I am not sure whether this week’s column should be headed “Letter from not Manchester”. Because the lessons we have all discovered about making technology work over the last 18 months mean I have been able to contribute to events and listen to them via zoom and other platforms for the last week, and not added to my carbon footprint by travelling to Manchester.
On Tuesday I was very pleased to hear the Home Secretary announce an independent inquiry into how the conduct of a serving Police officer, which culminated in the horrific abduction, rape and murder of Sarah Everard, was not picked up on. The Home Secretary described it as systemic failures, and it is important that every possible action is taken to restore confidence and trust in the Police. Women have been shaken by this case, and whilst I absolutely recognise that we should trust the Police, there is a great deal of work to be done.
I was scheduled to open a new climbing wall in Nursling several months ago, but got pinged by the app and had to self-isolate that week instead. So with some trepidation I am off on a visit to the Parthian Climbing Centre at Adanac Park. I have never even tried rock climbing so this is bound to be an experience, not quite sure the outfit required is compatible with being the speaker at an event later in the morning to highlight the work of the Women and Equalities Committee.
