1st March: Condemning use of cluster bombs in Ukraine

As Chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Explosive Threats, I released a statement denouncing Russia for the reported use of cluster munitions in Ukraine.

4th March: Visited Brent Cross Eye Clinic

I visited the local diagnostic centre at Brent Cross where Moorfields Eye Hospital has created a clinic for patients with medical retina conditions and glaucoma.

7th March: House of Commons – I the Government to improve the vetting process of police officer applicants in the Metropolitan Police Service.

8th March:

Viewing new NaviLens technology

I attended a drop-in session to view accessible packaging using NaviLens technology. Sponsored by Kellog’s and the RNIB, this world first technology on packaging gives blind and partially sighted people equitable and independent access to all the product information when shopping as information on packaging is often too small making it difficult or impossible to read

Hosted Persian New Year

I was delighted to host my annual Persian New Year reception in Parliament where I was joined by constituents and members of the Anglo-Iranian community from across the UK.

Listened to President Zelenskyy’s address to Parliament

9th March: Lobby for Israel Day

I was delighted to host the annual Lobby for Israel day. As a strong supporter of Israel, I addressed attendees and constituents and spoke of my support for the UK Government to proscribe, in full, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine terrorist group (PFLP)

10th March:

House of Commons – I asked the Government to designate the London underground as an essential service so that, in future years, we cannot be subjected to unnecessary strikes.

Celebrating Diplomatic relation with Azerbaijan

I attended a reception and met with the Azerbaijani Ambassador to the UK to celebrate 30 years of Diplomatic ties between the UK and Azerbaijan.

16th March:

House of Commons – I raised concerns with the Home Secretary about the support shown for Hezbollah at the annual Al Quds march in London.

Chaired Environmental Audit Committee meeting on UK fossil fuels and the transition to net zero

17th March: House of Commons – I asked the Government what they can do to assist constituents that live in Houses of Multiple Occupancy and will not be benefitting from the council tax discount.

18th March: Went on a walkabout with local police

Following recent incidents of anti-social behaviour on Mill Hill Broadway, I took the opportunity to conduct a ‘walkabout’ with local Councillors and police officers to identify problem locations and to reassure local businesses about actions being taken.

22nd March:

Met with stakeholders and members of the Explosive Threats APPG to discuss the situation in Ukraine

Met campaigners from Crustacean Compassion to discuss the Animal Sentience Bill.

Attended the Humane Society International UK reception

I discussed the group’s campaigning on enhancing animal welfare, ahead of the forthcoming Animals Abroad Bill. Also in attendance was Dr Brian May, Queen guitarist and founder of the Save Me Trust.

29th March: Attended conference on Humanitarian Mine Action

As Chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Explosive Threats, Matthew attended the International conference on Humanitarian Mine Action and the Sustainable Development Goals in Baku, Azerbaijan.