After an eventful year on many fronts, 2023 brings a welcome opportunity to take stock and prepare for what I believe will be a challenging, although hopefully more positive, period.
Whilst the war in Ukraine has had a profound impact, I’m encouraged by evidence we are emerging from the Covid epidemic aftermath although it remains important we are not complacent and take new vaccines when offered.
One concerning issue facing our region this winter are the worldwide inflationary pressures caused by rising commodity prices, largely resulting from tragic events in Ukraine.
Cost-of-living increases are worrying many and I welcome the Prime Minister's decision to push ahead with the Chancellor’s support schemes helping households with energy bills, plus more targeted assistance, particularly for the most vulnerable.
Equally important will be the inflation-linked rises in DWP benefits and the state pension from April.
The UK's resolute support for Ukraine from an early stage was entirely justified after Vladimir Putin’s illegal attack on a sovereign state and the Russian regime must be held to account for war crimes.
Locally, I’m encouraged that improvements to the A75 are now firmly on the UK agenda with £5 million funding allocated for an essential detailed feasibility study and I would urge the devolved Scottish Government to fully engage.
I’m also optimistic the UK levelling-up programme will bring significant additional investment to major projects in the constituency and comes on top of existing support from the Borderlands Growth Deal.
An enduring memory of 2022 remains the sad passing of The Queen and ascension to the throne of King Charles, who is proving a worthy successor.
I felt honoured to play a part in some of the historic ceremonies surrounding the transition and, as we begin a new royal era, I wish readers a Happy and Prosperous New Year.