It has been a while since I last wrote but as you will all be aware, it has been an incredibly busy few weeks with the “Super Thursday” Elections in May and the State Opening of Parliament launching this next session of Parliament with an ambitious and exciting Queen’s Speech outlining the programme for Government.
Many of us have been enjoying increased levels of freedom in our day to day lives, and, going down Banchory High Street, Stonehaven Square or around the Westhill Shopping Centre, it has been so good to see so many people out and about supporting our local shops and hospitality venues. It is so important, as we near normality and a full lifting of restrictions, that we continue to do our bit to keep Covid at bay. This means continuing to abide by social distancing and wearing a mask when we are instructed and most importantly, getting your vaccine when it is offered.
The vaccine roll out has been a Great British success story and has shown the Union at its very best. The planning and preparation by the UK Government in moving so quickly to build up a large portfolio of various vaccines, the amazing work of our scientists and researchers, the dedication of our NHS workers, the involvement of the Armed Forces…all working together across the length and breadth of the UK meaning that, for a country of our size and population, we now lead the world in terms of numbers vaccinated. Let’s keep that up and let’s never forget that it is the Union that made it happen.
Last week on Whitsun recess, I enjoyed getting out and about across the constituency- meeting so many people in their communities to discuss face to face (!) what I might be able to do to support them and resolve their outstanding problems. My office has worked wonders through lockdown and we continued to meet constituents over zoom, on the phone or by email but it is so much better to have a face to face conversation- let’s hope in the not too distant future we will be able to welcome you all back into the office in Banchory!
I also look forward to the day that we are able to hold events and gatherings again. My diary this summer looks like it did last year – very empty, with, understandably, so many shows and games deciding against going ahead. I cannot wait for a jam packed 2022 when we can once again gather and celebrate the best of our region at the Shows and Highland Games we all know and love.
It is four years to the day since I was elected to Parliament and given the immense privilege and honour of representing you and all the people of West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine. It has been quite the four years – two Brexit Deals, three meaningful votes, two Prime Minister’s, a European Election, the Prorogation that wasn’t a Prorogation, a winter General Election, a Scottish Election and a Global Pandemic. In amongst all that, I’ve managed to get some work done!
I have had a really brilliant four years – thanks to an amazing staff, a patient wife and wonderful constituents. I look forward to carrying on serving you for as long as you’ll have me!
