A Message from Rosie, One Year On

It's almost a year since I left the Labour Party and became an Independent MP. Although I have absolutely no regrets about severing my ties with this dreadful and disappointing Government as they continue their record crash to the bottom of the polls, of course I wish they were doing some of what we all hoped and believed they might change when in power as they pledged to do.

Instead, they have no political direction, seem to have ditched the basic values of the Labour Party, and have gone from scandal to scandal, alienating older voters, the disabled, farmers, business owners, those who care deeply about human rights, justice, and fairness. While I have voted with the Government on some occasions, I could not vote with them on many issues that do not reflect the values of my constituents who are in frequent contact with me.

Obviously all Members of Parliament are also human beings with families and caring responsibilities, and there is a constant juggle with having to spend time away from our constituencies in Westminster. This year, my eighth in Parliament, I have chosen to spend more time in the constituency and especially with my family. Personally, it has been an incredibly difficult year as the decline of a close family member has taken its toll, and I lost that family member this weekend to a cruel and incurable illness.

I will be taking some time away from social media during this Parliamentary recess period, spending time with my close family and grieving as everyone needs to be able to do in private.

Thank you for your support and understanding. My local team will be working as usual and able to deal with anyone who requires help or support.

Photo Credit: Sinead Le Blond