My column (on the website) today follows the chaotic scenes in the Commons on Wednesday night. It concerns the future of our democracy and this rise in intimidation and threats against MPs, and others in the public sector, are worrying.
The weather today rather reflected the political mood following last night's chaotic scenes in the Commons. The Prime Minister said Sir Lindsay Hoyle's decision to depart from convention during a debate on the Gaza conflict was "very concerning".
Oh dear! Not the most dignified days in the Commons. The day ended in chaos, but more of that later. An early morning run and then a savage haircut - a hangover from my army days - began a rather damp day.
A busy day, beginning with a fascinating session in CR16. A sub-committee of our Defence Committee heard evidence from a panel of academics and analysts with specialisms in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Defence.
I am writing to update you on the next steps to deliver the Government’s plan for farmers, which the Prime Minister has announced today at the NFU Conference.
Richard Drax, MP for South Dorset has added his support to calls for an increase to funding for those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
There is a growing and deeply unpleasant trend of personalising protests. My right hon. Friend the Member for Bournemouth East (Mr Ellwood) has been subjected to that recently, as have other Members of the House.
Back to the Commons and a lengthy stretch in the Chamber as I sat through and contributed to several Statements. However, before them we had Defence Questions, where I was not called.