After enjoying a short holiday it was back in to the thick of things last week. The great thing about the Parliamentary recess is the opportunity to spend more time in the Constituency meeting local people and getting to visit community groups and businesses, but more about that later.
On national policy we are continuing to make a real difference across all departments, and whilst finance and the economy dominate the headlines in the media we are also implementing substantial changes in both foreign and domestic policy.
Government policy ‘home and away’
With William Hague as Foreign Secretary we have seen swift and decisive steps taken to set out our international route map. Within days of taking office he visited Afghanistan and spelled out a clear strategy for the Afghanistan operation. We have also set out an intention to build a new special relationship with India, whilst providing support for Pakistan and developing a strong and effective relationship with China.
As for Europe, we will change the law so that never again will a government be able to agree to a Treaty that hands over areas of power from Britain to the EU without a referendum. That would include any attempt to scrap the pound for the euro!
The Coalition government is also delivering reform to our council and local community; plans have been scrapped for new bin taxes, which would have increased the temptation to fly tip rubbish. By working with Councils to freeze council tax rises for at least one year, and two, if money permits, we are directly helping cash strapped families in difficult financial times.
Out and about
I have met with two of the four town councils and will meet the others as soon as possible to talk through future plans and initiatives. I’ve also had the opportunity to meet a number of constituents to discuss concerns on housing and planning. These two particular issues continue to be major concerns for so many of you.
In a meeting with the Environment Agency I discussed concerns on flood defenses and will continue to press for the best protection from flooding for our area. I have also met medical staff at the Kingskersewell & Ipplepen medical practices to discuss their views on the challenges the NHS White Paper poses for them.
Being in Touch
Many of you have contacted me or attended one of my regular surgeries seeking my help with individual problems and concerns. I am continuing to hold public meetings and have sent a summary of your spending review thoughts to the Chancellor following the last spending challenge meeting in Dawlish last week.
As I begin to get ready to return to the House for the next Parliamentary term, which starts on 6 September, I would welcome your thoughts and views on the other significant issues ahead, such as, Social Services and Public Health, as well as your thoughts on plans for coastal and seaside towns.
I feel strongly that we must reinvigorate our seaside towns so they are not just great places to visit but attractive places to live and work.
There is a lot more to do but we have made a positive start on taking the necessary action to change our country for the better.
Surgeries and Getting Together
My next surgeries will be on Friday 3rd September at Dawlish Manor House at 3pm and Saturday 4th September in Newton Abbot at the Courtenay Centre at 10am
Please phone 01626 368277 for an appointment. I will also have an open house public meeting on Friday 3rd September at The Ship in Cockwood at 6.30pm. Do come along and say hello!