A virtual meeting with my parliamentary team began the day. Much to talk about and organise. We had a most interesting revealing session with a sub-committee of our Defence Select Committee. Chaired by my colleague Sarah Atherton, we have been looking at women in our Armed Forces. There has been a large response to our inquiry from women, both serving and veterans. Today was a strictly private session as we listened to evidence from those who wanted to talk about their experiences in the military. Ironically, one of the Opposition debates was on the Armed Forces. Meanwhile, Government departments were ordered to find out by the end of the week whether senior officials have rule-breaking second jobs. Cabinet Secretary Simon Case has asked colleagues to declare paid roles or outside interests that "might conflict" with Civil Service rules. The move came after it emerged a top official joined a financial firm while still working for the Government. Bill Crothers said his recruitment by Greensill Capital was "transparent". In further news on the pandemic, care home staff in England could be mandated to receive a coronavirus vaccine in new plans under consultation by the Government. Ministers are seeking views on the proposal, which would see the jab requirement introduced this summer. Health Secretary Matt Hancock said requiring a jab was "something many care homes have called for" and would make care home residents safer. Abroad, I am concerned about the US announcement that it is to pull out of Afghanistan. The President said that the US would continue to support Afghanistan after withdrawing its troops, but not "militarily". In a speech from the White House, Mr Biden said: "It is time to end America's longest war". The pull-out will coincide with the 20th anniversary of the 11 September 2001 terror attacks. What saddens me most is the sacrifice the brave men and women of our Armed Forces have made in the last 20 years. I just hope and pray that their legacy will be a more peaceful and democratic Afghanistan, a country where women can be free to live their lives, go to school and be respected. Of course, the fear is that the Taliban will take over again and reverse all the good work that has been done.