Judith Cummins MP: 'The work of change has now begun'

Every General Election presents the country with a choice. It defines the type of nation that we want to be, the type of society we want to be, and the hopes and ideals we aspire to. And just a few weeks ago, Bradford and the country chose that it was time for change.

The Conservatives have left a fourteen-year legacy that means families in Bradford and up and down the country are struggling. People are still dealing with the consequences of hundreds of pounds extra on their rent and mortgages each month. And, on top of the cost-of-living crisis, people are having a hard time getting an NHS dentist or GP appointment when they need one.

The hard work starts now, and the new Labour Government has already hit the ground running.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer (Image: PA)

In its first few days, the incoming Labour Government affirmed the United Kingdom’s commitments to its international obligations, reconfirming the country’s support for Ukraine against Russia’s illegal invasion, and emphasising a renewed commitment to peace in the Middle East with calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

In last week’s King’s speech, the government set out its immediate priorities: to rebuild our economy in a way that works for everyone, providing good jobs and a foundation for public services that we can all rely on; a route to rebuilding our NHS so it is fit for the future; plans to tackle crime and take back control of our streets; and breaking down the barriers to opportunity and investing in our children’s futures.

My ambition as a Member of Parliament has always been to improve life for everyone across Bradford, and I stand by my record of campaigning on the things that people tell me matter.

That’s why I am very pleased that so many of these issues received commitments from Labour during the general election: On health, after nearly a decade sounding the alarm on the crisis NHS dentistry with no meaningful action from the Conservatives, I am pleased that the Labour Government has committed to address the immediate crisis by providing 700,000 more urgent dental appointments and will start a drive to recruit new dentists where they are needed most.

Access to an NHS dentist is not a luxury; it is a necessity. I will continue to campaign for a well-functioning, reformed NHS dental service. My long-held view is early prevention is the foundation of good oral health.

Bradford South MP Judith Cummins says she will continue to campaign on dentistry (Image: PA)

There will also be an end to the postcode lottery on bone health care by ensuring that everywhere in England has access to a Fracture Liaison Service, offering life-altering care that will mean people suffering from osteoporosis can be diagnosed and treated earlier and supported to live life to the full.

On crime, police will finally get the powers they need to seize and destroy the nuisance bikes and quads that plague our neighbourhoods and put drivers and pedestrians at risk, taking these problem vehicles off our streets permanently.

What’s more, the heinous crime of spiking will be made a specific offence, modernising the law and making it fit for the twenty-first century. This will encourage more survivors to come forward and get the support they need. It will enable police to better respond to incidents, and it will deter perpetrators.

Spiking is set to be made a specific offence

This is a first crucial step in providing a clear pathway of support from the moment spiking is first suspected to ensuring victims get the justice they deserve.

These are positive first steps, but I know people in Bradford will want to see action, not just warm words. While change cannot come overnight, there is no time for delay.

The work of change has begun, and I am looking forward to working to delivering the pledges made in the manifesto a reality as I continue to serve the people of Bradford South on the issues that matter.

It is a privilege beyond words to serve as a Member of Parliament, and the honour of my life to have been re-elected to represent Bradford South.