March 2025 Update
I am pleased to bring you my March 2025 Update. As ever, if you would like to sign up to my mailing list, you can do so on this page or by emailing [email protected].
Dear constituent,
This month, the Chancellor outlined her Spring Statement. Despite her being emphatic that this was absolutely not an 'Emergency Budget', it very much presented itself as an exercise in damage control following the chaos inflicted upon hard-working families, the farming industry and the wider economy in October, from which we are seeing a fallout locally.
The statement was delivered on the same day that the OBR joined other forecasters in stating that GDP growth for 2025 has halved. This is in contrast to the same time last year, when the UK was growing at the fastest rate in the G7. It is just one damning example of the impact Labour's disastrous choices are having on the country.
Elsewhere, my work has continued locally and in Parliament, both as MP and in my shadow ministerial capacity.
If you would like to keep up to date in between newsletters, I would encourage you to visit my website or Facebook page.
London Marathon 2025
I have once again been lacing up my running shoes in preparation for my third London Marathon. Previously, I have run in support of the Paul Strickland Scanner Centre, the William Low Trust and the Alzheimer's Society.
This year, I am proud to supporting Prostate Cancer UK. This is the most common cancer among men in the UK, with research suggesting that around 1 in 8 will develop the disease in their lifetime.
While prostate cancer has not traditionally received the level of investment and focus of other cancers, I am pleased to see this is changing, and I want to support that cause. This money will help to fund lifesaving research and support for men and their families affected by prostate cancer.
I am grateful for any donations to support the cause. For further information, please visit my fundraising page.
In the Constituency
Surgeries
My surgeries have continued, and I am grateful to the teams at Caffe Pascucci in Hatch End, Cofix in Northwood, We Love Coffee in Harefield and Cafe Hills in Northwood Hills for hosting me this month.
If you would like to make an appointment to meet with me at a surgery, or are a business who would be interested in hosting, please get in touch via 0203 545 2462 or [email protected]
Crime in Ruislip
Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner is relatively low crime. However, I am aware that a spate of burglaries, phone snatchings and, more tragically, loss of life have left residents worried that crime is on the rise and that police are not tackling it effectively.
I meet regularly with local police teams to discuss these matters, and I know they work hard on residents' behalf to tackle incidents of crime. In reality, they are limited by the inaction of the Mayor and the lack of local infrastructure to support their work.
Last year, I invited constituents to take part in a local crime survey. There was a clear strength of feeling that the Mayor has neglected the suburbs and is not trusted by residents to keep our streets safe. After sharing these findings with the Mayor, I was disappointed to receive a response - five months later from his deputy - that failed to address any of the concerns raised. This only sought to highlight the lack of understanding from City Hall about the priorities of Greater London.
Failure to implement concrete plans has led to a diminishing of local police services. Following on from residents' correspondence over the past number of weeks, I have again written to the Mayor asking what steps he will now take to address the problem. I have yet to receive a response, but a copy of the letter can be read here.
Old Park Wood in Harefield
Across Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner, we have a number of beauty spots valued by residents and so the local environment has always been a priority for me as MP.
This month, I was pleased to highlight just one example of a much-loved greenspace during a visit with the Woodland Trust to Old Park Wood in Harefield. This nature reserve is home to ancient woodland, a plethora of flora and fauna - including bluebells in the slightly warmer weather - and wildlife.
We discussed some of the Trust's concerns about Government legislation, including the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, which had its Second Reading in Parliament this month, and the impact of housing targets on the environment. I have been clear that, while I support broadening opportunities for people to get on the housing ladder, this should not be at the expense of green belt protections.
I will continue to hold the Government to account on these issues and work with organisations like the Woodland Trust to continue campaigning to protect greenspaces for the future.
Society of Ruislip Artists
It was a pleasure to join Barbara and Joyce from the Society of Ruislip Artists at their Spring Exhibition at the Cow Byre Gallery.
The exhibition ran between the 9th and 22nd of this month and celebrated an impressive 80 years since the society's foundation in 1945. There were some fantastic pieces on display, and I hope that residents were able to drop in to see them.
For those who were not able to attend, there is an ongoing exhibition at Vito's Café in Ruislip (one of my regular surgery venues) and the artists also join Eastcote House Gardens for their summer picnic and the Pinner Rotary at their village show in September. More information can be found here.
Arts for Life Project
It was good to catch up with Beth from the Arts for Life Project in Northwood this month. This is a really worthwhile cause that supports vulnerable young people with their health and wellbeing through art therapy.
Residents may recall that I have visited their studio in Forge Lane to see some of the excellent work they're doing, and I am keen to continue to support the delivery of this valuable project. More information can be found here.
Cedar House Care Home
It was a delight to be welcomed back to Cedar House Care Home in Harefield this month.
This was an excellent opportunity to meet with residents and to speak to them about what life is like at Cedar House, which is an integral part of the local community in Harefield. I was also given a tour of the facilities, which included the recent refurbishment work that has gone on in the lounges, and was treated to a selection of songs by the residents' choir.
I am grateful to Patience and her team for their hard-work, passion and commitment. This is evident not only their ‘good’ CQC rating but more importantly in the high spirits of the home’s residents.
Reopening of Nationwide in Northwood
This month, I was pleased to attend the official reopening of Nationwide in Northwood.
I took the opportunity to speak with the residents who rely on the bank's services. It is clear from these conversations that the branch and its team are an important part of the local community. It is imperative to retain this sort of hub, which is responding effectively to changing demand, with customers encouraged to visit the branch to ask about things such as online banking.
I am glad that this is such a great part of the community and long may it continue.
An Evening with Pinner Rotary
It is always a pleasure to join the Pinner Rotary Club to speak at one of their dinners, which take place at Pinner Hill Golf Club.
This is an excellent opportunity to catch up with the brilliant members of the Pinner Rotary, to hear about the issues on their mind and about the work they are continuing to do to raise money for good causes - both locally and internationally.
For those who may not be aware, the club supports the local community through activities and events such as the Pinner Village Show, usually held in September. Further information can be found here.
As ever, it was a great evening, and I am grateful for the invitation.
Heathrow Update
Residents will know that Heathrow Airport has suffered severe disruption this month following a fire at the substation in Hayes. A number of constituents would have been affected by the airport closure, whether they were expecting to fly or if they are employed in the sector.
The week before the closure of the airport, I had the opportunity to visit Heathrow. Starting in Terminal 5, I was shown the new scanners that have been installed to allow travellers to move through the airport faster, followed by a tour of the new tarmac facilities that will help ensure a smoother operation.
While I may oppose the Heathrow expansion, it is important that a good relationship is maintained between the airport and the local community. I am thankful to the airport staff who maintain this excellent local facility and allow residents to challenge their plans.
I was pleased to visit the airport especially considering my meeting in Westminster with Cllr Ian Edwards, Leader of Hillingdon Council and Cllr Steve Tuckwell to discuss the impact of Heathrow’s expansion plans. The Government’s plans for expansion were announced with little warning and many of my constituents are concerned that expansion will happen without their consultation.
In Parliament
March was extremely busy in Westminster. The Government brought forward a substantial amount of legislation and it was paramount that it was scrutinised thoroughly.
From changes to community funds to the fundamental reform of the education sector, I was kept busy raising the concerns of my constituents and other stakeholders.
Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill
I commend the Education Secretary’s stated desire to ensure that the safety of children is her highest priority. Sadly, having participated in the lengthy debate this month on the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, I cannot help feel that more can be done through this legislation to achieve that goal.
To strengthen this legislation, I put my name to a series of amendments. I believe this to be necessary as Ministers had neglected to listen to and learn from experts in the education field.
During the last fourteen years, successive Conservative Governments strengthened the education sector, which led to a dramatic improvement in outcomes. Youth unemployment was half what it had been under the last Labour Government, and there were 4 million more people in work than there were when they left office. Much of that is down to the brilliant progress that was made by so many of our schools in transforming education standards.
During my remarks in the debate, I ensured to push the Minister on the creeping role that the unions are looking to play in our classrooms. Many educational leaders desire greater freedom in our classrooms but this Bill might just do the opposite.
You can watch some of my contribution to the debate here.
Parliamentary drop-ins
In addition to various debates and meetings, I have also attended a number of Parliamentary drop-ins this month.
Irish in Britain hosted an event on St. Patrick's Day, highlighting the importance of Irish community groups in Britain and celebrating the links between the two countries.
Hargreaves Lansdown hosted an informative sessions with some useful free tools to help everybody plan their finances better, with some helpful constituency data too.
March also celebrates World Book Day, which is an important cause and one I like to show my support for year after year. Reading for pleasure has been found to be the biggest single indicator of a child's future success, and it is important to encourage children and families to find the fun in reading. This simple act really does change lives.
Pinner Association in Westminster
It was a delight to meet with members of the Pinner Association before their tour of Parliament this month. Engaging on a number of local and national issues, I am always interested to hear the views of residents. I was also really pleased to hear such positive from those who have contacted my office for assistance, and I pass on my thanks to my team.
Inside UK Parliament tours are free for residents and can be booked via my office. For constituents who may be interested, I would encourage you to get in touch via the usual channels.
Shadow Ministerial Update
Business relating to my Shadow Ministerial portfolio has continued in Westminster this month, and I am pleased to share some of that work below.
Local Government Meeting
As party of my duties as Shadow Minister, I regularly meet with the Local Government Association (LGA) in their Westminster office. Along with the rest of the Shadow Ministerial team, this is an important meeting that allows local leaders to feedback how Government policy affects their residents.
This month, we have discussed a range of issues from neighbourhood plans, new developments on precious greenbelt land, the cancellation of certain elections in England and the ongoing financial situation facing councils up and down the country.
Planning and Infrastructure Bill
This month, the Government introduced its flagship Planning and Infrastructure Bill. The Bill is designed to unlock new development across the country as the Government seeks to fulfil its ambitious project of building 1.5 million new homes.
As the Opposition, it is imperative that we fully scrutinise the Government’s plans to ensure they are fit for purpose. I support much of what the Government has put forward, as a lot of it was already in motion under the previous Government. I was, however, shocked to learn that prior to it coming to Parliament, Labour activists were boasting about having seen the detail of the legislation.
Ahead of publishing its Planning and Infrastructure Bill for MPs, it became evident that a select number of friendly stakeholders were given advance sight of its contents. Indeed, in posts on social media, a former Labour candidate boasted about having seen the legislation during a meeting at 10 Downing Street.
In our parliamentary democracy, it is important that elected MPs are not overlooked by the executive. To ensure that no political allies were being given privileged access to legislation, I raised a Point of Order in the Chamber, which can be viewed here. I am grateful that the Deputy Prime Minister was present and assured that this was not the case, but I remain concerned about what exactly was disclosed at the meeting in Downing Street.
In Parliament, the Shadow Secretary of State responded to the first debate on this legislation. I have been selected to appear on the Bill committee and look forward to going through the Bill line-by-line over the coming weeks.
Plans for Neighbourhoods
The Government’s policy announcements over recent months have had a detrimental effect on our high streets and neighbourhood communities. The massive rise in national insurance contributions, the increase in business rates for pubs and the changes to business property relief have had a heavy impact.
To rectify these poor financial decisions, the Government is looking to support high streets through their Plan for Neighbourhoods. Building on the work of the previous Government as it sought to level-up left behind communities, this additional funding is minimal compared to what came before, but I know will be welcomed by recipients.
I am, however, concerned that the Labour Government has stacked the proposed neighbourhood boards with unaccountable trade union representatives, while ignoring locally elected councillors. Without this vital accountability and local insight, there is a very real possibility that funds will not reach the projects that need the most support.
This was one of a number of concerns raised with the Shadow Ministers by local council leaders through the Local Government Association Meetings that I now attend.
My response, on behalf of the Opposition, can be viewed here.
Westminster Hall Debate: Local Government Finance in London
Residents will know that while we are lucky to be served by the excellent councils of Hillingdon and Harrow, London boroughs have not been immune from the financial pressures of the last few years.
The very first council meeting I attended saw the then Labour administration of Hillingdon raise council tax by 18% without outlining how it would make life better for its residents. When the Conservatives under Ray Puddifoot took over, they ensured that residents will no longer face extraordinary council tax rises as they would put public finances on a sound footing.
The benefit of this is felt by many in the constituency and with work underway in Harrow to achieve the same, I am frequently told by residents how much they appreciate a well-run council.
Recently, however, the Government’s changes to National Insurance Contributions, Business Rates and a diversion of grants to central London are placing outer London boroughs like ours under increased strain.
In a debate this month, I pressed the Ministers on the pressures their policies are having on London boroughs, and I was delighted to see such a strong turnout among MPs asking the Government to go further and provide real support.
MHCLG Questions
Readers will know that I have been regularly raising the concerns about the Government’s Renter’s Rights Bill. I have heard both from constituents and small businesses about the damage that Government legislation is having. At a regular surgery this month, I spoke to residents who are being forced out of the rental market sector by the Government’s Renter’s Rights Bill and threats that Ministers will go further in the near future.
In the rental sector, there is a delicate balance between ensuring that tenants are satisfied with the homes they rent and supporting landlords who provide privately rented accommodation to millions. The Renter’s Rights Bill goes further than any previous pieces of legislation to upend the status quo and many landlords, especially small landlords, are looking to leave the sector.
Over the last six months, I have regularly raised the concerns of landlords but have found the Government largely unwilling to listen. In this month’s session of oral questions, I pressed Ministers specifically on the minimum energy efficiency standards in the domestic private rented sector. I am not convinced that Ministers have fully considered the impact of their proposals and the response from the Minister did little to change my mind.
As ever, my office is open and the team are on hand to help. If you require any assistance, please do not hesitate to get in contact.
Kind regards,
David
