30/08/2021
Hello - The events in have shaken our community and have hit us all hard. There's a lot of work locally to do and that’s why I’ve asked Keir Starmer to allow me to step back from my shadow cabinet role for the next month so I can focus on our community in Keyham.
When I was elected in 2017 I promised I would put Plymouth first as an MP and I meant it. Our community must get the support we need from Ministers and it’s my job to get that support.
Over the past fortnight our community, local councillors, the city council, the Police and many more have stepped up to help. It’s my job as Keyham’s MP to be focused on the community at this difficult time. We will get through this and will get through it together.
I’m very proud of the work the Shadow Environment team do in holding the Government to account on issues ranging from fishing to farming, food to nature. The climate and ecological emergency needs pressing action. I'm very pleased my friend and colleague, Daniel Zeichner, the Shadow Farming Minister will be leading efforts while I’m taking a step back. I'm hoping to be back for Labour Conference next month.
The Keyham shootings have affected our whole community. Please look after each other but also look after yourself too. I am not always good at following this advice, but the shootings have knocked me for six as it has for everyone in our community. It’s OK not to be OK and help is available. Talking helps especially over a cup of tea and a slice of cake but please know you are not alone and you don't have to go through this difficult time alone.
I’m grateful to Keir Starmer, Parliamentary colleagues, local councillors and friends for the support they’ve offered Keyham, Plymouth and me. You can help too by donating to the fund. https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/wolseley-trust?utm_id=1&utm_term=ZbjgvX94M