IN my last column, I spoke about my moving visit to the Balsall Common Parkinson’s Café. Since my visit, my team and I have been busy questioning the Government on their plans to help support those with Parkinson’s.
Recently, there was a debate in Parliament marking Parkinson’s awareness month and I spoke about the importance of utilising the UK’s world-leading life sciences sector to improve research and development.
There are over 153,000 people with Parkinson’s in the UK, and Solihull has a disproportionately high number of sufferers, so I am determined to do all I can to pressure the Government into doing more. To that end, I have also written to the Health Secretary to ensure that better provision for sufferers is a priority.
The whole nation came together to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day. I was so proud to watch The King and the Princess of Wales leading the commemorations after their health struggles. As ever, I watched the parade and flypast feeling very proud to be British with my two young boys who were fascinated by the Red Arrows!
I was privileged to open the debate in the House of Commons celebrating the end of the Second World War in Europe on behalf of the Official Opposition. The war saw Britain, at some times alone, stand up for the values we all cherish – freedom, democracy and liberty. I paid tribute to all those that paid the ultimate sacrifice to stand up for our country in its darkest hour, this included the significant and often overlooked contribution of soldiers from across the Commonwealth.
The Second World War, in all its devastating brutality, must serve as a reminder to us all that freedom is not free. We all have an obligation to stand up to tyranny – just like Ukraine continues to do in the face of Russian aggression.
In this period of huge global uncertainty, the Second World War reminds us all that the freedoms we all enjoy can never be taken for granted.
In my speech, I took time to question the Minister on our campaign to bring back a statue of Dame Very Lynn. The late Sir David Amess launched an appeal to bring home a lasting memorial to Dame Vera, who throughout the Second World War kept our troops’ morale high. At times, she really did keep the “bluebirds singing over the White Cliffs of Dover”. The committee tasked with bringing the statue home need to raise £350,000 to bring it back from the Czech Republic, and I hope the Minister will ensure a lasting legacy to Dame Vera will be brought back to the UK.
Alongside events in London, there were some fantastic celebrations in Meriden and Solihull East. This included a beacon lighting service at Elmdon Church where I was honoured to meet 96-year-old Frank Spencer, an ex-Para, who had some truly remarkable stories. Even at the age of 92, Frank was willing to jump out of a plane to raise money for the Lily Mae Foundation. Having jumped off a plane for the Lily Mae Foundation myself, I can attest to Frank’s bravery!
In Dorridge, I visited a VE Day Café being held at the Scouts Hut on Arden Drive. There were some refreshments and quizzes on the Second World War. It was great to hear that all proceeds were going to a new community defibrillator. My family and I also attended Visit Knowle’s street party. In glorious sunshine, we sampled some food and even manged to try out some of the Second World War displays. Although I couldn’t be everywhere, I know we proudly remember those who served and continue to serve.
These events across the country have brought the whole nation together and shows Britain at its very best.
<b>Saqib Bhatti –
Meriden and Solihull East MP</b>
