Danny Kruger MP, August column

The news this week has, understandably, revolved around exam results and how these have impacted on students.  I am very sorry that young people, their families and teachers have had such a stressful week.

I am hugely relieved that the Government has bowed to the inevitable and recognised that no matter how sophisticated, an algorithm is never going to give people the confidence they need that the grades are fair. Indeed the more sophisticated, to take account of the complexities of different schools and students, the more opaque the system, and the less it will be trusted. So they’ve done the right thing, both for A-Level and GCSE students.

I have recently received a number of emails in relation to the increasing number of migrants crossing the Channel. I too have watched with growing alarm as the number willing to attempt this dangerous crossing has skyrocketed in recent weeks. Of course, this is partly due to the good weather we have been enjoying, but I also recognise that we are still not doing enough to solve this growing problem.  

Recess has given me more time to spend in the constituency and – with social distancing being relaxed – start meeting people face to face again. I met with a group of campaigners and local councillors calling for changes to be made to the A4 between Manton and Beckhampton, where the road layout and varying speed limits seem to encourage dangerous driving.

I have also written to Wiltshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner to discuss how speed limits in the county are enforced. The fatal crash on the same road earlier this month was a stark and terrible reminder of the dangers of speeding, which seems to be prevalent in Wiltshire. This is a real concern for many constituents, especially those in more rural areas where footpaths and cycleways don’t exist.

I’m still on the lookout for any areas in the constituency suffering from slow broadband speeds. I’d like to gain a clear picture of where issues are still arising and try to work for a resolution with Government, Wiltshire Council and internet providers, and plan to hold a ‘broadband summit’ in early autumn. If you would like your town or parish to be represented please email me on danny.kruger.mp@parliament.uk.