"The lack of NHS dental provision has become an increasing issue here in East Suffolk, especially in Leiston with some people telling me they have had to travel as far away as Colchester or Lowestoft to get an appointment. I’ve been constantly pressing the case on behalf of patients, lobbying Ministers and NHS bosses. I’m really pleased, therefore, that an additional £50m has now been made available to boost capacity in NHS dentistry. Under the scheme, 350,000 extra appointments will be offered including outside of normal hours to treat people in the early morning, evenings and at weekends. I have already written to local NHS Commissioners encouraging them to make an urgent bid for our share of the money, which should really help boost capacity in our part of Suffolk. In the meantime, well done to East Suffolk councillor, Russ Rainger, for coordinating the use of local councillor grants to secure the services of the Dentaid mobile surgery in the town.
Whilst there are various matters still to be decided as part of the planning application, I welcome the announcement from the Energy Secretary that £100 million of government funding is being made available to support the continued development of Sizewell C. Nuclear power as a low carbon energy source is a key strand of the government’s plan to achieve net-zero by 2050. There will also be of huge benefit locally with high-quality jobs and economic gain. I’m pleased to see the recent investment EDF have made at Suffolk New College, which will mean local people will be able to take advantage of the opportunities throughout the construction phase and during operation.
Talking of opportunities, it’s great news that Suffolk will become an Education Investment Area as part of the government’s detailed Levelling Up plan. Importantly this extra investment will include retention payments to keep the best teachers and specific support for SEND children and their families. There will also be a laser-like focus on skills helping to support adults with free, flexible training and the expansion of skills bootcamps. Music to the ears of your Secretary of State for Work."