THIS time last week, I was scrambling to write my weekly column in the Journal having just found out that the Prime Minister had appointed me Economic Secretary to the Treasury in the reshuffle.

Now seven days into the job, it has certainly been an intense period as I settle into my new role.

My first week at the Treasury has coincided with an unusually busy period of parliamentary business. Last Thursday, I represented the government in a debate on closures of local banks.

Then on Monday, deputising for the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, I spoke at a debate on childcare vouchers and tax-free childcare.

On Tuesday, I was alongside the Chancellor and the rest of the Treasury team in the chamber of the House of Commons for Treasury questions.

Then today, I will be speaking at another debate in the chamber, where MPs will be examining the relationship between small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and RBS Global Restructuring Group.

Of course, debates and questions in Parliament are just one aspect of the role of a government minister.

A large part of my new position will be meeting with leaders in banking and financial services, to listen to their views and ensure we secure the very best Brexit deal for the city.

I have already begun this important process of engagement. On Monday, I met with the asset management taskforce at the Treasury, and then tomorrow I will be attending a meeting of Chief Financial Officers in the city.

I will then be hurrying back to Salisbury in the evening to watch ‘Oliver with a Twist’ as Charles Dickens comes to the Woodford Valley. I’m sure my good friend Hugh Vivian will be putting in a performance worthy of an Olivier Award!

On Saturday, I will be at River Bourne Community Farm in Laverstock for the official opening of their new café. It’s been fantastic watching this great community project develop over the past few years, and it will be a pleasure to be there to mark the next stage of their remarkable journey.