One of the best things about not being in Westminster much during August is the opportunity to go and visit interesting businesses, large and small, throughout the constituency and wider area.
This week I have been to Elumin8, who make bespoke lighting products for high end vehicles. Who knew that parts that end up on Rolls Royce and Bentleys had a key component manufactured here in Romsey? It was great to see the detail and precision that goes into the product and to hear about the quality control to make sure everything is absolutely perfect.
I have also visited BAT in Southampton, who have a significant research and development base here. It is some years since I last visited and it was interesting to hear about their non-tobacco product developments, and also to meet some of the outstanding female scientists employed at the Southampton site.
Today Minister Rebecca Pow is hosting a call for all MPs whose constituencies are served by Southern Water. I know I keep raising it but pollution in the Test is a significant environmental issue, impacting not just the river life, but also the wider local economy as there is a knock on impact. The Test is one of the finest chalk streams in the world and it is absolutely imperative it stays that way. Obviously there are a number of issues I will be raising with her, not least how we can make sure fines levied on water companies are spent locally to improve the environment in those places where there has been pollution.