Josh Dean

2 months ago | bishopsstortfordindependent.co.uk | Josh Dean

Hertford and Stortford MP Josh Dean writes for the IndieI was shocked and saddened by the news of His Holiness Pope Francis’ death at the start of this week. It is testament to his selflessness that he was able to share an Easter blessing with the church in his final days and his compassionate leadership in challenging times will be sorely missed. Let me take this opportunity to offer my most sincere condolences to the Catholic community across Hertford and Stortford.

Mar 10, 2025 | bishopsstortfordindependent.co.uk | Josh Dean

Putin’s illegal and brutal invasion of Ukraine continues to be a major focus internationally and in Parliament. As we marked the third anniversary of the invasion, I was pleased to contribute to a debate in the House of Commons to highlight the deep-rooted support for Ukraine in our community in Hertford and Stortford and pay tribute to the bravery and courage of the Ukrainian people. Their struggle is undoubtedly the defining moral issue of our time.

Feb 25, 2025 | bishopsstortfordindependent.co.uk | Josh Dean

Ahead of the General Election last year, I joined colleagues in Thurrock for the launch of Sir Keir Starmer’s first steps for a Labour Government, where then Shadow Health Secretary Wes Streeting pledged to deliver two million extra NHS appointments and cut waiting times within a year. You voted for us on the back of that promise, and I’m delighted that this month we delivered it seven months early, with waiting lists having fallen for the fourth consecutive month.

Feb 12, 2025 | bishopsstortfordindependent.co.uk | Josh Dean

Last week, this Labour Government laid legislation confirming a new National Living Wage of £12.21 and a new national minimum wage of £10 an hour. I’m delighted that this will mean a pay boost worth £1,400 a year for eligible full-time working people in Hertford and Stortford this April. This is a significant step towards our manifesto commitment to deliver a genuine living wage.

Jan 31, 2025 | gpsj.co.uk | Josh Dean

35,000 zombie knives handed in – but are we closer to public safety? The zombie knife ban that came into force in September has removed tens of thousands of weapons from sale in England and Wales, even if there is controversy about its cost. The fact that one wholesaler surrendered more than 35,000 such knives gives an indication of the scale of the problem. As welcome as the new legislation is, it can only go so far in keeping the public safe and reducing potential harm.