The increased costs being faced by everyone this April is a serious challenge. I continue to raise with the Government the need to support our hospitality businesses with a VAT cut and warn about the dangers of tax increases on businesses. Many constituents have also got in touch with me to explain how the welfare reforms will affect them and their loved ones. I am launching a survey to collect more views and pass them on to Ministers. We must encourage people back to work while properly supporting those who are unable to do so.
I spoke with the BBC about the campaign being run by local constituent Rachel Baker on family access to mortuaries. Rachel’s son, Joe, an accomplished aircraft engineer, tragically lost his life in a road traffic accident in November 2023. The family were denied access to his body for 10 days despite many desperate appeals. I am supporting Rachel’s heroic campaign and petition to improve the support offered to families in this most tragic of circumstances. After my initial enquiry, Ministers said there were no plans to change these rules, so I have requested a meeting with Ministers to explain the hurt this policy causes families.
Potholes blight rural areas like South Shropshire, costing the owners of damaged vehicles almost £400 each year. So, I was delighted when the last government committed £8.3 billion towards resurfacing 5,000 miles of road as part of a decade long repair scheme. I am calling on Ministers to stand by the previously announced investment for Shropshire. It would equip the Council with the certainty needed to plan ahead. I am also urging residents who have experienced potholes and other problems with road surfaces to tell me about it as part of my new Pothole Patrol initiative.
Backing our farmers is a key part of my plan for South Shropshire. They are the backbone of our rural economy. So, I was delighted to welcome Shadow Farming Minister Robbie Moore to South Shropshire recently. We met with local farmers and representatives from the National Farmers Union at a third-generation family farm near Craven Arms. We discussed the impact of government policies and how farmer confidence can be restored. Shropshire has the highest number of farms per country in England, so this is an issue that is very important for our rural economy.
South Shropshire is, in my view, the most beautiful constituency in the country. It was great to celebrate this in my photo competition - there is still time to vote for a winner on my website. Our countryside is cherished by us all and must be protected for future generations to enjoy. It is critical residents have the confidence that any new applications which come forward for development are judged fairly and openly, while guarding against encroachment on our precious countryside and the farmland that is vital for food security. I will continue to advocate for local consent in the planning system.
I have been visiting many local schools recently, from Stottesdon to Newcastle on Clun to Dorrington and Clee Hill. It is really great to meet with students who always have excellent questions. One issue that comes up often are financial constraints. In a recent announcement South Shropshire missed out on funding for nursery provision within primary schools. This is a significant rural challenge that I will be raising on behalf of constituents.
It was great to visit Clickingmad, a digital services company celebrating their 25th anniversary, and launch their '25 Acts of Kindness in 2025' initiative in Bridgnorth. Our small businesses are a cherished part of South Shropshire, so I was also delighted to recognise Ludlow Nutrition as the winner of my Small Business Awards, alongside 85 other nominated businesses. I continue to encourage businesses to take part in my small business survey.
