Rural areas face unique challenges, which is why I’m delighted that Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell will be joining me here in Stroud constituency on Saturday to look at how Labour’s economic policy can support market towns like Dursley, surrounding villages and communities.

Everyone is welcome and bookings are still being taken with details on

daviddrewmp.org.uk

.

While much of my time is spent in Westminster, I’ve also enjoyed recent visits to Cam and Dursley, with last weekend’s Family Rave at the Chantry Centre, my Pub Politics session at the Old Spot Inn, and relaxing at the Great Get Together in Cam on Sunday afternoon, one of many social events inspired by the work of Jo Cox to tackle loneliness.

It was Loneliness Awareness Week, which made it especially appropriate to support calls by Age UK to reinstate the free TV License for over75s as, sadly, around 40 per cent of older people describe television as their main source of company.

It’s also important for older people to ensure they receive all the Pension Credit they are entitled to.

This will mean they can keep the free TV licence, which is why I’ve put together a brief guide to claiming pension credit on my website.

Do encourage older relatives to make sure they are not missing out!

My week in parliament has, once again been varied.

I have spoken in debates about: the impact of 5G technology; the crisis in Sudan; ensuring farmers receive financial support for their environmental protection.

I also asked the housing minister to change the way benefit payments for rent are calculated because people in Stroud do not receive enough to cover the cost of rent here.

I hope to see you out and about this weekend, Friday, June 28 to Sunday, June 30 at some of these events:

Three school visits on Friday

Celebrating Woodchester Mansion’s 30th anniversary

Speaking at an event in Stroud calling for cleaner air and an end to incineration

John McDonnell in the Subscription Rooms, Stroud

Stroud Pride, Bank Gardens, Stroud,

Severn Vale School’s Big Big Show