FOR THE last few weeks, Parliament has been in summer recess, giving MPs the chance to spend more time in their constituency and on ministerial business.
So while I have not been in Parliament for a while it has still been a busy summer with a variety of constituency engagements covering businesses, charities and a few fun events.
I recently enjoyed meeting the residents of the Wood Norton in Evesham alongside my Parliamentary colleague, Rachel Maclean MP, where we discussed an array of both local and national issues.
At Worcestershire Parkway Station, I was equally delighted to meet representatives from both Midlands Connect and Great Western Railway (GWR), to discuss how plans for the Midlands Rail Hub could benefit my constituency and the broader West Midlands.
I am fortunate to represent a beautiful and diverse constituency which hosts a large variety of fetes and events – some very high profile, now gathering national attention such as the Battle of Evesham re-enactment but others are more low key, but great fun.
I was particularly pleased to attend the WychFest music festival in Droitwich and the Badsey Soap Box Races.
Despite Parliament being in recess, the work of government has continued throughout.
At the end of July, the Prime Minister announced new oil and gas licences would be granted in the UK as part of drive to make Britain more energy independent, while maintaining our commitment to net zero.
The independent Climate Change Committee predicts around a quarter of the UK’s energy demand will still be met by oil and gas when the UK reaches net zero in 2050.
By permitting new licences, the Government is taking steps to secure our domestic energy supply and reduce reliance on hostile states while reducing dependency on higher-emission imports, and protecting more than 200,000 jobs in the UK.
My ministerial duties have also continued through the summer months.
In addition to a visit to Wales in July, I have recently travelled to Indonesia for the ASEAN Economic Ministers Conference, as well Vietnam where I have been working to boost trading ties between the UK and Vietnam through the Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO).
I am looking forward to continuing this work when Parliament returns in September.
Finally, I would like take this opportunity to congratulate all those who have received their A Level, GCSE or equivalent qualifications in recent weeks.
I wish you all the very best for whatever lies ahead.
Nigel Huddleston
Mid Worcestershire MP
