Full interview with Susan Hanks on Radio Stoke Yesterday, I joined BBC Radio Stoke to talk about the news that Deakin’s Yard, the new student accommodation development in Newcastle-under-Lyme, will not be opening as planned this September. In the interview I explained how I first became aware of the situation, the steps I have taken since, and why serious questions now need to be answered about planning, oversight, and the developers’ responsibility to deliver the project saf

In Theatre at the Royal Stoke Hospital This week I had the opportunity to visit Royal Stoke Hospital to see a Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) procedure carried out by the cardiology team. TAVI is a minimally invasive treatment for heart valve disease – a common but serious condition in which one or more heart valves stop working properly. Left untreated, heart valve disease can be fatal. But with procedures like TAVI, patients are able to return to living activ

Earlier this week, I was delighted to host a coffee morning at Betley Village Hall, bringing local people together over a cuppa and a slice of cake. It was wonderful to see so many of you there and to have the chance to listen to your thoughts, ideas, and concerns. As your Member of Parliament, I want to make sure I’m spending the Summer Recess out and about across Newcastle-under-Lyme, meeting people face-to-face and hearing directly from you. This kind of event is exactly w

My full speech in the House of Commons (21-07-2025) It was an honour to speak in Parliament in the debate on Victory over Japan Day, held shortly before the summer recess. The anniversary is a poignant moment to pay tribute to the men and women from Newcastle-under-Lyme, from Staffordshire, from across the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth who served in the Eastern theatre of the Second World War, and to the veterans and families to whom we owe so much. This year’s mileston

It was a privilege to visit the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of those from Newcastle-under-Lyme, from Staffordshire, from across our country, and from every corner of the Commonwealth. Eighty years on from VJ Day, we remember the men and women who gave everything so that we could live in freedom. Their service and sacrifice remain an enduring inspiration. We will remember them.

Text of my letter to the Foreign Secretary: Dear Secretary of State, Re: Military Occupation of Gaza I am writing to you today to raise my grave concerns about the statements from the Israeli Government regarding their intention to occupy the Gaza Strip. The British Government must oppose any attempts at the permanent displacement of the Palestinian people and any attempt, in any way, by the Israeli Government to militarily occupy Gaza. Such a move would stand in stark cont

I am aware of rumours circulating about the future use of Gordon Court in Knutton – and of a protest now being planned in response to those claims. These rumours are unfounded. There are no plans for Gordon Court to be used to house asylum seekers or to operate as a so–called ‘migrant hotel’. I have discussed the issue with the Home Office, raised it with Newcastle-under-Lyme District Borough Council and have spoken directly to the new owner of the site following its sale by

Earlier today, I received the news that the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Staffordshire had taken the decision to suspend Chief Constable Chris Noble while an independent investigation into allegations about his conduct takes place. This afternoon, I spoke with the Commissioner to discuss the situation. The investigation will now follow the appropriate independent process, and it’s important that this is respected. Public trust in policing is essential. The public r

My Personally Speaking Column in the Sentinel (31 July 2025) On Sunday night, the Lionesses made history – again. As they lifted the Women’s European Championship trophy for the second time in a row, it wasn’t just about the result – it was about the pride in our country, the sense of togetherness, and the memories being made in living rooms, pubs and parks up and down the country. It captured something many people felt in that moment – and that Chloe Kelly put simply and per

I spoke in the final debate before Parliament’s summer recess to reflect on my first year as your MP.