An Update from your Local MP – 26th July 2024

Jul 26, 2024 | News

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Picture of Bell against a graffiti backdrop

Dear *|FNAME|*,

On Tuesday evening, I spoke in the King’s Speech debate. I praised the policies set out by this government: rail renationalisation, stronger workers’ rights, a ban on no fault evictions, and an end to unfair tax loopholes. I believe these policies will provide a strong foundation for our recovery from Tory rule.

I also stressed the need to go further in breaking with the Tories’ damaging policy inheritance. I signed amendments urging the government to set a timeframe to scrap the two-child benefit cap and end arms sales to Israel. I also pointed out the desperate need to roll back the Tories’ attack on our civil liberties.

Scrap the Two-Child Benefit Cap

Solidarity with my seven colleagues who had the whip removed this week simply for voting to get rid of the two-child benefit cap. This heavy-handed reaction was unnecessary and highlights the current gulf between public mood and government policy on this issue. The whip should be restored.

I’ve long argued to scrap the two-child benefit cap and abstained on the SNP’s motion. If this measure comes before Parliament in the actual Autumn Budget I’ll vote to scrap it, as I expect many Labour MPs will want to. I hope the government has the good judgement to resolve this before then.

Improving Neonatal Accommodation

Recent research from the charity Bliss has highlighted the severe shortage of neonatal accommodation in hospitals. I asked the government how they plan to ensure parents can be with their newborns at this crucial time.

Lobby for Gaza

I met with constituents in Westminster Hall, who came to lobby for an end to UK arms sales to Israel and ensure the UK supports international efforts to bring war criminals to justice. There was devastating news from Khan Younis this week, where hundreds of civilians were…

Bell sits on a bench in Westminster Hall, surrounded by several constituents who have come to lobby her.

A picture of Bell, holding her hand up to indicate the fact that Black women were five times more likely to die in pregnancy and childbirth

Tackling Maternal Health Inequalities

I spoke to the Guardian about maternal health inequalities in light of news that Black mothers in England are almost twice as likely to have their births investigated for potential NHS safety failings. It is a national disgrace that being Black still has damaging, potentially fatal implications for your health outcomes and your baby’s…

Celebrating Progress in Nursing & Midwifery

It was great to host the Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer England’s BME Strategic Advisory Group in Parliament on Wednesday. For more than 22 years, they have advised the Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer on equalities issues. It was great to celebrate their work, with several people recognised with awards for their efforts.