It will come as no surprise to readers that the start of my column this week will focus on the life of a groundbreaking lady.

Baroness Thatcher's death has prompted a chorus of admiration, as well as some venomous criticism.

Above all else, however, it has sparked a fresh debate over her record as Prime Minister, a position that she lost 23 years ago.

Wherever we stand on the political spectrum today, the impact of this one lady on our politics and our country cannot be underestimated.

As the first female Prime Minister, Baroness Thatcher won three successive elections, recaptured the Falklands, oversaw a dramatic economic period and ensured that Britain's voice was heard and respected around the world. Love her or loathe her, she was a truly iconic figure in global politics.

On a personal note, Baroness Thatcher was an inspiration to me and unquestionably the stimulus for my own interest in politics, and subsequent desire to serve as an MP.

The Thatcher principles of a small state, low tax, free markets, individuality and self-determination reshaped our political landscape, moving the goalposts for future political debates, illustrated most vividly by the rise of New Labour.

Of course, public opinion will always be divided on the Iron Lady. Yet, the fact that we are still talking about her, all of these years later, with such passion is itself an endorsement of what a conviction-led politician can achieve.

Baroness Thatcher was no bland, politically correct politician – she believed wholeheartedly in her principles and possessed remarkable determination to see them through.

In an age of political apathy, perhaps all politicians should reflect on Baroness Thatcher’s unique personality and sheer iron will to make a real difference.

• On the subject of controversial politics, the start of April also saw the implementation of a range of welfare changes.

I completely understand the insecurity and fear that amending welfare benefits provokes. Having followed these changes throughout their legislative journey, however, I am absolutely convinced about the need to reform our benefits system.

The truth of the matter is we are spending close to £100 billion a year on working-age benefits alone – that is a staggering amount of money, particularly in light of the wider economic situation.

Likewise, the motivation for reforming welfare is not to penalise anyone for requiring support from the State, but simply to get the system under control.

Indeed, I genuinely believe that reforming welfare will actually improve the lives of the most vulnerable in our society – those who need and deserve the very best welfare support.

Any welfare system that is too bloated, too bureaucratic or even too complex will succeed only in creating and increasing welfare dependency. There is nothing compassionate about creating dependency – simply handing out benefits is not the same as providing lasting help to those who fall on tough times.

My message about the welfare changes is this: Our reformed system will better support those truly in need whilst equipping those who no longer require support to succeed in a life without welfare.

• On a local note, it was disappointing to the learn that the City of York Council’s funding bid for Haxby and Wigginton station was not successful in the first round of grant allocation.

As some readers may know, the Government has set aside £20 million for such projects, but Network Rail has yet to be convinced by the council’s plans.

Thankfully, further opportunities are on the horizon and I am working hard to encourage Network Rail to back the Haxby proposals.

With the next round of allocation coming up, I urge the council to provide greater detail and clarity to Network Rail to ensure that we have the very best chance of securing funding for this important local transport project.