Steve Darling MP
stevedarlingmp.bsky.social
Steve Darling MP
@stevedarlingmp.bsky.social
Member of Parliament for Torbay | Liberal Democrat | For casework and policy questions email: [email protected]

http://members.parliament.uk/member/5066
Earlier this week I attended Unlock Democracy’s Drop-In on Votes at 16, AVR, and the Elections Bill. With low registration among younger people, we discussed civic education, barriers to voting, and how amendments could strengthen fair democratic participation.
November 27, 2025 at 9:30 AM
Labour’s budget relies on higher taxes instead of real growth. Lib Dems want stronger trade with Europe and fairer opportunities. The £150 energy bill cut is welcome, but families in Torbay risk losing out through frozen allowances. I will hold the government to account.
November 26, 2025 at 4:33 PM
I attended the Access to Nature drop‑in this week and met with Ben Seal from Paddle UK. We are working on an Early Day Motion to mark the 25th anniversary of the Countryside & Rights of Way Act, a landmark law that gave people the freedom to roam and connect with nature.
November 26, 2025 at 10:00 AM
Tomorrow’s autumn budget must tackle the cost of living crisis. Cutting energy bills by £90 a year, saving households £270 by 2027, a 5p VAT cut for hospitality, and scrapping the two‑child benefit cap would boost Torbay’s high streets and lift children out of poverty.
November 25, 2025 at 5:45 PM
🎅✨ I was delighted to open Santa’s Grotto at Fleet Walk on Saturday. Sunrise Rotary’s tradition of 30+ years brings families festive fun with gifts and photos. Open weekends until 18 Dec, then daily to Christmas Eve. Book now: www.fleetwalkshoppingtorquay.co.uk/christmas-gr...
November 25, 2025 at 1:15 PM
✨ The Bay of Lights returns this Friday, transforming Torbay into a festive wonderland of sparkle, sound and joy. Enjoy dazzling trails, Christmas markets, live performances, fireworks and more. Celebrate community, creativity and kindness across the English Riviera this season.
November 25, 2025 at 10:00 AM
A quick round up of some of the things I was working on last week 👇
November 24, 2025 at 5:15 PM
📢 On Wednesday the Chancellor delivers the autumn budget. Torbay needs real support. Lib Dems call for a 5p VAT cut for hospitality and £90 off energy bills, saving households £270 by 2027 through a fair windfall tax on big banks. Torbay deserves a budget that puts people first.
November 24, 2025 at 1:00 PM
My latest newsletter is out now—catch up on the biggest local updates here:

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Don’t miss future editions! Subscribe today at 👉

www.torbaylibdems.org.uk/newsletter
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November 24, 2025 at 10:00 AM
🎄✨ Santa’s Grotto returns to Fleet Walk. Meet Santa, enjoy Toys and Santa’s Workshop, get a gift and photo keepsake. Open weekends until 18 Dec then daily until Christmas Eve. 🎟️ Book now: www.fleetwalkshoppingtorquay.co.uk/christmas-gr...
November 22, 2025 at 12:45 PM
The latest edition of my weekly e-newsletter is landing very soon—packed with updates, campaigns, and community news you won’t want to miss!

Subscribe now to ensure you never miss a copy: www.torbaylibdems.org.uk/newsletter
Steve Darling MP Newsletter - Torbay Liberal Democrats
Sign up below for weekly email updates from Steve Darling MP. These updates include information on Steve's work for Torbay this week, local news, and other important local topics. Steve's newsletter…
www.torbaylibdems.org.uk
November 21, 2025 at 4:30 PM
New NHS figures show 310 people in the South West died from mouth cancer last year. Regular dental check-ups are vital for early detection — but too many in Torbay can't access a dentist. I've written to NHS England demanding answers on how they plan to fix this.
November 21, 2025 at 2:30 PM
This week I joined the Disability Policy Centre for a roundtable on welfare reform for disabled people and carers. We discussed what must change in the system. Reform must be shaped by lived experience, with dignity, fairness and respect at its core. #WelfareReform #DisabilityRights
November 21, 2025 at 12:30 PM
Since Russia’s invasion in 2022, thousands of Ukrainian children have been abducted. Yesterday, on World Children’s Day we remembered them and affirmed this truth: their safe return is non-negotiable. Peace is impossible until every child is reunited. I stand with Ukraine.
November 21, 2025 at 9:30 AM
I'm hiring a full-time team member to join my Torbay office. You'll help lead local campaigns, build community relationships, and support communications. One weekend day required. If you're passionate about making a difference, apply now: www.w4mpjobs.org/JobDetails.a...
w4mp | The site for everyone working for an MP
Job Title: Constituency Support Officer
www.w4mpjobs.org
November 20, 2025 at 5:15 PM
With wintry weather forecast across Devon and Cornwall this week, South West Water is urging residents to take simple steps to prevent burst pipes.

Wrap pipes and tanks with lagging, check your stop tap, and look out for leaks.

More advice here: www.southwestwater.co.uk/household/yo...
Cold weather | South West Water
Read about the little things you can do can help you stay leak-free during the colder months.
www.southwestwater.co.uk
November 20, 2025 at 2:15 PM
Yesterday I spoke in Westminster Hall about the Baton of Hope Relay in Torbay and the vital importance of open conversations around suicide. Reducing stigma saves lives—and we must keep challenging silence with compassion, honesty, and action. #SuicidePrevention #BatonOfHope #MentalHealthMatters
November 20, 2025 at 9:30 AM
I attended a drop-in meeting with the Association of Optometrists in Parliament to discuss the urgent need for better eye care services in Torbay. With rising demand and underused community optometry, it’s time to commission services like MECS and CUES locally. #EyeCare #Torbay #AOP #NHSReform
November 19, 2025 at 5:15 PM
Yesterday I visited Battersea Dog & Cats Home, which cared for over 5,000 animals in 2024. Their vets performed 4,019 ops, including 110 BOAS surgeries to help flat-faced dogs breathe. I’m proud to support efforts to end harmful breeding practices. #AnimalWelfare #BOAS #Battersea #RescuePets
November 19, 2025 at 12:44 PM
Yesterday in UK Parliament I met Windracers CEO Simon Muderack to discuss their ULTRA drone—used in Ukraine with MoD support. With 1000km range and 150kg payload, it’s transforming frontline logistics. I’ll keep pushing for more UK support. #Windracers #SupportUkraine #DefenceTech
November 19, 2025 at 10:00 AM
This National Care Leavers Month, I'm encouraging care leavers to tick the box on their UCAS form when applying for college or university to say they've spent time in care. This helps ensure they receive the support they're entitled to, from financial help to wellbeing services.
November 18, 2025 at 5:30 PM
Torquay has won Gold at the National Britain in Bloom Awards, announced in Brighton last month! Huge thanks to our volunteers, SWISCo, and community groups for making our town shine with creativity, colour, and care. #Torquay #BritainInBloom #CommunityPride 🌸🌿
November 18, 2025 at 12:15 PM
New NHS figures show 310 people in the South West died from mouth cancer last year. Regular dental check-ups are vital for early detection — but too many in Torbay can't access a dentist. I've written to NHS England demanding answers on how they plan to fix this.
November 18, 2025 at 9:01 AM
A quick round up of some of the things I was working on last week 👇
November 17, 2025 at 5:15 PM
Visited the Salvation Army in Torquay to hear about their Christmas Toy Appeal. Last year they helped 260 children in Torbay. Donate a toy by Dec 5 or give online by searching Torquay or Paignton. Thanks to Matthew and volunteers for spreading joy. www.salvationarmy.org.uk
November 17, 2025 at 12:45 PM