We have all been shocked by the terrible scenes this week from Berlin, where 12 people have been killed and 48 injured, following an attack at a popular Christmas Market. Many of the people who are listed as injured are reportedly in a serious condition and our thoughts and prayers are with them, as well as the families of all of the victims.
We do not yet know much of the details of the attack, other than it was the result of a Polish registered lorry being deliberately driven into the crowd. There is a shocking similarity to the attack which was carried out in Nice on Bastille Day. This was clearly though an unprovoked attack on innocent people, designed to cause terror. As the Chancellor of Germany has clearly stated, the perpetrators should expect to feel the full force of the law.
These terrible scenes show us that we have to be continuously vigilant in the defence of our people from terror attacks. This includes have proper security checks and records for people who are seeking to enter the UK. It is also a reminder of the great debt of gratitude we have to our security services, who work day and night, and will be doing so as always throughout the Christmas season. Every year our security services successfully prevent attacks that have been planned by terrorists. It is important that we give them the powers the need to keep us safe, not only through the equipment and resources they need, but by also monitoring the activities of people who intend to do us harm. That is why the Investigatory Powers Bill that has been passed by the House of Commons is so important. In a world where terror groups use the internet and email to plan their attacks, we need to make sure that our security services have the legal powers to intercept the communications of known suspects.
On a happier note, last Friday I joined a special celebration at the Saga Pavilion in Sandgate to mark the centenary at the cub scout movement in the Folkestone and Hythe District. The cubs and scouts have a proud tradition in our area, and their founder, Robert Baden-Powell lived in Folkestone towards the end of his life. The Cubs and Scouts, like the Brownies and Guides, teach young people new skills and an understanding of the importance of team work and serving the community. I know this from my time as a cub myself, many years ago. This movement wouldn’t be possible though without the many hours of time freely given by the volunteer pack leaders and assistants. I would like to congratulate everyone involved; they should be proud to be part of such a fantastic organisation.
As we approch Christmas, I along with my wife Sarah, and our children Claudia and Hugo, we would like to send all readers our best wishes for a happy and peaceful festive season.