In a little over a month, our country will decide whether or not it wants to remain in the European Union. It’s an important decision, with potentially huge consequences for jobs, living standards, immigration, our security and our influence in the world.

I can understand why many people want to leave, but on balance I think we’ll be stronger, safer and better off if we stay in. Stronger because we have more influence on countries like Russia as 28 countries speaking with one voice than we would on our own. Safer because co-operation with our neighbours is vital to protect us from the threats of terrorism and organised crime. And better off because many jobs in this country depend on access to the world’s largest single market and whilst we would obviously still trade with the EU if we left, we would no longer have full access to that market.

However this decision won’t be taken by MPs in the House of Commons, but by the British people so my opinion counts for no more than yours. Lots of my constituents have contacted me saying they need more information before they make up their minds, so putting aside my personal opinion I’ve decided to hold a series of public meetings around the constituency at which I will do my best to give factual answers to questions about the pros and cons of membership and what leaving might mean. The dates and venues for the meetings are as follows:

7.30pm, Thursday 26th May St Matthew's Church, 1 Chichester Road, Park Hill

7.30pm, Friday 27th May Harris Primary Academy Benson, West Way, Shirley

7pm, Wednesday 1st June St Mildred's Centre Pavilion, Bingham Road, Addiscombe

7.30pm, Thursday 2nd June, Forestdale Forum, 1 Bardolph Avenue, Forestdale

7.45pm, Tuesday 7th June Alwyn Club, Alwyn Close, New Addington

If you’re planning to attend, please email me at gavin.barwell.mp@parliament.uk or write to me at 133 Wickham Road so I know how many people to expect (if there is lots of interest, I will organise additional meetings).

But whether or not you attend one of them, I hope you’ll have your say on this important question for the future of our great country.