A couple of weeks ago, the 4th of July marked the second anniversary of 2024’s General Election. Being elected as the first ever Liberal Democrat MP for Wokingham has been the honour of a lifetime, and one that I take very seriously.
Every one of my 274 spoken contributions Westminster has the interests of our community at its core, from urging meaningful reform of SEND provision to calling for better support for local businesses.
Standing up for the residents that voted for Wokingham’s first ever Liberal Democrat MP is the most important role of mine, which has seen my team and I resolve over 11,000 cases.
Behind each case is a resident in need of support or having their voice heard, and I have listened. From securing compensation from HMRC after tax errors, to supporting local families in navigating the family court system, my team and I have been working hard for you.
It is a privilege to serve our community, and I look forward to continuing to work with you.
Holding the Government to account
Last month, I had the honour of being one of just 20 MPs to have had my name drawn to put forward a Private Members Bill – an invaluable opportunity to introduce legislation, which I have chosen to focus on saving lives.
My Bill would require the Secretary of State for Health, now Yvette Cooper, to report to Parliament every year on the Government’s performance against targets for cancer diagnosis, care and survival.
The Government, whether that’s Andy Burnham’s administration, or any future government, must be held to account for meeting the targets they themselves have set, and I will continue to ensure that this happens.
Backing British businesses
Wokingham’s businesses are the backbone of our community and local economy. For too long, they have borne the brunt of the catastrophic impact Brexit has had on our country for a decade.
This, along with soaring business rates and energy bills, is causing many of our fantastic businesses to struggle. That’s why I asked how the Government will change how they buy goods and services to benefit local small and medium sized businesses.
I agree with the Minister’s reply that more must be done to support Wokingham’s fantastic businesses, and I will continue standing up for our local economy until this happens.
Celebrating the best of Wokingham
Over three months ago, I began my Wokingham’s Best Pub campaign to support our local pubs and recognise the incredible work of the staff behind them.
After over a thousand votes, The Two Poplars took the title in the final round, with The White Horse coming in second place. Many pubs have told me residents have been popping in after hearing how well they did in the competition, and I’m thrilled to see our community gathering behind our incredible local pubs across the constituency.
Working for Wokingham
If you have a concern or matter you would like to raise with me, please contact my team and me by emailing clive.jones.mp@parliament.uk. I am here to help the residents of Wokingham and ready to listen.
Clive Jones MP, Member of Parliament for Wokingham
