Parliament is a very interesting place during reshuffles. Deep down, I suspect most MPs are keen to advance; some are openly ambitious, whilst others dismiss any potential opportunities with bravado. The new wave of Ministers were confirmed last week and the Parliamentary Private Secretary (PPS) roles were to be allocated this week. A PPS, whilst only a first rung on the ladder, allows an MP to be actively involved in a Department, working closely with the Ministerial Team. This includes: weekly departmental briefings, supporting Parliamentary debates, acting as a first point of contact for back-bench MP's and stepping in for events where a Minister is already committed.
On Tuesday morning I received a call from my Whip, Harriet Baldwin MP. Harriet quickly rattled through various admin questions, then asked my opinion on the proposed 'Recall Bill', before wishing me all the best for the Summer Recess. Alas, promotion wasn't meant to be. You can't be too disappointed, there are always more MPs than there are places.
Resigned to continuing my role on the back-benches I popped the kettle on and settled down to read through the Small Business Bill – you certainly get a lot of reading as an MP. Midway through reading about simplifying the process to start up a business the phone rang again, this time the PM's office and I was offered the role of PPS to Ed Vaizey MP, Culture and the Digital Economy Minister. The kettle was quickly popped on again and this time the biscuits were deployed, it was time to celebrate!
This new role will allow me to be part of the Department of Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS). This is a fantastic opportunity, in an area I have been very active in Parliament, both through Parliamentary speeches and various All-Party Parliamentary Groups. Whilst I'll be working primarily with Ed Vaizey MP, I will also get an opportunity to work with the other Ministers within the DCMS team - Secretary of State Sajid Javid and Minister of State for Sport & Tourism Helen Grant. DCMS covers the Arts, Broadcasting, Internet & ICT policy, Telecommunications & Broadband, Creative Industries, Advertising, Design, Fashion, Film, Music industry, Publishing, Historic Environment, Architecture, Cultural Property & Heritage, Alcohol & Entertainment Licensing, Gambling & Racing, Press Freedom & Regulation, Libraries, Museums & Galleries, National Lottery, Tourism, Sport and Olympics.
Robert Buckland MP and I are both very fortunate to represent Swindon. We work very hard to be strong representatives both in Parliament and locally, where we are visible, approachable and passionate about Swindon. Our respective new roles will give us further platforms to champion the very best of Swindon, something we are both very proud to do.
