Bromsgrove MP Bradley Thomas lays out 2026 priorities

IN MY first Westminster Diary of the year, I want to take this opportunity to set out my priorities for 2026.

As an MP I have to focus on a multitude of issues every day and I regularly work on a several at any one time so this list does not capture everything I work on.

My first 2026 priority will centre on making life cheaper for you and your family. Your energy bills are too high, food prices are up and the cost of living is generally just too much at the moment for too many families in Bromsgrove.

That’s why in Parliament I’ll continue to encourage the Government to cut your taxes, which I’ve voted for a number of times and do what it can to reduce your energy bills.

We’re all working harder than ever, but for what? There’s no reward incentive anymore when, as of 2026, the UK tax burden is at its highest level in post-war history.

We must make hard work pay again – the Government can do this by cutting your taxes.

This year I’ll also continue to focus on protecting our precious greenbelt.

As part of my work to get the 85 per cent increase in our Government mandated housing target reduced, I will meet with the Housing and Planning Minister in the coming weeks to set out the case for a reduction in our target.

It’s not fair the Government has whacked up our target by 85 per cent, yet at the same time, has reduced Birmingham’s housing target by 31 per cent. Birmingham has brownfield land, at least 140 hectares, and we do not.

The burden must be shared fairly and that’s the case I’ll be making to the Minister next month.

My third priority will be the revitalisation of our high streets. The best way the Government could do this is by cutting or abolishing business rates altogether for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses.

Last year I was proud to vote to scrap business rates for pubs, restaurants and shops. Sadly, with the Government’s huge majority, the vote did not pass but I will continue to make the case in Parliament for the overhaul of these investment sapping taxes.

There’s much to do this year and I look forward to continuing to represent you in Parliament.