Justin Tomlinson

Justin Tomlinson

North Swindon

Justin Celebrates World Book Day

Justin Celebrates World Book Day

North Swindon MP joined people across the country to mark World Book Day. Studies have shown reading for pleasure is the single biggest indicator of a child’s future success – more than their family circumstances, their parents’ educational backgrounds or their income. Whilst reading attainment levels improved in 2022, the number of children who say they enjoy reading is at its lowest levels in 18 years. This is why initiatives like World Book Day are vital. Throughout his career as an MP, Justi...

Swindon Advertiser Column - Hope For Future Of The Oasis

Swindon Advertiser Column - Hope For Future Of The Oasis

Today marks the one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Tragically, the UN has estimated that 21,000 civilians have been killed or wounded in the conflict, including 400 children. Shortly after the invasion, I met with members of Swindon’s Ukrainian community to offer my support to Ukraine. It was humbling to hear how their lives had been affected and to hear their concerns for family and friends in Ukraine. I am proud that the UK has stood shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine fro...

Justin Speaks In Childcare Affordability And Availability Debate

Justin Speaks In Childcare Affordability And Availability Debate

I have been involved in a number debates & roundtables recently on the importance of childcare and the Early Years. As parent to two young children I absolutely appreciate the important role that the Early Years sector plays in supporting childhood development and local parents. I was able to highlight Swindon’s excellent provision, including the Minister’s recent visit to meet Becky Cruise (owner of Imagination Childcare) and Cllr Jo Morris (owner of Playsteps Day Nursery) where we were abl...

Video: Justin Speaks In Voter ID Debate

Video: Justin Speaks In Voter ID Debate

Justin Tomlinson: The proof is in the pudding. We had a successful pilot in Swindon where the turnout was up. Would the Minister agree that for each of those on the long list of my many Labour opponents over the years, in their respective selection meetings, their members required voter ID? If it is good enough for them, surely it is good enough for all of us. Lee Rowley - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities: My hon. Friend is right. That ...

Swindon Advertiser Column - Glint Of Light At The End Of The Tunnel

Swindon Advertiser Column - Glint Of Light At The End Of The Tunnel

Earlier this week I enjoyed a wonderful visit to Swindon Interactive Arts Service (SWIAS) at St Andrew’s Church in Moredon. The group has been running for 12 years, offering a weekly session for adults with learning disabilities and their Carers. There is a wide range of activities on offer, including arts and crafts, cooking, and visits. They also put on a very popular Christmas play. SWIAS is run by a group of fantastic volunteers who work incredibly hard to offer this brilliant service, which...

Justin Visits Swindon Interactive Arts Service

Justin Visits Swindon Interactive Arts Service

Earlier this week I enjoyed a wonderful visit to Swindon Interactive Arts Service (SWIAS) at St Andrew’s Church in Moredon. The group has been running for 12 years, offering a weekly session for adults with learning disabilities and their Carers. There is a wide range of activities on offer, including arts and crafts, cooking, and visits. They also put on a very popular Christmas play. SWIAS is run by a group of fantastic volunteers who work incredibly hard to offer this brilliant service, which...

Swindon Advertiser Column - Westminster Hall A Fitting Backdrop For President Zelensky

Swindon Advertiser Column - Westminster Hall A Fitting Backdrop For President Zelensky

Earlier this week MPs gathered in Westminster Hall to hear a passionate address by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. Westminster Hall is an incredibly impressive building, and at over 900 years old it is steeped in history. Other world leaders to have spoken there include Nelson Mandela and Queen Elizabeth II, along with former Popes and US Presidents. It was a fitting backdrop for such a celebrated world leader and excellent representative for the brave men and women of Ukraine. I am v...

Justin Speaks In Benefit Uprating Debate

Justin Speaks In Benefit Uprating Debate

It is a real pleasure to follow the right hon. Member for East Ham (Sir Stephen Timms). I was proud to serve under his chairmanship for a whole three weeks or so on the Committee, and then to reappear as a Minister some weeks later. He has a formidable knowledge of a broad spectrum of issues, and always chairs the Committee’s meetings in the right spirit to tease out what needs to be done to help some of the most vulnerable people in society. I warmly welcome the various increases being announce...

Swindon Advertiser Column - Record Investment For GWH Will Improve Outcomes For Patients

Swindon Advertiser Column - Record Investment For GWH Will Improve Outcomes For Patients

Earlier this week, it was announced that the Great Western Hospital has secured £26 million to begin work on an expansion to the A&E department. This is fantastic news. The money represents the biggest ever investment to the hospital site. Robert Buckland MP and I lobbied Ministers directly, we absolutely understood the importance of our local NHS services. To secure this funding was essential. The GWH opened 20 years ago and was designed to care for 48,000 people a year. Since then, Swind...