I would to send all my constituents my warmest wishes for a Happy Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous New Year.
Christmas in Barnet is always a special time, when the unique character of this area really shines through. Over recent weeks I have been able to support a series of Christmas events and activities made possible by the wonderful charities, community groups and volunteers we are so lucky to have here.
While the message of hope in the nativity story has particular spiritual resonance for Christians, I hope that everyone in our community, from whichever faith or secular background they come, has the chance to enjoy some rest and time with friends and family over the forthcoming holiday period.
I would like to thank all those of you who will be working during the festive season to keep our health and emergency services going. I am sure that anyone who is unfortunate enough to be in hospital over the festive season will hugely value the commitment and dedication of NHS staff.
I would also like to thank our local police force who have acted with courage and professionalism in a year of heightened security threats, with London falling victim to terrorist attack. We owe all our front line officers and PCSOs a great debt of gratitude. And I would like to pay tribute to the brave men and women of our armed forces posted overseas away from their families at Christmas.
It is the greatest honour of my life to have served the Chipping Barnet constituency as its MP for 12 years. Looking ahead to 2018, I shall continue to campaign enthusiastically in Barnet and in Parliament to highlight the issues that matter to my constituents.