Monday
A sad, but inspiring, start to the week. I joined many Chelmsford City Councillors, officers and over 500 people at the funeral service for Steve Packham. As the Council’s chief executive officer, Steve led the work to transform the City over the past 15 years. It is clear that he was deeply loved and admired by very many people. I am so grateful to Steve for his work the City’s presiding officer, championing democracy and making sure our elections were fair and that all candidates follow the rules.
Tuesday and Wednesday
The Westminster Parliament is having a “mini-break” recess but I use the time to travel to Brussels for an intensive 2 days of meetings with former colleagues in the European Parliament. I meet MEPs from Ireland, Sweden, Italy, Spain, Germany, Poland, Bulgaria, Belgium and other countries. It is important that we try to achieve an amicable relationship with the rest of the EU after we leave, and a workable trade agreement and collaboration on areas like security and science. Many jobs in Chelmsford rely on this. The negotiations are at a critical stage.
It is clear that lots of politicians from other countries want to help, but they also have difficulties – in Germany, for example, there is still no Government as their own coalition negotiations are not finalised. Other countries are concerned about how they complete the projects that were commissioned jointly with the UK – roads, railways and energy interconnectors, science and even space projects. The next few weeks are going to be crucial.
Thursday
Back in Chelmsford. Visiting one of the few farms in the constituency. The farmer is passionate about protecting the environment and as well as producing top quality food. We discuss what crops they are growing and the issues surrounding weedkillers and pesticides. Britian has very high animal welfare standards and its important that people back British farm products especially for meat and dairy products if they want the standards upheld.
I get a phone call asking if I can go on Channel 4 News – so it’s a quick change out of the wellie boots and down to London to the studio. I end the day handing out awards at an excellent “Work Experience” scheme for young people that has been going for a few years in Epping Forest constituency.
Friday
What a day! Early start at Great Baddow High School on a visit to hear about their plans for an amazing new science block, then to Moulsham Juniors where Year Five take me on a tour and grill me with detailed questions for an interview project. I wizz over to Broomfield to welcome the new Surgical Robot which has just been delivered. This will enable surgeons to do operations that they simply could not do using traditional methods. This will be life changing for many patients. This is a very advanced piece of equipment which is not normal for a hospital of our size. There is going to need to be some fundraising – all help welcome.
After a busy surgery, and a few extra meetings I realise I’ve had 14 apointments today! I end the day with a great evening at the YMCA where they are handing out awards to staff and young people. It’s full of joy - a great group!
Sunday
My first Remembrance Sunday Service in Chelmsford – what a very powerful, thoughtful day. Many people attending the service have their own personal reasons to say thank you to our armed forces. In my own family, my stepfather served in the Royal Navy from D Day to the Falklands War and both my brothers-in-law served with the Army. To those in the forces today and to our veterans, thank you, and may we never forget.