By the time this is published, the parliamentary vote on the EU withdrawal agreement between the UK and the EU should have taken place with the outcome known. By far the best outcome for the country would be for MPs to back the deal. This would respect the democratic verdict delivered in the referendum and provide for an orderly exit from the EU. Prolonged uncertainty is not good for our economy and it is worth noting that the business community are very keen for the deal to pass.

Henry Smith MP has hailed young Crawley entrepreneur Sam French in the House of Commons (on Tuesday, 8th January).

Crawley MP and Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Blood Cancer Henry Smith has backed a report by the charity Bloodwise that calls for improvements to the treatment and care of people with blood cancer. He hosted the launch of the ‘Hear Our Voice’ report (Tuesday, 8th January) in the House of Commons.

Henry Smith MP has welcomed the launch of the NHS Long-Term Plan (on Monday, 7th January); an important moment for patients in Crawley and across the country.

Like last year, the headlines in the early part of 2019 will be dominated by our upcoming leaving of the EU. However, it is worth reflecting on the many achievements of the Conservative government in 2018, which happened despite ongoing disruptive opposition from Labour. In 2018 the Conservatives reduced the burden of taxation, invested in our public services, continued to back working people, as well as keeping our economy strong.

Henry Smith MP has welcomed the news that councils will receive a real terms increase in funding for vital local services.
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Thanks to our investment of £20.5 billion a year in real terms by 2023-24 the plan will transform patient care and make sure every penny of taxpayers’ money is spent wisely.

In the year since the modern Industrial Strategy was launched, £45 billion has been committed to support local infrastructure, research and development, and businesses to back high-skilled jobs in communities across the country.

Henry Smith MP has welcomed the news that the Government are introducing a brand new railcard, which will halve all rail fares for 16 and 17 year olds.

While there is much political uncertainty in the short term, I like to take a longer and optimistic view. Having a forward vision and getting things right for the long term as opposed to only having instant ‘quick wins’ is something I believe in. Transport in particular is something that requires long term planning and investment although it can involve short-term pain as improvements are undertaken.