I am very grateful to the people of Preseli Pembrokeshire who voted for me on Thursday 7th May and to those individuals who worked to support my local campaign.
It is a huge privilege to continue my work as the Member of Parliament in my home constituency and I would like to thank those who have put their trust in me again. My promise from the very start has always been to put Pembrokeshire first and to do my very best for the local community.
Whilst it was a historic election nationally, it was clear that local matters were the deciding factor for many people at this election.
The main issue on the doorsteps across Pembrokeshire was the future of Withybush Hospital and the consequences for our County of the removal of vital services.
Following the election I have again requested a meeting with the Welsh Health Minister Mark Drakeford AM in Cardiff to examine urgently the impact of the downgrading on our local community. The current situation cannot be allowed to continue. In my first meeting with the Carwyn Jones AM last week, following my reappointment as Welsh Secretary, I called on the First Minister to listen to the voices of Pembrokeshire people over Withybush. This issue will not go away.
Another key issue raised during the election by many local people is the need for better quality jobs and for more investment for our young people. While the economy is getting stronger, we need to see more of the growth benefiting Pembrokeshire and I will continue to make this a key priority in the new Parliament.
It is clear that we need an ambitious programme to improve the whole West Wales economy which will include upgrading the A40 road, improved broadband for rural businesses, new investment in the energy sector and a greater focus on helping small firms grow. This will require both UK and Welsh governments to work closely together.
While I am grateful for the opportunity to continue as Secretary of State for Wales, I remain committed to working hard for Pembrokeshire. My first duty will always be to my constituents, whether or not you voted for me. I look forward to continuing to help local people in any way I can over the next five years.
I will be continuing to hold advice surgeries around the County if you would like to speak to me in person on a one-to-one basis. I will also be holding more public Question & Answer sessions which have proved very popular over the past year. These offer people the opportunity to discuss issues in an informal setting with others who are interested in finding out my views and sharing their own.
I don’t just knock on doors at election time and I will continue my monthly doorstep surgeries which are held on Saturday mornings. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you are interested in finding out more about any of these activities.
In addition to local business visits, I have always made a point of supporting and attending community and charity events wherever possible. I would like to hear from you if there is an event which you would like me to attend or an issue that you would like me to help promote.
Please get in touch with my office in Haverfordwest if you would like to raise any issue with me, or if you feel I could be of assistance in any way. You can call me on 01437 767555, or send me an email at stephen.crabb.mp@parliament.uk
Thank you again for re-electing me.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours,
Stephen