Better late than never! Here’s my September 2025 roundup - a look back at some of what I got up to last month.

I am deeply shocked and saddened by the attack at Heaton Park synagogue in Manchester today. This horrific act of violence highlights the very real and rising threat of antisemitism impacting communities nationwide, including here in Leyton and Wanstead.

I recently visited our local Boots on Wanstead High Street after concerns were shared at a Business Forum I organised on crime and anti-social behaviour. While I was pleased to meet a security guard there then, I understand that provision is still unreliable and shoplifting sadly remains a regular occurrence, so I will be writing to Boots UK to follow up further. Thanks to staff and customers for their ongoing vigilance.

I had the pleasure of visiting 241 Wanstead & Woodford Squadron Royal Air Force Cadets and was blown away by their dedication and spirit. The Banner, Drill, and Band Teams all put on a brilliant display - full of energy, teamwork, and pride.

Hello everyone, many of you will know that Wanstead’s War Memorial is in urgent need of repair. Father James Gilder has launched a fundraising effort to restore it in time for this year’s Remembrance Sunday.

As many of you will know, over recent weeks there have been a number deeply concerning incidents in our community. Flags have been placed on the George Lane viaduct in South Woodford, directly outside one of our local mosques. This was a deliberate and provocative act that has caused real upset, and it has no place here.

Today marks a historic step: UK recognition of the State of Palestine. This week, I met Ambassador Husam Zomlot with our neighbouring MP Stella Creasy in support of this important moment. Recognition is a step towards a two-state solution and a permanent peace, and I hope others around the world will now join us. But recognition alone is not enough to stop this bloodshed. We need a ceasefire now, a flood of humanitarian aid into Gaza, the release of all hostages,

This week I met with the Ambassador of Jordan, alongside neighbouring MP Jas Athwal MP - Ilford South, to discuss the dire humanitarian crisis in Palestine and Jordan's vital efforts to deliver aid. In a week that saw further Israeli troops push into Gaza City, displacing thousands, and the bombing of Gaza City’s children’s hospital, these conversations could not be more urgent. The Ambassador welcomed the UK’s forthcoming recognition of the State of Palestine. We also disc

Last week, I convened a meeting in Parliament to push forward the cross-Channel rail agenda and highlight the central role that our local Temple Mills rail depot plays. We were joined by five train companies, alongside London St Pancras Highspeed, Eurotunnel, and government officials.

Over the summer, my team and I heard from families, teachers, and professionals about their experiences and challenges with the SEND system. Your voices made it clear: change is desperately needed.

Wonderful to attend the Leyton Orient Football Club game this Saturday. I met with the club chairman to hear about progress on securing a new stadium site and the team’s progress on and off the pitch.

My speech given at the Victory Services Club on the Anniversary of the Battle of Britain. Secretary of State, friends and colleagues, thank you for being here tonight. As someone who wore the RAF uniform for 24 years, it’s a privilege to speak on Battle of Britain Night and to do so amongst people who live and breathe our nation’s security.

On Friday, I visited the fire station in Leytonstone to meet with the borough commander and the incredible firefighters who serve our community. I feel very fortunate to have such a dedicated team keeping us safe.

In August, I sent a letter to the Minister to the Middle East asking for a full ban on the importation of goods from illegal Israeli settlements. You can read the full letter here.

Over the summer recess, I visited Stepping Stones House, a brilliant project helping bridge the gap between hostel accommodation and independent living for single homeless people.

During summer recess, I visited Clarendon Wellbeing House in Leytonstone to meet the staff and see the facilities that support people with learning disabilities to live independently.

Possibly my favourite summer visit was to Libertalia Brewing Co. alongside Society of Independent Brewers in Leyton – an independent brewery offering fantastic craft beers and a welcoming taproom right here in our community.

Great to meet with the community group, Leyton Midland Collective, on a walkabout recently! We visited businesses under the arches on Leyton Midland Road, strolled through Abbots Park, and saw Jack Cornwell Park, home to the old Brooks Farm, which the collective is working hard to bring back. Really exciting to hear more about their projects and ambitions for the area!