Email: alan.strickland.mp@parliament.uk

There are deeply concerning developments unfolding in the Middle East and I want to begin by highlighting important advice for residents with friends or family in the region. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is urging all British nationals in Bahrain, Israel, Palestine, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates to register their presence so they can receive important updates and support if needed. They can do so here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/foreign-office-travel-advice-updates
Please do share this information with anyone you know who may be in the area.
At a time of heightened global uncertainty, it is a reminder of just how important our national security and international partnerships remain. This was brought sharply into focus when I had the privilege of travelling to Norway to visit Camp Viking and spend time with our Commando Forces on winter training exercises. Seeing first-hand how the Royal Marines prepare to operate in some of the harshest conditions on earth. The Commandos are playing a vital role in countering the growing threat of aggression from Russia in the High North, helping to protect British interests and the wider security of our NATO allies.
I was there alongside a cross-party group of MPs and Peers as part of the Royal Navy Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme and it was a valuable opportunity to deepen our understanding of the challenges faced by our armed forces.
There has also been welcome economic news. Growth has outperformed forecasts, January saw a healthy surplus with debt falling and borrowing down and inflation continues to ease. Households will also benefit from energy bills falling by around £117 due to changes in the price cap. This is encouraging progress and a sign that the steps being taken to stabilise the economy are beginning to have a positive effect for working families.
Back in Parliament, I was really pleased to meet with Minister Miatta Fahnbulleh to discuss the future of Newton Aycliffe town centre. Securing investment for our high streets remains a key priority. Having already helped secure £20 million for Spennymoor town centre, I am now pushing hard to ensure Newton Aycliffe receives the backing it needs to thrive, attract visitors and support local businesses.
I am particularly pleased that the government launched a national consultation on how to better support pupils with SEND in schools. The proposals are backed with major new investment to drive real improvements such as:
• £1.5 billion for early intervention support in
schools
• £1.8 billion to expand access to educational
psychologists and therapists
• £200 million for improved SEND training for
teachers
• £740 million to adapt classrooms and
create specialist facilities
• Funding for 60,000 new specialist places
• And £200 million for SEND outreach
through Best Start Family Hubs
These are significant steps towards ensuring every child gets the support they need to succeed. To have your say, please visit:
https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/send-reform-putting-children-and-young-people-first