'I would encourage everyone to continue to shop local whenever you can'

MP for Delyn

At the time of writing this month’s column with the sun shining, I think I can confidently say that summer has arrived. The good weather always puts me in a good mood, and with Wales now in Alert Level One with 75% of adults in North Wales fully vaccinated, I think we now have even more reason to be positive and look ahead.

Of course, it is still important to stay safe, and of the best ways to do this is to have your Covid vaccine. Last month, I was pleased to receive my second vaccine, and once again, it was a slick and professional service from those at Deeside Vaccination Centre. Whether you need your first or second dose, it is now easier than ever to get vaccinated so I would encourage everyone to have theirs – so we can continue this return to normal. To book yours, head to the Health Board’s online booking service or call 03000 840004.

In Delyn, thanks to the brilliant local vaccination programme, things almost feel like back to normal and it was great to be out visiting businesses to mark Independents Weekend 2021 – which aims to celebrate local and independent retailers. In Delyn, we have so many amazing local businesses, ranging from butchers to hairdressers to everything in between, so I would encourage everyone to continue to shop local whenever you can. As Parliament will be on Recess over the summer, I look forward to getting out and visiting even more businesses and hearing their views.

Reliable transport links are vital to both local businesses and residents alike, so I was glad to launch my ‘Travel and Transport Survey’ this month. With the Welsh Government declaring a ‘freeze’ on all new road-building projects, I have launched my survey to hear your views on local transport issues. From a new train station at Greenfield to improvements to the A55, our local area is in desperate need of improvements to transport infrastructure so I hope the Welsh Government will listen to local views and work to come up with some real solutions. To share your views, head to my website - https://www.rjroberts.co.uk/campaigns/improving-delyns-transport-links.

Elsewhere in Delyn, I met with Inspector Jones, Flintshire South’s Inspector, and it was great to hear about his work in the local area. I also met with local residents in Lixwm, following concerns raised to me about speeding along the main road, and I will be doing all I can to resolve the issue going forward. Virtually, I had meetings with Hafren Dyfrdwy to find out about the funding opportunities for local communities, with the CEO of the Health Board to discuss healthcare funding and with the Business Banking Resolution Service to hear more about support for local businesses.

In Westminster this month, I spoke in the Second Reading Debate of both the Health and Care Bill and in the Nationality and Borders Bill, and I look forward to seeing how these Bills progress through Parliament. During International Trade Questions, I asked the Minister about the need to maintain the UK’s high standards during future trade negotiations, and I was reassured to hear his commitment to our high agriculture and food standards. Later, I asked the Minister for Regional Growth about the benefits of a Freeport for North Wales, and I was pleased to hear that talks between the UK and Welsh Government are ongoing on this matter. A Freeport would be truly transformative for Delyn and the wider region, boosting trade, jobs, and innovation so I will continue to fight our corner in Parliament.

While Parliament may be on Recess over summer, I will continue to be a strong voice for Delyn. If you, a friend, or a member of your family need my help please email me on -rob.roberts.mp@parliament.uk or call 01352 710 232.