Last night, I held a meeting with residents from across the constituency on the issue of assisted dying. This is clearly a complex and very sensitive issue. People came and offered opposing views – and raised some really important points on both sides which made me think again about my position. Thank you to everyone who attended. 

But I also wanted to comment about the nature of the debate. Although people disagreed, the meeting was really encouraging because it was undertaken with complete respect, sensitivity, empathy and friendship. People disagreed agreeably. 

Sometimes in politics, and public life, we too often ‘hate’ our opponents, or obsess about the personalities, rather than the issues. Some of the debate and posts about politicians (of all political parties) can be horrible – I have had numerous threats and abuse over the last few months, and the police have reached out to me to support. 

But it doesn’t have to be like that. And actually the vast majority of people, of whatever political persuasion, respect one another and can debate calmly. I really welcome that. 

I will be holding further such meetings, in person and online, for constituents to raise issues and debate with me.