It would be fair to say this has been a busy week in Westminster with legislation on on-line safety, minimum service levels during industrial disputes and the Retained EU Law Bill. Some of these pieces of legislation have taken months to get to this point, others have been somewhat more hurried and arguably less subject to parliamentary scrutiny.
On Wednesday I hosted an event on domestic abuse and financial control with TSB. They have been a pioneer in establishing safe spaces in branch and also a new "flee fund" for TSB customers who are victims of domestic abuse. We know many victims do not leave abusive partners because they simply cannot afford to do so, something especially difficult in a cost of living crisis. I know other banks have similar provision, but do not necessarily advertise it, but for victims to be able to be helped we really all do have to talk about it.
On Monday I was in the Chamber for the Foreign Secretary's statement on the execution of dual British Iranian national Alireza Akbari. The Foreign Secretary did not mince his words and described execution as being used in Iran as a political tool. It is horrific, especially for families here worried about loved ones in Iran.
Finally I was really pleased to learn Southampton's levelling up bid has been successful. Having seen the new facilities at Ganger Farm the other week I am delighted Bassett too will get new sports facilities.
