Newspaper Column – The Voice – 11/11/24

• The US President-elect told the world “God saved me for a purpose”, when referring to the assassination attempt last July, (He presumably can explain to the family of the man who died at the Trump rally what his “God’s purpose” was in not saving him?). That someone in such a powerful position can contemplate let alone express such an opinion should concern us all. That is, if we’re not already dismayed that a convicted felon, who’s also been found liable for battery and defamation of a woman isn’t enough to preclude him from public office. 

I guess they were partying in the Kremlin when the result of the US elections came through. The outcome would have put a spring in the step of bigots and misogynists. Of course, our Prime Minister must bite his lip and act with studied diplomacy as we prepare to deal with a climate-crisis-denier and modern-day, self-proclaimed demagogue. But the UK must now overcome a decade of being perceived as an international laughingstock and to step-up and redouble efforts to provide leadership to strengthen and build the role of international institutions – the UN, NATO, and the EU – in order to withstand the risks we all face. 

• It’s been a busy time in Parliament and the constituency this last week. Here are some of the projects and actions I’ve been involved in: 

• Pressed ministers in the Commons on health and housing elements of the Chancellor’s Budget. 

• Held first Parliamentary ‘report back’ public meeting in Penzance, to address questions on all that’s going on in parliament since the general election. 

• Pressed ministers to sanction Israel in effort to halt “cold-blooded slaughter of children and women” in Gaza.  

• Completed another very full face-to-face casework surgery in Helston. 

• Commenced cooperation with a voluntary community group combatting poverty in Penzance. 

• Elected by MP colleagues to serve on the Commons Health Committee; & commenced work to protect & restore our NHS and care services. 

• Visited Penzance fire station to meet the wonderful crew and thank retained volunteers. 

• Toured CAST (Cornubian Arts & Science Trust) building, as it renovates former Penrose Rd School, Helston and builds a strong arts community. 

• Offered assistance to Flambards’ owners and staff following disappointing announcement to close. 

• Pressed minister for action on Cornwall’s “dentistry desert”. 

• Supported the well-attended and well-organised Remembrance parade in St Ives.