AS this is my first column since the Assembly elections, I just want to take the chance to thank all the people who voted to re-elect me on May 5; I’m very grateful for the support people have shown for Labour's values of social justice and equality of opportunity and outcome for all.

It is a privilege to represent Newport East, and work for all residents across the constituency.

It was a good night for Labour in Newport as we won both East and West, and I really look forward to working with Newport West’s Jayne Bryant AM in the years ahead, on promoting the city and our wider region.

We have a big task ahead in this Assembly. Labour are the biggest party and will form the Welsh Government, but there is no overall majority.

We have ambitious and positive policies that we must deliver on jobs, health and education, and I hope that all of us elected will take our responsibility to the country very seriously.

There is another election to come this year, as we vote in the EU referendum in June. This is a really important vote for the future of our country, and I am campaigning for us to stay in.

There are many strong reasons we need to stay in Europe. Jobs and trade to start with. Outside the EU, we’d still need to abide by EU rules to trade. And it’s possible that – like Norway – we may have to pay money to access the single market too. But if we’re not a member, we’d have no say on the decisions the EU makes.

Millions of jobs depend on our trade with Europe. Leaving would leave businesses uncertain, and our future trade deals unknown.

In Wales, we receive hundreds of millions of pounds of EU investment every year; because it invests in areas of the continent that need it.

By remaining a member of the EU, we will be a powerful country in an important political institution. Walking away would leave us unable to shape the decisions the EU makes, and put our growth and trade at risk.

On climate change, crime, terrorism, international cooperation and peace, being part of the EU strengthens Britain and Wales, not weakens us. When it comes to trade and jobs, we benefit from being members.

I hope you will join me in voting to stay in.