THE Liberal Democrat MP for the South Cotswolds has delivered her first speech in the Chamber at the House of Commons since being elected.

Roz Savage took the opportunity to address Parliament in her maiden speech during a debate on food security and farming on Wednesday, October 9.

In her speech, Ms Savage talked about the rich agricultural history, vibrancy and inspiring community spirit to be found in the newly-formed South Cotswolds constituency.

She also highlighted some of the challenges facing the towns and villages the constituency encompasses.

Ms Savage talked animatedly about the lack of a long-term strategy for farming, the need to attract the next generation into the industry and her desire to see more innovation like that on display at the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester.

She also drew on her background as a record-breaking ocean rower and environmentalist during the speech.

Referencing her special relationship with the River Thames, she used her platform to call for immediate and effective action to stop water pollution and transform the governance of privatised water companies.

She cited how last year alone, the Fairford sewage treatment works pumped untreated sewage into the River Coln for no fewer than 3,391 hours - the equivalent of four and a half months.

Ms Savage said: “As I told those gathered in the Chamber, while there are many reasons to despair in the world, the goodness I see in action every day in the South Cotswolds gives me hope for the future.

“Since beginning my campaign to become this constituency’s representative in Parliament, I have witnessed communities coming together, caring for their neighbours and combining all their creativity and ingenuity for the greater good - sharing resources, donating time and skills and looking out for each other.

“I’m proud to have been trusted by them to deliver a brighter, healthier, more prosperous future, and that is exactly what I will strive to do.”