James Wharton MP

I was saddened to learn that last night Frank Cook, MP for Stockton North from 1983 – 2010 passed away. Frank was my local MP when I grew up in Wolviston Village. He always took the time to speak to me and offer advice when I saw him and his long record of service to the people of Stockton will not be forgotten.

Last week I visited Sri Lanka to meet with government representatives, discuss UK – Sri Lanka relations and visit post war reconstruction work in the North and East of the country. It was a fascinating and extremely useful visit and brought home just how important a partner Sri Lanka can and should be as we seek to expand global trade.