Many of you will know that the Government is pushing forward with local government reorganisation in our area. What this means, in simple terms, is that the Government plans to replace the current system of county and borough councils with new unitary authorities responsible for delivering all local services.
You may have seen that, through a series of surveys, monthly columns, questions in the Commons and social media posts, I have consistently argued that any changes should be driven by local people, not imposed on us by decision makers in Westminster.
Sadly, that is not what has happened.
Over recent months, thousands of residents, parish councils, businesses and community groups across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland took part in the Government's consultation. People gave up their time because they believed their views would genuinely help shape the future of our area.
You may have seen that, last month, the Government announced its decision.
Despite the overwhelming concerns raised throughout the consultation, Labour has chosen to press ahead with plans that will see Leicester City's boundaries significantly expanded into parts of Leicestershire.
While the boundary changes, fortunately, do not affect any villages or parishes in the Hinckley and Bosworth constituency, the change to a unitary authority has forced Leicestershire and Rutland into a structure we have repeatedly said we do not want.
For many people, this isn't simply about moving lines on a map. It is about protecting the identity of our towns and villages, ensuring local communities continue to have a strong voice, and making sure the councils responsible for delivering vital services are financially sustainable for years to come.
One of my biggest concerns has always been whether these proposals create councils that are genuinely built to succeed. Taking significant residential and commercial areas away from the wider county, while expecting a new authority to continue delivering costly services across large rural communities, raises serious questions about long-term finances.
Residents are right to ask whether this will mean paying more while receiving less. They are right to ask whether investment could increasingly be focused on an enlarged Leicester City at the expense of surrounding towns and villages. These are questions the Government has yet to answer.
I know many people will be frustrated with this decision. I certainly am. But this is not the end.
Alongside fellow Conservative MPs, council leaders and local representatives, I will continue to scrutinise every stage of these proposals. We are exploring every legitimate avenue available, including legal challenge where appropriate, while continuing to press the Government to explain the financial and practical consequences of its decision.
Most importantly, I will continue standing up for Hinckley and Bosworth.
My priority has always been ensuring our community receives the services we deserve, that local taxpayers get value for money, and that decisions affecting our area are made in our best interests.
Whatever happens next, I will continue making the case for fair funding, strong local services and genuine local democracy. The Government may have made its decision, but I remain committed to ensuring the voices of residents across Hinckley and Bosworth continue to be heard throughout every stage of this process.
