You don’t have to look far for some news story that’s got negativity or doom and gloom front and centre. In fact, a lot of the time it feels like that’s all the media want to report on. So I thought I’d use my column this week to inject some positivity into the media. Because there is a huge amount of brilliant stuff going on.
The first was the news this week that we’ve now formally signed to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). This is huge! I’ve written before about this trade group and the opportunities, but it’s worth reiterating. Because by joining CPTPP, we’ve opened new export markets for local businesses. Comprising 11 nations it accounts for around 15% of global GDP (or £12 trillion) and it’s a group which is growing faster and more sustainably than any other in the world. The world is crying out for "Made in Britain" and this deal will enable more of that.
Trade deal – signed.
Then on Monday in Parliament we voted to knock back all amendments tabled by the House of Lords to the Small Boats Bill. And so, although we had to fight tooth and nail against Labour’s amendments seeking to stop us removing those coming to our country illegally, we got the Bill through and now, finally, have the legislation needed.
Small boats bill – passed.
Then we have energy supply, something I’ve been particularly vocal about in Parliament because we have all seen the impact of rocketing bills caused by dictators weaponizing energy. And this week we launched Great British Nuclear. GBR will act as a catalyst for expanding nuclear energy across the UK, in traditional form and newer Small Modular Reactors, to provide cheap and abundant energy. And given the skills and expertise we have across Lancashire for the nuclear enterprise, it’s undoubtedly going to be good for us too.
Great British Nuclear – established.
And then there’s inflation, the silent enemy. The PM is completely right to focus on its reduction as not to do so erodes all our incomes. It can’t be left unchecked and so it’s good, following difficult decisions, to receive news that it is finally coming down. We can’t take our eye off this, but we can now see a path to much lower inflation.
Inflation – reducing.
If we keep focusing on delivery, and not letting the naysayers hold us back or convince us there’s nothing positive, we can keep on the right track. I’ll keep doing that.
