AS I write, I’m in Birmingham for the Conservative Party conference. What you see on TV – the big speeches from the main hall – is actually only a minor part of the whole event. Conferences are a huge opportunity to lobby cabinet ministers and decision-makers about some of the issues facing Swindon.

For instance, access to fast, reliable broadband is something we’ve been fighting for.

This week I was able to talk directly to the government department responsible to push our case. The government is investing almost a billion pounds to try and solve these problems nationally, and I will do all I can to ensure we get our fair share.

I’ve also met senior representatives from Thames Water to discuss concerns including bills and water main bursts, because many residents have raised these as issues.

These are just two examples of how I’m using the time here to discuss specific matters of relevance to Swindon.

However we’ve also had our fair share of significant policy announcements too.

I particularly welcome the Prime Minister’s pledge to provide GP services seven days a week.

In Swindon we have an ongoing problem with capacity at our doctors’ surgeries. I often hear about long waiting times, rushed appointments and even difficulties faced by some people registering with a GP in the first place.

Our NHS staff in Swindon at all levels work extremely hard, so the government’s investment in our health services is very welcome.

Moves to increase the availability of affordable starter homes are also significant for Swindon. First-time buyers under the age of 40 will benefit, and our town is exactly the sort of place where this policy could help a large number of people.

On Monday, George Osborne gave us an honest assessment about the state of the economy.

There are reasons for optimism. Indeed, as I write, official figures have just been released showing the UK econony is actually growing faster than original estimates had said.

This is good news for jobs and businesses, but there is still more to do.

The Chancellor also made a very welcome announcement on pensions. Up to now, people wishing to hand down their hard-earned pension pots to the next generation had faced punitive taxes.

However George Osborne has scrapped those with immediate effect.

It means a fairer system for those who’ve worked hard all their lives and want to help their families after they’ve gone.

This year’s conference has been very good so far and I think we can expect further significant announcements from the Prime Minister in his keynote speech today.

In the meantime I will continue working hard here to lobby as many people as possible on South Swindon’s behalf.