Our thanks to Richard Quigley, Isle of Wight West Labour MP, for sharing with readers his reflection of the past year and hopes for 2025. Ed
It’s usually this time of year we all tend to take stock, reflect, look at where we are and consider what we’d like to achieve as we approach a new year.
A lot has certainly happened over the last five months since the country, and Isle of Wight West, voted for Change. I’ve quickly learned how slow the cogs of the British political system can be to turn. Which, although initially frustrating, has given me the opportunity to get to know how things really work – like in any new workplace.
Parliament just happens to be one of the oldest.
Thanks for your patience
So, I’d like to thank Isle of Wight West constituents for their patience with me as a new MP getting set-up, and with the political process generally. The former I can do something about, and by the New Year my team will all be in place ready to support constituents.
The latter I’m confident this new government will tackle. And work has already begun to address it.
After the last 14 years, there are so many issues facing Islanders, and the country, right now that some tough decisions will inevitably need to be taken. But this Labour government will take governing the country seriously and plan for the future.
Slow cogs
You may recall following the July election, it was September before I was allocated an office in Westminster. It was December before the paperwork was completed on my constituency office (which will be staffed from the New Year).
And, with the recruitment timetable and vetting, it’ll be January before my small team are all in place. But they’re all passionate about the Island and helping constituents. And that’s what it’s all about – making sure the Island is an even better place to live and work.
Engaged constituents: 2,000 emails a week
I really can’t fault the level of engagement from constituents to date. I’ve been inundated with emails, letters, and messages on an array of policy and campaign issues of local, national, and international importance. And I’m still working my way through them all, having tried to prioritise urgent cases.
But with an average of 2,000 emails a week, even spending a minute on each one is 33 hours. That’s even without the time needed to respond. And most require some level of research or contact and liaison with local and national agencies in order to try and resolve the issues. So, my team will be able to offer even more support from the New Year.
Urgent issues addressed
However, I’m pleased we have already been able to assist constituents on an array of urgent issues including housing, immigration status, police and crime matters, and access to appropriate care.
Work on the Island
Being an MP for the party in Government is different to being an MP in opposition. Plenty have queried why they’ve seen less of me recently and that’s because I’m required in Westminster Monday to Thursday (even some Fridays). But I’m cramming in as many visits as possible for when I am working on the Island. And I’m determined to meet as many of you as possible.
To date I’ve been able to visit employers such as Wight Shipyard Co. and GKN, high street shops in Newport, Cowes, East Cowes, Yarmouth and Freshwater, community pharmacies like Regent Pharmacy, charities including Mountbatten, schools and the Isle of Wight College, as well as sitting down with constituents to discuss local issues.
In-person surgeries in the community
As a new MP, running in-person surgeries in the community is really important. It’s enabled me to meet those seeking help on complex matters. And it also enables me to champion the Island and local issues on a national platform.
I’ve already received responses on some of those issues from Ministers. But I will continue to hold regular surgeries in 2025, and my two Caseworkers will be able to provide support to constituents even when I’m working in Westminster.
Not much down time
Another thing I have already learned is, there isn’t much down time as an MP. Politics doesn’t stop.
So, MPs are encouraged to take annual leave during recess periods. And after my final visit on Christmas Eve, I’m be taking a few days leave to spend with my (very patient) family and grandkids over the festive period.
That said (and they won’t thank me for this), do say hello if you see me about.
But please note the office will be closed as my small team are also taking a break over recess. So, we’ll start responding from 6th January 2025.
Thinking of others
I know this time of year is marketed as the most wonderful, but for many it isn’t. Instead, plenty face added pressures, social isolation, heightened anxiety, or worse. So, if you can, please check in on that friend, neighbour, or colleague.
Sometimes a simple chat is the best gift you can give – and that’s not just at Christmas.
Don’t suffer in silence
If you are struggling, please seek help and don’t suffer in silence.
Isle of Wight Community Mental Health Support Hub provide contact details for Mental Health Crisis Support including Samaritans. But always dial 999 in an emergency.
My focus for 2025
My focus for 2025 and beyond is to be the best constituency MP I can be. I promised to champion the Island in Westminster when elected. And I’ll continue to do so. There’s so much that’s unique about it, not least our geography, demography, and socio-economic challenges.
But there are plenty of opportunities too. And I’m determined to make sure Ministers are aware of it all, not least the ferries.
Change isn’t always quick. But if the last five months are anything to go by, I’m confident we will make the Island an even better place to live and work over the next four+ years.
Regular updates in the New Year
I’ll be launching regular updates in the New Year to keep you updated, which you’ll be able to sign-up to. Until then, and however you and yours are spending Christmas, I hope you get a bit of down time and chance to take stock of what’s important to you.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
