Freedom of religious belief is a principle that our country prides itself on. We must defend it at every turn.

Timely reflection from @fabianhamilton.bsky.social highlighting the strategic value of UK soft power. 🗨️ “The FPC’s latest Soft Power Report could not have been more timely...if we invest in our strengths, we’ll help shape the solutions."” 🔽 Read the article: www.politicshome.com/opinion/arti...

🚲 Pleased to support the launch of LNER Beryl Bikes in Leeds. More e-bikes and bays make it simpler for people to cut congestion and pollution, and enjoy our brilliant city. The bikes are parked outside Leeds Train Station and across the city.

Russia’s strike on the @britishcouncil.bsky.social in Kyiv is an attack on education, culture, and international cooperation. As Chair of the APPG British Council & Soft Power, I condemn this act of aggression and welcome the Government’s swift decision to summon Russia’s ambassador.

🎉 Fantastic to be with Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin and founder of the Leeds West Indian Carnival, Arthur France in Potternewton Park yesterday. It’s fantastic to see Leeds residents come together the wonderful contributions the community has made to our city.

Congratulations to every young person in North East Leeds receiving results today! No matter your background, I’m working alongside the government to ensure that you are given the tools and opportunities to succeed.

We were listening to Roundhay residents’ hopes & concerns for the neighbourhood over the weekend. Lots of good chats & some local issues that @fabianhamilton.bsky.social & our team will follow up. 🌹We are the only party on the streets in all Leeds North East wards, all year round. #LabourDoorstep

Today marks one year since the last General Election. My record on delivering for North East Leeds over the last year 👇

The government has agreed it will remove the four point system which related to PIP. No changes will now take place until after the Timms review reports back in autumn 2026.

I’m pleased that the government has listened. My statement on tonight’s votes 👇

♟️ A pleasure to meet young people from Allerton Primary School at ChessFest in London today. It was fantastic to see our local young people enjoying learning how to play chess and competing against one another in friendly competition.

We said we'd ban bonuses for polluting water bosses. We did. Great to be with Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Steve Reed MP to discuss this Labour Government's work to clean up our waters.

I have signed the reasoned amendment. Our welfare system needs reform. But if we are to get this right, we cannot make it more difficult for those who are living with disabilities to get the support they need. I cannot vote to make North East Leeds residents worse off.

NEW: This Labour Government has announced anyone on means-tested benefits will get £150 off their energy bills this winter, as it expands the Warm Homes Discount. This will directly support many households in North East Leeds at a difficult time for families and communities.

The Autonomy Plan gives Western Sahara a high degree of autonomy and encourages shared prosperity. This plan could alleviate human suffering. That is the unshakable bedrock of UK foreign policy under this government. My piece 👇 www.politics.co.uk/mp-comment/2...

💧 This Labour Government said it would ban bonuses for polluting water bosses. ✅ Promise made, promise kept.

☪️ Wishing the Muslim community in Leeds and across the world a happy Eid al-Adha. The end of Hajj is a deeply important time to reflect for Muslims and I’m sending my very best wishes for a peaceful and blessed celebration.

JUST ANNOUNCED: This Labour Government is extending free school meals to 500,000 more children. All those on Universal Credit will be eligible. This will save families around £500 per year and lift 100,000 children out of poverty. Great news for families in North East Leeds!

Wishing the Jewish community in Leeds and beyond a peaceful Shavuot, as celebrations begin this evening. Chag Shavuot Sameach!

🇦🇷 🇵🇾 🇺🇾 My first visit to Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay as UK Trade Envoy showcased our renewed partnerships for growth, job creation and collaboration on the green transition. After years of neglect with the Tories, this Labour Government is putting the UK back on the world stage.

The Wills Act hasn’t been updated since 1837. Marriage should never revoke a previous will. The Law Commission has put forward decisive recommendations. I have written to the Justice Minister calling on the government act on them. More in @theipaper 👇 inews.co.uk/news/politic...

As the May half term approaches, I’m sharing places where kids eat free or for £1. I know families are struggling and hope this is helpful ⬇️

🇦🇷🇵🇾🇺🇾 Throughout my career in Parliament, I’ve always sought to champion opportunities that benefit communities directly. As the UK Government Trade Envoy to the Southern Cone, my priorities are to strengthen collaboration on clean energy, job creation and sustainable growth.

🇨🇴 Pleased to Chair a roundtable discussion in Parliament on the UK-Colombia Investment Agreement. We looked closely at Colombia’s human rights record, potential for development and what needs to happen to secure a lasting peace in the country. 1/2

🌹 Great to be in Runcorn to support Labour’s candidate Karen Shore ahead of the by-election. Plenty of support for Labour’s Plan For Change!

I condemn the massacre of innocent civilians in Kashmir. My thoughts are with the families, friends and loved ones of all those affected by these heinous and cowardly attacks. It’s vital that the international community comes together to assist regional leaders prioritise peace and dialogue.

Saddened by the passing of Pope Francis. He was an extremely important figure, not only to the Catholic community, but the entire world. He will be rightly be remembered for his commitment to peace, dialogue and justice. My thoughts are with Catholics across the world.

Today marks 80 years since the liberation of Bergen-Belsen. We remember the victims, honour the survivors, and recommit to fighting antisemitism and hate — wherever it is found. My thoughts, in particular, are with the Jewish community in Leeds on this tragic anniversary.

Refusing a British MP entry to Hong Kong is another example of the Chinese govt’s crackdown on free speech & democracy. As Chair of British Group Inter Parliamentary Union, I will always act in the interests of MPs and challenge foreign countries when they attempt to interfere with our work.

Ahead of tomorrow evening, I’d like to wish the Jewish community in Leeds and across the world a happy Passover. Chag Pesach Sameach!

"The tale of two American cousins on a Jewish heritage tour in Poland, Jesse Eisenberg has delivered a film of great economy, skill and wit" 🎬 @fabianhamilton.bsky.social reviews 'A Real Pain' | #ARealPain bit.ly/44g0XvS

✅ Two million extra appointments ✅ Waiting lists cut by 193,000 ✅ Over 1,500 extra GPs recruited This Labour government is fixing our NHS.

Detaining and deporting two British MPs flies in the face of the principle of freedom of speech. There is no substitute for visiting Israel and the Palestinian Territories to evaluate and understand the situation on the ground. 1/2

The fall of Assad has been rightly welcomed. But, the recent violence against Christians and Alawites shows that Syria needs support to prevent more human suffering. I'm grateful to the Foreign Secretary for his commitment to an inclusive and peaceful transition. www.facebook.com/share/v/16Zw...

Wishing a happy and healthy Eid al-Fitr to the Muslim community in Leeds and around the world!

🚲 Walking, wheeling, and cycling should be available to everyone, but right now, too many people are excluded. If we are serious about increasing active travel, we must address the systemic barriers that prevent millions from participating. airqualitynews.com/legislation/...

💧 Always happy to support the vital work of @wateraid.bsky.social. It was great to welcome them to Parliament today to discuss their projects across the world, where access to clean water is becoming increasingly difficult and how I can support them in my roles.

🇦🇷🤝🇬🇧 Pleased to welcome Argentine business, industry, and political leaders to Parliament, alongside UK industry partners. We will reset relations and further collaboration on the energy transition. This Labour government is focussed on bringing bills down and putting money back in people’s pockets.

NEW: After lobbying the government for @stgemmashospice.bsky.social, I'm delighted that it has allocated vital new funding. This is the biggest investment in a generation for hospices. St Gemma's will receive £225,450 to continue its outstanding work for our family, friends and loved ones.

☪️ Sending my warmest wishes to Muslim communities in Leeds and across the world during the holy month of Ramadan. Ramadan Mubarak.