As the house rises for Christmas, I am amazed at just how fast 2024 has flown.

It seems like only yesterday that I was elected as the new Labour MP for Camborne, Redruth and Hayle, even though it was six months ago, I remember being at the count on election night watching the news as all six constituencies in Cornwall were won either by Labour (four) or Liberal Democrat (two). It was a truly historic night.

In the history of Cornish politics there had only ever been four Labour MPs elected to July 4, and then on the same day, the people of Cornwall elected four more. A couple of weeks ago, I came back home following yet another busy week in Westminster, and I had the delight of visiting the recently renovated Buttermarket in Redruth.

Seeing everyone coming together and enjoying the social and cultural hub in the centre of Redruth reinforced my view that when everyone in the community shares a common goal and desire for change, renewal and regeneration really is possible across Camborne, Redruth and Hayle.

Our rich Cornish culture, language and heritage is something that I am keen to see gain much higher national recognition in the New Year. I have also tried to work closely with our small businesses, which make up the lifeblood of our Cornish economy, as well as provide reinforce the sense of colour and vibrancy of our high streets and communities.

This is of vital importance, especially during the Christmas period, when the Christmas lights are up, and people are out doing Christmas shopping in local shops. Back in Westminster, we’ve begun the job of a decade of renewal: bringing railways back into national ownership, scrapping Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions of renters and exploitative zero-hour contracts, more than doubling stamp duty on second homes, increasing the minimum wage for three-million of the lowest paid workers, getting record investment in the NHS, schools and our SEND services, launching GB Energy and promoting our renewables and critical minerals industries. A priority for me in 2025 will be to continue to champion the increased role of critical minerals as a core plank of this Government’s Industrial Strategy.

Our wealth of critical mineral resources would allow for sites such as the much-loved South Crofty tin mine to become not just a reminder of past glories but also the source of new well-paid local jobs and prosperity. Come the New Year, I will be pushing on other key priorities as well.

These include building more homes for local Cornish people, repairing the NHS and dentistry, bringing down the waiting times, providing greater access to GPs and getting a devolution deal that is right for Cornwall. But before all that, it’s time for a short break.

I wish you, your family and loved ones Nadelik Lowen ha Bledhen Nowydh Da, Onan hag Oll!

Perran Moon, Labour MP for Camborne and Redruth