By Isle of Wight Observer
It’s been a productive return to Parliament following the conference recess. I’ve used the time to champion key issues affecting the Island – from cross-Solent travel and GP services to eating disorders and more.
My team has been working hard to support constituents with casework – a fancy way of referring to topics or issues they need help on. While my November and December Surgery appointments are now full, if you’d like to be added to the December waitlist, you can still email me.
Alternatively, my dedicated caseworker also offers appointments to progress casework. Please email richard.quigley.mp@parliament.uk or visit richardquigley.org.uk.
You may have seen that I’ve been campaigning for Zoe’s Law, which would mandate histological testing of all excised moles. Zoe’s family has been campaigning tirelessly for this change for years, and it was a major milestone to see it progress. On October 15, my Labour colleague, Ben Goldsborough MP, who is currently undergoing treatment for stage 2c skin cancer, raised the campaign with the Prime Minister at PMQs. That same day, a meeting was secured with the Minister for Public Health and Prevention and Zoe’s family, who have said they feel closer than ever to seeing Zoe’s Law become reality. While there’s lots still to do, the government’s serious engagement gives us real hope.
I’m also encouraged by progress on eating disorders. In October, I met the Minister for Care, along with campaigner Hope Virgo and Beat. The Minister welcomed our proposals and committed to a roundtable with NHS leaders to improve clinical safeguards.
Finally, this year’s Remembrance Sunday, November 9, holds special significance as we commemorate 80 years since the end of the Second World War. It’s a time to honour the immense courage and sacrifice of those who served then, as well as those who continue to serve now. I’ll be marking Remembrance both in Parliament and at the County Act of Remembrance in Newport this year. So, whether you’re attending a service yourself or observing in your own way, I would encourage everyone to take a moment to remember those who gave their tomorrow for our today.