"As we find ourselves well into the New Year, I look forward to all that 2018 has to offer. I am very optimistic about the coming year as I carry on working hard and doing the job that I love – being your Member of Parliament. I am working hard on matters as diverse as the economy to the environment, or local government to supporting our thriving local schools.
"This year, I will continue to work with local Councillors for improvements to local transport infrastructure in the Burford area, raising awareness of the importance of community transport, working with Oxfordshire County Council (OCC) on ways to relieve congestion in and around Burford, which is, as we all know, a major concern for all in this beautiful town.
"When I have been out and about knocking on doors in Burford, many of you have raised the issue of housing and planning with me, and I entirely understand these concerns. I am clear that all housing must be in the right place, at the right price, and, most importantly, in keeping with the local area. Here in Parliament, in my role as Chair of the APPG for Small and Micro Businesses, I have hosted two inquiry-style meetings to explore how small house-builders can help provide solutions to the housing problems that we currently face by building more cheaply, more sympathetically, on a smaller scale - and investing in our local community at the same time. I am encouraged by the findings of these meetings; small house-builders have an invaluable connection to the local area and community, and when we use these local businesses, we support our local economy.
"If you would like to contact me about this particular matter, or anything else, please do email me at robert@robertcourts.co.uk – I would greatly appreciate hearing your views. I will continue to work hard on your behalf, and ensure that your voices are heard here in Parliament."