Weekly Update
My Weekly Parliamentary Update
This month, the Labour Government has continued to make progress in delivering on its promises. As part of our Plan for Change, we’ve set clear targets: 1.5 million new homes and fast-tracked planning decisions on at least 150 major economic infrastructure projects. The results speak for themselves: wages are rising faster than prices, jobs are increasing, inflation and interest rates are falling, NHS waiting lists are shrinking, and critical housing and infrastructure projects are moving forward. We’ve also rolled out free breakfast clubs, increased the National Living Wage, and boosted defence spending, among other achievements. This is the difference a Labour government makes, both nationally and here in Enfield North.
Construction Skills Package
The UK is facing a housing and infrastructure crisis, and I see the impact of this daily in Enfield North through my casework. The Conservatives failed to meet any housing targets over the past 14 years, and their delays in planning decisions made the situation worse. Labour is committed to tackling this head-on. As part of our Plan for Change, we’re announcing new measures to address construction skills shortages, aiming to deliver up to 60,000 more construction workers by 2029. A £600 million investment will fund more construction placements, establish Technical Excellence Colleges, and expand apprenticeships and Skills Bootcamps.
Planning and Infrastructure Bill
This week, the Planning and Infrastructure Bill had its second reading in Parliament. Labour’s reforms will lead to the highest level of housebuilding in over 40 years, addressing the housing crisis and critical infrastructure needs. For too long, our planning system has been a barrier to growth. Under the Tories, housebuilding and infrastructure projects stalled. These reforms will make the planning process more efficient, helping to create thousands of jobs and boosting the economy. Labour is committed to ensuring we build the homes and infrastructure communities need.
Spring statement
On Wednesday, the Chancellor delivered her Spring Statement, outlining the Government's priorities of growth, reform, and boosting defence in a changing world. At the heart of the statement was security – the primary duty of any responsible government. This focus on security and national renewal is central to our Plan for Change.
We’ve increased defence spending, but I also know how crucial it is for working people in Enfield North to feel economic security. We’ve already made strides in stabilizing the economy: three interest rate cuts since the election, real wages growing at the fastest rate in three years, and large infrastructure projects underway to drive growth and create quality jobs.
Yesterday, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) confirmed that our planning reforms will help housebuilding reach a 40-year high, generating £6.8bn in growth. From next week, millions of workers will see a £1,400 annual boost as the minimum wage rises.
There is still much more to do, and this is just the beginning. Our focus now is on securing Britain’s future.
The Chancellor also announced welfare reforms. I understand how worrying the recent media coverage of these proposals has been, especially for those already navigating life with a disability or long-term health condition. Many of you have shared your concerns, fears, and frustrations with me, and I want you to know I’m listening and truly hear you.
The Government has published a Green Paper on welfare reform, which includes proposals on disability benefits, assessments, and employment support. A formal consultation is open until 30 June, and I encourage you to share your views to help shape future decisions. I will make the proposals available on my website and ensure that Enfield North constituents have the opportunity to reflect on them and provide feedback. Your experiences and insights are vital in making sure we get this right
You can read and respond to the consultation through this link: Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working Green Paper - GOV.UK
National Minimum Wage Rise
Labour’s plan to raise the minimum wage passed in the Commons this week. Starting Tuesday, 3 million workers will see a £1,400 boost to their pay, making a real difference in Enfield North. This is a significant step towards delivering fairer pay for workers, after years of stagnation under the Tories.
Newroz
This week, I hosted my annual Newroz reception in the Speaker’s House to celebrate Kurdish New Year. It’s always a pleasure to welcome our community to Parliament. Newroz is a time of renewal and hope, and this year, its message feels more important than ever. I wish all of you a joyful Newroz – may this year bring peace, health, and happiness. Newroz Pîroz Be!
Tobacco and Vapes Bill
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill passed its final stage in the Commons this week and will now go to the House of Lords for further scrutiny. This landmark legislation aims to create a smoke-free generation by tackling nicotine addiction and protecting children from the harms of smoking and vaping. Labour is committed to reducing the health crisis caused by smoking and vaping, which place a strain on our NHS. We’re taking bold action to protect future generations from these harmful habits.
Engaging with Our Future Leaders
I always find it inspiring to meet with young people in Enfield North. This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with the school council at John Ark Keats, where we discussed local issues and heard from the next generation of leaders. Labour is committed to providing young people with the opportunities they deserve to achieve their ambitions.
Ministerial Work
As Minister for AI and Digital Government, this week I engaged in discussions about the future of AI and digital transformation. On Wednesday, we took oral questions in the Commons, and I visited Salesforce UK to see how AI is being integrated into real-world applications. Labour is committed to making Britain a leader in technology and innovation.
