THE headlines are dominated by leadership news and it is clear that first on any new PM’s agenda must be to deliver Brexit so we can move forward and invest in the opportunities of a post-Brexit global Britain. But to lead this country will require more, and our next PM must demonstrate their vision for the future and determination to deliver a country and society that works for everyone.

Like all Conservative members I will be scrutinising the public pronouncements and asking questions of the contenders in the weeks ahead, but meanwhile Theresa May continues to focus on her priorities and I warmly welcomes the announcement this month of world–leading legislation to set a new net zero target of greenhouse gas emissions for the UK target for the UK.

I have been driving this initiative across government for the past two years (along with our bid to host the UN’s 26th annual Climate Change talks in 2020) not only because I want to see damaging emissions dropping rapidly but also because the business opportunities for low carbon leadership are immense. The path to net zero will be challenging, but I firmly believe that the innovation and determination of UK businesses and people, which has seen us lead the world in reducing our emissions while continuing to grow our economy, will mean that we are able to rise to the challenge – the benefits of which will be incalculable for future generations.

Locally, we are preparing for this year’s Armed Forces Day celebrations where I and other Wiltshire MPs will be joined by dignitaries to recognise and celebrate the incredible work and sacrifice of our Armed Forces. I am delighted to see this important occasion held in Salisbury which serves to highlight the historic ties that the city has to our Armed Forces, the role the area is playing in the army rebasing and the enormous amount of recovery work and investment since the disgraceful Novichok incident last year.