I want to begin this month by addressing the Government’s proposed introduction of mandatory Digital ID, an issue that many of you have contacted me about over the past few weeks, and have so kindly shared your very real worries about.
I share your concerns and believe this proposal represents a serious threat to the civil liberties we cherish in our democratic society.
Conversely, The Labour Party argues that Digital ID cards will help address issues like illegal working and access to housing. But this claim simply doesn’t stand scrutiny. The necessary checks and systems already exist and we do not need to introduce sweeping surveillance measures to enforce them.
Mandatory ID cards are not a solution; they are an unnecessary intrusion, such measures are fundamentally un-British, and I want to assure you today that I will oppose Digital ID at every stage in Parliament.
Elsewhere this month, I had the pleasure of visiting several schools in Kingswinford, including The Brier School and Summerhill School.
I was warmly welcomed by headteachers and staff and had the opportunity to learn more about both the successes and challenges in modern education, particularly in areas such as Special Educational Needs provision.
As always, I remain fully committed to supporting our local schools and ensuring that every child in Kingswinford and South Staffordshire has access to the high-quality education they deserve. I will continue working closely with the local authority to make sure that education remains a top priority in our community.
Next week, my annual Older People’s Information Fair will take place at Richardson Hall in Wordsley on Friday, 31st October from 10am.
Thanks to the kind support from Waldrons Solicitors, entry to the event is free of charge and incudes complimentary refreshments.
There will be a range of local and national organisations in attendance including West Midlands Police, support services from Dudley Council, local social groups, Nationwide Building Society, Dudley Building Society, West Midlands Fire Service and many more.
The event will provide a valuable opportunity for older residents to access information, advice, and support on a range of important topics—including tackling loneliness and maintaining health and wellbeing in later life. HSBC Bank will also be running sessions on fraud and scam awareness, which I hope that you will be able to make the most of.
There’s no need to book to attend my Older People’s Information Fair, so please do just turn up at the event.
If you have any questions or would like further information, you are very welcome to contact my constituency office, where one of my friendly team will be happy to assist.
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