In Westminster
The most important political story of last week took place away from the House of Commons over in Northern Ireland where the annual G8 summit was held. The G8 is an informal group established in 1975 that comprises some of the world’s most prominent industrial and political countries. The annual summit is an opportunity for politicians and officials from participating nations to discuss some of the most significant challenges we face. David Cameron went into the G8 stating he wanted to focus on tax, trade and transparency and it was fantastic to see significant progress made on all these issues at the summit. However, for all that was accomplished, the atrocities in Syria loomed large over the G8. We are all looking on with horror at events as they unfold in Syria and it is important we think through the best way to tackle the issue. One proposition being put forward is the possibility of arming rebels in the country, but I share the anxieties of many in the House about doing this. The rebels in Syria are not one group, but a serious of disconnected factions who have different objectives and aspirations. I am pleased both the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary have given assurances that a debate will be held in the House of Commons before any decision on sending military capabilities is taken. Should the need for that debate arise, I will enter it with an open mind.
Back in Westminster, perhaps the most significant debate held last week was on the Pensions Bill. Although some parliamentarians have reservations about its provisions, it nevertheless passed its Second Reading without a vote being called. This is perhaps reflective of the fact that all political parties recognise and agree that we need a system that is both easier to understand and sustainable in the long term. However, the difficulty will be in the transition from one system to another due to everyone having different arrangements. My main concern is to ensure everyone understands what is happening and that we make the changes as fair as possible. One positive aspect of the Bill is that many people who have historically missed out on a pension will now receive assistance. For example, I believe this Bill is good news for the self employed and carers. What we need to do now is reach all generations and people to ensure they are aware of the changes being proposed and what it means for them.
Away from the chamber, I was delighted to sponsor an event in Parliament to mark the launch of the Federation of Small Businesses' latest quarterly business report. These reports are seen throughout Westminster as an important indicator as to confidence levels within the micro business sector and I am pleased to say that their research suggests our smallest enterprises see the future with increasing optimism. It’s the fifth quarter in a row where business confidence has increased and long may this continue! Our micro businesses are the heartbeat not only of our communities, but also our economy in general. It is our micros that will deliver sustainable growth and they deserve our full support.
Back Home
Back home in the patch, I enjoyed popping along to the street fair in Newton Abbot. A good time was had by all and it was wonderful to see so many stalls – and so many people visiting them all. The music was first class as well! I also went along to Rydon Primary School where I joined a fellow governor to discuss the importance of living a healthy lifestyle with pupils from Year 5. It is good to see that the pupils have an awareness of the importance of living healthy lives and they take lots of steps both at home and at school to stay as fit as possible. We also discussed the after school clubs currently being run and possible ideas for the future.
I was also delighted to chair an event organised by the Citizens Advice Bureau. More than 50 people attended a discussion on the impact of welfare reform on the disabled and those with long term conditions. You can find a copy of the slides from the presentations here. As always, I will be taking a number of points up with Ministers and my role on the Department for Work and Pensions Select Committee also provides me with an additional platform to ensure the concerns raised are heard. Finally, I also met up with the Teignmouth Harbour Commission to discuss commercial opportunities for the port, the fish quay development proposals and the Teign Estuary partnership.