Earlier this week, I asked the Treasury what they planned to do support leaseholders who are being charged extortionate premiums for their buildings insurance. Some insurers continue to quote Ladywood constituents eye-watering prices, reaching £500,000 in some cases, not reflecting the thousands they have already spent on measures – like fire alarm systems – to make their buildings safer.  I asked the Economic Secretary, John Glen whether he would ensure the insurance industry regulator, the Financial Conduct Authority will take enforcement action against those engaging in this bad behaviour. He simply repeated old statements – that the FCA are “engaging with the industry”, but what we need now, is action. You can watch my question here: https://twitter.com/ShabanaMahmood/status/1488504875298209794  

The report into the alleged parties in Downing Street was finally published this week. Honesty and decency matter. After months of denials the Prime Minister is now under criminal investigations for breaking his own lockdown laws. By routinely breaking the rules he set, Boris Johnson took the public for fools. It is clear that he needs to do the decent thing and resign. 

The Government that it would finally do something to help those struggling to pay soaring energy bills, but it’s clearer than ever whose side they are on. The Government’s plan is a buy now, pay later scheme from a Chancellor completely distracted by Tory infighting – and its working people who are paying the price. Birmingham Ladywood is 9th in the country for fuel poverty. For many of my constituents a rebate based on house prices in the 1990s bears no resemblance to their needs today. Families are telling me they’ll face the very stark choice between feeding their children or heating their home. Labour’s fully-funded plan starts with a one-off windfall tax on North Sea oil and gas profits, and would save households £200 on their bills, with an extra targeted support of £400 to those who need it most. While the Conservatives blunder from scandal to scandal, it’s Labour that has a plan to tackle the cost-of-living crisis.” 

There were some moving tributes to our late friend and colleague, Jack Dromey, in the House of Commons this week. Jack was a generous and kind character who had incredible energy for campaigning and serving his constituents. He will be sorely missed. You can see my remarks here: https://twitter.com/ShabanaMahmood/status/1489174804880142340  

Last week, I also joined Labour colleagues in Erdington to launch the campaign of Paulette Hamilton. Paulette was selected by members to continue Jack’s legacy, who championed Erdington in everything he did. Members and supporters have been hitting the doorsteps of Erdington to talk about Labour’s plan for the area. I know Paulette will make a fantastic Member of Parliament, and I encourage everyone who has some spare time to get to Erdington and support the campaign team. The same can be said for all of the members, activists, MPs and councillors who were out campaigning across the country last week on Labour’s National Campaign Day – thank you for all you do!