Henry Smith MP column, RH Uncovered Magazine, December 2015
As we approach Christmas, I reflect on the last twelve months.
My year started by working with Save the Children to support the ‘Read On. Get On’ child literacy campaign. Also in January, the Prime Minister joined me by welcoming figures showing that youth unemployment in Crawley was at its lowest level since comparable records began.
Following the dissolution of Parliament at the end of March, the General Election campaign officially began. I was honoured and extremely humbled to be re-elected as Member of Parliament for Crawley, with an increased majority, and I have not forgotten the concerns that people across our town told me about.
After the election, I was appointed Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Communities Secretary – this essentially involves working with Ministers and MPs to ensure the business of the Department for Communities & Local Government runs smoothly. The Department’s responsibilities include housing and devolution to local communities.
I continue to campaign on issues relating to the protection of animals. In June I was elected the Co-Chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare.
In 2016, I will continue to work on a number of campaigns important to our town. Constitutional issues which have the support of many people I have spoken to, such as the UK/EU in/out referendum. The promise of English votes for English laws was delivered a few months ago with my support in the House of Commons.
Alongside parliamentary colleagues, I continue to campaign for a fairer settlement for education funding for West Sussex pupils. By the time this column goes to print, my petition to the House of Commons on this issue would have concluded.
My best wishes to you for a happy Christmas and a successful 2016.
If I am able to assist in the New Year, please do not hesitate to contact me using the details listed below.
Henry Smith MP
House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA
01293 934554/020 7219 7043
henry.smith.mp@parliament.uk
www.henrysmith.info
www.facebook.com/HenrySmith4Crawley
www.twitter.com/HenrySmithMP
www.youtube.com/HenrySmithMP