Heatons Post Column – July 2022

Rising inflation and an imminent recession continue to be extremely worrying for everyone. The Office for National Statistics recently reported that real wages – a measure of regular wage growth when inflation is factored in – plunged by 4.5% in April. That was the biggest fall since records began in 2001 and, with unemployment rising too, many people in Stockport are facing substantial hardship. I will continue to challenge the Government to do all it can to prevent this situation spiralling out of control.

It’s been five years since the Grenfell tragedy where 72 people lost their lives due to a combination of dangerous cladding and inadequate fire safety strategy. Greater Manchester continues to have dozens of high-rise buildings that have had to adopt interim safety measures because of serious fire safety deficiencies and the Government’s failure to act quickly enough. It’s shameful that people are still at risk of dying in their own homes but groups such as Manchester Cladiators continue to do inspiring work around this issue to pressure the Government into taking action.

The Government’s attempt to privatise Channel 4 would be a loss for our democracy and would undermine the important work the station has done over the past 40 years to provide a voice for underrepresented groups. Furthermore, the Culture Secretary’s plans would fail the Government’s own standards, which require policies to pass a levelling-up test to ensure they contribute positively to equalising economic opportunity across the country.

I thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the Platinum Jubilee celebrations last month in Stockport. It was wonderful to attend several events across my constituency, and to see everyone celebrating street parties and events in the community to mark 70 years since the Queen’s accession to the throne, which was a welcome relief after a challenging couple of years.

The volunteers and organisers worked incredibly hard to stage such successful events, and they demonstrated the very best of Stockport.

Please contact me if you are based in Stockport constituency. I can be reached on 0161 480 0833 or navendu.mishra.mp@parliament.uk.