Dear Constituent,
From speaking from the front bench in Parliament for the first time to stepping aboard a nuclear submarine, it’s been a week of big moments, both in Westminster and here in our community.
In Parliament, I tackled key transport issues, pushing for better rail services and open access operators. I also marked World Cancer Day by pressing for improved early detection and discussing crucial healthcare reforms with leading charities.
Closer to home, I’ve been working hard to support residents; whether securing funding for supported living, tackling housing issues, or getting updates on community spaces like Gostrey Meadows. I also launched the Support Our Pubs campaign, giving you the chance to champion your favourite local and vote for the 2025 Best Pub!
As always, if there’s anything I can do to help, please do get in touch at [email protected].
With every good wish,
WHAT'S GOING ON IN WESTMINSTER
NATIONALISING SOUTH WESTERN RAILWAY
This week, I was pleased to make my first appearance speaking from the front bench as a Shadow Minister and Whip during a debate in Westminster Hall on the future of rail services. While our area does not yet have any open access rail operators, I was not going to pass up the opportunity to raise issues that matter to our constituency.
As you may know, South Western Railway has been chosen as the trailblazer service for the nationalisation programme this year. However, the government remains ambiguous about the impact this will have on open access services. Locally we rely on dependable and frequent trains from Farnham, Liphook, and Haslemere stations to commute into London. Yet, these services are frequently disrupted by strike action from the Labour Government’s largest donors.
While the fate of South Western Railway is sealed, the potential Guildford to Heathrow Terminal 5 connection, which would massively benefit those travelling to the airport— is now at great risk if open access is stifled. Open access operators not only add financial value but also improve accessibility and convenience, reinforcing the clear case for better rail connectivity.
That is why I pressed the Minister on the impact nationalisation will have on open access operators and their ability to continue filling gaps in rail service provision. Later in the debate, I once again urged the Minister to introduce a rail-bus link between Bordon and Liphook station. This would enhance connectivity for our constituency, making train travel a more viable and convenient option for many residents.
I will continue to hold the government to account on its rail policies and fight for the transport links that Farnham, Bordon, Haslemere, Liphook and the surrounding villages deserve.
HEALTH COMMITTEE ON ADULT SOCIAL CARE REFORM
On Wednesday, Committee members examined the role of adult social care in the economy with experts from the Health Foundation, Carers UK, and Skills for Care.
The discussion highlighted how unpaid carers sustain the system, often at great personal cost. Workforce challenges, including high vacancies and turnover, were also a major concern. I asked questions on both issues, pressing for better support for unpaid carers and action to tackle workforce shortages.
Reforming social care is one of the top priorities both nationally and locally, and I will continue to push the government to address these urgent challenges.
HEALTHCARE MEETINGS IN PARLIAMENT
Tuesday was World Cancer Day in Parliament and I met with Leukaemia UK and Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis to discuss the importance of early detection through screening and detection.
Across Farnham, Bordon, Haslemere, and Liphook, we are fortunate to rank well nationally for detection, supported by three Integrated Care Boards: Hampshire and IOW, Frimley, and Surrey Heartlands. However, there is still much more to do, and in my upcoming meetings with these ICBs, I will continue to push for better provision.
Healthcare is why I entered national politics. I firmly believe those in government must have an open and honest conversation about how we provide and deliver healthcare in England. With my background in healthcare, I have seen first-hand the challenges our system faces and understand the complexities of delivering world-class care while managing growing demand. This winter, I fully recognise the immense pressures on A&E and other health services and greatly appreciate the invaluable work of charities that provide independent support to our most vulnerable.
That is why organisations like Heart Valve Voice are crucial in driving innovation, such as using artificial intelligence (AI) to detect heart conditions earlier and more efficiently.
I also had a great discussion with Independent Age about their efforts to support older people, particularly during the colder weeks, through Pension Credit applications and Warm Homes surveys.
ARMED FORCES PARLIAMENTARY SCHEME VISIT HMNB CLYDE
Last weekend, I visited HMNB Clyde, home to the core of the UK’s submarine service and the nation’s nuclear deterrent, located eight miles from Faslane. The visit provided an extraordinary insight into the workings of an active Naval and Royal Marines base and how our highly skilled military personnel play a central role in upholding our national security.
During my visit, I had the privilege of going aboard HMS Artful, an SSN hunter-killer submarine, as well as a Vanguard-class SSBN, which carries the UK’s continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent. Seeing first-hand the cutting-edge technology and the professionalism of our submariners reinforced just how vital their work is in maintaining our security and global stability.
The nuclear deterrent remains a cornerstone of our national defence, ensuring the UK is protected from the most serious threats. Our submariners operate under immense pressure, often spending months at sea in highly challenging conditions. I have the utmost respect for their dedication, skill, and sacrifice, and I will continue to advocate for the support they need to carry out their critical mission of keeping us safe.
DELEGATED LEGISLATION ON CLINICAL TRIALS
After a month on the Tobacco and Vapes Bill scrutinising legislation line by line, I am now back on Delegated Legislation committees.. This is laws created by ministers or other bodies under powers given by an Act of Parliament. It is also known as secondary or subordinate legislation and often takes the form of a statutory instrument.
The delegated legislation committee I sat on today was the draft Medicines for Human Use (Clinical Trials) (Amendment) Regulations 2024. To read the legislation please see the following: The Medicines for Human Use (Clinical Trials) (Amendment) Regulations 2024
WHAT'S GOING ON IN FARNHAM AND BORDON
LAUNCHING MY FAB PUBS CAMPAIGN
Local pubs are facing serious challenges, with rising costs forcing many to cut hours or even close. I recently met with pub owners across our community, who shared just how tough things are.
That’s why I’ve launched the FAB Pubs campaign to support our local. I want to hear from you, whether you run a pub, work in one, or simply enjoy visiting. My short survey lets you share your views on the support needed, with key measures outlined by the British Institute of Innkeeping.
As part of the campaign, you can also vote for your favourite local to win the 2025 Best Pub award; a great way to celebrate the pubs that bring people together and play a vital role in our community.
Take the survey and cast your vote at: https://www.gregorystafford.co.uk/campaigns/support-our-pubs
THE YEAR OF THE SNAKE
It was a pleasure to join Linna and the Triple Fun Chinese School at Farnham Library to celebrate Lunar New Year and welcome the Year of the Snake.
The afternoon was filled with fantastic activities, from traditional dancing to interactive games for families. It was wonderful to see so many people joining in and embracing the celebrations.
Events like this bring our community together and showcase the rich cultural traditions we are fortunate to share. A huge thank you to everyone who made it possible!
SINGING WITH THE FARNHAM AND BOURNE CHORAL SOCIETY
I joined the Farnham & Bourne Choral Society for their Come & Sing Day at South Farnham School. It was a fantastic afternoon, bringing together singers of all levels to perform Puccini’s Messa di Gloria under the excellent direction of Ben de Souza and pianist Diana Owen.
The atmosphere was incredible, and it was wonderful to see so many people coming together to enjoy music. A big thank you to everyone involved—I look forward to supporting the choir again soon!
THIS WEEK'S SURGERY AND CASEWORK BREAKDOWN
It has been a busy week for casework, and I remain committed to assisting constituents and securing answers on important local issues.
This week, I received a response from the Building Safety Regulator regarding a building control application and promptly relayed this to my constituent. I have also urgently contacted Clarion Housing about defects in a new-build property in Farnham, where ongoing issues are causing increasing damage. Resolving this swiftly is a priority.
In addition, I wrote to Surrey County Council on behalf of an elderly couple concerned about an increase in their son’s supported living fees. Within a week, I secured a response confirming that the Council would fund the uplift. I also contacted Farnham Town Council regarding Gostrey Meadows Park and received a detailed update on the site’s development and improvement plans.
I will continue working hard to ensure that local concerns are heard and acted upon.
