The London celebration of all things Welsh has proven an excellent chance to highlight what makes Wales special right in the heart of Westminster. Though labelled Wales Week, the occasion spanned a fortnight, and throughout that period I made sure to bring together parliamentarians from across the rest of the country to sample our outstanding produce and discover more about our heritage.
I was particularly glad to receive Molly from Spirit of Wales, whose operations are located in Maesglas. Having already tried several of their celebrated rum varieties, I was pleased to sample a fresh collection of gins that paired wonderfully with the adjacent Welsh cakes stall.
The cross-party food and drink gathering meant that for those few days, I stood united with fellow Welsh MPs in showcasing the finest offerings from our nation, and I remain committed to promoting Wales throughout the entire year.
The past several weeks have ranked among the most significant during my parliamentary career, during which I put forward a 10-minute Rule Bill seeking to establish Ruby’s Law.
For those unfamiliar with the concept, Ruby’s Law is an initiative pushing for changes to family legislation to specifically incorporate companion animals within protective orders and to classify cruelty toward pets as a manifestation of controlling behaviour, enabling those in peril to escape with their animals.
At present, deficiencies in family legislation throughout England and Wales permit wrongdoers to inflict harm upon household animals, while offenders can exploit pets as tools of intimidation and domination over their targets, thereby stopping them from fleeing hazardous circumstances.
I find it remarkable that this is not yet enshrined in legislation, and I look forward to progress as I pursue discussions with Sarah Sackman at the Ministry of Justice.
You may also have observed my impassioned calls regarding my Fur Bill, which I shall continue advocating for until it becomes statute.
Follow my social media channels for footage and further information on both matters.
Back in my constituency, I have been engaged in meetings and collaboration with my Welsh Labour colleagues in preparation for the Senedd Election scheduled for May 7.
Alongside intensifying our doorstep outreach now that Parliament has broken for Easter, I recently co-arranged a gathering with Rhianon Passmore and was delighted to be joined by Jayne Bryant and Chris Carter, alongside numerous councillors from Islwyn.
The purpose of that gathering centred on the most effective methods of communicating our platform door-to-door, with particular attention on mobilising as many party members as possible to dedicate themselves fully over the weeks ahead.
As always, my staff and I remain available to address any queries or concerns you might have, so please do reach out via email at ruth.jones.mp@parliament.uk or telephone 01633 256 268.
Ruth Jones serves as the Member of Parliament representing Newport West and Islwyn.