UK Parliament Week is the time when everybody who works in Parliament makes an extra effort to engage communities about how Parliament works. Events are taking place all this week and this year is extra special as it’s the tenth anniversary of this annual series of events.
Despite not being able to do events in person, my focus this year is on helping to teach East Devon school and college pupils all about how politics works and why getting involved matters now more than ever.
I’m speaking with children at schools and clubs across the constituency, albeit virtually, as it’s really important that we teach the next generation about how our democracy works and the part we all have to play in it.
I’m sure children will hear their friends and family talking about politics at home – what the latest coronavirus figures are or what the government should do to help. That’s why I’m keen to ensure that everybody, young and old, understands how Parliament operates.
Whilst we might all be aware of the shouting of Prime Minister’s Question Time on a Wednesday lunchtime, it actually serves as an important opportunity for the Prime Minister to be held to account by the Opposition.
However, scrutiny of the government is not just conducted by the Opposition. I sit on the Transport Select Committee and have questioned ministers, civil servants and business leaders about the implementation of transport policy – from Flybe to the A303 to regional rail improvements.
Although I’m a Conservative MP, I’m not in the government, and it is absolutely right that the backbench MPs like me get to represent their constituents and question those charged with delivering important policies.
I was proudly elected on a Conservative manifesto and less than a year in, there’s still a lot more for the government to crack on with for the South West and Devon. Whether it’s calling for financial support for the Chiefs and Exeter Airport, holding ministers to account on trade deals or debating the future of the BBC, Parliament helps shape our lives and I want everyone to know how it works and it’s quirks.
This column first appeared in the Exmouth Journal on Wednesday 4th November, Sidmouth Herald on Thursday 5th November, and the Midweek Herald on Friday 6th November 2020.