North West Norfolk’s MP James Wild says he has ‘political differences’ but a ‘common agenda’ with South West Norfolk’s MP Terry Jermy

The progress of rebuilding Lynn’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital continues to be the focus for James Wild, who has managed to keep his position as North West Norfolk’s MP following a Labour landslide.

After receiving 36.12% of the constituency vote at the general election, Mr Wild says he is “very pleased” to still be in parliament representing his constituency - despite losing a large number of Conservative colleagues.

He told the Lynn News he is willing to work with South West Norfolk’s new Labour MP Terry Jermy on ongoing joint issues in the area, including the crumbling hospital.

Mr Wild said: “It's great to have been re-elected to have that vote of confidence from local people in what was a difficult election naturally where we suffered a very heavy defeat.

“I'm very pleased to still be in parliament representing the local area, obviously disappointed to have lost many colleagues, but my number one priority continues to be the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. That's what I have campaigned on repeatedly.

“I have written to the health secretary already this week.”

Mr Wild says he looks forward to continuing working on projects in the area, including housing, making improvements to the A47, dentistry and the environment.

“Clearly the economy has turned the corner, so continuing to strengthen that is important,” he said.

“I lead something called Norfolk for Jobs, which is all about helping more people into work, giving them the opportunities to get work experience, to get ready for work that brings them together, employers, the local job centre plus the voluntary sector.”

“We're meeting again very shortly to plan the next phases.”

He added: “It is also about improving connectivity in the area, getting the rail upgrade to Ely junction. The Conservative government committed to doing that.

“We now wait to see whether the Labour Government will match that pledge and bring the other improvements along the A47.”

Mr Wild said that despite having political differences, he and Mr Jermy have “common interests”.

“Norfolk MPs working together have secured a lot of important successes and investment into our area and commitments, including the Queen Elizabeth hospital,” he said.

“Clearly the landscape has changed and there are now many different other parties represented. I've already been in touch with Terry Jeremy to suggest that we meet up and talk about how we can work together. I'm very happy to do that. I want to work to improve the local area.

“We have political differences, but there's plenty that I think we'll have a common agenda on and I'm happy to work with whoever as long as it helps to secure a better investment and opportunity for North West Norfolk.”

Mr Wild says he prioritises helping North West Norfolk residents with their concerns.

“I want to reiterate to people if there are issues, whether it's housing, pensions, benefits or other areas where they think they might be able to help them, please do get in touch and I will do what I can to try and help them.

“Because that's the key part of being an MP and is something I enjoy and something I prioritise.

“Usually I can help, If I can't then I'll help signpost and hopefully to someone who can.”