Category: News & Articles
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February 9, 2022
York Press column – What does ‘levelling up’ mean for York?
Amidst our pandemic response, there has been a core theme underlying all Government policies – levelling up. While admittedly we may not have settled on an agreed definition, I think we all instinctively know what it means and believe it is needed. As an MP, I am privileged to regularly visit schools and businesses, and […] -
February 8, 2022
Statement on Incident involving Sir Keir Starmer outside Parliament
The violence and aggression directed towards Sir Keir Starmer yesterday evening by anti-vax protesters was disgraceful. No one serving in a public role should have to worry about facing harassment and intimidation. I would like to thank the police for their swift action to keep the Leader of the Opposition safe. Any smears against Sir […] -
February 5, 2022
Julian backs York to be new home of Great British Railways
Julian has eagerly welcomed the formal launch of the competition to find a home for Great British Railways and enthusiastically backs York as the ultimate choice. As part of the Conservative Government’s commitment to level up the country, the new Great British Railways HQ will be based outside of London and bring a number of […] -
February 3, 2022
Julian welcomes energy bills support – urges government to do more
Given the looming danger of unprecedented energy bill rises driven by unusual global economic factors after the pandemic, I am glad to see the Chancellor announce a £350 per household support package, and want him to remain ready to take further decisive action as required. The April £150 non-repayable council tax rebate for homes in […] -
February 1, 2022
Julian hails government U-turn on mandatory NHS worker vaccination
As someone who voted against the government’s proposal for mandatory vaccination for frontline NHS staff, I warmly welcome the Health Secretary’s announcement yesterday that he will now consult on ending this. I am glad he seems to be listening to Conservative MPs like me who resisted the imposition of the policy in December, and expect […] -
February 1, 2022
Julian Reacts To Sue Gray Report Update
Having waited for the conclusion of Sue Gray’s investigation for some weeks now, I read with disappointment the stripped-back update that was published yesterday. While it is not clear how much of Sue Gray’s report is being withheld for the duration of the Metropolitan Police investigation, we can say for certain that an overhaul of […] -
January 26, 2022
Covid travel testing ended for vaccinated from mid-February
As someone who has robustly campaigned for a safe return to normal international travel arrangements, I warmly welcome the announcement that from 11th February fully vaccinated people returning to this country will no longer have to take a lateral flow test after arrival. This comes into effect just in time for the half-term holidays, and […] -
January 26, 2022
York Press column – Government must restore trust as we escape from restrictions
I could not speak to York Press readers without addressing the latest incredibly concerning revelations and allegations about the Prime Minister and Number 10 staff breaching covid rules to hold social events during 2020. Notwithstanding other government achievements during the pandemic, from furlough to vaccination, these stories raise alarming questions about the Prime Minister’s judgement […] -
January 21, 2022
Government announcement on ending covid restrictions
“Given the amazing success of the booster programme in protecting York households, and the latest encouraging virus data, I am glad the government has decided to let current ‘Plan B’ measures expire at the end of this month. Although I have serious concerns about the Prime Minister’s judgement on other matters, I think he has […] -
January 18, 2022
Julian welcomes Cystic Fibrosis medicine announcement
I am delighted by the recent news that the life-changing Kaftrio modular therapy has been approved by regulators for prescription to young children with Cystic Fibrosis. I understand 6-11 year olds will soon be able to access this treatment, which could be of very considerable help in managing this terrible condition at such a formative […]
