Monday July 7th: At Gatwick with the Exchequer Secretary to HM Treasury for the signing of a Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership Growth Deal with central Government that will see the start of a six year investment programme in employment, infrastructure and transport for the area worth £202 million over six years, starting with investment of £38m of new funding.
Tuesday July 8th: Halfway to World AIDS Day in Parliament this morning I'm taking part in an attempt to get the greatest number of legislators tested for HIV. To hopefully help raise awareness and de-stigmatise the issue, in Crawley, nationally, globally.
In the evening I’m pleased to host the Chief Executive of South East Water, West Sussex County Council, the Environment Agency and others to the House of Commons discussing water supply and infrastructure investment. The 2015-20 period of pricing will see real terms reductions in water bill costs agreed with the regulator Ofwat.
Wednesday July 9th: Productive meeting in Parliament with Katy Bourne, our democratically accountable and effective Sussex Police Commissioner - crime is significantly down in Crawley but more work to do. My thanks to the dedication of local officers.
Thursday July 10th: Great to see over 800 Crawley and Sussex young people at K2 leisure centre taking part in Sainsbury's Sussex School Games today. Was pleased to be there in support. Then in the evening I attend to the Talk Broadfield neighbourhood meeting to catch up with community issues.
Friday July 11th: Fantastic to officially re-open the North Road, Three Bridges Post Office. Now open for over 40 extra hours a week with extended counter services. Part of the Government's £1.4bn upgrade nationally; most Crawley branches are being upgraded this year. Our Post Offices not only provide a local shop and public services but our community hubs. Great to see so many residents there.
Saturday July 12th: I visit several Crawley school fairs and fetes in lovely sunny weather followed by an inspiring performance at The Hawth in the evening by the local Louise Ryrie School of Dance & Drama of Love Letters around stories of families affected by the First World War. Was grateful to be invited.
Sunday July 13th: Honoured to present Cheneler School of Dance awards to pupils at Holy Trinity School.