I was elected on a manifesto which pledged to ban the export of all plastic waste to non-OECD countries, and I would like to reassure you that my ministerial colleagues remain committed to clamping down on illegal waste exports. I know that ministers plan to introduce tougher controls on illegal 

I have been receiving a number of emails requesting that I attend the APPG meeting on Choice at the End of Life, which is taking place on Tuesday 27 April at 5pm.

I have received a number of emails about vaccine passports, or Covid-status certification. Let me say at the beginning that passports of this type need to be looked at from two angles; first, for international travel, and, secondly, for domestic uses. The former is largely outside our control in

This campaign raises concern that since the law change of November 2018 allowing the prescription of medical cannabis it is still not widely available through an NHS prescription. It specifically relates to families with children suffering from severe drug resistant epilepsy.

Immigration has always been a hot topic. We have taken back control of our legal immigration system by ending free movement and introducing a new points-based system, but we must address illegal immigration in order to properly control our borders and prevent further loss of life.

There have long been calls for greater power for police and stiffer sentences in relation to  some crimes and activities. At one end of the spectrum, the death of PC Andrew Harper shocked the nation and led to calls for stiffer sentencing.

The UK is a global leader in the fight to protect our seas with our ‘Blue Belt’ of protected waters. I share the concerns about the protection and health of British waters and I am fully aware of the impact that super trawlers have on marine life.

There has been some concern that the Trade Bill does not offer sufficient protections in some areas especially the NHS, food standards and environmental targets. However I believe that these are already have rigorous protections in place, which I explain below.

The Government is not pursuing its own agenda in dealing with the Coronavirus pandemic.  The truth of the matter is that schools may not be returning on 1st  June, it depends on the scientific evidence. 

The Environment Bill will place environmental ambition and accountability at the heart of Government. I am pleased that legislative measures will be introduced to address the biggest environmental priorities of our age.

When people voted to leave the EU, they did so in the knowledge that the free movement system imposed by the EU would end. The Home Secretary has been clear that she has a particular responsibility to take back control and bring an end to free movement once and for all.

Treating and caring for people in a safe, compassionate environment – for both patients and staff – is a top priority for the Government. It is also, as I said during the election, a top priority for me too.  This note is in response to those who have written to me with concerns.