THE House of Commons has now risen and we are into the summer recess period, with MPs returning to Westminster in early September.

Current Parliamentary business – whether that be debates in the Chamber, formal questions to ministers, or work on the numerous committees and all-party parliamentary groups - is therefore on hold. But of course MPs have dual responsibilities as both legislators in Westminster and constituency advocates, and in this latter role, work is never on hold.

My constituency work continues all year round, and I and my staff assist people throughout the summer and other holiday periods, because of course problems do not ease up just because the schools are out, and hardship and emergencies pay no heed to the calendar.

I will be taking a few short breaks over the coming weeks to catch up with family and friends, and a break from this column for a few weeks, but if you need assistance during the summer, please don’t hesitate to contact my office on 02920 452072 or email stephen.doughty.mp@parliament.uk

Like so many others who went along to the recent Penarth Summer Festival Carnival Day, I would like to send my congratulations to Penarth Town Council.

The festival, which this year celebrated its 50th anniversary, takes a huge amount of organisation, and this year’s Carnival event, with its incredible air displays, was an absolute triumph.

I know that the sight and sound of the Vulcan bomber over the seafront will long be remembered by all who saw and heard it (I was lucky enough to see this incredible aircraft at the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford this weekend – truly impressive).

The weather played its part at the carnival too, and it was a pleasure to speak to so many local people and visitors on the Esplanade during the afternoon, as well as of course to the many volunteers running stalls and information stands.

It was a fantastic day that showed Penarth at its very best – well done to all involved in planning this annual event that seems to just get better with every passing year.

I have been asked by a number of constituents if I will be accepting the 10 per cent pay rise which the independent body IPSA has decided MPs should receive.

My position remains the same as I stated publicly when this was mooted in 2013. I think it is totally inappropriate, because decisions about MPs’ pay should be taken in light of the economic realities facing workers across the UK who will be receiving little or no pay rise this year.

I will take only the equivalent public sector percentage pay rise, and donate the difference to local charities.