It's been a while since the last catch-up, I don't think it'll come as a surprise to anyone that it's been a busy (and strange) few weeks.
I'm really pleased that after everything, we've got a strong, sensible team in Downing Street, focused on helping the country to weather the cost of living crisis and I wish Rishi Sunak and his Government every success. I've long been an admirer of his and I think he'll bring the right balance of compassion and common sense to the job of Prime Minister.
On Monday I joined fellow Rishi supporters for the announcement of the new leader before heading to Party HQ to welcome him officially - later in the day I had a briefing on blood donation and organ transplantation. The service does amazing work, but is under constant pressure and we all need to do our part by donating blood if we can.
On Tuesday I had a number of meetings in my role as chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Local Government including with parking firm RingGo - a large number of people have been in touch about confusing, misleading and expensive parking arrangements - if we want out Town Centres to thrive we have to make it easy for people to get there.
Later in the day I had the privilege of joining Members in welcoming the new US Ambassador to Parliament - the USA is one of our most important allies and its reassuring to know we are on the same page on so many issues.
On Wednesday I started the day in the Bill Committee for my colleague Mary Robinson's Pensions Bill - the legislation will prevent Pension Trustees from using Pension Fund money to pay fines or penalties they incur. It's a short Bill, but will safeguard millions of pension pots.
Later in the day I had meetings with the Dogs' Trust to discuss Puppy Smuggling and later on with Help for Heroes to discuss Veterans' Mental Health, a subject close to my heart.
Thursday was an admin day and a good opportunity to get caught up on Mt inbox - please keep letting me know what matters to you, it helps me to focus my work in Parliament.
On Friday I was back in the chamber for a day of Private Member's Bills, including a Bill to make co-ops more secure financially (obviously very important for Rochdale!), a Bill to give workers better access to flexible working and a Bill to protect victims of Domestic Violence from financial abuse through the Child Support Agency.
Next week promises to be just as busy, but it's a relief that things have settled down a bit in politics so I can focus on what matters to you.
See you next week!
