As 2022 draws to a close, it is an important moment to reflect on what has been a difficult year both at home and abroad.
We started the year against the backdrop of increasing Covid-19 cases, owing to the latest variant known as Omicron. The Government acted quickly, and we were able to avoid further lockdowns or restrictions.
As Covid infections decreased, the Government faced its next challenge when Putin illegally invaded Ukraine. As tanks rolled into Ukraine, our country sent a strong message to Ukraine and its people that we will support them all the way and stand against Russia’s barbaric actions.
I am proud of everyone in Stockport for welcoming fleeing families from Ukraine into our community and for making them feel welcome. As we move into 2023, it is vital that Putin’s war is brought to an end, and I know the UK Government will do all it can to achieve this.
In June, the country came together to celebrate and pay thanks to HM Queen Elizabeth on the occasion of her Platinum Jubilee. I thoroughly enjoyed attending community events across my constituency and celebrating the Queen’s 70-year reign!
It was with great sadness therefore that we mourned the loss of the Queen after her death in September. I was honoured to be able to speak for the people of Cheadle when I said in tributes during a debate in the House of Commons that “Her Majesty was happily blessed with a long life, and as a nation we have been blessed by her service”.
2022 has also been a turbulent year for domestic politics, with Boris Johnson resigning as Prime Minister in July and Rishi Sunak taking over as PM in October after a short period where Liz Truss led Parliament. I welcomed the subsequent budget statement which saw pensions and benefits rising with inflation by 10.1% from April 2023, and more money going to the most vulnerable in our society.
Whilst 2022 has had its challenges, I am proud of the work I have done for our area. Whether it be securing sign off on the Cheadle train station along with the Cheadle Towns Board, or securing more funding for our local schools. I look forward to continuing my work on behalf of my residents in 2023 and wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
