I was sorry to leave the Government in the recent reshuffle. I have enjoyed the 18 months I spent as Minister for Media and Data. During that time, I was privileged to take part in some of the discussions and decision-making of the Covid Operations Committee. I also led the work on the forthcoming reforms of the laws on data protection and on gambling as well as of public service broadcasting. I am very grateful to the hard-working officials who assisted me during my time at the Department and I intend to continue to take an active role in the debates on these issues..
As I told BBC’s Newscast soon after the announcement (which you can listen to here), my constituents have always been my priority and I will continue to work hard to ensure that your voices are heard in Westminster.
As we approach October, Constituents will shortly start to be called by the NHS to have their booster Covid vaccine. Studies have shown that, after 6 months, there is a decline in vaccine efficacy and with increasing levels of social mixing and close social contact expected during the winter, COVID-19 will circulate alongside other respiratory viruses, including seasonal flu. Getting a booster jab is therefore a priority and I would encourage all who have been called to have theirs to make sure they get their jab.
The House of Commons will be in recess until Monday 18th October, during which each political party will hold their annual conference. I will be in Manchester at the Conservative Party Conference where I am speaking at several fringe meetings. I will also remain busy and will be holding constituency surgeries (details below), attending meetings and answering constituency correspondence as usual.
