Everyone who needs NHS dentistry should be able to access it to keep their teeth and mouths healthy, but I know there have been challenges here in the Forest of Dean with people struggling to get the appointments they need.
Last year the Conservative Government was successful in halving inflation from its peak of 11.1 per cent to 4 per cent, however, we recognise that organisations across the UK, including many local authorities, are facing cost pressures due to the after-effects of Covid and the war in Ukraine.
Taking the long-term, difficult decisions to halve inflation and strengthen the economy means the Government is now able to cut personal taxes and reward hard work across the country.
Just before Christmas, the Department for Education, working closely with the Government’s Equality Hub, published comprehensive guidance for teachers on how best to support pupils questioning their gender in schools.
I want to start my column this week by passing on my thanks to Alia, aged 8, from Soudley Primary School for her winning entry to my Christmas card competition this year.
The pandemic and the impact of conflict like the war in Ukraine has led to unprecedented levels of immigration to the UK. Net migration in the year to June 2023 was up significantly on pre-pandemic levels but lower than the number who came in 2022.
In January, the Prime Minister set out his five priorities for government. Three of which were economic: to halve inflation, grow the economy, and reduce debt.
New figures have shown that thanks to the actions of this Conservative Government we have halved inflation from its peak of 10.7 per cent at the start of the year to 4.6 per cent in October – giving families the immediate relief they need.