Zöe Franklin MP

@zoefranklinld.bsky.social

Proud to be the Liberal Democrat MP for Guildford and our villages. 🏘️ Promoted by Guildford Lib Dems, GU1 1QD 🔶 https://www.zoefranklin.co.uk/

I had a fantastic afternoon at Recovery Fest on Stoke Park, meeting a range of incredible organisations, including the Recovery College, Cocaine Anonymous and RASASC, who support people on their recovery journeys from mental health challenges and addiction.

Continuing my summer tour of the constituency, I visited Cedar Nursery in East Horsley, a fantastic family-run business celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. I'd encourage everyone to support local businesses - if you're looking for quality plants and garden products, it's well worth a visit!

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I'm delighted that my constituent Anita has finally gained access to her pension after I raised her case in Parliament. Sadly, Capita's ongoing failures mean many others are still affected. I'll keep pushing until everyone receives the pension they're entitled to.

The brand new Guildford Sewage Treatment Works will play a vital role in improving air quality for residents in Bellfields, Slyfield and across Guildford, while also helping to unlock the delivery of the Weyside Urban Village development.

With Parliament in recess, I've been out and about across the constituency, meeting residents and visiting local organisations including The Hairy Pig Company, Thames Water with Zero Carbon Guildford, The Lightbox, and Cedar Nursery in Horsley - as well as doorknocking in Effingham and Worplesdon.

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Out on doors in Effingham with the team this morning. A really positive reception from everyone we spoke to. Top topics were 🏡 Housing and Planning (especially greybelt - more on that another day) 🚗 Speeding 🔥Concern about wildfires Plus a range of individual queries.

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Harmful online suicide forum content has devastating consequences. Continuing my work with the Molly Rose Foundation, I have pressed the government to expand rapid response arrangements so platforms are required to act urgently when content poses a risk of suicide.

I had a fantastic time meeting (and feeding!) many of the animals, at The Hairy Pig Company in Wood Street Village - whilst also learning more about the business and the work they do. Thank you to Luke and Krisz for taking the time to show me around and share their passion for what they do.

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Terrorism is a direct attack on democracy, so barring those with terrorism convictions from elected office is uniquely justified. But any new law must be proportionate, comply with the Human Rights Act, and include robust safeguards, including strict adherence to the Good Friday Agreement.

It was an absolute joy to visit Prologue Youth Theatre. The performing arts are close to my heart, and I’m delighted that young people in Guildford have the chance to develop their confidence, creativity and talent through such fantastic opportunities. A huge thank you to the team for all you do.

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In 1257, Guildford was granted a Royal Charter establishing it as Surrey's county town. As Surrey moves to new local authorities next April, I've written to West Surrey Council Leader Paul Follows urging him to retain Guildford's status as the administrative and judicial centre of West Surrey.

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The death of Ann Widdecombe is shocking, and a devastating reminder of the problem that too many elected representatives face while serving their communities. I have pressed the Home Secretary to set out what action the Government is taking to protect elected representatives at all levels.

Parliamentary Recess means... doorknocking during the week! 😊 Today we were in Wood Street Village, chatting with residents about which local issues concern them and the work the new Lib Dem team are doing to set up West Surrey Council on the strongest possible footing (despite the debt challenge)

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Before Andy Burham became Prime Minister, I asked for assurances that future local elections would not be delayed. Surrey has seen the damage these postponements cause, so I was disappointed the Minister would not give that commitment. I will keep pressing the Government on this issue.

I regularly catch up with Louise Stead, Group Chief Executive of Royal Surrey NHS Trust. During my most recent visit we discussed a range of issues - including the Trust’s new strategy - & I was pleased to be given a tour of the new Cancer & Surgical Innovation Centre, due to open later this year.

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I joined James Cannon on BBC Radio Surrey to discuss my call for a new Guildford West railway station in Park Barn. As Guildford grows, we must deliver transport infrastructure alongside new housing, not retrofit it afterwards.

Great to join Inspector Blaine Rafferty, Surrey Police Borough Commander for Merrow and Burpham, for a walkabout around the local area. It was a valuable opportunity to discuss community concerns, see issues first-hand, and catch up on local policing priorities. Thanks for having me along.

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I support Flood Re, but we need to do more to stop flooding before it happens - we're spending too much time and money dealing with floods after the damage is done. We need to move faster on projects like #Guildford’s flood alleviation scheme to protect homes and reduce future flooding.

Pleased to speak at an event in Parliament hosted by Centenary Action. Being a woman in public life is something I’m incredibly proud of, but we still have a long way to go before women are truly equally represented in politics.

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As part of my role as Lib Dem Spokesperson for Local Government, I had a fantastic few days at the Local Government Association conference last week. Joining local government leaders from across the country, we discuss the opportunities and challenges facing our communities.

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Helping improve the lives of people across Guildford and our villages is why I became an MP - and casework is at the heart of everything I do. Every day, my team and I work to help residents overcome challenges and get the support they deserve. Here are a few of our recent successes...

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