As I See It: Sherwood MP Mark Spencer reflects on politics and community spirit over the last year

It is safe to say that this year has been a tough one for households across the country. However, I am proud to say that, despite this year of uncertainty, the spirits of communities across Sherwood have proven indestructible, writes Mark Spencer, MP for Sherwood.

First, I’d like to take a moment to reflect as, at this time last year, inflation stood tall at 10.5% and small boat arrivals to the UK stood at nearly 47,000 at year end. That is why, at the start of 2023, the Prime Minister made five promises to the nation, including: to halve inflation, grow the economy, get our national debt down, cut NHS waiting lists and stop the boats.

He has held my full and unwavering support throughout the year, and I was in no doubt that he would deliver on these promises, as he has now done, that will continue to ease the pressure households have faced throughout 2023.

Now, for the positive. Over the last twelve months, I have travelled to each and every corner of our constituency and have met some truly inspiring people. Whether it be home calls to constituents struggling through hard times, surgeries to bring together communities and tackle local issues, or visits to organisations working hard to provide for the community, the people of Sherwood never cease to amaze me with the warmth of their welcome.

We are so incredibly lucky to live in a part of the country that is so rich in history and natural beauty, where people from across the globe cite our hospitality as our main strength. These days, in the face of hardship, it is so rare to find any need to pull together. However, I am enormously proud to represent an area where its communities continue to care and look after one another.

Looking forward to 2024, I understand that many of my constituents will be feeling unsteady considering the global challenges in Ukraine, Israel and Gaza that remain unresolved. However, I want to assure you that colleagues across government are wholly focused on delivering both humanitarian and diplomatic support to the international communities that need them most, as well as looking out for our own long-term security.

Finally, I want to round out the year by saying how I know that we have the kind of political leadership in this Conservative government, and in Rishi Sunak as our leader and Prime Minister, that puts the national interest over self-interest. I remain confident that this government will continue to make the hard but necessary long-term decisions to get the country on the right path for the future and want to put on record my renewed personal devotion to the people of Sherwood as we move into this new chapter.

So, from my family to yours, I wish you a very happy and prosperous New Year.