The new V-Levels will open doors to practical, career-focused learning from engineering and digital design to creative industries and more. I’ve heard from young people and employers about the need for education that prioritises skill development and real opportunities into work. I’m pleased that this new qualification will help bridge the gap between young people eager to enter the workforce and businesses needing skilled workers. I’ll be in discussions with education provid

A huge step forward in protecting children and mothers from abuse. This morning, I stood outside Parliament with fellow MPs who have campaigned tirelessly to protect vulnerable children, and I am proud see the government listen to the brave voices of victims who have come forward to make this vital change happen. We joined members of the public who have been instrumental in championing important changes to the Victims and Courts Bill. Under the new amendments, anyone convicte

I have co-signed a letter to the Secretary of State for Business and Trade in support of the Its Never You campaign for Hugh’s Law. This campaign goes to the heart of what our welfare state must provide: a safety net families can rely on when the worst happens. Currently, there is no bespoke provision for families facing long term or life-threatening childhood illness. We are putting that right! This is a landmark moment and a significant step forward in delivering vital pare

Four years ago today, we lost Sir David Amess — a kind, compassionate man who dedicated his life to helping others. His warmth, humour, and sense of duty touched everyone who knew him, and his loss is still deeply felt across Parliament and beyond. There can be no place for violence, hatred, or intimidation in our politics. Sir David’s legacy reminds us of the importance of kindness, respect, and safety in public life — values we must all continue to uphold. We remember him w

I’ve co-signed this letter to the Chancellor to highlight just how important the hospitality sector is — both nationally and here in the Forest of Dean. Our local pubs, cafés, restaurants, and B&Bs are more than just businesses. They provide jobs and apprenticeships, support local suppliers, and offer spaces for people to come together. Like many sectors, hospitality has faced real challenges in recent years, from rising costs to staff shortages, but it remains one of the UK’

This week, I join families, charities, and campaigners across the UK in marking Baby Loss Awareness Week (9–15 October) — a time to...

In september, I attended The Labour Party  Conference in Liverpool. It was inspiring to be with colleagues, campaigners, trade unionists...

Some issues rise above politics. They’re not about party lines, political point scoring, or personal benefit – they’re about doing what...

This morning’s horrifying attack in Manchester — outside a synagogue on Yom Kippur — is a devastating reminder of the scourge of...

I’m pleased to launch this year’s Christmas Card Competition! The theme is: “An Adventure Christmas in the Forest of Dean” From steam...

What a momentous day for English sport! A huge congratulations to England Women for winning the Rugby World Cup — what a performance. I...

Today is International Equal Pay Day – a reminder that women still earn less than men, with the global pay gap at around 20% and...

Thank you to everyone who works and volunteers in our incredible emergency services, including ambulance crew members and 999 emergency...

Today I met with the Minister of State for School Standards, Catherine McKinnell, alongside a group of MPs, to discuss SEND and the...

I have joined over 75 cross-party MPs in signing a letter urging action on Fujitsu’s continued eligibility for public contracts following...

This month, working parents will be entitled to 30 hours of government-funded childcare – saving up to £7,500 a year and giving children...

On 15th August 1945, Victory over Japan Day marked the end of the Second World War. Today, 80 years on, we remember the sacrifices made...

Labour is launching the Better Futures Fund – a £500 million, world-first investment to give vulnerable children and families the support...

20 years ago, 52 innocent lives were taken in a coordinated act of terror at Aldgate, Edgware Road, & Russell Square tube stations and...

Health Secretary Wes Streeting has launched Labour’s long-term plan to rebuild our NHS and make it fit for the future. After years of...