IT was absolutely right that Parliament was recalled this month to discuss the Syrian crisis.

MPs were asked to approve a response to the use of chemical weapons that may have included limited, proportionate and legal military action, with the caveat that any such action would be put to a second vote, and with no suggestion of a “boots on the ground”

response.

As I believe that those countries that lead the international community must clearly respond to the “red line” that was breached with the use of chemical weapons, I voted for the government’s motion.

However, given that this was not passed, I thought that the PM was absolutely right to say that the country has spoken and to rule out a second vote.

I then spent more time with the military this month when I joined the Salisbury Plain Military Wives Choir at their weekly practice session in Bulford Kiwi School. It was an incredibly uplifting experience and I can see why the Choirs have made such a difference for thousands of service spouses across the country – I just wish that I was more able to hold a tune!

Locally, I have also been focused on some staff changes at the Wellington Academy where I am a Governor. The Academy has already achieved so much, but the academic results need to be stronger in order to give our local children the best possible chance in the hyper-competitive jobs market and the new leadership, we are all confident that these results can be achieved.

Finally, I am delighted that many local health professionals will be joining me at my annual Open Healthcare Forums to discuss changes and improvements with our NHS services locally. There will be one on Monday, September 23 at the Wellington Academy in Tidworth from 6.30pm and all are welcome.