IT IS Westminster’s summer recess, which offers MPs a welcome opportunity to spend some much-needed time with friends and family. But for me that doesn’t mean the work stops – quite the opposite, as it allows me to dedicate even more time to meeting with constituent groups.

It’s a welcome break from the turmoil at Westminster. After just a few weeks of Boris Johnson’s premiership, we’re already seeing the consequences of this UK Government’s damaging pursuit of a no-deal Brexit as the pound plummets towards rock bottom. For Scots holidaymakers that means being hit in the pocket, making family trips much more expensive and even unaffordable for many.

Unfortunately, that’s just the tip of the iceberg if this unelected Tory PM gets his way and drags Scotland out of the EU against our will. The Treasury’s analysis shows a no-deal Brexit would be devastating for jobs and living standards – and, as ever, it would be the poorest in our communities who pay the price.

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But Boris Johnson and his wealthy cabinet of Tory Brexiteers seem to care little about the impact of their ideological pursuit of a no-deal Brexit on the lives of the people they are supposed to represent.

When I was first elected in 2015 I wanted to be the most accessible MP that West Dunbartonshire has ever had. I hold eight open-door surgeries every month across Clydebank, Dumbarton, and the Vale, giving residents the opportunity to raise any issues they have in person. With the assistance of my hardworking team, I have helped thousands of constituents on a range of issues – from social security to passports, pensions and tax credits.

I believe it’s an incredibly important part of being an MP because it keeps me in touch with how the lives of the people I represent are being affected by the decisions made in parliament. It can be a hugely rewarding part of the job, but also very frustrating to see so many people who are in difficulty through no fault of their own. Whilst as an MP I can’t guarantee to be able to solve every problem, my door is always open to constituents needing help and support.

With the uncertainty at Westminster, it’s more important than ever that MPs listen to and act in the best interests of the people we have the privilege of representing. The new prime minister would do well to reflect on that when parliament returns in a few weeks time.