Last Wednesday, the landmark Domestic Abuse Bill passed its Second Reading in Parliament. The Bill introduces the first ever statutory definition of domestic abuse, recognising that abuse can take many different forms – including psychological, physical, sexual, economic and emotional.

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe debated a report from the Migration, Refugees and Displaced Persons Committee which suggested that concerted action should be taken by the countries of origin of labour migrants and the European countries where they come to work, in order to all

With the prevalence of anti-semitism I took the opportunity to speak in a debate on the conservation of Jewish cultural heritage at the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.

In a debate on climate refugees at the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe John spoke particularly in relation to climate change.

John spoke at the Council of Europe to encourage the UK Government to sign up to the Council’s Development Bank. He particularly focussed on the work related to the promotion of the UN Sustainability Agenda and climate action.  

At the meeting of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe John spoke about the role of ombudsmen. The work of ombudsmen is an important part of everyday life, helping people to resolve difficult situations.

John spoke today on whistleblowing at the Council of Europe in Strasbourg. He praised the rights of whistleblowers to raise issues of public interest without sacrificing their personal lives or that of their families.

It would be nice to think that historically the temperature of discussions in the House has always been calm. But just look back at the debates that took place over Maastricht which were vitriolic.

The Parish of Kidmore End is yet another community to take up the opportunity to develop a Neighbourhood Development Plan. This weekend they held one of their public exhibitions which John attended. He talked with members of the Steering Group and saw what they had done so far.

Wood Lane Dental practice in Sonning Common has been celebrating 50 years of serving the community.