This week I spent a lot of time in Bodmin, and I was very pleased to find a great deal of support for the Chancellor’s recent tax cuts and our strong immigration reforms. Many residents were interested to hear about my work as HM Government Whip, and my input in ensuring that this legislation to stop illegal immigration made its way through the House of Commons. I also bumped into several people who voted for me in three previous elections and pledged to do so again this year.
There was good feedback for my representations to the Government on the NHS Dental Contract over the past five years. Historically, NHS dentistry in Cornwall has been at a disadvantage compared to the big cities. That's why I regularly talk to our dental providers about what I can do to help them deliver better NHS dental services for North Cornwall. I take this feedback directly to the Dental Minister, and NHS leaders along with specific constituent cases. Many of our dentists tell me that the structure around paying for set amounts of dental activity makes carrying out NHS work financially unviable. At the same time, NHS services must provide good value for money to the taxpayer. This is the balance we’re trying to find, and I am confident that if we can achieve this, we will greatly improve the availability of NHS dentistry in North Cornwall.
The Prime Minister understands that dentistry in rural and coastal communities is difficult to deliver, and that’s why he chose Cornwall to launch the Conservative Government’s NHS Dental Recovery Plan, as part of our long-term plan to improve access to NHS dentistry and deliver on our commitment to cut waiting lists. Backed by £200 million of new Government funding, the plan set out measures to deliver 2.5 million additional NHS dental appointments over the next 12 months, ensuring they are where they're needed most, and expanding preventative care for younger children to help reduce tooth decay.
I rounded up the week by holding my regular constituency surgery in Launceston, where I discussed a range of cases with local people before spending a few hours knocking on doors. Following the last illegal rave on the Davidstow site, Devon & Cornwall Police met with community stakeholders to ensure there was a plan of action in case it ever happened again. These plans obviously worked, and I'm very pleased that an attempt to hold another illegal rave over the Easter bank holiday was broken up before it started. Excellent work by D&C Police who should be commended. My message to anybody planning illegal events in North Cornwall is simple - you're not welcome.
