'What matters most, is that hard-working and concerned constituents are listened to and supported'

MP for Wrexham

Last week, we witnessed the start of the Conservative leadership contest. From today, MP’s have two more votes before we reach the final two candidates. After that, then the membership gets to choose the next Leader of the party and the Prime Minister.

As some may not be aware, the process of changing leader’s mid-term without a general election being called is no new phenomenon. Previous Governments have undertaken power shifts and title changes, for example the shift of Prime Minister from Tony Blair to Gordon Brown in 2007.

The level and quality of the candidates who are currently standing to become leader of the Conservative party is strong. However, one of the most important things that is often overlooked within a fast-paced leadership contest, is moving towards a more collaborative approach to politics. Focusing on a better politics, initiating cross-party relations and working together for a common aim is something which I strive to do for the betterment of Wrexham.

Whilst it is clear who MP’s have put their weight behind, it is important that constituents’ voices are heard as well. Therefore, I created a survey on my website to understand who Wrexham would like to see as the next Leader of the Conservative Party and why. If you have not done so already, follow this link to have your say: https://www.sarahatherton.org.uk/who-do-you-want-next-pm.

But what matters most, is that hard-working and concerned constituents are listened to and supported. This is something which the Conservative Government has delivered on and will continue to deliver on what impacts most – the cost of living. From 14th July, 9,600 families in Wrexham were starting to receive the first of two cost-of-living payments, amounting to £326. The second instalment of £324 will follow in the autumn.

In flooding news, since August 2020, I have supported the Rossett Focus Group (RFG). The Rossett Focus Group was formed by a small number of local residents in response to an unwanted proposed housing development on land that was, and still is, prone to flooding. Their objection is based on the flood risk of the land proposed for development in Rossett by the Castle Green Development. As the situation evolves, I chaired a meeting between Natural Resources Wales (Welsh Government) and RFG to ensure both sides could put forward their case. I will continue to support Wrexham residents in any way and ensure that constituents' voices are heard within local planning processes.

As a veteran myself and a member of the Defence Select Committee, I was delighted that 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards, ‘The Welsh Cavalry’ conducted their homecoming parade last week in Wrexham for the first time in 13 years! The Regiment, who have just returned from their 12-month peacekeeping NATO mission in Mali, received a very warm welcome home from Wrexham residents, with the strange sight of watching armoured fighting vehicles driving through are city.

It has been wonderful to watch so many military parades in Wrexham over the past few months, coupled with the regeneration of Hightown barracks, I’m immensely proud to support Wrexham’s military footprint.

Exciting times are ahead, as this Friday, Airbus’ New Medium Lift Helicopter (NLH) is being flown from the Farnborough Airshow up to Broughton for a showcase where we will get to see it in all its glory! Airbus is competitively bidding for the Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) NLH contract to replace its fleet of Puma HC2 and three British Army-operated types. Having lobbied the MoD extensively to introduce the competitive bidding process, I am so pleased that Airbus’ bid is being considered as it would mean all parts are made in the UK.

If Airbus’ new military variant of the H175M helicopter is chosen by the MoD, Airbus would use its Broughton site as the location of final assembly which would increase jobs and boost our local economy – nobody misses out.

As always, if you are a resident in Wrexham and need my assistance with any local or national issues, please contact me by emailing sarah.atherton.mp@parliament.uk.