As you will probably be aware by now, a general election has been called for Thursday 12th December.

Once Parliament dissolves next week, I will no longer be the MP. However, I am re-standing so will become the Labour Party candidate for Lewisham Deptford.  

My office will be staffed as usual throughout the election period and we will continue with casework as much as possible. The change in my status does mean that I will not have the same powers to hold government departments, the council and other organisations to account, but I will do everything I can to assist. I will be unable to hold my usual advice surgeries, but you can contact my office regarding your case by telephone or email as normal. 

If I am successful at the election, I will immediately return to being your MP and to representing the people of Lewisham Deptford in Parliament. Normal service will be resumed in the office as quickly as possible. 

Throughout the election period, your local councillors are able to continue their work as usual. If you wish to contact them about a council issue, you can find details at https://lewisham.gov.uk/mayorandcouncil/wards or by calling 020 8314 6000.   

I would also like to take this opportunity to remind you to register to vote, if you have not done so already. You can register by visiting: https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote 

If you need to register for a postal or proxy vote, you can find out more here: https://lewisham.gov.uk/mayorandcouncil/elections/voting/how-to-vote-by-post-or-proxy

I hope this helps to explain the situation, but if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to get in touch.