As we enter the first week of November our thoughts naturally turn to the upcoming Remembrance commemorations. In advance of those events it is moving to see many villages putting up beautiful displays or holding commemorative exhibitions including in Rudgwick and Balcombe.
I was delighted to visit the pop-up Royal British Legion shop in Swan Walk. The shop is staffed by volunteers, including on the day I was there (and most days!) Janet who has volunteered with the RBL for over 14 years, Included among the items available for donation are knitted poppies made by Women Institutes across Horsham.
First worn in 1921, the poppy has become a symbol synonymous with Remembrance and hope for a peaceful future. A symbol recognised with appreciation by veterans and those today who carry the burden of our defence at home and overseas.
Remembrance Sunday events will be held throughout the Horsham constituency to commemorate those who lost their lives in the two World Wars and subsequent conflicts including the commemoration held in Horsham’s Carfax commencing shortly before 11am and followed by a service in St Mary’s.
As I briefly mentioned at the end of last week’s article, I now attend cabinet. After serving as a Minister for a period it is easy to imagine that one could be blasé about being around that table. I can assure you that is not the case. One is very aware of the enormous decisions made in the Cabinet Room in the past and a determination to contribute one’s very best for the future.
As Minister for the Cabinet Office and Paymaster General my brief is wide. The Cabinet Office is the cross-government convenor (including where necessary through “COBRA”) and in addition I cover all our cross-government functions. This includes how we improve procurement across Government to maximise value for money; how we reform, enhance and support our civil service to provide the best quality public services; and how we can be efficient and effective to ensure taxpayers get the best deal possible. Predecessors have saved billions of pounds for the taxpayer - a critical task given the challenges we now confront.