At a time when terrible global events are dominating all our thoughts it is difficult to concentrate on matters nearer home. Nevertheless, we need to keep some of our attention on our own issues, and the ever-important matter of rail policy is always on the agenda.
Years ago I remember having to battle to keep a police station open in Ashford. I accepted the logic of closing smaller stations which few people ever visited, but not one as busy as Ashford.
At times when it is reasonable to be pessimistic about the state of the country and the world it is often refreshing to hear what young people are thinking.
For my first column of 2022 I would love to be talking about anything else but Covid, but I’m afraid we have not yet fully emerged from this long dark tunnel. Surely though we are now in the final weeks where daily life has to be so significantly disrupted by it.
I spend a good deal of my time talking to local businesses, and therefore hearing about how they are managing in the period of recovery from the restrictions imposed by the pandemic.
One of the more enjoyable parts of an MP’s job is helping celebrate the opening of a new project. So last Friday was a particularly enjoyable time as I managed two in one day.
One of the most welcome new additions to the town’s facilities is the Ashford Youth Hub, which was set up over the summer and is now fully operational. It brings together the Job Centre, the Borough Council and East Kent College to give tailored support to young people for up to six months.
The last few days may have been dominated by the dramas and difficulties of the petrol crisis but in the long term I think one of the key challenges facing the Government is making sure the planning system is seen as fair and responsive.
