The return to Parliament has been interesting, with Alton Tower’s style queuing but without the white knuckle ride at the end. I was pleased to hear from the PM on Wednesday that a concession was to be introduced for those Members who are shielding or over 70, which goes some way to address the equalities concerns raised that approximately one third of MPs (and therefore their constituents) had been disenfranchised from participating.

I found the remote voting very easy and convenient, and had quite enjoyed some of the zooming into Parliament. But there is no doubt that rigorous scrutiny had suffered, and debates without intervention had been sterile. So there is a need for us to be back, but we also must be mindful that as a place of work necessary adjustments are needed for those with health issues or disabilities.

This week I have received calls to support a campaign to see disposable barbecues banned. I have no doubt they have been an absolute menace in the New Forest (and other beauty spots) during these tinder dry conditions. Barbecues are already banned in the Forest, which has not seen people put off from using them, and we know Hampshire Fire and Rescue saw a spike in call outs to the Forest last weekend. Maybe it is time to ban the sale of them, they are bad for safety, bad for the environment and we must move away from a use it once culture. In addition I watched some donkeys rummaging in a pile of discarded litter last weekend, eating scraps from plastic bags, never good for their well being. Please if you are visiting any open areas this coming weekend think of the wildlife and take your litter home.

Finally, I have written to the International Trade Secretary about the sale of rubber bullets and other items to the US following the recent protests after the tragic killing of George Floyd. The US is a great ally, but we should not be afraid to be a critical friend. Yes, we need a trade deal, but we must be clear to our friends that we expect the highest of standards.