The Government has this week published its decision regarding local government reorganisation, which I can only describe as riding roughshod over local views and paying no heed to the criteria they set themselves at the outset. Both Julian Lewis MP and I made our views on this point very clear to the Minister on Wednesday, but I fear our protestations will be ignored by a Government that, put simply, has a majority to do whatever it wants. That does not mean we will let this go for one minute, but rural parishes are being utterly disregarded.
In Westminster I attended a meeting with Dementia UK to discuss their palliative and end of life care report. Here in Romsey I am very conscious of the incredible work of RomDag, helping people living with dementia and their families. In Parliament we were talking about the importance of early decisions and forward planning, especially around individual wishes and organising a lasting power of attorney. None of these conversations are ever easy with family members, and it was great to have advice from some real experts.
RomDag are organising another of their Dementia Awareness Days in the Crosfield Hall on 17th May. They have a real commitment to encouraging us all to have those conversations, and are a great source of advice for constituents. I always try to get along, and can honestly say I learn something new every time.
GWR and Network Rail were in Westminster this week to talk to MPs representing constituencies on their network. I know their service through Romsey can sometimes be very overcrowded, particularly when there are big sporting events to the West. I have asked them to look at passenger numbers when, for example, Bath are playing at home, as I know a lot of rugby supporters have complained about the two carriage service. But equally when Southampton are playing Swansea that can cause issues, although I continue to hope that Saints are returned to a higher league. I also highlighted ongoing challenges about land at Dunbridge and what might be seen as excessive requirements for ongoing access to the track, over land that is just a few hundred metres from the level crossing.