NEW MPs have to learn to pick their spots.

We could get involved in a thousand things as each day brings more campaigns, facts and figures.

But in order to be effective (and sane) one has to stay focused.

Constituency problems always come first and, in the last month, I have been actively questioning ministers on issues such as the standard of Army housing, long-term support plans for veterans, rural bus services, the planned programme of traffic works at the Countess Roundabout and the proposals for our forests.

I am also focusing on three areas of national policy: the economy, the justice system (I am a member of the Justice Select Committee) and my campaign to make internet pornography an “opt-in” rather than a default setting in our homes.

Some describe this as doing “pounds, prisons and porn” but, hopefully, not all at once.

I am also part of the UK parliamentary delegation to the Council of Europe and spoke in Strasbourg this month on my concerns over the encroachment of the European Court of Human Rights into our national arena, such as in votes for prisoners.

* At a local level, I continue to be busy attending local events – a recent highlight was my morning in Durrington and Larkhill, where I was amazed at the number of local organisations and impressed by the drive and enthusiasm of the town council.

It is a brilliant example of what can be done if people come together for the sake of their local community, and I wish we could see this same spirit of co-operation at a national level as we work to repay our country’s debts.

* Finally, if you would like my help with anything or want to attend one of my advice sessions then please do contact my local office on 01672 519198.