The infected blood scandal is an appalling injustice. The victims put their trust in health services, but were given contaminated blood products, often with Hepatitis or HIV. Not only was the damage to their health and their family enormous, the suffering was compounded by decades of cover up, preventing people securing justice.

So, I am proud that the very first law I signed as a Minister was to establishment the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme. It put in to action one of the biggest compensation schemes in British history – and will mean victims can finally start receiving long overdue payments.

I pay tribute to those who had to fight for far too long, to get justice. The work does not end with compensation, I am also driving forward other changes to do everything I can to ensure a tragedy like this can never be allowed to happen again.

There are far too many dark chapters in our national story, where people have faced injustice and forces have worked against them, like infected blood, Hillsborough and the Horizon scandal. I am determined to play my part in ensuring this Labour Government leads the cultural change to address cover-ups.

Back in the constituency, thank you to the Torfaen businesses I’ve visited this summer. I always find these visits to local employers helpful and they invariably give me great feedback about the loyalty and expertise of the local workforce.

I visited Solitec in Blaenavon, to hear about the new investment going into their site. They are local manufacture, with a world-wide reputation and their investment is a great sign for our local economy.

I also met with another long-standing, valued local employer in Burton’s Biscuits – now FBC – in Llantarnam. They’ve been making iconic products like Jammie Dodgers and Wagon Wheels since the 1930s. It was fantastic to see the company investing in their site – and next time you dunk one of their biscuits, remember it’s a local delicacy!

Locals businesses – big and small - are a vital part of our communities, but so are our local services and community groups, who do so much to help people and bring us together.

Along with Lynne Neagle MS, I attended the Torfaen Play end of summer playscheme awards. As always, I was inspired by the stories of another great summer of playschemes. The service provided by Torfaen Play is exceptional – it gives our young people the chance to play, including those with additional needs or disabilities, as well as volunteering opportunities to young people. This all helps our youngsters boost their confidence and has helped so many into exciting careers in areas like education and social care. Thank you to our councils for their support for the service, and to everyone who played a part this summer.

Talking of play, it was good to call into Llanyravon Golf Club over the summer alongside Cllr David Williams to see the ongoing work being done to re-open it for the public. The work going on to make it an accessible, fun place for everyone was really encouraging – I’ll look forward to playing a round when it’s complete!

I was also pleased to support Pontnewydd Male Choir as they celebrated their 120th Anniversary, alongside Lord Murphy and many guests. The dedication of past generations at the choir has left a remarkable legacy. Thank you to the choristers, all those who work with them and to everyone who comes along to their concerts, and to all choirs and bands in Torfaen – you are all a valuable part of what makes our communities special.

Nick Thomas-Symonds is the MP for Torfaen