Heatons Post column – December 2021

Parliament has been dominated by the Owen Paterson scandal in recent weeks, which has once again shone a light on corruption in our political system. Parliament must urgently clean up its act.

On a more positive note, I was proud to have recently helped organise the first Diwali reception hosted by the current House of Commons Speaker at the Palace of Westminster. It was an honour to be able to mark one of the largest religious festivals in the UK in Parliament alongside friends and colleagues, and join almost one billion Hindus across the world to celebrate Diwali.

COP26 also took place last month, and I was delighted that Stockport held its first ever Climate Action Summit to coincide with the conference. It was heartwarming to see so many in our community discussing the most urgent issue facing humanity, and inspiring action across the borough to help tackle the climate emergency.

Stepping Hill Hospital recently suspended visits as a result of rising Covid rates. However, a concerted effort by our community has led to a fall in infections, which is extremely encouraging news. Please continue to take all possible precautions to help protect our NHS and save lives.

Last month we marked Remembrance Day, and I laid a wreath at the War Memorial (Stockport Art Gallery) to commemorate all those who sacrificed their lives so that we can live in freedom and peace. I also planted a memorial cross in the House of Commons Constituency Garden of Remembrance to honour all those from Stockport who lost their lives at war.

As always, if you live or work in my Stockport constituency and require support, please do email me on navendu.mishra.mp@parliament.uk.