The New Year is a time for reflection as well as for the anticipation of the opportunities that lie ahead and of course for some of us, New Year’s Resolutions.
As we reflect on last year, I realise just what a busy year it was, with many memorable events. Whether it was being in London for the historic Coronation of King Charles III, to watching the first King’s Speech for 70 years in the House of Lords, or the fantastic community events in my constituency, such as the Long Eaton Carnival and the Ilkeston Charter Fair, 2023 was certainly a momentous year.
Politically, the Prime Minister, Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP made significant progress which has set the country on the right track for the future. Inflation has more than halved, small boat arrivals have reduced by 30 per cent in 2023, we legislated to protect our waterways from sewage, signed numerous post-Brexit trade deals and have initiated measures to reduce illegal and legal migration.
Derbyshire has continued to benefit from the policies of this Conservative Government. There are 346 additional police officers on our streets; our towns, cities, roads and transport services have improved thanks to substantial Government financial backing. Later this month, I know many of you will be delighted, that thanks to this Government’s sound fiscal policies, the reduction in the rate of National Insurance will ensure we keep more of our hard-earned money this month, and in the following months.
2024 provides the Government with an opportunity to further build on its legacy and tackle the issues which will benefit our region and country. Whether it’s gaining further funding, to benefit every corner of Derbyshire, or supporting legislation, which will allow us to take full control of our borders or making sure that our public services are adequately supported; I will continue to do everything I can to ensure that everyone across Derbyshire prosper and thrive.
There are also a number of significant events taking place this year, so here’s a taster of what’s to come:
- It will be a seismic year for democracy. It is estimated that around 2 billion people globally will go to the polls this year in countries such as Finland, India and the US. Closer to home, in May’s local elections, for the first time we will be provided with the opportunity to elect an East Midlands Mayor. It is also highly likely that the UK General Election will be this year, rather than just falling into next year.
- 2024 is shaping up to be a monumental chapter in the world of sports. This year sports fans will be able to enjoy the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris, the Six Nations, the Cheltenham Festival and of course the UEFA European Football Championship in Germany. Will football finally come home?
- On 6th June, heads of state, veterans and officials will commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings and the Battle of Normandy. 9th November will also mark 35 years since the Berlin Wall was torn down and with it the collapse of Communist rule in Eastern Europe. On a slightly lighter note, September 22nd marks Derbyshire Day. A day that provides us with an opportunity to recognise everything that is special about our county.
Therefore 2024 promises to be a very eventful year. I would like to take this opportunity to wish you a happy and prosperous New Year.