Parliamentary Diary

In my role as Shadow Health Minister, I was asked to wind up a debate on behalf of the Opposition on Emergency Care.

New Year Message

2009 looks set to be a difficult year for our country and I am acutely aware that many people may be worried about what it may bring.

A fact-finding mission to Afghanistan

I’ve just returned from a fascinating trip to Afghanistan.

Parliamentary Diary

We’ve settled back into our routine at Westminster and the recess seems a long time ago.

My role as Shadow Minister for Health

Having just come from the stage at Conservative Party Conference where I took part in a discussion session with the Shadow Health Team, I thought now would be a good time to update you on my role as a Shadow Minister for Health.

Charity of the Year - The Royal British Legion

Since my election in 2005, I have nominated one (or sometimes two!) ‘MP’s Charity of the Year’. I am very proud to say that this year I have selected the Royal British Legion.

Calling all veterans…

During the past year Kings Langley has been commemorating the bravery of local man, Christopher Cox who was awarded the Victoria Cross in 1917. It has led to links between the village and the village of Achiet-le-Grand near to where the action took place in France and it has also served to remind us of the risks taken on a daily basis by our servicemen and women currently in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Supporting local groups

Local charities and organisations do so much – often without recognition – for our communities.

Supporting our forces

Perhaps one of my lesser known roles at Parliament is as Vice Chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group for the Army.

Penning plays at Twickenham

I got the chance of a lifetime when I fulfilled a lifelong dream of playing rugby at Twickenham.

The Commons & Lords RFC had been invited to take part in a charity rugby match by the Cystic Fibrosis Trust. Our opponents were a Select XV put together by the Trust. The match took place at the revered home of England rugby.