We had great news from the government in April that we hit our manifesto pledge to recruit 20,000 extra police officers. Residents will be aware of my ongoing campaign to keep Hornchurch Police Station open, given the increase in officer numbers.

Since my last column, I have met with the new Met Commissioner, Sir Mark Rowley, to share with him our petition of over 1100 residents’ signatures calling for Hornchurch Police station to be kept under the Met’s ownership. I also highlighted my worries about crime statistics in Outer London. I expressed my worry that boroughs like Havering are paying for policing improvements in inner London and requested additional support for hard working police officers across the East Area Borough Command Unit.

Many constituents have advised of difficulties in obtaining GP appointments and I therefore welcome the Health Secretary’s recent announcement to boost appointments. General Practices across England will be provided with £240 million this year to roll out technology and replace old telephone systems with modern systems, helping to tackle the 8am rush when many practices phone lines open. £645 million will enable pharmacists to treat common conditions like rashes, ear ache, sore throats, skin and urinary infections. Pharmacists will also be able to supply some antibiotics and antivirals helping to free up even more appointments.

GPs are already working incredibly hard, with 10% more GP appointments happening each month compared to pre-covid, however these measures will help us reach our target of 50 million extra GP appointments by 2024.