Weekly Round-Up
The harrowing scenes we have continued to see from Ukraine this week should be of grave concern to us all, and the humanitarian crisis is growing by the day.
Families fleeing conflict in Ukraine need urgent help right now to reach safety and get support.
We’ve all heard and seen the harrowing stories from those driven out by the Russian bombardment and forced to flee across Europe.
There is dreadful chaos from the Home Office which is badly letting down desperate Ukrainian families in their hour of need.
There has also been complete confusion for those trying to make the journey with many being held up in Calais and it is completely unfair for those Ukrainians who have fled the terror of war.
Labour has called for emergency protection visas for those fleeing Ukraine who want to reach the UK.
It would lift normal visa conditions other than biometrics and security checks which can be swiftly done en route.
This would provide a quick, simple and safe route to sanctuary for all who need it.
We are relieved the Home Secretary has finally simplified some of the bureaucracy faced by some refugees fleeing Putin’s illegal war, but she could have done this weeks ago.
The Home Secretary and Foreign Secretary must coordinate urgently with our allies, with the UN and with neighbouring countries to offer urgent humanitarian assistance to those crossing the border, and to ensure they can leave as safely as possible.
Prostate Cancer Debate
I was proud to respond on behalf of the Labour Party to an important Westminster Hall debate on support for prostate cancer patients as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic.
People living with prostate cancer need an NHS with the time and resources needed to support them as we emerge from the pandemic.
It is time for the government to deliver it.
Watch my speech from the debate in full below.
International Women’s Day
I was delighted to invite local businesswoman Emma Rigby to a reception for International Women’s Day hosted in Parliament by Keir Starmer.
We are incredibly fortunate in Enfield to have some fantastic women in leadership.
Whether it be two female MPs, a council leader and opposition leader, and several brilliant community and business figures.
People like Emma make an immense contribution to our local community and economy, and I look forward to continuing to work with women across Enfield, championing their contributions and making their voices heard.
