By Isle of Wight Observer
It’s almost a year since I wrote my first column, as MP for Isle of Wight West, where I set out to demystify Westminster.
As well as this regular column, I still provide a weekly update on social media and make myself as accessible as possible to constituents.
Since being elected, I’ve held regular in-person surgeries, made house-calls, old-school calls, had chats in the street and countless cups of tea with constituents. Every one of those conversations has been different (although most do mention the ferries), and each one has genuinely made an impact on me. And it’s those conversations that have helped shape my work to date.
It’s so important politicians take the time to listen to voices in the community – especially as we spend most Monday to Thursdays in Parliament. So I was pleased to be invited to the ‘State of the Island Debate’, organised by the IW Observer and Island Echo. Despite being very different organisations, they both share a commitment to independent journalism and want what’s best for the Island. And that’s true of last week’s panellists, too.
There was very little in the way of political point-scoring at the debate. And it was refreshing that fellow panellists agreed that we’ll need to work together to solve the bigger issues. That said, I know that some felt the debate lacked… well, actual debate. But I’m pleased it wasn’t a pantomime either. Because politics is a serious business and, as an Island community, we need serious solutions if we’re to tackle inequality, housing, healthcare, and the ferries – to name just a few.
It goes without saying, ferries take up much of my time. But in the last year I’ve secured: a banking hub, for Cowes; the Island’s first dedicated roundtable on ferries; a backbench business debate, to raise Zoe’s Law; and – just as importantly – started joining-up the dots with Island stakeholders. These may seem like smaller wins but they’re leading to bigger wins.
So, as I approach my second year I’ll continue to engage, be honest, and champion the Island. And I’m always happy to listen – because it leads to change.