I want to say a huge thank you to the whole community for their response to the attack that took place on Shenstone Road earlier this week. Everyone has pulled together in a fantastic way, supporting each other and working with the police. I am so proud of our response to this horrific incident.  

I know how worried everyone is about the victim, who I have spoken to and who has thanked everyone for their response. As we start the holy month of Ramadan, I will be keeping him and my family in my prayers. 

Earlier this week, I spoke in the House of Commons Chamber, responding to the Spring Budget the Chancellor delivered last week. I highlighted how unacceptable it was that we have seen growth downgraded, wages lower in real terms and the weakest recovery from the pandemic. I also stressed that the devolution deal will only be a success if it addresses the blight of high unemployment across Birmingham. You can watch my whole speech in full, here: https://parliamentlive.tv/event/index/cf383a9a-b241-458d-a31d-87f7158edf29?in=17:53:09  

This week, I attended the Meet your MP session with Handsworth Schools, hosted at Villa Park. It was fantastic to meet all the pupils and answer their brilliant questions. I hope you all enjoyed yourselves as much as I did!  

Finally, a want to wish everyone a happy and peaceful Ramadan. To mark the holy month, I’ve written to schools to launch my Ramadan video project, asking students to record their answers to several questions about the month. The project is open for pupils of all faiths, and none and this week, for our first video I asked the children what food they would break their fast with, and what brilliant answers we received! I will be sharing a video showcasing them at some point soon, so make sure you keep an eye out.  

I hope everyone has a great weekend and Ramadan Mubarak!