I truly value local journalism and our freedom of the press, so I was delighted, and very grateful, to be asked by the Daily Echo to write a regular column. Here’s my latest article, where I discuss the run-up to recess, Southern Water, crime and how I’ll be spending summer in Southampton…
The run-up to the House of Commons summer recess has been a busy time, both in parliament and here in Southampton. In Westminster, there’s been lots going on relevant to us in the city, with legislation progressing and announcements made in areas that hugely effect Southampton.
Following the Royal Assent of Labour’s Water (Special Measures) Act earlier this year, which legislated to change how we regulate the water industry, the government has announced plans to reshape regulation entirely. We know the current system isn’t working and something fundamental needed to change. Right now, our water industry is policed by four separate regulators in a system that’s more about passing the buck than taking responsibility.
So, the government has announced it will abolish Ofwat (Water Services Regulation Authority), as it’s been failing to hold companies like Southern Water to account, in turn failing local communities. A new, single regulator will take on responsibility for water in a move designed to cut through bureaucracy and finally deliver for residents. It will give clarity on standards, tackle problems head-on, and rigorously hold companies to account, so that we can all enjoy a better service and have access to cleaner waterways.
Another welcome move, made possible by Labour’s Water Act, was the banning of bonuses for Southern Water’s failing executives. However, in news that shocked us all, we’ve just seen Southern Water’s CEO take his bonus for this year anyway. In response, I joined other MPs in writing to him, condemning this action and demanding he reject the money, instead reinvesting it to fix the problems. Thankfully, Environment Secretary Steve Reed has explained that his outrageous pay rise is, surprise surprise, a Tory legacy. He confirmed that this obscene payment was only possible because it relates to the last year of Tory government and the rules they set. The good news is this: because Labour have changed the law, no similar payment will be possible in future.
Back in Southampton, the summer break is now fully underway. With parliamentary recess in full swing too, it gives MPs the chance to spend more time in their constituencies. I couldn’t be happier to be out and about across Southampton, meeting residents and supporting local events.
In recent weeks, I’ve been privileged to join in with lots of different activities across our city, from speaking at the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the redevelopment of our Outdoor Sports Centre (backed by Government investment), to celebrating Southampton’s diversity at our annual Mela. A huge well done to the many organisers and volunteers bringing our city to life this summer, with fairs, festivals and fun! It’s my favourite time of year and shows Southampton at it’s very best.
Whilst summer brings fun for many, the holidays present challenges too, and many struggle with food security during the summer break. Last week, I was invited by heroic local food redistribution charity The Big Difference to visit their incredible new Social Supermarket, which has just opened at Shirley Warren Primary School. Anyone can drop-in from Monday to Friday, between 11am and 4pm, to buy healthy food at affordable prices. It’s got everything you need and is already well loved by the community. I’m proud to have played my part in bringing this together. Please go and check it out!
Another summertime challenge we usually face is an up-tick in certain crimes and antisocial behaviour. Luckily, following the campaigning efforts of me and others, our bid to bring more police resources to Southampton this summer has been successful! As part of Labour’s Safer Streets summer town centre crime initiative, our local highstreets are now seeing an increased level of policing, ensuring visible, meaningful consequences for those causing misery to residents. Throughout the holidays, you will see more police officers tackling crime, whether it’s anti-social behaviour in Portswood, motorcycle nuisance in Millbrook, or shoplifting in Shirley.
Longer term, we know more needs to be done to make people feel safe in their homes and neighbourhoods again, and it’s why I’m campaigning for more front counter face-to-face access to the police. Watch this space!
Finally, I want to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable summer. As always, if you have questions about policy or need support with any issue, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can email me at satvir.kaur.mp@parliament.uk or call my office on 02382 546 357.