Sadik Al-Hassan, the newly elected MP for North Somerset, delivered his maiden speech in the House of Commons.

This significant address was part of the Budget Debate on November 4.

He took the opportunity to introduce himself and his constituency to his fellow MPs.

In his speech, Mr Al-Hassan paid tribute to the towns and villages of North Somerset, including Portishead, Clevedon, Nailsea, and Long Ashton.

He also highlighted the area's rich history and made light-hearted references to the importance of the Ribena blackcurrant discovery and the bustling fish and chip trade along the seaside towns.

Mr Al-Hassan, with his extensive background in pharmacy, spoke about Clevedon's contribution to the history of penicillin.

He reiterated his commitment to revitalising the NHS, especially community pharmacies, where eight stores close each week across the country.

The new MP also spoke about the beauty of the area, drawing attention to the National Trust site at Tyntesfield and the picturesque villages within his constituency.

The National Trust spokesperson said: "We were pleased to see Sadik Al-Hassan mention the National Trust during his maiden speech, recognising what a jewel Tyntesfield is within the North Somerset constituency.

"The Trust is proud to play a role in providing access to nature, beauty, and history to communities across North Somerset and beyond.

"We look forward to continuing to work with Sadik as the area’s local MP and as co-chair of the All Party Group on the National Trust in Parliament."

Mr Al-Hassan also paid tribute to his predecessor, Dr Liam Fox, particularly for his efforts in pushing a Private Member’s Bill on Down's syndrome through Parliament.

He drew the house’s attention to the "twin pillars of infrastructure" in the South West - Bristol Airport and The Royal Portbury Dock.

After the speech, a Bristol Airport spokesperson said: "We’re grateful to Sadik for recognising the airport as a major part of the local economy, with over 5,000 people working on-site.

"We look forward to working with Sadik to create new opportunities for local businesses and communities."

Mr Al-Hassan concluded his speech by highlighting the importance of the Portishead Railway Line and commended the campaign that has been ongoing for nearly 25 years to reopen the line.

His speech was positively received on social media, with key stakeholders in North Somerset expressing their support.

Mike Bell, leader of North Somerset Council, said: "Congratulations to Sadik on his maiden speech, which rightly trumpeted just a few of the great things about North Somerset.

"We look forward to working with him to continue to make a difference for local people."

Deputy leader of North Somerset Council, Catherine Gibbons, added: "I want to congratulate Sadik on his wonderful maiden speech - it was warm and witty while showing clearly his deep knowledge of, and commitment to his constituency, developing the opportunities as well as addressing the needs of the residents.

"I’m already in regular contact with him on a number of issues and am really looking forward to working closely together to achieve our shared aims for the people of North Somerset."

Clare Hunt, vice-chair of North Somerset Council, said: "What a great maiden speech from the recently elected Labour MP Sadik Al-Hassan.

"His words highlighted why North Somerset is such a great place to live, whichever part of the district that may be.

"However, he also reminded us that there is much work to be done, not only emphasising the improvements needed to reform the NHS but also the reinstatement of the Portishead Railway line.

"Those of us elected to improve our public services and reduce the inequalities he mentioned in his speech look forward to working alongside him with vigour and determination, making a positive difference to those we represent."