Wycombe MP Steve Baker writes:

2017 has been a momentous year in British politics and will shape the future of Britain for many years to come. I am sure it will provide future historians plenty to pore over.

We are moving through a new and critical period in the history of the United Kingdom’s relationship with the European Union. For many of my constituents this is an exciting time and full of promise. I am also aware for others it is a worrying one. 

I am certain we have nothing to fear from becoming a self-governing country, making our own laws, trading freely with the world and conducting public policy on the basis of UK citizenship.

It is a privilege to represent, in Parliament and in my role in the Department for Exiting the European Union, all of my constituents regardless of their views on Europe.

That is why I am pleased the Government’s vision for Britain outside the EU is clear: a fully-independent, sovereign country with the freedom to make our own decisions.

We are leaving the EU, but we are not leaving Europe. The Government will build a global Britain that will trade around the world, build new alliances with other countries and deliver prosperity.

Withdrawal from the EU will give us the opportunity to shape our own international trade and investment opportunities, drive even greater openness with international partners and put Britain firmly at the forefront of global competition.

In my role as a Minister in DExEU, I have travelled around the country and met many businesses and organisations. I have been struck by their optimism and determination to make a success of Brexit.

I remain committed to securing a successful departure from the EU, both for the country as a whole and for the people of Wycombe.

In 2018, I look forward to representing all my constituents as we continue to make progress on departing the EU, and I want to wish all my constituents a happy and successful new year.