JEN Craft, the recently-elected Labour MP delivered her maiden speech in the House of Commons today (Wednesday, 4 September)

Mrs Craft highlighted the fact she was born and raised in Thurrock and she was prpud to represent her home community.

In her speech, Mrs Craft paid tribute to her predecessor, Dame Jackie Doyle-Price, acknowledging their political differences but expressing admiration for Dame Jackie's advocacy against violence towards women and girls. Mrs Craft promised to continue supporting SERICC, the pioneering rape and abuse service in Thurrock, ensuring that this vital work remains under her representation.

She also reflected on her early political career, thanking Margaret Hodge, former MP for Barking, for being a formative influence. She shared how Ms Hodge's dedication to local issues inspired her to become a visible and vocal advocate for her constituents and committed to carrying forward this legacy by tackling the growing threats of extremism and populism in Thurrock and beyond.

The heart of her maiden speech, however, was her deep connection to Thurrock and her commitment to improving the lives of its residents.

She highlighted the area's historical significance from its role in Elizabeth I's famous rallying speech to her troops, on to importance of the Tilbury Docks' importance to the efforts of World War II, and not forgetting the arrival of The Empire Windrush.

Watch Mrs Craft's speech:

On a personal note, she shared the story of her journey as a parent of a child with Down's syndrome.

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She described how this life-altering experience motivated her to enter politics, driven by a desire to make the world 'work' for families like hers. Mrs Craft made a heartfelt commitment to use her parliamentary career to advocate for children with special educational needs and disabilities, promising to work tirelessly to create a more inclusive society.

Concluding her speech, Thurock's MP expressed profound gratitude to her family and supporters, recognising the crucial role they played in her journey to Parliament.

She reiterated her dedication to serving the people of Thurrock, vowing to be a champion for her community and to make a difference in the lives of those she represents.

Mrs Crafty'#s full speech can be read via this link.