2026: Week 7 - Royal Arrest, NHS Dentistry and Local Beer!
Parliament has been in recess this week, but there has still been plenty to reflect on both nationally and locally.
One of the major national stories has been the arrest of the former Prince Andrew at Sandringham. The focus for many remains on the victims and survivors connected to the Epstein case and the search for justice after so many years. As events continue to unfold, the important thing now is that the police are able to carry out their work fully and without interference.
Closer to home, access to NHS dentistry remains a serious concern for many people in Devon. A number of residents have told me they have been struggling to secure an appointment for long periods of time. Some have gone without dental care for months or even years. One person felt so desperate that they resorted to pulling out their own tooth. Situations like this highlight the pressures facing local services and the urgent need for solutions.
Ministers in Parliament have been pressed on this issue and the Government has asked Devon’s Integrated Care Board to expand urgent appointment slots. A recruitment scheme has also been launched to bring more dentists into areas with the highest levels of need. These steps are helpful but they are not a complete answer and access problems continue. I remain in close contact with Devon ICB, local practices and relevant departments to understand how provision can be strengthened in both the short and long term.
Many people contact me with concerns about dental care, and hearing from residents helps build a clearer picture of what is happening on the ground. Anyone who has been affected is welcome to get in touch using the contact details below.
New unemployment figures released this week show that the rate has risen to 5.2 percent in the final quarter of 2025. This is the highest level in nearly five years. Households and businesses in Devon are feeling the effects of slower economic growth, and some high streets and small firms continue to face significant pressures. There have been calls for changes to national tax policy and for measures that might offer relief to sectors such as hospitality. I will continue to follow these developments closely and raise questions in Parliament where appropriate so that the impact on local communities is properly considered.
There has still been room for some more positive news. It was a pleasure recently to recommend Westerly, a beer from Teignmouth Brewery, for the Stranger’s Bar in Westminster just before recess. The bar accepted the recommendation just before recess and invited me to try it alongside Barry Watts from the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates. It was encouraging to see a local brewery featured in Parliament and to celebrate the work taking place within our own community. I am grateful to Barry Watts for his support in highlighting one of the many independent producers that help make our area distinctive.
As ever, if you need assistance with an issue or wish to share your views on local matters, you can reach me by email at martin.wrigley.mp@parliament.uk or by phone on 01626 886520. Those who would like to receive updates can also sign up for my weekly e‑newsletter at https://www.newtonabbotlibdems.org.uk/martin-wrigley/