Sojan Joseph

Business of the House

Kent Fire and Rescue Service will shortly launch a consultation on its modernisation as a result of a shortfall in funding. As a former public sector worker, I recognise the importance of reforming our emergency services to ensure that they remain effective and efficient. It is equally vital that services respond to the evolving risks faced by local communities, particularly in rural areas. Will the Leader of the House find time for a debate on the importance of fire and rescue services, their f

Getting Britain Working Again

It is a pleasure to be called to speak in the debate. I had the privilege of making my maiden speech during the last King’s Speech debate. Since then, I am proud to have supported 50 pieces of legislation that are helping to build a better Britain, deliver positive change for working people and, crucially, giving my constituents hope for the future. I will not list all 50 today, but I do want to reflect on some of the changes that I believe demonstrate the positive direction of travel that the L

Pension Schemes

A few weeks ago, I raised in this Chamber an issue affecting my constituent, Andrew Mackay, whose wife Katy passed away at the end of September. Both Andrew and Katy worked for Border Force for 40 years, and Andrew has been in contact with Capita numerous times, but with no luck. I have written to the Minister, and I thank him and his team for their engagement with me. After making numerous attempts over several months, my constituent Andrew is still waiting for Katy’s pension. We hear about the

Gurkha Veterans

It is crucial that we continue to recognise the invaluable contributions of the Gurkhas, both militarily and in our communities, and I thank the hon. Member for Tewkesbury (Cameron Thomas) for securing this debate and explaining eloquently the issues that the Gurkha community faces. We need to continue the conversation about the important role they play in our society. The Gurkhas in my constituency of Ashford and Hawkinge have been a model of dedication and contribution to the wider community,

Business of the House

On Friday, I met my constituent Andrew Mackay, whose wife, Katy, passed away at the end of September. Like Andrew, Katy was a retired civil servant, having worked for Border Force for over 40 years. Nearly six months later, Andrew is still not receiving his widower’s pension. Despite his repeated calls for updates, his only contact from Capita, which administers the civil service pension scheme, has been confirmation that it has received the necessary documents. After more than 80 years of combi