Last week saw us welcome a new Prime Minister, Andy Burnham. It has been encouraging to see immediate action focused on helping with the cost of living, supporting local businesses and strengthening our communities.

There have been seen a series of announcements that will deliver support across the Forest of Dean. From lower electricity bills and reduced business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues, to cheaper bus fares. These are practical measures introduced to ease pressure on households and support local economies and the businesses that make them thrive.

One of the most significant announcements is the decision to remove VAT from electricity bills from October. At a time when many households continue to feel the pressure of rising living costs, this measure will provide welcome relief. It is expected to reduce annual electricity bills by around £45, helping families, pensioners and those on fixed incomes as we head into the winter months. While there's more to do, I welcome this as the start of what this government is doing to help people with the cost of living.

Our local businesses are also set to benefit. A 20 per cent reduction in business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues next year will help ease the pressure and give the confidence to invest, grow and continue serving our communities.

Working closely with small businesses, I regularly hear about the pressures they face and the challenges they deal with. I have been working hard to raise these real-life concerns and experiences with the Government, and I’m pleased that we are delivering practical support for the businesses that are at the heart of our communities. This is very welcome news, and I know so many local businesses across the Forest of Dean will welcome this support.

Affordable transport is another area where people will see a direct benefit. The decision to introduce a £2 cap on bus fares across England from January 2027 will make it cheaper to get to work, education, and healthcare appointments, and to visit family and friends. Alongside free bus travel for children during August, these measures will help ease the pressure on household budgets.

One of the first things I did following the appointment of the new Prime Minister was write to him regarding the provisions in the Sentencing Act that allow for the early release of prisoners. I am pleased that he has agreed to review these provisions.

I could not support measures that would allow offenders convicted of crimes against women and girls—including rape, sexual assault, domestic abuse and child abuse—to be released early. That is why I abstained on the Sentencing Act at Third Reading, and it remains my firmly held position today. Victims must always come first, and I will support every step that strengthens our justice system and ensures their voices are at the centre of decision-making.

This first week has shown that Government can act quickly to deliver practical support. I will continue working to ensure the Forest of Dean benefits from these measures and that our community's voice remains heard in Westminster.