Page 33 - BR December 2023

December 2023 December 2023
BERE REGIS WI NEWS FROM WESTMINSTER

In spite of protests of “I can’t sing” and “I don’t sing” One of the challenges of writing this column each
Caroline Pugh arrived at November’s meeting of month, is that (rightly) the deadline is several weeks
the WI, equipped with her keyboard and song before publication. As the saying goes “a week is a
books. long time in politics”. Already this week we have had
the King’s speech, laying out the program for the
The first number – ‘Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious’ new Parliamentary term, and a reshuffle – where the
was successful encouragement to the reluctant choristers. Songs from the past – Prime Minister changed his top team in Government. I
from musicals – and new words to old tunes, from ’ Master of the House’ [Les was very pleased to be asked to continue in my
Miserables], to ‘Who Do You Think You Are Kidding?’ [Dad’s Army] - from ‘The current role as HM Solicitor General, which includes
Traffic Warden and the Dentist’ [sung to Vaughan Williams ‘Linden Lea’] to ‘The supporting and advising the Government on legal
Wombles of Wimbledon’ and several more – a truly varied medley across the issues amongst other things. If you want to know more
years bringing back some enjoyable memories. about that work, you can sign up on my website for my email newsletter. I send

Judging by the applause at the end of class, Caroline easily overcame the this roughly once a month, and it has details of my work here in Dorset and
protests to provide an evening enjoyed by all Poole, and also my Parliamentary work in London.
Next month the There are many conflicts in the world at the moment, not least in the Middle East
members will be and specifically Israel and Gaza. These are situations that are fast moving and
enjoying their annual change daily. You can find my thoughts on the situation on my website.
Christmas lunch at Closer to home, I recently
The Thimble Inn and attended several Acts of
will meet again in Remembrance across the
January for their New constituency. I would like to
Year party. extend my thanks to the Royal
We have welcomed British Legion, and all volunteers
several new members and organisers of these events for
this year but are their hard work. Supporting
always pleased to veterans is a key pledge of the
meet new faces. Government, and the Veterans
Three visits with no Minister is calling for UK veterans
payment means you could come along to meet us without obligation. and their families to share their
views and experiences in a consultation to help shape the future of veteran
If you would like any further information, please do not hesitate to telephone/ policies. The consultation covers a wide range of policy areas - focussing on
email subjects such as employment, housing, finance, public perception, and
recognition of veterans. You can find it here www.gov.uk/government/
Di Pitts – 01929 471322 pitts.dian@gmail.com consultations/supporting-our-veterans-a-consultation and it is open until January.
Clivena Thomas - clivenathomas@hotmail.com There is a dedicated section on my website with links to support for our veterans,
alongside information about help with the cost of living. On that subject, I’m
delighted that inflation is falling – and is now below 5%, which means that things
will cost less, and you will keep more of your salary each month.

As we look towards Christmas, I will be publicising local Christmas events on my
social media channels again this year. If you're hosting an event or service that

60 33