It’s been another great week both in Parliament and Newcastle North!
Remember, you can also follow me on social media for updates on my work – you can find all the details at: www.catherinemckinnellmp.co.uk/contact-me/.
Holocaust Memorial Day
This year commemorated the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration camp complex, and the 30th anniversary of the genocide in Bosnia.
Last week, we honoured the approximately six million Jewish people who were murdered during the Holocaust as well as the survivors who work tirelessly to educate young people across the world about the dangers of where hatred can lead.
I am committed to never forgetting the atrocities of the Holocaust and learning from the lessons of the past to work towards a better world for all.
Jesmond Residents Association Meeting
On Friday, I met with a representative from the Jesmond Residents Association to discuss their work with the police and universities to tackle antisocial behaviour and community cohesion. The Association is working to address tensions between local residents and students in high concentration areas, and encouraging landlords to take ownership when tenants are antisocial.
Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill
Last week, we continued to work through the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill at Committee Stage, scrutinising every single line of the legislation to ensure that it provides the best outcomes for children, families, and schools across the country. I am pleased that the Bill could save families £500 a year through free breakfast clubs and cheaper uniform costs.
Education OPQs
Oral questions are a chance for MPs to ask government ministers questions regarding issues that are associated to their department.
As Minister for School Standards, I answer questions from MPs on our education system. Last Monday, I answered questions on a range of topics, as well as outlining the Government’s commitment to unlock barriers to opportunity for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, so that they can achieve and thrive.
Water (Special Measures) Bill
Last week, the Water (Special Measures) Bill passed Third Reading. This new legislation will clean up Britain’s rivers, lakes, and seas by holding water companies accountable for their actions when they pollute our waterways, damage the environment, and fail their customers.
You can find more information on the Bill here: www.catherinemckinnellmp.co.uk/cleaning-up-our-waterways-with-the-water-special-measures-bill/
Knife Crime
In the past few weeks, the issue of knife crime has dominated the headlines. This devastating crime is impacting too many young people across the country, including children and families in Newcastle North. The Labour Government is committed to tackling this atrocious and unacceptable crime and will introduce the Young Futures programme to increase earlier intervention and prevent young people being drawn into crime.
Visiting Parliament
It was great to meet two constituents last week who visited Parliament to watch Prime Minister’s Questions.
If you would be interested in visiting Westminster, either to take part in a tour, or watch a debate, you can get in touch with my office for more details.
You can also find more information at: https://www.parliament.uk/visiting.