This week started with a very interesting debate in Westminster Hall on pet theft.
Locally the theft of a cocker spaniel called Cleo on her daily walk in Wherwell. It is such a despicable crime and I can only begin to imagine the pain of having a loved pet stolen. The Minister seemed persuaded by the arguments that there needed to be a change to sentencing guidelines which is very good news.
Elsewhere in the house I have again questioned Treasury and BEIS Ministers on support for businesses during the pandemic. I continue to press them to provide additional support and will keep going.
To mark Black History Month there was a debate on Tuesday in the chamber. I spoke of the experiences of my constituent Paul Williams a former Southampton footballer who tells awful stories of the racism he faced during his playing career. He is a man with such passion about stamping out racism and making sure our schools teach black culture and history effectively.
This week I have had a private briefing from the Chair of the APPG on chalk streams. The constituency does, of course, have both the Test and the Itchen and many of their carriers and tributaries. The well known environmental campaigner and conservationist Charles Rangeley-Wilson will soon be updating the APPG on his new national chalk stream campaigning body. A few weeks later we are expecting the Minister Rebecca Pow will be informing us of her work with the Water Companies and Ofwat.
Finally I have received from one of my constituents the most beautiful duck picture. Such a joy to receive a lovely hand drawn card and it was a real thrill to open. As a member again of Parliament’s art committee, who also met this week, I always appreciate wonderful artwork.
