I always love being at home in the Moorlands after a busy week in Parliament and last Friday was particularly special as festivities were in full swing in Biddulph at the Twilight Market. It was great to catch up with Cllr Jim Garvey, Biddulph’s Mayor, and look around the stalls in the market. There were some fantastic local creations on offer, from handmade cards to marmalade and chutney. There was a real sense of community as outside the market people gathered to watch children from Our Lady of Grace Primary School sing carols. Mince pies and hot drinks were served, and Santa even paid a visit!
In Parliament on Wednesday, I was honoured to be elected Chair of the British Group of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (BGIPU). Founded in 1889 by two MPs, one British and one French, the Inter-Parliamentary Union is one of the largest global organisations, with 144,000 members across the world. Now based in Geneva, it aims to bring parliamentarians from around the world together so that we can work together on common problems, such as climate change and global migration.
The BGIPU is a cross-party group of Westminster parliamentarians, both MPs and Lords. Having been a part of BGIPU delegations before, I have seen first-hand the significant impact such a group can have on British foreign relations. For example, on a trip to Greece in May earlier this year, we discussed issues surrounding migration and asylum seekers with experts sharing their insights.
It is a great privilege to succeed Harriet Baldwin MP as Chair and I look forward to building on the important work that the group has done over the years. I would also like to congratulate all the other Parliamentarians who were elected to the group and to thank the BGIPU staff, I am excited to work with all of them.
