Reporting Back column with Julian Smith MP

At the start of the month, I attended the Remembrance Sunday services in Ripon. The amazing poppy displays throughout the city showed again how committed and passionate Ripon is to our war dead, veterans and armed forces. Joining local residents, I laid a wreath and it is important we continue to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Seeing the community come together is always a poignant reminder of the importance of remembrance in preserving our history and values.

Later in the month, I visited Kirkby Malzeard to review progress on essential repairs to Main Street following the sewer collapse earlier this year. The collapse caused a significant sinkhole, leading to a full road closure that has impacted local life and businesses. Meeting with Yorkshire Water on site, we discussed the complexities of the ongoing repair work and the timeline for completion. I also visited Kirkby Stores and Highside Butchers to speak with business owners directly affected by the disruption. I have written to the Chief Executive of Yorkshire Water to push for support and compensation for those impacted.

In late November, I met with the Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust at the Orchards Unit in Ripon, which provides inpatient recovery support for adults with mental health challenges. During my visit, I spoke with CEO Brent Killmurray to better understand the Trust’s work in North Yorkshire and the challenges they face. Mental health remains a critical issue, and hearing firsthand about the services provided and the ongoing needs of the sector reinforced my commitment to advocating for improved resources and support.

This month, Westminster was dominated by the mass lobby organised by the NFU which followed the changes to inheritance tax (IHT) rules in the Chancellor’s budget. Farming is at the heart of our rural communities and plays a vital role in feeding the country and protecting our environment. During the mass lobby I met with farmers from across our constituency to hear directly about the challenges they face such as rising input costs, the need for clear and fair agricultural policies and the changes to IHT rules.

Following the meeting I wrote to the Chancellor to highlight these concerns, and I will continue to work with colleagues across Parliament to ensure the interests of our farming communities are represented.

As we head into December, I remain focused on tackling local concerns and ensuring that Ripon and its surrounding areas receive the attention and investment they deserve. If you have issues to raise or need assistance, please contact me via my email: [email protected].