2025: Week 17 - VE Day 80
Thursday 8th May was the 80th anniversary of VE day, and it was humbling to see the many events that had been organised to commemorate the day, not only in the constituency but across the country too.
Eighty years is a long time, and some may question why we still mark days such as VE day when there are just a handful of people left who would have been there in 1945. When that is asked, I am reminded of the quote from the philosopher George Santayana; “Those who cannot remember the past are doomed to repeat it”.
The horrors of World War II must never be forgotten, especially now when we are seeing the rise of the far-right across the globe. In this age of misinformation, where presidents are attempting to rewrite history and expert opinion is dismissed as “woke” - it is more important than ever to remember, acknowledge and be grateful for the sacrifices made by those that came before us to ensure a peaceful, prosperous future for all.
It was perhaps coincidental that on the anniversary of VE day, the US and the UK announced that a trade deal had finally been agreed. Whilst this may be seen as welcome news for our two countries, in light of the recent tariff wars initiated by Trump, we must approach the details of this deal with caution.
Parliament must be given a vote on this trade deal so it can be properly scrutinised. A good trade deal with the US could bring huge benefits, but my fellow Liberal Democrats and I are deeply concerned that it may include measures that threaten our NHS, undermine our farmers or give tax cuts to US tech billionaires.
If the government is confident the agreement it has negotiated with Trump is in Britain’s national interest, it should not be afraid to bring it before MPs.
On a different note: I am delighted to say that my parking debate was finally heard in Westminster Hall; it was well attended from MPs of all parties, and it is evident that private parking companies across the country have been getting away with substandard practices for far too long.
The Minister from Housing, Communities and Local Government heard that the public are being fined unnecessarily, being denied access to a fair and transparent appeals process, being hounded by threatening letters followed by court action and bailiffs.
These practices are unacceptable and often unfairly impact the elderly and vulnerable who feel pressured into paying and are unable to access the appeals process.
The Minister agreed that this situation cannot continue, and that the Government will now be working to get regulation, including a new code of conduct and truly independent appeals process in place to protect the public. I’d call that a win – and I will keep watch and make sure that they follow through!
Finally, I’d like to congratulate the new Pope, and wish that he has a long and peaceful papacy.