On Wednesday 22nd January, shortly after Prime Minister's Questions, Anthony Mangnall, the Member of Parliament for the Constituency of Totnes, addressed the House of Commons in his maiden speech.
Maiden speeches are a unique quirk of becoming a new MP for they are the only time that a member cannot be interrupted or heckled and the subject range is almost unlimited.
Using the opportunity to speak during the second reading of the Telecommunication Infrastructure Bill Anthony spoke about the fact that the constituency of Totnes is unrivalled in its beauty, a fact that has been reasserted by the recent visits of the Prime Minister, the Secretary of State for Education, Trade, Attorney General, Health Secretary and countless others.
Members of the House of Commons listened as Anthony spoke about the 'history, culture, character and individuality' of the constituency of Totnes. He promoted the work of local partnership groups Young Devon and Pete's Dragons in 'providing hope, comfort, support and opportunity for those most in need'. Added to which he reminded those in attendance about the value of 'world-famous Brixham fish market' and that 'Dartmouth Naval College was the site of the first significant encounter between Her Majesty The Queen and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh.'
However, he was also quick to remind Cabinet Minister and MPs alike that the South West 'has all too often been overlooked by successive governments, whether Labour, Conservative or Coalition.' Raising the examples of poor digital and transport infrastructure when compared to the rest of the country. Anthony pledged to work with all the other Member of Parliament for the South West to deliver in this region.
Looking to the future Anthony spoke about seizing the opportunity that lies ahead for Great Britain and making the forthcoming Fisheries and Agriculture Bill work for the South West and the whole of the United Kingdom.
You can read the full speech by clicking the following link or watching it above
