I was honoured to make my Maiden Speech in the House of Commons yesterday.

I used the opportunity to pay tribute to John Denham who served Southampton with distinction for over 30 years, 23 of which as our MP.

I highlighted the challenges Southampton faces and how those challenges have frequently been overlooked by successive governments, due more to geography than need.

I also talked about the iconic Spitfire and our desire to have a lasting memorial to R J Mitchell and the brave pilots were protected our freedom.

You can read the full speech here.