Whilst Parliament has been in recess for the past fortnight, it has nevertheless been a busy few weeks since my last column. 

On Monday, September 9, the first international delegation of this Parliament flew to Berlin. As someone who speaks German, this was an excellent opportunity for me to represent Bolton West, especially as Bolton is twinned with Paderborn.

Given that Germany is our country's second largest trading partner and that the United Kingdom and Germany are now embarking on a bilateral treaty, it was important that Bolton's voice was heard. It was an honour to meet Federal Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, on behalf of my constituents. Meetings were also held with my German counterparts, where opportunities for growth were discussed.  

On the following Thursday, it was time for me to deliver my maiden speech in Parliament. My pride at being elected to serve the area in which I was born and bred was hopefully evident. My speech highlighted the fact that the Bolton West constituency not only contains parts of Bolton, but also Blackrod, Horwich and Westhoughton.

My parents' service to the people of Bolton and the surrounding areas was also touched on: my father having served in the Royal Artillery, followed by many years as a paramedic and a carer; whilst my mother dedicated 30 years of her life to working at the Royal Bolton Hospital. Indeed, my working life began at the Royal Bolton Hospital. My most recent role involved tackling serious financial crime.

My maiden speech also enabled me to pay tribute to the fantastic organisations, charities and businesses across our constituency that help and support others, with a special mention to the Bolton Mountain Rescue, The Hub in Westhoughton, Blackrod Sports and Community Centre, as well as Bolton Wanderers FC, Cohen’s Chemist and MBDA.

My maiden speech also mentioned the Winter Hill Trespass, my love of walking and outdoor spaces; and how there is still much work to be done to open up more of our countryside for working people to enjoy. The fact that politics can often be as tumultuous as my hobby of white water kayaking was also alluded to. 

As it’s the conference recess, it was time to head off to Liverpool for this year’s conference on Saturday. Many constituents had been in touch asking for me to visit particular campaign stands to find out more about issues that are close to their heart, that they want to gain parliamentary attention. On Sunday, I made this a priority.

Monday and Tuesday are always big days in the Labour Conference agenda with speeches from the Chancellor and then the Prime Minister. The mood in the hall was one of optimism, hope and confidence as we begin our first term in government in nearly thirty years.

As someone whose father served in the armed forces, it was heartening to hear Keir pledge homes for all veterans who need them. He also called for “restraint and de-escalation” on the Lebanon border and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and a return of the hostages.

Keir re-iterated the promise to put country before party to make the changes that Britain needs, such as the Hillsborough Law which will put in place a duty of candour. During the last year as the Horizon post office scandal has risen to the surface we have once again seen the need for this.

If you want to find out what I’ve been doing in Bolton West, please follow me on Facebook – Phil Brickell MP. Constituents who wish me to reply to them should email phil.brickell.mp@parliament.uk.