News Archive

Although you may have seen some confusing reports on the news this week, it's important to remember that here in Wales, the lockdown restrictions have not changed.  We still cannot gather in groups with people from outside our homes, visit beauty spots despite the glorious weather, or travel for exercise. We are allowed out for exercise and to meet our essential medical needs … [Read more...]

There was some confusion at the start of this week, as the Prime Minister announced changes to lockdown that only apply in England.  Here in Wales, we are still only to leave our homes for exercise twice daily (a slight change from once daily) and be within walking distance of our homes, to go shopping for essentials, or for medical reasons. The changes in England mean that … [Read more...]

The UK Government has this week updated the guidance for the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme, and HMRC have begun contacting those eligible for the scheme, which will provide applicants with 80% of their average monthly trading profits, to be capped at £7,500, and which will be paid in a single instalment to cover 3 months.   For more information visit the UK Government … [Read more...]

It was an interesting return to Parliament this week, as social distancing measures meant MPs asked questions via video call for the first time ever.  I was delighted to see our Welsh Labour MPs holding the UK Government to account during the first Wales Questions of the session, with my good friend Nia Griffith,  the new Shadow Welsh Secretary, calling on the UK Government to … [Read more...]

As lockdown continues and the weather improves I know it's hard to stick to the Government’s social distancing guidelines.  But it's more important than ever that we keep working to slow the spread of the virus and support the work of our fantastic NHS. As well as … [Read more...]

It's been a difficult week here in Wales as we’ve continued to feel the worst effects of Coronavirus.  We’ve now seen over two hundred deaths from the virus - each one of them a loved and missed friend, family member or colleague.  My thoughts are with all those people who have lost someone.  The figures are a stark reminder of the importance of continuing to follow the … [Read more...]

It feels a little like we’re beginning to get used to the ‘new normal’ here in Neath with the measures in place to try to slow the spread of the virus.  However, it's so important that we don’t slacken our efforts at all.  The Government is still asking that we remain indoors, other than for shopping for essentials, one form of exercise daily, medical or care providing needs or … [Read more...]

Coronavirus is of course continuing to dominate daily life here in Neath and across Wales.  This week, the Prime Minister announced new, more stringent measures to tackle the pandemic.  The Government is asking that we remain indoors, other than for shopping for essentials, one form of exercise daily, medical or care providing needs or essential work travel. You can find the … [Read more...]

It's been a difficult week for all of us, and I know that many constituents are concerned about more challenges to come.  I’ve been in constant contact with Shadow Cabinet colleagues to ensure that we are working with the UK Government to support the measures to try to slow the spread of coronavirus, and to highlight the gaps in provision to ensure that everyone is looked after … [Read more...]