Reporting Back column with Julian Smith MP

A highlight was visiting Ripon Cathedral for its Christmas Food and Gift Fair, and the Magical Artisan Christmas Market in the city centre. These events are a celebration of local businesses and creativity, and it was great to see so many people supporting our city and enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Health services remain a top priority. I welcomed the announcement that Ripon’s Minor Injuries Unit will become an Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC), giving residents better access to care closer to home. While the transition began in November, formal designation is expected in early 2026, with the UTC eventually relocating to a new facility within Ripon Community Hospital.

Transport is another key focus. I visited the Kex Gill realignment project with the Shadow Transport Secretary to see progress on this vital scheme. Once complete, it will make the A59 safer and more reliable, benefiting commuters and businesses across North Yorkshire. This investment is essential for improving connectivity and supporting growth in our region. Completion is expected in Spring 2026.

I also encouraged residents to have their say on Ripon’s City Investment Plan Survey, which is a major opportunity to shape the future of our city.

In Westminster, I backed calls for targeted prostate cancer screening to help save lives through earlier detection. This is an important step in improving men’s health and reducing inequalities in diagnosis.

Looking back to the November Budget, I want to share my thoughts on the measures announced by the Chancellor. This Budget delivers one of the largest tax increases in modern history, and while the Government argues this is necessary to restore fiscal stability, I am concerned that these proposals risk undermining growth, investment and confidence across the economy.

I am particularly disappointed that the Budget fails to reverse changes to Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief. These reliefs are vital for family farms and rural businesses, enabling them to pass holdings from one generation to the next without crippling tax bills. Penalising genuine farming families, who sustain jobs, food security and stewardship of our countryside, will cause long-term harm to rural communities.

Beyond farming, freezing personal tax thresholds and other tax rises place an ever-heavier burden on households and businesses, in particular hospitality - a key employer across our area - which is also facing the prospect of a tourist tax. I will continue to press for a fairer, more balanced approach that supports investment and protects rural areas across North Yorkshire.

As always, I am here to listen and help. I will be holding surgeries in Ripon and across the constituency, and if you have concerns or queries, please contact me at [email protected].