When I was re-elected Member of Parliament for Chelsea and Fulham in December 2019, I could not have imagined the turbulent times that lay ahead.
The challenges we have faced, as a country and around the world, have been unprecedented. As we recover from the economic impact of the pandemic, we are also met with a global energy crisis, driven by Russia’s barbaric invasion of Ukraine.
It has been an honour and a privilege for me as your MP to be at the heart of all of this, as Minister for Energy and Climate Change. I am fully aware of the challenges we face for the coming winter and in our move to Net Zero. The UK is in a good place when it comes to energy.
Fortunately, unlike most other European countries, we have good security of gas supply from our own North Sea continental shelf and from Norway. We are leading on renewable energies, especially offshore wind, and in nuclear energy, too. Challenges come with opportunities - the Energy Security Bill will be next on my agenda.
Locally, we are threatened by Mayor Khan and proposed TfL bus cuts. These drastic plans to totally axe or reduce many of our long-standing, well-used local bus routes, like the iconic Number 11 bus, would be disastrous for Chelsea and Fulham residents. The 14, 74, C3, N11 and N74 are also proposed by Khan for abolition.
I am, however, also aware of the worries and challenges of residents. Since the beginning of the pandemic, I have received over 42,000 enquiries from local residents and businesses. As your Member of Parliament, I am here to help my constituents, regardless of their political views. I hold regular advice surgeries and events for local residents. If you’d like my help or support, please get in touch.
Please do take a look at My Plan to make Chelsea and Fulham an even better place to live and work, and don’t forget to subscribe to my weekly e-newsletter!
Kind regards
Member of Parliament for Chelsea & Fulham