I would like to thank the team at Cobra Biologics on Keele Science Park for inviting me to come and speak with their CEO and Chief Scientific Officer today, followed by a tour of their manufacturing and research facilities.

We had another very constructive "virtual" session of the Science and Technology Committee today, taking evidence from the four Chief Medical Officers of the different nations of the UK.

If you live in Newcastle-under-Lyme and either need support, or can offer support, the #COVIDー19 Support Network is now live.

Support Staffordshire, Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council and Realise charity are co-ordinating support across the Borough.

Each month Newcastle College holds a ‘Student of the Month’ awards presentation that highlights and recognises the individual effort, progress and dedication of Newcastle College students throughout the academic year. This month, I attended to present the awards. 

Obviously there is only one subject on most people’s minds; however I would like to keep this weekly post reflecting the variety of work I have been up to both in Westminster and back in Newcastle.

My major news this week was in the constituency, where we had a very successful official shop opening on Friday afternoon. I owe particular thanks to all my staff, especially Office Manager Graham Hutton who has been responsible for securing the lease and fitting out the shop.

I am currently in Westminster but my team in Newcastle have kindly sent me a photo of the sign above my new shop which looks pretty smart. We are at 3 Queens Parade, ST5 1RW, directly opposite Castle House.

My apologies that this update is late this week, but I have spent most of the weekend celebrating my younger brother's wedding! Getting married on Leap Year Day is a very sneaky way to avoid forgetting your anniversary...

Thank you to everyone who messaged me in advance of this debate: as you can see I was able to quote some of your emails during my speech.

This week I have chosen three photos to illustrate that the MPs across North Staffordshire (me, Jo Gideon MP, Jonathan Gullis MP, Jack Brereton MP and Karen Bradley MP) are working together in the best interests of the wider area.