We are lucky to have such a strong sense of identity and local community across both Surrey and Hampshire.

For any MP, the local perspective is fundamental; decisions made at all levels of Government have an impact on the individual, and it is therefore right that each voice is considered the core of our democracy.

I am proud to be a Conservative, a party founded on principles of security, family, tradition and stability. I know from knocking on the doors and speaking to people earlier this year, that these shared values are something that we all seek to uphold in Farnham and Bordon.

However, Communities can be overlooked. National governments, especially those with enormous functioning majorities, have the power to cast aside this perspective for their sweeping agendas to change our way of life.

I believe that a conservative approach – that is a small state - is the best way to protect our communities. Under Conservative Governments we have seen the empowerment of the local voice, from legislation on local government in the 1970s to Cameron’s Big Society and most recently through Levelling Up.

At the heart of these policies were people; individuals put front and centre of national policy, proudly commandeered by Andy Street in the Midlands, and Ben Houchen in the Northeast.

Our new Government, led by a different ideology, appears to take a different approach, just like their Party’s predecessors.

I know many of you have contacted me in recent months about matters over new housing developments. This is something we must not only get right, but cannot afford to get wrong.

The Deputy Prime Minister has hiked up housing targets across the board and is redrawing national planning policy. It is my belief that we should listen to the views of our parish, town and district Councillors, and ensure that they have due consideration when expanding our communities.

I am growing concerned with the new Government-imposed developments in Bordon, West and South Farnham, Haslemere and the villages in between, where I fear their targets will override our community’s priorities.

Beyond housing, I know how much our community is concerned about the new education tax, especially for those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities; and the changes to fiscal policy for our small businesses, farmers and employers will also be felt strongly in Surrey and Hampshire

It is not the people in London, Manchester or other cities who are suffering, it is the rural communities like ours. That is why I am meeting with resident groups, parish and town councils, and anyone that I have the privilege to represent, to I ensure that our collective voice is being heard.

While Labour backs their unions and urban heartlands, I’m standing up for Surrey and Hampshire.