Welcome to this week's newsletter.
Last week, in Parliament, I raised concerns about plans to house 600 male illegal migrants at the Crowborough training camp, just over the border in Nus Ghani's constituency. This site was previously deemed unsuitable. It’s unacceptable that the Lib Dem/Green Wealden Council failed to make us aware the plans for this were in motion and don't seem to have raised any objections. We need firm policies to deport illegal entrants, not place them in local communities. You can support Nus Ghani’s petition against this here: https://www.nusghani.org.uk/NoAsylumHousing
Concerningly, Labour MPs have voted for the Sentencing Bill, allowing serious offenders, including rapists, paedophiles, and murderers, to be released earlier. I spent the past two weeks trying to convince Labour MPs to vote against these measures and speaking to the media about why they are wrong and why we must continue standing up for victims and safer communities. This isn’t a short-term fix for overcrowded prisons but a permanent weakening of our justice system. Watch or read my speeches on the Bill via the links below.
While in Parliament I met with National Highways to discuss road safety on the A259 and A21, reviewing ongoing studies to improve safety and reduce congestion. Thank you to everyone who shared their concerns and ideas.
I was honoured to join local farmer and NFU representative Gillian van der Meer at Westminster Abbey for the National Harvest Service, celebrating Britain’s farmers and the food they produce.
I also attended ITV’s Loose Women event to support their ‘Facing It Together’ campaign on domestic abuse. Sadly, Labour’s new Sentencing Bill will allow offenders who have committed these awful crimes to be released earlier from prison. I’ll continue to fight to protect victims and ensure justice is served. For advice and support, please visit the Loose Women website, linked here and in the article.
At Party Conference, I met with Alzheimer’s Research UK to discuss their Dementia Unseen campaign. With over 2,000 people in Bexhill and Battle living with dementia, early diagnosis is crucial. Following this meeting, I’ve now signed a letter urging the Health and Social Care Committee to address this.
On Thursday 6 November, I’m hosting a meeting for Bexhill retailers and high street businesses on tackling shoplifting at the De La Warr Pavilion, in partnership with Sussex Police, local councillors, and the Chamber of Commerce. If your business has been affected by shoplifting, I encourage you to register to attend. More details are on my website and linked in the article.
In the constituency, I chaired a further Sidley Stakeholders meeting at All Saints School, bringing together schools, community groups, charities, local councillors, Sussex Police, and cultural organisations to discuss projects and local issues.
I also visited two of Bexhill’s creative hubs – the Old Ambulance Station and Flatland Projects – to see local talent and innovation driving cultural growth and employment. From vibrant artist studios to community-focused contemporary art, Bexhill’s creative sector is truly world-class and a driver of local employment and cultural recognition.
Last week, I met with Paul Gibson, Editor of Bexhill News, to discuss my priorities for the months ahead. Local journalism is vital for keeping residents informed. Look out for my interview in the paper soon!
PMQ tickets are now available! I can also arrange free 75-minute guided tours of Parliament for constituents. If you’re interested in either, all the details are in the article.
Finally, ESCC have finalised proposed changes to parking, waiting, and loading restrictions in Rother District. The formal consultation is now open, running from 31 October to 21 November – the link is below.
As always, please see the end of my newsletter for up-to-date local road closures, as provided by third parties.
Have a great week!
This week's newsletter:
- Question to the Minister on Crowborough Asylum Accommodation
- Final Stages of the Sentencing Bill
- National Highways Meeting
- NFU - National Harvest Service
- Loose Women's 'Facing It Together' Campaign
- Supporting Early and Accurate Dementia Diagnosis
- Upcoming Joint Retail Crime Meeting
- Sidley Stakeholder Meeting
- Old Ambulance & Flatland Projects
- Interview with Paul Gibson - Bexhill News
- Apply for PMQ Tickets & Guided Tours of Parliament!
- ESCC's Consultation on Final Proposals for Local Parking Changes
- Local Road Closures
Question to the Minister on Crowborough Asylum Accommodation
Last week, I raised concerns in Parliament about plans to use the Crowborough training camp to house 600 male illegal migrants.
The previous Conservative Government considered this site but rejected it due to high renovation costs and its generally unsuitable location.
It’s unacceptable that the Green and Liberal Democrat–led Wealden Council failed to consult either Nus Ghani, MP for Sussex Weald, or me, given Crowborough’s proximity to my constituency.
I’m deeply concerned that the Council’s decision to allow 600 male illegal migrants is driven by ideology rather than what’s best for local residents.
As a Deputy Speaker, Nus isn’t able to speak in the Chamber. Therefore, I asked the Minister what objections, if any, the Wealden Council raised with the Home Office when this proposal was made.
Instead of housing migrants in hotels or unused local sites, we need a firm policy to quickly deport those who enter the UK illegally to a safe third country.
You can show your support against this plan by signing Nus Ghani’s petition here.
Final Stages of the Sentencing Bill
Labour MPs have voted through the Sentencing Bill which will see thousands of serious offenders, including rapists, paedophiles, murderers and child sex offenders, being released from prison earlier.
I spent the past two weeks trying to convince Labour MPs to vote against these measures and speaking to the media about why they are wrong and why we must keep standing up for victims and safer communities.
The Government says this is a short-term fix for overcrowded prisons. It is not. It is a permanent change to how we deal with the most dangerous criminals in our justice system, and it will have consequences for years to come.
Public safety and the rights of victims must always come first. Serious offenders should not be getting a reduction in their punishment when already too many people aren’t given long enough in my opinion.
As part of my role as Shadow Justice Minister, I spoke on behalf of the Official Opposition across a number of stages.
You can watch my speech for the Committee of the Whole House here.
You can watch my speech for the Report Stage here.
You can watch my speech for the Third Reading here.
Alternatively:
You can read my speech for the Committee of the Whole House here.
You can read my speech for the Report Stage here.
You can read my speech for the Third Reading here.
National Highways Meeting
I met with representatives from National Highways to discuss road safety across our constituency, with a particular focus on the A259 and A21, routes I know many constituents have concerns about.
We talked through the ongoing A259 route study reviewing safety, congestion and driver behaviour, which is due to be complete by the end of the financial year and will provide a range of potential options for improvement. We also discussed the progress of the A21 safety package and I made it clear that it is important we keep making progress to ensure it is made safer.
Thank you to everyone who’s shared their experiences and suggestions - your voices help shape these conversations.
NFU - National Harvest Service
It was a great privilege to join local farmer and National Farmers' Union representative, Gillian van der Meer for the National Harvest Service at Westminster Abbey. The service is a thanksgiving for the food produced across Britain and a celebration of our farming community.
The first National Harvest Service was inaugurated at the Abbey in 2013 by Her Majesty The Queen, when she was HRH The Duchess of Cornwall. It was the first harvest service to be held there in half a century. Since then, the service has taken place in a different part of the country every autumn, returning to the Abbey this October.
The Harvest is one of the most important times of the year for farmers, being the culmination of a year’s work and investment.
Loose Women's 'Facing It Together' Campaign
Last week in Parliament, I attended an event hosted by ITV’s Loose Women to promote their inspirational ‘Facing It Together’ campaign, which is raising awareness of domestic abuse.
Launched last year, the campaign highlights the support available to those experiencing domestic abuse and helps friends and family recognise the signs and provide support.
I spoke with deputy producer Yiljan, who shared some of the incredible stories of courage they’ve heard since the campaign began.
Worryingly, Labour MPs voted for the Sentencing Bill, which will allow those convicted of domestic abuse – and other serious crimes – to be released from prison earlier.
I will continue to do all I can to support victims and their families, ensuring justice is delivered and protections remain strong.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, please visit Loose Women’s website for advice and helplines.
Supporting Early and Accurate Dementia Diagnosis
I know dementia research is incredibly important to families across Bexhill and Battle, so during Party Conference I took the time to meet with Alzheimer's Research UK to talk about their 'Dementia Unseen' campaign and the work they’re doing to help people affected by the condition.
There are more than 2,000 people in Bexhill and Battle living with dementia, and getting an early and accurate diagnosis can make a big difference for them, their quality of life, and their loved ones.
In light of this, I’ve signed a letter to the Chair of the Health and Social Care Committee, asking the Committee to consider holding a non-inquiry session into the importance of early and accurate dementia diagnosis.
Together, we can help make sure everyone living with dementia gets the understanding, support, and care they deserve.
Upcoming Joint Retail Crime Meeting
On Thursday 6 November, I will be holding a meeting for all Bexhill retailers and high street businesses on Retail Crime at the De La Warr Pavilion.
This meeting has been arranged in collaboration with Sussex Police, Rother Councillors, the Bexhill Chamber of Commerce and Trades Council to hear your experiences and to support you in tackling this crime which affects your business, staff and customers.
I would encourage all those working in Bexhill high street businesses who have been targeted by shoplifters to register to attend.
Further details are on my website linked here.
I also focused my latest column for the Bexhill & Battle Observer on shoplifting. You can have a read through the link above.
Sidley Stakeholder Meeting
I was pleased to chair a further meeting of Sidley Stakeholders at All Saints School.
This regular meeting involves a wide range of community partners in Sidley including schools, nurseries, Heart of Sidley, charities, churches, community groups, sports groups and local councillors, Sussex Police and cultural organisations who work in Sidley including the De La Warr Pavilion.
At this meeting we received updates on the Creative Sidley Project, The Pelham’s top floor project and Sidley Hub (currently under construction). We also discussed how to apply for CIL funding for school and community groups- monies allocated through new developments, disruption to business caused by roadworks and shop-lifting anti-social behaviour.
When so many local organisations get together in person to discuss local issues we are able to share ideas, resources, knowledge and connections to make sure we work collaboratively for the benefit of the Sidley community.
Old Ambulance & Flatland Projects
I had the pleasure of exploring Bexhill’s creative scene, with visits to the Old Ambulance Station and Flatland Projects. It was inspiring to see how these spaces are nurturing local talent and driving cultural innovation, and how this feeds creative employment in the constituency.
At the Old Ambulance Station, I met owner, social entrepreneur Richard Upton and some of the resident artists who are transforming the space into a vibrant hub of creativity. I then visited Flatland Projects, and saw how contemporary art and community engagement go hand in hand.
Bexhill’s creative sector is, as Richard put it, "world class" and global art exports have put the constituency firmly on the map. I'm pleased to represent a constituency that champions these industries.
Interview with Paul Gibson - Bexhill News
It was great to meet Paul Gibson, Editor of Bexhill News, in Parliament last week to talk about my priorities for the months ahead.
Local journalism is a vital part of our democracy. It keeps residents informed, highlights community issues and makes sure local voices are heard. Bexhill News does an excellent job of that and I am always pleased to contribute through my monthly column.
Thank you to Paul and the whole Bexhill News team for their continued work supporting and informing our community. Keep an eye out for the interview in an upcoming edition.
You should see my interview in the paper soon!
Apply for PMQ Tickets & Guided Tours of Parliament!
PMQ Tickets available!
As your MP, I’m able to offer a limited number of PMQ tickets for residents from my constituency. If you’re interested in coming up to Westminster for PMQs on a Wednesday, make sure to get in contact with my Office through the email address below.
I can also arrange free guided tours of the UK Parliament for residents of my constituency. These 75-minute tours, led by expert guides, provide insight into how Parliament works, its history, and how you can engage in the democratic process.
Tour highlights include:
- House of Commons & House of Lords
- Central Lobby, St Stephen’s Hall & Westminster Hall
- Expert explanations on Parliament’s role and history
Tours are available select weekdays during parliamentary sessions and are subject to change based on parliamentary business.
Spaces are limited and available to constituents only. You can contact my office at [email protected] to enquire.
For more details on the tour itself and availability, visit the UK Parliament website.
ESCC's Consultation on Final Proposals for Local Parking Changes
East Sussex County Council recently carried out an informal consultation about proposed changes to parking, waiting and loading restrictions in Rother District.
The proposals affect the following roads in Bexhill:
Albany Road, Devonshire Road, Marina, Parkhurst Road (p5) Buckhurst Road, Buckhurst Place (p6) Church Hill Avenue (p7) Collington Lane West, Cooden Sea Road, Drayton Rise, Mansell Close (p8) Egerton Road (P9) Hastings Road, De La Warre Road (p10) Holliers Hill (p11) Magdalen Road (p12) Manor Road (p13) Normandale (p14) North Road (p15) Old Marsh Road (p16) Reginald Road (p17) Ridgewood Gardens (p18) Tiverton Drive (p19) Cooden Drive, Richmond Avenue, Richmond Close, Richmond Grove, Richmond Road, South Cliff and West Parade (pp20-23).
Other areas affected are Battle (pp1-4), Hurst Green (p24) and Robertsbridge (p25-26).
The consultation opened on 31 October and closes on 21 November. I would urge you to look at the proposals and respond with your views.
Local Road Closures (please note this information is provided by third parties):
Bexhill
- Cooden Sea Road- 9 Nov 10:30 GMT - 11:30 GMT
- Cooden Drive – 3 February 2025 to 1 February 2026
- Endwell Road - 9 Nov 10:15 GMT - 11:45 GMT
- Service Road from Egerton Road To Park Avenue- 29 Oct 11:18 - 4 Nov 17:00 GMT
Bodiam
- Peters Green Road - 7 Nov - 10 Nov
Battle
- Market Road - 8 Nov
- Powdermill Lane - 8 Nov
- High Street - 11 Nov 10:45 GMT - 11:15 GMT
- Lower Lake - 8 Nov
Ninfield
- Church Lane - 1 Nov 18:15 GMT - 22:00 GMT
- Manchester Road - 1 Nov 18:15 GMT - 22:00 GMT
Herstmonceux
- Church Road - 27 Oct 08:00 - 7 Nov 18:00 GMT
Burwash Weald
- Swife Lane - 5 Nov 07:30 - 7 Nov 17:00 GMT
Northiam
- Main Street - 9 Nov 10:45 GMT - 11:15 GMT
Robertsbridge
- High Street - 9 Nov 10:25 GMT - 13:00 GMT
- Willards Hill - 3 Nov 08:00 - 5 Nov 17:00 GMT
Three Oaks
- Butchers Lane 11 Nov 08:00 - 12 Nov 18:00 GMT
Cripps Corner
- Catts Green - 7 Nov - 10 Nov
Hooe
- Denbigh Road - 7 Nov 08:00 GMT - 18:00 GMT
