Security is the first priority of any government. And as we gathered last Sunday to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of our nation, this week our security was brought into sharp focus.
On Tuesday evening as reports of a missile hitting NATO territory started to filter through, I was meeting with the Air Vice Marshal Paul Godfrey OBE, Commander of UK Space Command. This sounds futuristic because it is. Setup in April 2021 under the Royal Air Force it is all about adding to our defence capabilities in space, with a particular focus on our satellite system, which with the advances in technology, is more vital than ever before.
An attack on a NATO member would be a serious situation. The alliance has played a pivotal role in keeping us safe since the end of the second world war using collective security and so as the investigation began into the cause, I was, like many across the UK, closely watching to see how the situation developed.
As I wrote earlier this year, the dangers of the conflict in Ukraine further escalating are a real and present threat. And that was demonstrated vividly this week.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine is impacting every one of us here in Burnley and Padiham, with high inflation affecting energy and food prices. That’s something I have and will continue to raise with Government on behalf of residents as I fully recognise that people need support to get through the winter period.
Already we’ve seen measures introduced to assist. The latest being the Cost of Living Payments arriving this month. This support will help more than 16,000 families within the borough with a payment of £324 as we head into the coldest months of the year. It comes on top of the £400 every household is already receiving off energy bills and the Council Tax rebate of £150 earlier this year. Whilst every decision will find opposition these payments combined will provide families much needed support and help to protect the most vulnerable in the face of rising prices.
On a final note, I’d like to pay tribute to the late Sir Simon Towneley who sadly passed last week. At 100 years old Sir Simon led an incredible life and was a much-loved figure. My thoughts are with his family, particularly his children, including Burnley Mayor Cllr Cosima Towneley.
