My Barnoldswick & Earby Times, Colne Times and Nelson Leader Column for Friday 13th July 2018…
At 1pm on Tuesday, MPs joined thousands of others in pausing from business to turn our eyes to the skies, as dozens of military aircraft passed overhead. The Royal Air Force’s Flypast to commemorate and celebrate their centenary was an awe-inspiring display.
Chinook helicopters, were followed by World War II-era Spitfires and Hurricanes before modern Lightening, Typhoon, Tornado and others flew past. I could not help but think how vital the work of generations of Rolls-Royce engineers in Barnoldswick continues to be to so many of these impressive aircraft. The flyover finished in style with the Red Arrows and their trails of red, white and blue.
The inspirational display warmed my heart. Our country remains a major military power with a great past but also a vital role to play in the future, something that was under discussion at the NATO Summit that took place in Brussels during the week. The UK is one of only six NATO members currently meeting the target of spending 2% of our economy on defence and Europe’s biggest military power. We must maintain this record for the security of our country, and our international allies.
Our military strength depends on our economic strength. There was good news this week with the latest trade figures showing a record £620 billion in exports in the last year, a 5.2% increase. Exports to India were up a massive 31.8% and up 15.3% to China. These are the countries whose growth will fuel the world economy in the future. We cannot afford to miss out on these opportunities. I am delighted the evidence shows we are beginning to take them but we must stay focused on achieving even more.
This week, the Government also set out the full detail of the Chequers agreement. The White Paper set out a comprehensive and ambitious vision for the UK’s future relationship with the EU, for after we have left. This has generated a lot of comment, and a few resignations, and I look forward to speaking to residents across Pendle over the weekend, to ensure that their views continue to be heard as our exit negotiations with the EU continue.
Finally, Well done to the England football team for a fantastic effort on Wednesday night, and throughout the World Cup. We are all very proud of them!
