Apologies for the late arrival of the weekly newsletter, it was a busy return to Parliament last week.
It was also back to school for children and the weather turned hot after a disappointing summer – typical! One of the first issues was RAAC in schools. So far, there is no RAAC in schools in Meon Valley but there seems to be confusion in the data. This week we will be looking at the issue in the Public Accounts Committee and Education Select Committee giving us an opportunity to question both the Education Permanent Secretary and Ministers. I think the Secretary of State was right to be cautious and ask the schools affected to close or shut part of their building but it is very tough for teachers, children and parents in those small numbers of cases. I hope it will be sorted soon but RAAC also affects many other buildings built in the 1950s and 90s so there will be more rebuilding planned.
We will also be deciding on the restoration and refurbishment of the Houses of Parliament over the next few months. Having seen the basement of the building, I hope this will be agreed quickly before we have a major disaster but there will be criticism of how much it is going to cost. This is a landmark building but needs major work. So, if you haven’t taken my offer on coming to look around, please get in touch. We are organising a coach trip on 15th January starting from Bishops Waltham. Let my office know if you want a place.
Last week I had two work experience students from Barton Peveril College and they enjoyed spending a lot of time in the Chamber, attending the Education Select committee and a Westminster Hall debate. I think they got a good overall picture of what I do during the day. I have had several work experience people over the years and they are all impressive.
The Education Select Committee interviewed the new Chief School Inspector. Having been an Ofsted inspector myself, I was interested to hear his vision for the future. Ofsted has changed considerably since I was working with it in the 1990s and we are holding an inquiry over the next few months to see what can be further changed. It should be about helping schools to improve and move forward rather than a snap report. It certainly was that when I was working for Ofsted.
We agreed with the Education Secretary’s appointment and I wish Sir Martyn Oliver all the best with his new job. He has a lot of experience as a teacher and leading schools in the North East. I am sure he will bring that to improving inspections.
On Wednesday, I spoke in a debate on rural broadband where I talked about those who do not have access to a computer or the knowledge to use the internet. I am concerned banks are closing and expecting people to use online banking – even though many are frightened to do so. But this issue is about much more like access to tickets for travel and events as well as many other tasks that are going to be increasingly difficult.
I am holding a Scam and Fraud forum in the Meon Hall, Meonstoke on Friday 6th October at 5pm to try and support those who are wary of new technology. I have a good panel of experts coming including someone who will talk about staying safe online. I chaired a meeting in Parliament ages ago where an expert explained how they had hacked into a journalist’s account and took over her life including her house while she was on holiday – she had allowed them to do it but it all happened within a week. With that in mind, I expect this forum might be useful.
We had a statement too from the government on nutrient neutrality. I agree we must ease barriers when it comes to some housebuilding. It is possible to build housing estates through careful building and sustainable drainage. The new Berewood in Waterlooville has achieved this. This would be far better than taking good agricultural land out of use in mitigation.
On Friday, I met with Action Hampshire to talk about its rural forum and other work it is doing with organisations and then met up with a gym in Winchester to talk about the new parking charges that are having a detrimental impact on its business. Around 70% of its members come in the evening and an extra £3 a visit is a lot. It is also impacting on other businesses too so I hope that the council changes its mind on this. It now costs £17 if someone stays over four hours. This is an eye watering sum and very irritating for anyone wanting to spend time in the city.
On Saturday, I was at the re-selection of Donna Jones for the next Police and Crime Commissioner election to be held in 2024. Donna has been very accessible to MPs and was very helpful in providing the money for the speed cameras on the A272 and A32. These have made a big difference to residents. Damian Hinds and I had many meetings to get this sorted and Donna was the final link. It was one of my pledges so I can tick that off alongside getting faster broadband for the villages that needed it.
On Sunday I attended the Hampshire Country Sports Day and it was packed. It was good to hear from the police about what they are doing on rural crime, and from the Countryside Alliance about the work it is doing to combat loneliness.
Many of the countryside sports draw in people who are working in the countryside and help with social activities. The rain did not stop the enjoyment and a big thank you to everyone who organised it. I have been attending lots of fetes this year and I know how much work goes into these events.
Have a good week.
