This week I have been speaking to residents in Padstow, St Meryn, Rock and Wadebridge. 

As always it is fantastic to talk to the North Cornwall public about the issues which matter to them the most. I appreciate them giving me their views and their trust in me to take them directly back to Westminster. One of the concerns for people across North Cornwall is energy bills, so I was very pleased to inform them that Ofgem has today announced a further reduction in the energy price cap for the last quarter of 2023 (October to December). 

The change will bring the average dual-fuel energy bill below £2,000 a year for the first time since April 2022, saving households an average of £151 on the previous quarter.  From October 1 to December 31, the cap will be set at an annual level of £1,923 for a dual fuel household paying by direct debit based on the current typical domestic consumption values (TDCV) rate.

GP services are of course another issue that comes up on the door. I recognise that there is a disparity between the different practices across North Cornwall, especially when it comes to face-to-face appointments. Although many GPs have moved to a digital system, as I discussed in my report last week, there still needs to be provision for constituents who want to speak to their practice in person. I am aware of just how important it is for constituents to be able to discuss their conditions with their doctor, so these are issues that I will be discussing with the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board when I meet with them next week.

As some of you may have seen in the news this week, a member of the public was given a Section 37 order under the Mental Health Act by Exeter Crown Court for sending threatening communications to me and making threats to the people of Bodmin. 

The situation that occurred caused great distress to my staff, who were approached by him at our office in Bodmin. Had it not been for the quick actions of my team in identifying and reporting his threats against both me and the public, the conclusion could have been far worse.  

Unfortunately, this is not the first credible threat made against me and my office, and as an employer who is responsible for staff, I have implemented recommendations from Parliamentary authorities and the police to ensure our safety. I very much hope that the individual involved now gets the treatment he needs.

I am currently running a survey on my website to find out your views and priorities for North Cornwall. If you would like to take part, please visit www.scottmann.org.uk/tell-me-your-views

Paper copies of the survey can be made available on request by telephoning 01208 74337.