April 2019: Brexit, Welfare Claimants, Climate Change and More

Paul Blomfield, MP for Sheffield Central
Keeping in touch – April 2019

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As a Shadow Brexit Minister, the crisis has inevitably dominated my month again, but I’ve been taking up other issues too – from the climate emergency to universal credit. See more below and, as ever, I’d welcome your feedback.

Brexit

In another busy Brexit month I led for Labour on the Cooper-Letwin Bill, giving Parliament power to avoid a no-deal exit and extend Article 50, met with diplomats from across the EU27 and challenged the Brexit Secretary on workers’ rights. See more here.

Universal Credit & Disability

I took local Citizens Advice representatives to meet with DWP officials to press for better access to non-digital options for those who face difficulties with online applications. More here.

Climate Emergency

I backed an Early-Day Motion calling on the Government to recognise the climate emergency, challenged the Government on their aims for international negotiations and joined colleagues to welcome Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg to Parliament. Read more here.

Regional Funding

I’ve been seeking to ensure that South Yorkshire doesn’t lose out on the £605m of regional development funds we would have received as an EU member from 2021-27, pressing Ministers to match it. More here.

Constituency Visit to Parliament

I welcomed over 50 local people to Westminster on my annual constituency visit. I also arrange other visits for groups and individuals all year round. If you’re interested, drop me an email.

Pavement Parking

I’ve been taking up complaints about inconsiderate pavement parking, working with the police and local Councillors to stop drivers blocking paths and access to road crossings. If you’ve experienced problems, let me know.

NHS and Social Care Workforce

I met with the NHS Confederation and the National Care Association to discuss the post-Brexit immigration rules on NHS and social care workforce.

High Rise Fire Safety

I've continued to support residents of Metis Tower in working to resolve their problems with combustible cladding, speaking to the fire service and meeting with the UK Cladding Action Group ahead of a Ministerial meeting.

My Mail Bag this month

Apart from Brexit, which has dominated again, the top three issues on which I've received emails and letters over the last few weeks are: NHS Staff post-Brexit, fracking and climate change.

Backing Ashiana

I met with members of the team at Ashiana Sheffield to present the money raised at my IWD film screening and discuss their work, particularly in relation to women who are victims of human trafficking.

Big Conversation 2019

I’ve started preparations for my annual community consultation, the Big Conversation, which takes place in September and October. If you have a suggestion for an event – location, topic or community group – then do get in touch. You can see last year’s programme here (end of page).

Special Educational Needs

I met with the City Council and the NHS Clinical Commissioning Group to discuss improving support for SEND pupils.

University Research Funding

I’ve written to the Universities Minister pushing for association with the latest research funding programme, Horizon Europe, regardless of the outcomes of Brexit. More here.

Access to Legal Aid

I challenged the Justice Secretary on legal aid cuts which have left tens of thousands of welfare claimants not receiving support to which they are entitled.

Further Education Funding

I spoke in a Parliamentary debate on improving funding for further education, highlighting the important role of Sheffield College in enabling social mobility and providing upskilling for adults across the city. More here.

Community notices

‘My Name Is Rachel Corrie’ – a play about Rachel Corrie, who lost her life in Gaza while protecting a Palestinian house from a bulldozer. 1st-4th May, Sheffield Theatre Deli, tickets and info here.

South Yorkshire Police Cadets – aged 15-17, Police Cadets take part in activities and training, and represent the Force at events. Application and info here; deadline April 30th.

Festival of Debate – city-wide festival exploring and debating the crucial political and social issues of our time. Events through to June 1st, info here.

Sheffield Jobs Fair – Weds 1^st 2019 at Bramall Lane, 10am to 2pm. Free to attend with around 20 local companies attending. More here.

May Day celebrations – Saturday 4 May. Organised by Sheffield Trades Council. Includes a march and rally, a panel discussion on ‘Economy for the Many not the Few’ and an evening ‘Celebrate May Day’ party. More information here.