Welcome to this week's newsletter!
This week began with the sad news of the death of Norman Tebbit, a towering figure in British politics and a man whose courage and commitment, both in public life and private adversity, left a lasting legacy
It’s been a busy few weeks both in Parliament and across Bexhill and Battle.
In Westminster, I raised the deeply personal issue of victim personal statements in court, after speaking with campaigners and families, including the parents of Sarah Everard, who feel strongly that victims should be allowed to speak freely about their loss. I’ll keep pushing for change so victims are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.
I also used my platform in Parliament to make clear how poorly I think the Post Office has handled the future of our own Devonshire Square Post Office. MPs must be able to speak up for their communities and actually be heard and Post Office have ignored MPs are key issues. I’ll keep pushing for clear commitments from the new operator ahead of the September handover.
In more local news, I visited Little Common School to meet with their impressive School Council, and attended events highlighting the importance of pubs, local manufacturing and water safety during the summer months. I also attended local Children's Hospice provider Demelza at their summer reception,
And finally, don't miss the fantastic summer event at Sidley Cricket Club on Saturday 20 July, open to all, with food, drinks and a great community atmosphere.
Thanks as always for reading and for all the feedback and conversations. You can find more details on everything mentioned below.
Have a great weekend.
In this newsletter:
- Remembering Norman Tebbit
- Post Office Question
- Demelza Midsummer Reception
- Pubs Drop-in
- Ceramics UK meeting
- Visit to Little Common School
- Standing up for Victims in Justice Questions
- Drowning Prevention Day
- Summer Reading Challenge
- Have your say on the design of the new Bank Notes
- Sidley Cricket Club Day
- Traffic Report
Remembering Norman Tebbit
I was saddened to hear of the death of Norman Tebbit, a political giant and proponent of Conservative values who had a remarkable Parliamentary career of over 50 years. He was never afraid to speak out on issues of national importance and showed great courage in the face of adversity. The dedication he showed in the care and support for his wife over many decades can be a personal inspiration to all of us. My condolences go to his family and friends.
Having previously trained as a pilot in the RAF and worked as a journalist for the financial times, Tebbit’s political career was long and varied, serving the Conservative party for over 22 years. Most notably, he survived the 1984 Brighton Bombing at the Grand hotel with serious injuries, later selflessly stepping down from his Cabinet role to care for his wife after the attack.
Over the span of his remarkable career he was outspoken and uncompromising, working alongside Margret Thatcher as Secretary of State for Employment, and Secretary of State for Trade and Industry amongst other positions, playing a key role in the shaping of Thatcherism. In 1992, he was granted life peerage as Baron Tebbit, a role that he retired from in 2022, marking the end of his formal parliamentary career.
Post Office Question
Last week, I took the opportunity to ask the Leader of the House to agree with me that Post Office Ltd has paid lip service to MPs while ignoring us on matters of substance.
My question followed the recent decision by the Post Office to franchise the last remaining directly managed Post Office branches, including the Devonshire Square branch in Bexhill.
I have been vocal in my belief that the Post Office has handled this entire process incredibly poorly—failing to respond adequately to expressions of interest from local businesses keen to take on the franchise, and instead picking a company based in Bolton with no local ties.
The Leader of the House agreed with me, citing first-hand experience of losing a Crown Post Office that was replaced by a franchise service which failed to meet previous standards.
She said it is vital that MPs are able to fulfil their role in championing local services—something the Post Office’s recent conduct has made exceedingly difficult.
I am currently in ongoing communication with the Post Office to secure necessary commitments from franchisee Zco Ltd, as they prepare to take over in September.
Demelza Midsummer Reception
Earlier this week, I was pleased to attend Demelza’s midsummer reception at Southwark Cathedral.
Demelza Charity is an incredible charity, that delivers support to children with serious, or life-limiting conditions. Of course, each child has their own unique needs, and Demelza is able to personalise their services to meet the needs of each child it supports.
Whilst at the reception I heard from Fiona, whose 7-year-old daughter Daisy, is currently supported by Demelza. Due to Daisy’s complex medical condition, she was never supposed to be able to eat but now she is able to.
Daisy’s care also means that her sister, Freya, is able to have more time with her Mum, making a massive difference to the whole family.
Demelza East Sussex offers a community hospice at home service for children and young people up to the age of 18, providing therapies, respite and end of life care in the comfort of the child’s own home.
If you are interested in making a difference, Demelza is always looking for volunteers. You can find out more information through the following link - https://www.demelza.org.uk/support-us/volunteer
Pubs Drop-In
Last week, I visited the British Beer and Pub Association's drop-in to learn more about how we can support pubs in Bexhill and Battle.
Locally, our 69 pubs and 3 breweries support over 1,300 jobs and contribute more than £45 million to the economy. Of course, Pubs are more than just businesses, they are community hubs that bring people together.
But thanks to decisions made by this Labour Government, pubs across the country now face an uncertain future. Increases to National Insurance and a cut in business rate relief from 75% to 40% have pushed many otherwise viable pubs into the red. Unless this is urgently addressed, we risk losing vital parts of our local economy and culture.
I’ll continue to stand up for our pubs and push for policies that support, not punish, these cornerstone businesses.
Meeting with Ceramics UK
This week I met with Ceramics UK and Ibstock Brick, one of the UK’s leading construction materials manufacturers, which operates a key factory right here in Bexhill.
We had a constructive discussion about the importance of backing British manufacturing, particularly in foundational industries like construction that support our economy, infrastructure, and long-term growth.
It was encouraging to hear about Ibstock’s work locally, from its investment in green technologies to its commitment to developing skills and creating local employment opportunities. These are exactly the kinds of businesses we need to support as we transition to a more sustainable, resilient economy.
I’ll continue working with industry leaders and government to make sure businesses like Ibstock have the support they need to grow and innovate.
Visit to Little Common School
One of the best parts of being an MP is visiting local schools and talking to students. I recently visited Little Common School in Bexhill to meet with their School Council. The pupils asked some brilliant questions and shared why they had wanted to take on their roles.
I spoke to them about why I got involved in politics and encouraged them to think about the issues they care about and how they can make a difference. It is always inspiring to see young people engaged and interested in their communities.
After our chat, the councillors gave me a tour of the school and showed how proud they are of the work being done there.
Thank you to the staff and pupils for such a warm welcome. I look forward to more school visits across Bexhill and Battle soon.
This week I chose to focus my article in the Bexhill Observer on why i think it's important for an MP to be proactive and talk to young people as much as I can, you can read the full article here:
Standing Up For Victims in Justice Questions
In Justice Questions this week, I raised the issue of victim personal statements and asked the Minister why victims of serious crime are still being told what they can and cannot say in court. These statements should be a chance for victims to speak from the heart about how they have been affected, not something filtered to fit a legal script.
This is something I feel strongly about, and I know many others do too. It was a privilege to meet Susan and Jeremy Everard, the parents of Sarah Everard, and talk with them about their experience and the deep frustration they felt at being told to change or remove parts of their victim statement. No family should be told how to speak about their grief.
I have also been working closely with Glenn and Becky Youens, who experienced a similar situation with their victim impact statement. Alongside other campaigners like Ayse Hussain, Katie Brett and Paula Hudgell, they are campaigning to make sure victims and their families are treated with the respect and compassion they deserve.
You can learn more about their campaign group here: https://www.justiceforvictims.org.uk/
At a time of such pain, no one should be told how to feel or speak. I will keep pressing the Government to ensure victims are given a genuine voice in our justice system.
Drowning Prevention Day
As a coastal community, Water Safety is something that's important to all of us. Which is why I took the time to attend the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents briefing on World Drowning Prevention Day, which is recognised around the world on 25th July.
Tragically, drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death, and too often it happens to strong swimmers caught off guard.
That’s why I’m supporting the National Water Safety Forum's “Find Your Float” campaign. The key message is simple but lifesaving: if you fall into water unexpectedly, your instinct may be to panic or swim but the best thing you can do is stop, relax, and find your float.
Not everyone floats the same way. For some it’s on their back, for others it’s curled or upright the important thing is to find a position that keeps your airway above water until you can regain control or call for help.
Summer Reading Challenge
This year the reading agency have launched their #SummerReadingChallenge – Story Garden!
Recently, I dropped into learn about their work to get children reading across the UK! Reading is an essential skill that is the foundation of being able to truly access education and get on in life.
What makes reading even better is that it can be a great way to relax and unwind, when we need to switch off from the world around us and lose ourselves in a good story.
You can join the adventure from the 5th of July at your local library, and explore the magic of nature through reading
Sign up via their website: https://eastsussex.spydus.co.uk/.../MSGTRNGEN/WPAC/SRC... or visit one of our local Libraries in Person in Bexhill or Battle.
Have your say on the design of the new Bank Notes
The Bank of England is inviting members of the public to contribute ideas for the next series of banknotes. They are asking for suggestions on possible themes, which could include historical figures, nature, architecture and landmarks, arts, culture and sport, innovation, and important national milestones. There is also the option to propose your own theme.
This is a chance to have your say in how the next set of banknotes represents the people and ideas that matter most across the country.
You can submit your suggestions online here:
www.bankofengland.co.uk/banknotes/help-us-design-our-next-banknote-series
The deadline for submissions is 11.59pm on 31 July 2025.
Sidley Cricket Club Day
Sidley Cricket Club is inviting everyone to join them for their summer event on Saturday 20 July. It promises to be a great afternoon for all ages, with food available, a fully stocked bar, and a raffle featuring some fantastic prizes.
The event is a brilliant opportunity to support one of our local sports clubs, meet others in the community, and enjoy some time outdoors. Whether you’re a regular at the club or have never been before, all are welcome.
Come along, bring your friends and family, and enjoy a relaxed afternoon in support of grassroots sport.
Traffic Report
Local Road Closures (please note this information is provided by third parties):
Bexhill
Cooden Drive: 3 February 2025 – 1 February 2026
The Barnhams: 7 July – 24 July
The Gorses: 7 July – 30 July
Collington Lane East: 4 July, 08:15 – 14 July, 17:00 BST
Devonshire Road: 22 July, 00:00 – 23 July, 01:00 BST
St James Avenue: 2 July, 08:50 – 22 July, 23:59 BST
Battle
Battle Hill: 23 July – 1 September
Telham Lane: 21 July, 00:00 – 22 July, 01:00 BST
St Mary’s Terrace: 23 July – 1 September
Netherfield Hill: 21 July, 00:00 – 22 July, 01:00 BST
Westfield
Junction Road: 2 September 2024 – 31 July 2025
Whitworth Road: 2 September 2024 – 31 July 2025
Maplehurst Road: 2 September 2024 – 31 July 2025
Ticehurst
Cross Lane: 23 July – 25 July
Cottenden Road: 18 July
Northiam
Village Street: 8 July – 31 July
Main Street: 2 July – 13 August
Hobbs Lane: 21 July, 08:00 – 18:00 BST
Bodiam
Hawkhurst Road: 12 July – 13 July
Brightling
Rectory Hill: 11 July, 00:00 – 14 July, 01:00 BST
Brede
Brede Hill: 1 July, 19:00 – 19 October, 07:00 BST
Cowbeech
Trolliloes Lane: 14 July, 07:00 – 17 July, 19:00 BST
Crowhurst
Forewood Lane: 11 July, 00:00 – 14 July, 01:00 BST
Telham Lane: 11 July, 00:00 – 14 July, 01:00 BST
Burwash
Swife Lane: 17 July, 08:00 – 21 July, 17:00 BST
Shrub Lane: 23 July – 24 July
Wadhurst
Church Street: 10 July – 8 August
Whitegates Lane: 7 July – 18 July
Ashburnham
Hammer Hill: 11 July – 30 July
Standard Hill: 4 July – 16 July
Forge Lane: 21 July, 00:00 – 22 July, 01:00 BST
Dallington
Battle Road: 14 July – 23 July
Old Heathfield Road: 23 July – 2 September
