As the vaccine roll-out continues, it is evident that receiving two doses of the vaccine, including Astra-Zenica (for the over-40s), is essential. The Delta variant of Covid-19 has spread fast in London and has led to the delay of lockdown lifting. If you have any questions or concerns about receiving the jab, Lewisham Council is here to help. Visit this page for support.

The past month has also been a busy time in Parliament. Please find below an update on my activities in June. If you need any assistance from me, please don’t hesitate to contact me and my office (via the details at the top of this letter).

Boundary Review Consultation 

The Government have made proposals to change the Parliamentary constituencies around the UK. This could have an impact on what council wards are included in Lewisham East, and also on the makeup of the surrounding seats.

A consultation is now open on the Government website and I would encourage everyone to have their say by 2nd August.

PMQ on Windrush

Hypocrisy from (former) Health Secretary 

After the British public have strived to follow the laws, sometimes meaning not being able to say goodbye to precious loved ones, this breach was not acceptable. Labour called for Matt Hancock to resign, and on 26th June he did. Watch Keir Starmer in last week’s PMQs here.

50 Years of the Misuse of Drugs Act

June marked 50 years since the introduction of the Misuse of Drugs Act, which has led to the mass-criminalisation of particularly young Black men, and had no success in reducing the use of drugs. Too many children have also become victims to the exploitation from landlordsa

I spoke in Parliament to raise awareness of the very harmful impacts of this policy and call for a public health approach, which protects children from being exploited.

Diplomatic Protection for Anoosheh Ashoori

In May, 60 MPs joined me in writing to the Foreign Secretary to call for Diplomatic Protection to be given to Anoosheh Ashoori. I pressed the Foreign Secretary again on this in FCDO questions, and I will not give up until it is granted.

Meanwhile, as the 4th anniversary of Anoosheh’s imprisonment in Iran approaches, I would like to encourage all constituents to sign Amnesty International’s petition to bring Anoosheh home for good. You can find it here: https://www.amnesty.org.uk/actions/help-get-retired-father-home-his-family

Aviation Noise from Busy Flightpaths

I spoke in a recent debate about the need to rebuild the aviation industry in a way that is responsible, respectful, and prioritises public health. Watch my contribution here.

Safety for Blind People at Railway Stations

One of my constituents tragically died at a railway station in February 2020. He was a blind man who fell in front of a train, due to the lack of tactile paving which would have indicated the edge of the platform.

I’m campaigning for the Government to install tactile paving at all train stations, as well as introducing audio announcements to make those with disabilities aware of what hazards there are for them. You can watch my exchange with the Transport Secretary here.

Lewisham Council Improves our Green Spaces and Parks

Summer holidays are approaching, and after the 16 months we’ve had we all deserve a rest! My best wishes to you all as you enjoy the weather and hopefully get some time to relax.

Best wishes,

Janet