I welcome the temporary cut to VAT from 20 per cent to 5 per cent for all food and non-alcoholic drinks, which has been extended until the end of September and will be followed by a 12.5 per cent rate until 31 March 2022. This will continue to support restaurants, pubs, bars, cafés and similar premises across the UK.
I share your concern about the protection and health of British waters and I am fully aware of the impact that super trawlers have on marine life. Our waters are a precious natural resource and they must be managed carefully. The future of the communities that earn their livelihoods from the sea and the biodiversity of the ocean depends on a balanced and considered approach to fisheries management.
I know this can be a very painful and debilitating condition. I recognise that living with a long-term condition, such as arthritis, has a significant impact upon a person’s wellbeing and I would like to thank the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society and Versus Arthritis for raising awareness of this issue.
I know that there has been a great deal of concern about Mr Nawajaa's arrest. I have been made aware that Mahmoud Nawajaa has been released by Israel, after being held for 19 days. I welcome this news, as I believe it is crucial that the UK continues to support the rights of human rights defenders to carry out their work safely and without fear.