This week’s “Queen’s Speech” marks a year since I was elected to represent Horsham. It has been an extraordinary 12 months and I am deeply grateful for having been given the opportunity.
The role provides unique access to the community – through local businesses, schools and charities. Above all it provides direct contact with constituents. Inevitably many cases that end up with an MP have been through other channels first. One of the worst aspects of the role having to recognise that there is nothing further I can do to help a constituent – but on the flipside being able to unblock what is often stupid bureaucracy or stop unfairness can be very rewarding.
I love the “constituency” role but of equal importance is being effective on behalf of constituents in Parliament. I was elected as a Conservative and have been naturally supportive of the Government’s programme. However that does not stop me raising concerns – and as discussed in last week’s column on “Academies” - with some success. Likewise I can help ensure the Government prioritises issues they support but are important for us to see implemented rapidly (a commitment for Fair Funding for schools was my No.1 priority last year).
Influencing Government decisions – for example on Airport Expansion –spans questions in the chamber through to visiting No.10, which I was pleased to do with CAGNE this week. Through holding public meetings and regular contact with their Management I attempt to ensure that whatever our differences on expansion Gatwick’s neighbours’ concerns are heard at a senior level.
I am deeply sorry that, accentuated by the current industrial dispute, the rail service has been getting even worse not better over the last year, despite huge effort. Last month I held a debate on this in Parliament, just part of keeping Ministers focussed on a critical issue. My work on the DWP Select Committee (we are currently investigating the BHS Pension Scheme) covers many issues of direct concern to Horsham residents. It’s a privilege to do the job. If you want to contact me please do so anytime in writing to House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA or via www.jeremyquin.com.