I expected to start this column with a commentary about the Contaminated Blood Inquiry not about the starting gun having been fired on the General Election campaign. But I guess Harold Mcmillan was right, the greatest challenge is indeed, "Events, dear boy, events".
But Wednesday's announcement should not overshadow the publication of Sir Brian Wagstaff's report into the infected blood scandal. I can well remember the first constituent of mine to raise this with me, way back in 2010. At that time I had no idea of the scale of the scandal, but I pay tribute to those who educated me, and in turn inspired me to never give up on the campaign. It was led by Dame Diana Johnson, and she is a true inspiration as a campaigning MP.
Mike Webster, my constituent, convinced me of the importance of the issue, and never let me forget. He reminded me this week that I am the only MP who rebelled against their Party on this issue not once, but twice. It takes courage to walk into the opposition lobby, but when it is morally right to do so then any (and every) MP should have the bravery to do so. I am proud that when the amendment was passed by just 4 votes I was one of those 4. To those who criticise my rebelliousness, be assured I would do the same again.
Needless to say I am gutted, absolutely gutted, that the same week the Backbench Business Committee granted my debate on Southern Water to be heard in the House, this Parliament was ended. It was to be have held on 6th June, and instead I will be out campaigning on that day, with my office in Parliament locked up, and access denied to me. If I have the opportunity I will return to this issue on Parliament's return, their latest insult to injury being the announcement of the outrageous 91% rise in bills. As I keep saying, there is so much more I can and want to do, and dealing with Southern Water is high on that agenda.
