In November, I joined the Serious Fraud Office on a morning raid. Overseeing the Serious Fraud Office is one of the responsibilities of my role. It was brilliant to see the work they are doing to recover the public’s money stolen by criminals.
I also had my first oral questions session in Parliament as Solicitor General. It’s always a Thursday morning for just under half an hour, answering questions from MPs about the issues that matter to them. As the Solicitor General covers quite a range of things, MPs can bring up almost anything related to the law even if it isn’t necessarily part of mine or the Attorney General’s responsibilities. So you always have to be prepared for slightly off‑topic questions.
This month, I took questions on the work of the Serious Fraud Office, rural crime and on my top priority in this role, supporting our target to halve violence against women and girls.
I also spoke to ITV London this month about the ongoing Crown Prosecution Service Victims’ Right to Review pilot. This pilot allows victims of serious sexual assault and rape to request a review of their case before the CPS makes a final decision to drop their case. The pilot is ongoing, but I look forward to seeing the results soon.
I also spoke at the National Black Crown Prosecution Association Conference, where I met with Nour Norris. Nour’s sister and niece were brutally murdered following a campaign of domestic abuse. Thanks to Nour’s tireless campaigning and dedication, domestic abuse specialists are now being embedded in 999 control rooms across the country, part of our manifesto commitments.
Community
This year, it was a privilege to attend the Southwark Remembrance Service to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
And last weekend, I was on Politics London talking about everything from London transport to supporting our high streets, and COP30.
With funding from both Great British Energy and Sadiq Khan there are loads of green and clean energy projects in our area that are benefitting. From new trees in Sydenham Garden to solar panels being installed on Lewisham Hospital and in local schools like Stillness. It was great to be able to speak about the positive difference we are making. This is not only good for the environment, but also means more money for frontline services.
It was also announced that both Lewisham and Southwark are set to receive up to £10m each from TfL to improve our local buses. This new cash will be used to speed up bus journey times, make buses more reliable and safer for passengers.
St John’s and St Clement’s Primary School
I was delighted to visit St John’s and St Clement’s Primary School ahead of their School Council Elections. It was great to visit the school and see their fantastic art and music rooms.
Link Age Southwark
I had a lovely time visiting Link Age Southwark to see their Warm Welcome Space at the United Reformed Church in East Dulwich. It was great to hear what a difference the space is making, helping people stay connected and supported through the colder months.
And it was great to see the fantastic work of all the staff and volunteers, who obviously care deeply about our community.
Thank you again for all of your support. If you have any issues, or would like to invite me to an event in your area, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Best wishes,
Ellie