern economy, Chippenham has continually evolved while preserving its unique charm and character.
Siemens Mobility's decision to invest in Chippenham serves as a resounding vote of confidence in the town's economic potential and strategic significance. As a global leader in transportation solutions, Siemens Mobility brings with it a wealth of expertise, resources, and opportunities that promise to transform Chippenham's economic landscape for the better.
Read more about this announcement here.
Meeting with the Defence Secretary, Grant Shapps MP
In a recent meeting with Defence Secretary Grant Shapps MP, we delved into crucial defence plans. With many local MOD sites, my commitment to supporting the armed forces remains strong. Key takeaways include deepening UK-Australia defence relations, progress in the E-7 Wedgetail programme, and reaffirmation of NATO commitment. A focus on diversity in the armed forces and increased aid to Ukraine were highlighted. Record defence spending, improved service member accommodations, and modernisation efforts underscored our dedication to national security. As we navigate global challenges, I remain resolute in advocating for robust defence strategies and investments to safeguard peace and security.
Click here to watch his response to my questions about defence spending and click the button below to read more about our meeting.
Corsham Climate Action Once You Know screening and Parliamentary Candidate Q&A.
I had the pleasure of being invited to the Corsham Climate Action’s thought provoking ‘Once You Know’ screening at the Pound Arts Centre.
I would like to thank everyone involved in the organisation and everyone that joined me - it was very interesting to hear everyone’s views and to be able to answer your questions on the Climate and Environment afterwards as part of a Parliamentary Candidate Panel. Throughout the evening there was a consensus on certain aspects of climate change and its associated policies. However, I was able to offer an alternative perspective to the other candidates in utilising the significant innovations in science and technology to help us find sustainable alternatives rather than increasing taxes to act as a disincentive to the public.
If you weren’t able to attend the event and would like to speak to me about any of my views and what I stand for please do email me at [email protected].
Corsham Proposed Development
Your voice matters! Let's talk about the proposed development of land north of Bath Road in Corsham.
It's time to have your say on this crucial issue. The community's input is vital in ensuring the towns view is heard by the developers. Do you believe this development is right for Corsham? What concerns do you have about its impact on our community and infrastructure?
Share your thoughts with the developers via the link, https://www.landnorthofbathroad.com, until the 3rd of April 2024.
Please note that no planning application has been submitted to Wiltshire Council at this time.
Royal Wootton Bassett Banking Hub Opening
It was a pleasure to be at the opening of the Royal Wootton Bassett Banking Hub with Cllr Allison Bucknell and Cllr Jackie Lay. The new banking hub is now in its permanent home on Royal Wootton Bassett’s high street. (33 High St, Royal Wootton Bassett, Swindon, SN4 7AF).
Find out more about the banking hub here.
The Chippenham Shed Opening
Really impressed with The Chippenham Shed. I was very pleased to be invited by Simon, to the opening today to see the culmination of all the work done by Simon, Adam and all the other brilliant volunteers. Really good to see the support from neighbouring towns Sheds. I’ve been privileged to have seen the construction at various stages and I have to say the impact for all those that join the Shed will be immense both in terms of companionship and mental health support.
You can find out more about what I have been doing across the Chippenham Constituency by following my social media pages below.
