In this month's column Halesowen and Rowley Regis MP James Morris reflects on a tumultuous month at Westminster.

The last few weeks have been quite extraordinary for those that follow politics, and even if you do not, it’s probably caught your attention.

The test of any institution is how it adapts to change, and the machinery of Government has proven it is as resilient as ever in a fast moving and unpredictable landscape. I say this because in a time of uncertainty and high emotion, we can be reassured by it.

The referendum vote was clear, the British people want to leave the European Union and that’s fine. There is nothing to fear from it, and I think it presents us with some opportunities. It certainly won’t be easy or smooth, but we have to make it work, not just for us, but for future generations.

Here in the Black Country our priorities should be about protecting and creating jobs and attracting investment to support our small businesses. This will provide the foundation to a strong local economy which is seeing more people in work and having the security of a pay packet. Just last week the most recent jobs figures showed that unemployment in Halesowen & Rowley Regis has fallen by 52% since 2010; we need to continue this good work.

Our new Prime Minister, Theresa May, has made it very clear that Brexit means Brexit, and in response to the referendum created two new Government departments; one for Exiting the European Union and the other for International Trade. These two important departments will be setting out how we firstly leave the EU and secondly, but most importantly, how we make the most of negotiating new trade deals with the rest of the world. I will be taking an active interest in this area to make sure that the voice of the Black Country is heard and the interests of local people are met to secure a bright future outside of the EU.

There is no point in denying that the decision made on the 23rd June has caused an unprecedented level of political upheaval, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing, we need to work together to make a success of Brexit and grab the opportunities that will arise.