SIX days of debate on the plans outlined in the Queen’s Speech have been continuing all this week in Parliament. I made my contribution last Thursday when I spoke about the importance of delivering on the promise of like-for-like replacement of every housing association property sold under right to buy.

Tenants should have the opportunity to get on the housing ladder. The security and dignity that comes with owning your own home is an excellent means of relieving poverty and encouraging long-term independence but it should not come at the expense of those waiting to access the social housing system.

If there is one thing that my weekly advice surgeries demonstrate again and again it is that depletion of our housing stock is not an option.

I am happy to acknowledge that the previous government built twice as many council houses in five years as the previous Labour government did in 13 years – but there is more to do.

The creation of a billion pound brownfield regeneration fund is a step towards encouraging and helping developers to build the houses we desperately need in places where they will actually enhance the environment.

I also made an intervention in the debate on defence and foreign affairs.

As the tough budget conditions continue, it is important to maintain our defence spending to preserve our capabilities, but also continue to be able to credibly put pressure on those countries that do not meet the spending obligations required to be part of NATO.

This week was my first time supporting the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills in the chamber – a key duty of a Parliamentary Private Secretary – as the debate moved onto job creation.

I believe the key priorities in this area are to meet our manifesto intention to create three million new apprenticeships and reduce the burden of regulations on British businesses.

On Friday, I look forward to grappling with issues of growth and job creation on a local level, as I host the latest in a series of meetings for stakeholders concerned with the ongoing task of maximising the value of Porton Down to the local economy.

I will also be catching up with the Police and Crime Commissioner and holding a constituency surgery.