I recieve many emails every week from Aberconwy residents on a wide variety of topics, from farming to fracking and bees to badgers. One of the most interesting things about being a MP is the is the wide variety of issues that you bring to me. No week is ever the same as the last, and of course, this week was no exception.
On Tuesday, MPs voted on the Environment Bill. Aberconwy is a rural constituency and so this legislation has significant effects on our local farming and agriculture. This week I have received a large amount of email from residents who are concerned about the effects of neonicotinoids on our bee and pollinator populations.
I spent time researching the cycles of sugar beet crops, as well as why the use of neonicotinoids would protect this crop. The natural environment is a devolved area; however, I appreciate that the protection of our countryside, no matter what part of the UK, is important to us all. It is also important to note that the licence granted by Defra is for temporary use of neonicotinoids on sugar beet in a limited number of areas in England.
I was surprised to see how many residents have taken the time to write to me regarding their views on beer duty in the UK, with many of you asking for the Government to grant a 25% reduction in Beer Duty. Many of you have also written to me regarding the UK's supply of arms to Saudi Arabia after the US President Joe Biden has promised to end arms support.