Women Liberal Democrats

What a really nice thing to happen! Ben and Jerry sent an ice cream tub to my constituency (in matching box with a personal message) with my photo on it - and the flavour named as 'Lynne Honeycomb'. You can see it here. I hasten to add - no actual ice cream was in the tub - which as it came through the post is a very good thing.

The government consultation on equal marriage will close on June 14 - so do visit the Home Office website where you can access the consultation to make sure you get your view on the record.

Welcome to my e-news bulletin for the month of April Here is my monthly update for the last month which will give you an idea of what I've been up to last month, both in the constituency and in Westminster. Please feel free to forward this email to your friends and family, who can sign up themselves by clicking onto my website. I look forward to receiving your feedback! Jenny Willott MP *|FACEBOOK:LIKE|* *|TWITTER:TWEET|* Casework A large part of the time I spend in the constituency is dedicated to helping constituents with problems and offering advice. This month, I dealt with queries from constituents from across the 6 wards in the constituency about a wide range of issues, with benefits/tax and immigration being the biggest issues. Some of the wide ranging issues I have dealt with this month include: Queries regarding the Vulcan Hotel- Please see my website for my comments on the recent developments regarding the closure of the Vulcan Hotel- http://jennywillott.com/en/article/2012/587372/jenny-willott-mp-comments-on-the-vulcan-hotel-developments. Benefit related issues Immigration related issues Student Finance problems Council issues Employment issues Concerns over petty crime Llanishen Reservoir London Olympics torchbearing Remember, if there is anything I can help you with, please do contact me on the details listed at the bottom of the email or come along to one of my advice surgeries - no appointment is needed. Out and about in the constituency I have been busy visiting organisations and attending events across the constituency again this month. Here are a few of the things I have done: Visited Asda Pontprennau with Vince Cable Visited Cardiff Institute for the Blind and RNIB with Vince Cable Attended a Clothes Party at Hope Court with Cathays Councillor Elizabeth Clark Attended the UK launch of the Olympic Mascotathon in Queen Street: http://jennywillott.com/en/article/2012/582036/cardiff-kicks-off-olympic-mascot-tour Attended a Thanksgiving Service at Llandaff Cathedral with the Queen for her Diamond Jubilee Attended the Cardiff Business Club Lunch when Nick Clegg was the speaker Held my regular advice surgeries on Friday afternoons Joined local Lib Dem councillors and candidates out knocking on doors and speaking to residents across Cardiff In Parliament This month sees the start of the new Parliamentary session and a new Queen's Speech. The pomp and circumstance surrounding the Queen's regular visits really is something to see and one of my favourite parts is hearing the military band outside Parliament playing for the crowds gathered to see the Queen such military classics as the Doctor Who theme and Star Wars. The Speech laid out the Government's legislative programme for the coming year. Particularly welcome is legislation to split up the banks so that those providing high street banking services can't gamble their customers' money on high risk investments in the way that we've seen in the past. I'm also delighted to see the Pensions Bill, which will introduce a £140 flat rate pension for all new pensioners, getting rid of the complex system of means testing which has, for many on lower incomes, made saving for retirement futile. This will particularly benefit women, who on average have a pension of £40 less a week than men. The new system is based on the Citizens' Pension that Lib Dems have proposed for a number of years. After introducing the Triple Lock, which in April meant that the Basic State Pension increased by £5.30, the highest cash increase ever, this is another sign that Lib Dems in Government are making a difference in the living standards of pensioners. Finally, the Speech contained reference to reforming the House of Lords. Efforts to reform the Lords have been going on for 100 years, so I don't think it will be quick or easy to do, and whilst it is certainly not the most important item in the Queen's Speech, I do believe that it is absolutely right that this issue is finally tackled. However, not everything can be tackled by legislation. You can't legislate to get the economy moving or pass a law demanding businesses create new jobs, so the Government also needs to create the right environment for businesses to succeed and for confidence in the economy to grow. The Government's plans for growth are central to getting the deficit under control and moves such as cutting red tape, setting up a Green Investment Bank to invest in jobs in the sector, and working with pension firms to invest money into long term, sustainable projects are critical to helping the economy get back on its feet. April also saw the launch of the new Youth Contract, investing £1 billion in helping young people get the training and support they need to find work, andan increase in the personal income tax threshold, as promised in the Lib Dem Manifesto. As a result, 138,000 low and middle income workers in Cardiff received an average tax cut of £130 in April and, 5,700 people were lifted out of paying income tax altogether. People will see a further income tax cut next April and in future years until we reach the £10,000 threshold we promised at the last election. There is of course much more work to be done, and getting the economy moving will not be easy, but there is a real commitment in Westminster to make sure that this is exactly what happens. 5 ways to contact Jenny Willott MP Visit Jenny at her weekly advice surgery - every Friday, 2.30pm until 4pm, at 99 Woodville Road, Cathays, Cardiff, CF24 4DY. No appointment necessary. Write to Jenny in Westminster or at her Cardiff office: Jenny Willott MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA Jenny Willott MP, 99 Woodville Road, Cathays, Cardiff, CF24 4DY Online-www.jennywillott.com Email Jenny -jenny@jennywillott.com Phone the constituency office on 02920 668558 or the Westminster office on 0207 219 8418. view email in browser | unsubscribe *|EMAIL|* | forward to a friend *|LIST:DESCRIPTION|* Published and promoted by *|LIST_ADDRESS|*. Printed (dispatched) by MailChimp, 512 Means St NW Ste 404, Atlanta, GA. Sent to *|EMAIL|* - why did I get this? unsubscribe from this list | update subscription preferences *|LIST:ADDRESSLINE|* *|REWARDS|* Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Liberal Democrat MP for Cardiff Central, Jenny Willott, has commented on the news that the Vulcan Hotel in Adamsdown has closed and is moving to St Fagan's Museum. Responding to news that the official notification of plans to relocate the Vulcan Hotel to St Fagans has now been submitted to Cardiff Council, Jenny said: "It is deeply disappointing for everyone who has been involved with the Save the Vulcan campaign from the outset that the pub is definitely closing. "Since the news was announced that the pub once again faced closure, I have written to Brains, the Welsh Assembly Government and developer Rapport to try and prevent this from happening and I know the campaign group has been working non-stop to try and keep it open. "Its closure will be a great loss to the local community but I am glad that, following the news the building will be donated to St Fagans National History Museum, the building and its history will not be lost from Cardiff entirely." Following the decision to close the Vulcan Hotel, the property's owners Marcol Asset Management Limited, have agreed to donate it to St Fagan's National History Museum in order to preserve the building. Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Local Lib Dem MP Sarah Teather has welcomed reports that Labour-run Brent Council have temporarily put a halt to the ransacking of Kensal Rise library, but added that the situation should never have got this far. Earlier on Wednesday, removal men turned up to empty the building of its books and its equipment. They were soon met by over 50 local campaigners, including Councillor Paul Lorber, the leader of the Liberal Democrats on Brent Council and a long standing library campaigner. Reports also indicate that the new leader of Brent Council, Councillor Muhammed Butt, has agreed to arrange talks between council officials, library campaigners, and All Souls College Oxford, who own the building. However, Ms Teather, whose Brent Central constituency includes Kensal Rise library, has said that these talks should have taken place long before the removal men were called in. Commenting, Sarah Teather said: "While I welcome Councillor Butt's assurances that meetings between campaigners, officials and All Souls College will now take place, this should have happened months ago. "Earlier this year I wrote to Gareth Daniel, Chief Executive of Brent Council, on behalf of the Save Kensal Rise campaign after they had waited for months without being granted a meeting with council officers. The response I got made it clear that Brent Council had washed their hands of responsibility for the fate of the libraries. "Labour-run Brent Council has already done great damage to our local libraries. I really hope this u-turn is real and that Brent Labour take this opportunity to finally work with campaigners to keep Kensal Rise library open." Published and promoted by Sarah Teather and Brent Liberal Democrats, 70 Walm Lane, Willesden Green, London NW2 4RAPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

APPG Vice Chair and Co-Ordinator Annette Brooke MP with Housing Minister Grant Shapps and Mobile Homes APPG Officers Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, today welcomed Housing Minister Grant Shapps at a meeting of the APPG on Mobile Homes. The Minister attended the meeting, chaired by Christopher Chope MP, to discuss the current consultation by the Department for Communities and Local Government on Park Homes. The Minister outlined the consultation and answered questions from MPs and stakeholders. He highlighted that a Private Members Bill on Park Homes would receive Government support if put forward. The Private Members' Ballot takes place tomorrow, and MPs will find out which 20 members will receive Parliamentary time for a bill. Annette said: "Having heard for many years about the anguish of people who have suffered living on a site with a rogue park home owner, it is exciting that the matter is likely to be addressed in the immediate future. I welcome the consultation and the Government support for a Private Members' Bill, and I will be keeping my fingers crossed that one of the lucky 20 MPs takes the legislation forward." Annette has campaigned for years on these issues, along with local park home resident and founder of the Park Home Owners Justice Campaign Sonia McColl. The publication of the consultation is the culmination of organised national rallies, meetings of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Mobile Homes, Parliamentary Questions asked by Annette to various Ministers in the House of Commons, including two to the Prime Minister, and Parliamentary debates. The consultation is open until 28th May 2012 and can be found at http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/housing/mobilehomeowners Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ETPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Sarah Teather, Member of Parliament for Brent Central, has expressed her disappointment at Brent Council's decision to clear Kensal Rise Library building of books and IT equipment today. Commenting, Ms Teather said: "This is another sad day for Brent's libraries. Campaigners have tried to work with officials to keep Kensal Rise library open, but have been ignored at every turn. "Labour leaders need to remember who they are supposed to be working for. They must stop removing books immediately and talk to campaigners and local residents before it's too late. "Councillor Butt has to get a grip of this matter if he wants to show that he can make a difference as Leader of the Council." Published and promoted by Sarah Teather and Brent Liberal Democrats, 70 Walm Lane, Willesden Green, London NW2 4RAPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Sarah Teather announced today that the Coalition Government are extending the system of support for young people with special educational needs up to the age of 25, so that young people will get the support they need wherever they are taught. You can find more info in the next steps document, which you can find here. This report sets out a summary of the key responses to the consultation questions, current progress and the Government's further plans for the vision in the Green Paper, in which: Children's special educational needs are picked up early and support is routinely put in place quickly Staff have the knowledge, understanding and skills to provide the right support for children and young people who have SEN or are disabled, wherever they are Parents know what they can reasonably expect their local school, local college, local authority and local services to provide, without them having to fight for it Children who would currently have a statement of SEN and young people over 16 who would have a learning difficulty assessment have an integrated assessment and a single Education, Health and Care Plan which is completed in a shorter time and without families having the stress of searching to get the support they need Parents have greater control over the services they and their family use, with: every family with an Education, Health and Care plan having the right to a personal budget for their support parents whose children have an education, health and care plan having the right to seek a place at any state-funded school, whether that is a special or mainstream school, a maintained school, academy or Free School. Published and promoted by Sarah Teather and Brent Liberal Democrats, 70 Walm Lane, Willesden Green, London NW2 4RAPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Mid Dorset and North Poole MP Annette Brooke has welcomed commitments in the Queens Speech to secure key aspects of Liberal Democrat policy. The Queen's Speech 2012 included many of the long-term reforms Liberal Democrats have been fighting for, such as reform of the banks, a Green Investment Bank and supporting families and children. These reforms will help build a sustainable future for our country. The Coalition Government's plans will offer help and support to families, small businesses and communities, protect the environment, as well as reaffirming our commitment to helping the poorest nations. Speaking today, Annette said: "I welcome the emphasis on economic growth, as getting the economy moving whilst addressing the deficit must be the greatest priority for the Coalition. I was happy to see an emphasis on supporting families, including those which include children with disabilities. I was particularly pleased to see changes to parental leave, statutory protections up until 25 in further education for those with special educational needs and a requirement for local authorities and health services to jointly plan and commission services for children and families included in the package set out. The long overdue introduction of a Grocery Adjudicator in one form or another is really important for the remaining farms in my constituency. As always, the devil is in the detail, and I will carefully monitor the package of legislation that comes forth from today's speech." Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ETPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

In the aftermath of a tough set of election results for both Conservatives and Liberal Democrats - I couldn't help but notice a few naysayers popping up in the media and uttering dire warnings about a government that needs to concentrate on core issues rather than same sex civil marriage.

For goodness sake - it's not either / or.

The economy is clearly the No 1 priority - but the Coalition can multi-task!

There will be no u-turn on equal marriage - we are committed as a government to legislate by 2015

Clearly a tough set of results for the Liberal democrats - but not all gloom and doom. Here is Mark Pack's post on LibDem Voice (before the London results came in)

Beyond the headlines, six points in particular strike me:

1. It looks as if the party will keep control of all the councils that had Lib Dem majorities before Thursday. Cambridge is a technical loss, but the party will keep control on the Mayor's casting vote. Each of those Lib Dem council leaders and their teams deserve heavy praise for that impressive verdict on their council and political skills. (one lost post this post).

2. The results in seats with Liberal Democrat MPs, at least in England, have generally been good, not only in southern England but elsewhere too. In Hallam, for example, we won every seat and our vote was up on last year. That is a major saving grace: the local election base where it really matters for general election results has come out of the last two years in a much better state than elsewhere.

3. Outside MP seats, some areas where the party would hope to gain MPs in future elections, such as in Winchester, showed decent progress on last year and an ability to go head-to-head with the Tories and survive. Some, but by no means all. There is, however, a big enough local government place in the sorts of seats the party could fight seriously for the party to be able to be contesting seriously comfortably more seats than it has won in any previous general election. If the party has to fight on a smaller front that will be because of other political considerations, not because the local base is not there. That is particularly worth stating because some in the media are trying to push as "the party is doomed" line.

4. The smaller parties have generally done badly. UKIP may have piled up some votes, but it is not breaking through in winning seats. The Greens have continued their generally lacklustre performance of the past few years. Winning their first Parliamentary seat in 2010 is the major caveat to that, but even in the 2010 election results elsewhere were frequently poor and their local government base has not made a breakthrough. Thankfully the same too can be said of the BNP, who have been doing even worse - probably ending up losing all their seats up for election.

5. Labour's progress is decent but not spectacular. Their results this year are (still) worse than other previous oppositions have achieved, even some which have gone on to defeat. Superficially that is bad news for Labour, showing how far their recovery still has to go, but it is also a warning for the government: this may not be Labour's peak of mid-term popularity.

6. Unless there is a bizarre outbreak of reshuffle panic, any changes should wait until Jeremy Hunt's fate is clearer, i.e. until after his appearance at the Leveson Inquiry. When a reshuffle does come, the Liberal Democrat changes will see David Laws return. Given the size of the task still facing the party, changes should also be made that reflect the relative media ability of Lib Dem ministers (see this league table). There is no room for those who are content to be low profile. Every minister needs to be making a full contribution to getting over the party's message.

Ok - so it was never really in doubt who I was going to vote for in the Mayoral election today - Brian Paddick!

But when I sat down to complete my postal vote last weekend I did grab hold of the booklet (delivered to every household) containing the Mayoral candidates' manifestos - just to see what they were all saying etc.

Before I became a local campaigner and then an elected Liberal Democrat politician in Hornsey & Wood Green I was a designer for around twenty years - a graphic designer. So I couldn't help but notice that the double-page spreads allocated to each of the candidates to put their case and attract votes were some of the worst examples of graphics I have ever seen - except for Brian's.

Design is all about communication. And if the layout is confusing or the photos rubbish quality - then the chance of a benign effect is minimal. And it is the first impression that carries most of the message. Yes - of course it matters what the content is - and of course many people will have made up their minds without reference to the content of the manifesto booklet based on the televised debates, political allegiance regardless or whatever. But if anyone out there is likely to be influenced these 'advertisements' then you would think the candidates would have made a bit of an effort to maximize the opportunity of this delivery of their messages to every household in London!

Just go and look at the three main contenders - and compare and contrast.

Paddick's is well laid out, clear, clean and direct with an excellent (and clearly professional) photograph of himself. The visual impact is designed to work across the two pages making it by far the most dynamic layout of all the manifestos in the booklet. The type is neat and legible; the colour use effective with the key ideas easily accessible - decent homes for all, fares that work for you and a justice system that works.

Ken's spread does communicate his key point - which is all about fares. So fair play on getting the key message across. But there is far too much text, and the two pages are not laid out to work together. The different messages on fares compete with each other and the opposing page is a 'letter' and seems disconnected from the main thrust. It all seems a bit messy.

But by far the worst of the big three manifestos - is Boris's. The layout is dreary. There is so much text and so many 'key' messages that the reader won't know which of the various blocks of type he or she is meant to go to first. The photo of Boris doesn't run across the gutter and cuts off his shoulder oddly. So - I can't really say what his key message actually is.

To me - design really matters - obviously because I was a designer. But more than that - if a candidate doesn't know how to present themselves and their ideas to the best advantage (or finding someone to design their manifesto to do so) then that bodes ill for their ability to communicate properly as Mayor.

Politics is all about people and communicating ideas and policies and action. And if you do that - then the people will come!

Local MP Sarah Teather is urging Brent residents to vote for Lib Dem Mayoral candidate Brian Paddick and GLA candidate for Brent and Harrow Charlotte Henry in this Thursday's elections. Brian Paddick - who has 30 years experience policing London's streets - will get communities and the police to work together to bring down crime. He has spoken out against racism in the Metropolitan Police and has questioned the effectiveness of current stop-and-search procedures. Together with the London Liberal Democrats, Paddick will introduce a one-hour bus ticket, allowing people to change buses without having to pay an extra fare and he will reduce the fare of anyone travelling before 7.30am. To tackle London's housing crisis, the Liberal Democrats will build 360,000 new homes - half of which will be affordable - and will bring 50,000 empty homes back into use. Commenting, Brent Central Lib Dem MP Sarah Teather said, "We've had 12 years of waste at City Hall from Ken and Boris. Instead of tackling the major issues facing London, they have favoured their friends and indulged in expensive vanity projects like the Londoner newspaper, the revamped routemaster and Boris Island airport. "Brian Paddick and the London Liberal Democrats will help Londoners by building more homes and introducing fairer fares on our transport system. "After 30 years in the police, Brian is the only candidate who has the experience and knowledge to bring down crime and make the streets of London safe." Published and promoted by Sarah Teather and Brent Liberal Democrats, 70 Walm Lane, Willesden Green, London NW2 4RAPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Local MP Sarah Teather has criticised Labour-led Brent Council's plans for the redevelopment of Willesden Green library. In her submission to the public consultation on the proposals, she condemned the Council's failure to incorporate the Old Library building, the Willesden Bookshop, and the Brent Advisory Service (BIAS) into the new development. The Lib Dem MP also raised concerns over the interim library service that would be provided during the redevelopment and the decision that the new library will have a smaller amount of floor space dedicated to displaying books. Additionally, despite the Council admitting there is a need for affordable, four bed family housing, there will be 88 one and two bedroom flats built behind the new library and only four three-bed apartments. None of the proposed flats will be social or affordable housing. Since the plans were announced earlier this year, thousands of local residents have signed a petition calling on Brent Council to listen to the public and preserve the locally listed Old Library building. The consultation closed on 30 April, and the Council are expected to submit a planning application in the next few weeks. The Brent Central MP has previously criticised the Labour Council Executive for agreeing to the outline plans of the redevelopment before carrying out a full public consultation. Commenting, Brent Central MP Sarah Teather said: "Labour have already closed half of the libraries in the borough meaning many more residents will be using the library in Willesden. But instead of building a larger library, they are actually reducing the floor space dedicated to displaying books and there are no plans to increase the book stock." "The Labour-run Council's plans are desperately short-sighted. Local residents are not getting enough in return for losing the Old Library building, the Willesden Bookshop and BIAS." "The excuse we've been given for not being able to save the Old Library is that space needs to be made for the developers to build flats. Yet the flats proposed don't even address the local need for affordable, family sized homes." "This is a wasted opportunity that will take more away from the high street than it will put back." Published and promoted by Sarah Teather and Brent Liberal Democrats, 70 Walm Lane, Willesden Green, London NW2 4RAPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Hurrah! At last - Highgate can operate as an entity in its own right. The inaugural meeting of the Highgate Neighbourhood Forum will take place on Tuesday 29 May at 8pm upstairs at The Bull, North Hill, Highgate.

For so many years Highgate has been bedevilled by being split between two local authorities - Haringey and Camden . We all worked very hard during the passage of the Localism Bill for an amendment that would allow local areas like Highgate that are split across different local authorities to have a Neighbourhood Forum - and we won!

So - the next step is to apply to Camden and Haringey for designation as a Neighbourhood Forum. In order to do this there needs to be a properly constituted organisation with a Constitution and an elected Committee.

So there has to be an AGM to approve the draft constitution and elect a committee. The Bull on North Hill has kindly allowed the Highgate Neighbourhood Forum to use their upstairs room. Sadly, however, that means there won't be full disabled access to the meeting, for which the organisers apologise, but they hope that everyone will understand that, as they have no funds as yet, they have to accept offers as they are made.

They ask that you let them know if there is anything they can do to help anyone with mobility problems get up the stairs and assure everyone that they will be sending proxy forms for voting for those who can't make it to the meeting. They would also be very pleased to hear from anyone who is able to offer them an accessible venue for future meetings.

You can get more information from their website here.

Brent Central MP Sarah Teather has criticised Labour-run Brent Council's plans to license the distribution of leaflets and has urged them to introduce vital safeguards to protect free speech. Under the plans - which were voted through by the Labour Executive on Monday - groups will need a council license before they can give out free leaflets or flyers. However, while there will be exceptions for charities, religious organisations and political groups, it is unclear which groups this last category refers to. During Monday's Council Executive meeting, Labour Councillors repeatedly failed to confirm whether campaign groups - such as those that have fought against the Council's library closures - will need a license or not. There are also currently no exemptions for local groups advertising cultural events or encouraging people to support fundraising activities. To pay for the administrative cost of the scheme, the Council will charge an application fee of £175 for each license. On top of this, groups seeking licenses will have to pay a minimum of £75 for every person dis tributing the leaflets. There is also no discount for small and start-up businesses, leading to concerns that larger businesses will have a competitive advantage when it comes to advertising their services. Commenting, local MP Sarah Teather said: "It's unbelievable that the Labour Executive has voted through such badly thought out proposals without first ensuring that free speech won't be affected. It is imperative that local groups can campaign without having to first contend with the council's bureaucracy and pay a hefty fee. "As well as the concerns over who the plans will apply to, no one seems to know exactly how these new rules will be enforced. Labour need to go back to the drawing board with these proposals. "I agree that something needs to be done to reduce the ever increasing amount of litter on our streets, but instead of licensing free speech Labour leaders should rethink their cuts to the street sweeping service and their decision to end the volunteer led StreetWatchers scheme." Published and promoted by Sarah Teather and Brent Liberal Democrats, 70 Walm Lane, Willesden Green, London NW2 4RAPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Solihull Liberal Democrats welcomed Local Government Minister Andrew Stunell MPto Solihull this week, and used the opportunity to highlight the problem of garden grabbing that has plagued Solihull for years. Led by local Councillor Claire O'Kane and Solihull MP Lorely Burt, Mr Stunell was shown a site in Olton that fell victim to the practice of 'garden grabbing' and is still at risk of further development. Previously, gardens were classified as brownfield sites, which allowed developers to build houses on them regardless of local opposition. Local Liberal Democrats, alongside Local Government Minister Andrew Stunell, met Sherwood Close resident Susan Smith Liberal Democrats in the coalition Government have since changed the rules to prevent this sort of thing happening anymore, but concerns have still been raised about applications for more developments to build on gardens. Commenting, Solihull MP Lorely Burt said: "Garden grabbing has been a huge issue in Solihull for many years, and the houses we showed Andrew today are just a few examples of the loss of green space that have occurred because of backward developing rules. "My first ever Private Members Bill was about garden grabbing and I was delighted when the coalition Government changed the rules to help local people, but we can always do more in order to ensure any development fits in with the character and wishes of the local community." Commenting further, Local Government Minister Andrew Stunell said: "Labour's decision to classify gardens as 'brownfield' sites allowed developers to ride roughshod over the wishes of local residents and rob communities of local green spaces. "One of the first things the coalition Government did was to change these rules so green spaces weren't looked at in the same way as derelict factories but we can always do more to ensure that local residents have their views heard. "I'm extremely grateful to Claire and Lorely for showing me how Solihull residents have suffered from these problems and I remain committed to taking action in Government to prevent more instances of this in the future." Commenting, local Councillor Claire O'Kane said: "Local people constantly tell me that they're worried about losing parkland and these rules left them powerless to stop developments, even if they were hugely unpopular. "More requests for development have recently been submitted and I wanted to make sure Andrew was aware of what a serious problem this still is for local residents. "Liberal Democrats are making changing to give power to local residents and I wanted to make sure the views of my ward were heard by a Government Minister." Published and Promoted by Claire O'Kane on behalf of Lorely Burt and the Solihull and Meriden Liberal Democrats, all at 81 Warwick Road, Solihull, B92 7HPPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Cardiff Central's Lib Dem MP, Jenny Willott, was on hand on Saturday to help kick off the Olympic mascots' tour of the UK. The Games' mascot, Wenlock, who will be joined on his tour by the other mascot, Mandeville, started his 3 month UK tour at the McDonald's in Queen Street, alongside former Olympic Decathlete Dean Macey and some young athletes from Cardiff AAC. To celebrate the start of the tour, McDonald's presented a £1000 donation to Cardiff ACC. The mascot tour aims to get young people excited about the Olympics in July by touring the country before heading to London for the Games' opening ceremony. Commenting Jenny said: "The Olympics will be a great event for the whole of the UK. Indeed here in Cardiff we will be hosting the very first event of the Games, so it's fitting that the mascots' tour starts here. "It was fantastic to see so many of the young athletes from Cardiff ACC and I hope that the chance to meet Dean Macey, a real Olympic legend, will help inspire them to achieve great things in the future. "I wish both Wenlock and Mandeville the best of luck on their tour and I hope they make it to the Games on time!" Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

In a letter to Sarah Teather Barnet Dump developers have indicated that they are considering changing their plans for the Brent Cross Cricklewood development. Sarah Teather has called for an open discussion on any changes. The current plans for the development include a large waste dump on the border with Brent which could see hundreds of extra lorries passing through residential areas. The development will also bring an estimated 29,000 extra cars per day onto the road, and have a dramatic impact on other local shopping centres. The scheme has been opposed by residents across Brent who have raised concerns about the potential impact of the extra pollution caused by the dump upon residents' health and the environment. However, residents' concerns have been consistently ignored by both Barnet Council and the developers. Local Liberal Democrat MP for Brent Central Sarah Teather said: "We have been hearing whispers of changes for a long time now. The developers should come clean with the people of Brent and let them know what they are really up to." "Barnet must listen to the views of local people who have made it very clear that they do not want a massive dump on the doorstep of local schools and that they do not want gigantic rubbish trucks on winding residential streets." "Residents of Brent deserve to have their say on any changes to the current plans." Published and promoted by Sarah Teather and Brent Liberal Democrats, 70 Walm Lane, Willesden Green, London NW2 4RAPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

The excellent Rock the House competition has come round again, and four local bands have asked me to nominate them.

I can only send one band through to the final though and I need your help to decide who that should be.

Check out the links that the bands have sent to me, then vote on the poll below.

The Doghouse

2 Tone Red

The Famous Class

Jane Honda

The poll will close at 23.59 on 26th (Rock the House have agreed to extend their deadline for nominations) so make sure you vote by then.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

New figures released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) giving unemployment figures for March 2012 have shown that the number of people claiming unemployment benefits in the constituency of Mid Dorset and North Poole has fallen by 4.3% in the last month. 743 people were registered unemployed in March 2012, which represents a rate of 1.9% per cent of the working age population in the constituency. This is compared with 775 people registered as unemployed in February 2012. Following the release of these figures, Annette Brooke commented: "These figures show that Mid Dorset and North Poole has some of the lowest unemployment in the country, but we cannot become complacent about joblessness in our area." "During this economically difficult time, we must ensure that jobs in the local area are protected and that jobseekers and those who are struggling to get back to work receive all the support and help that they need." Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ETPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Solihull MP Lorely Burt has welcomed today's drop in unemployment figures, which has seen the level of unemployment drop both nationally and across the West Midlands. The Office of National Statistics today released figures which show that national unemployment was down by 35,000 from the previous quarter, which is the first fall since last spring. In addition, youth unemployment was down by 9,000 and the number of people in employment rose by 53,000. The figures also contained good news for the West Midlands, which has seen a drop in unemployment of 1.2% since the last quarter. There are now 239,000 unemployed people in the West Midlands, down from 243,000 since December, whilst the number of people in employment rose by 38,000 to 2.43million. Commenting, Lorely Burt MP said: "It is good news that we are seeing a drop in unemployment and an increase in employment, but we cannot rest on our laurels. This is a step in the right direction but unemployment still remains high. "The Government are committed to ensuring this drop becomes a trend rather than just a blip and I am determined to ensure that we see more positive results over the coming months, especially here in the West Midlands." Published and Promoted by Claire O'Kane on behalf of Lorely Burt and the Solihull and Meriden Liberal Democrats, all at 81 Warwick Road, Solihull, B92 7HPPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Solihull MP Lorely Burt has paid tribute to the work of a local housing group after visiting their new flats in Shirley. Bromford Housing group work with a huge range of vulnerable adults, allowing them to live more independently, often for the first time. They have recently opened a new scheme just off Stratford Road, which deals specifically with adults with learning difficulties. Lorely Burt was shown around the flats by resident Stephen Cunningham Tivoli Court opened in March 2011 and currently houses 13 people, providing them with support and care that allows them to live independently. Mrs Burt was shown around the flats by resident Stephen Cunningham as well as Helen Horsfall, the service manager of the Solihull team, who told Lorely about the services that the group provide Stephen and the other tenants. Commenting, Lorely Burt MP said: "I was hugely impressed with the facilities that they provide Stephen with, and I saw for myself how happy he was to be able to live by himself. The freedom that it gives him is fantastic. "Housing is a huge problem in the UK, and one of the groups that isn't talked about enough is vulnerable adults who rely so much on specialised housing and care. "The work that Bromford are doing right here in Solihull shows how housing associations can work to deliver solutions that work for everyone." Published and Promoted by Claire O'Kane on behalf of Lorely Burt and the Solihull and Meriden Liberal Democrats, all at 81 Warwick Road, Solihull, B92 7HPPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, has welcomed the publication today of a consultation by the Department for Communities and Local Government on Park Homes. Annette said: "Having looked through the consultation, I am pleased. There is plenty of scope for people to raise any issues that they feel are not covered adequately. There is clear evidence of listening and recognising the depth and breadth of the problems existing in the industry, and a determination to stamp out the bad and in some cases criminal practices that go on. The consultation covers my number one priority, which is to stop sale blocking. It offers three options, two of which I believe, would significantly improve the current situation. I am also pleased to see that one of my suggestions, for a requirement on site owners to lodge their site rules with the local authority, is included. Other important areas in the consultation focus on giving local authorities a bigger role and increasing penalties against site owners who commit offences. As expected, the fit and proper person rule is not included, but this does look to be a robust package of measures which DCLG thinks will work. The conclusions of the DCLG Select Committee inquiry on Park Homes will be really important but meanwhile, I urge all interested parties to respond to this consultation." Annette has campaigned for years on these issues, along with local park home resident and founder of the Park Home Owners Justice Campaign Sonia McColl. The publication of the consultation is the culmination of organised national rallies, meetings of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Mobile Homes, Parliamentary Questions asked by Annette to various Ministers in the House of Commons, including two to the Prime Minister, and Parliamentary debates. The consultation is open until 28th May 2012 and can be found at http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/housing/mobilehomeowners Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ETPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Brent's Liberal Democrat MP, Sarah Teather, has welcomed the announcement that the Department for Education will be providing over £30 million to tackle the chronic shortage of school places in Brent. This £30 million is on top of the £24.8 million given to Brent in December 2011. In total in 2012/13 Brent will receive £54.8 million towards new school places. The money has been awarded to the borough by the Department for Education and can be used to build desperately needed new primary and secondary schools, or to fund extra classes at existing schools. Brent has been given more money than anywhere else in the country in recognition of both the high growth in the school age population over the last 13 years and the failure of the previous Labour Government to adequately address the growing crisis in primary school places in Brent. The £54.8 million award is enough to build 14 - 15 new primary schools. Commenting, Sarah Teather MP for Brent Central and Minister for Children and Families at the Department for Education said: "The £54.8 million award is fantastic news for the people of Brent. I and my Brent Liberal Democrat colleagues have campaigned for years to get the funding for new school places that Brent has so desperately needed." "Since becoming an MP in Brent in 2003 I have dealt with hundreds of worried parents who have not been able to find a school place for their children and each year the number increased while the Labour Government turned a blind eye." "The fact that Brent is the borough getting the most money shows how urgently new school places are needed after 13 years of Labour neglect. Children in Brent deserve an excellent education, and with the Liberal Democrats in government this much needed funding is at last being provided." "Despite the difficult financial times this Government is committed to solving the crisis in school places in Brent and has put it's money where it's mouth is." Published and promoted by Sarah Teather and Brent Liberal Democrats, 70 Walm Lane, Willesden Green, London NW2 4RAPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Solihull MP Lorely Burt has welcomed investment from the Coalition Government that will give an extra £7,800,000 this year to relieve the pressure on school places across Birmingham. This is part of an additional £600m of capital spending in England this year, which is for investment in, for example, extra classrooms. This comes on top of the £800m to address the shortage in pupil places already announced for 2012-13. Commenting, Lorely Burt said: "This extra money is great news for our children. Many more of them will now be able to get into their school of first choice. "Pressure on our schools has been allowed to continue for too long. As a Liberal Democrat, I am glad the Coalition Government is doing the right thing by putting more money in our schools. "I know this will be a real help and I will work hard to ensure this money delivers the results needed." Commenting further, Liberal Democrat Minister for Children, Sarah Teather said: "In too many areas, Labour left classrooms bursting at the seams with an unacceptable number of children locked out of their local school. "There is a pressing need for additional school places and the Coalition Government is doing the right thing by making an extra £600m available this year. "This means extra money for more classrooms, so that more of our children can get the school place they deserve. It will be a real step towards ensuring we give every child a fair start in life, regardless of their background or where they live." Published and Promoted by Claire O'Kane on behalf of Lorely Burt and the Solihull and Meriden Liberal Democrats, all at 81 Warwick Road, Solihull, B92 7HPPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Here is my column from this week's Ham & High:

I was walking down Crescent Road in my constituency the other day when a woman came up to me and said something to the effect of, 'I think you are a fantastic MP - but I am so upset that you are banning people from wearing the cross'.

So - from the mischievous misinformation from the pages of our print media to my home beat - I am fed up with this misrepresentation - hence this column.

The short version is this: the government is being taken to the European Court of Human Rights in a court case on whether there is a human right to wear a cross at work. What the government has been arguing (and British law states) is that people should be free to wear crosses if they wish, unless their employer has a compelling reason to say 'no' (such as risk of it carrying an infection in hospitals).

The grounds for saying 'no' have to be reasonable and cannot be used as a backdoor way to discriminate against any religion. They would be subject to a court being able to rule on whether the employer really is being reasonable. The same principle should also apply to the symbols or items that are important to other religions. (This is in fact all how the law is currently interpreted; the case is coming from people who want to change it.)

What that also means the government is also arguing against is the claim that is being made for a special legal right to wear a cross that would trump such provisions and mean that someone could insist on their right to wear a cross, even if an employer had reasonable grounds to say 'no'.

Alas, some have decided to report that latter as if the government thinks people should have no rights at all to wear a cross. Not so! No-one is arguing that employers should be able to prohibit cross wearing on a whim or without very good reason.

Both I and the Government believe that people should be able to wear crosses openly at work. I have never - in any place or organisation that I have worked for or in over the years - seen or heard of anyone being told not to wear a cross. I have never, in my own office, ever stopped anyone wearing anything.

In fact, the occasional eye-catching case aside, employers are generally very good at being reasonable in accommodating people's religious beliefs - and rightly so.

The legal case itself involves the Equality Act 2010. Under this, employers can apply certain rules, for example about not wearing jewellery, which may have an impact on people of certain religions. If any policy has that effect, then the employer must have, to use the jargon, a proportionate and legitimate reason for adopting it, such as for health and safety reasons or in order to comply with a legitimate uniform policy.

The current law applies in the same way to people of all religions and beliefs. It makes clear that any actions that would directly discriminate against those of a particular religion, such as Christianity, are unlawful. In addition, where a policy indirectly discriminates against those of a particular religion and this policy cannot be justified, that is also unlawful.

Those are very important provisions and protect against a bigoted employer trying to discriminate in the guise of health and safety or other workplace policies. They are also why the Government believes that the Equality Act 2010 (supported by all three parties) strikes the right balance between employees' rights to manifest their religion or beliefs at work and the business needs and requirements of the particular employer.

The Government greatly values the vital role that Christian organisations have in our society and the part they play in national life, inspiring a great number of people to get involved in public service and providing help to those in need.

So - I explained the actuality to my constituent - and she said she had thought it very peculiar that someone who is as liberal as I am would wish to ban the cross.

Indeed!

Solihull MP Lorely Burt has welcomed a £130 tax cut for 85,000 hard working Solihull people, delivered by Liberal Democrats in the coalition government. Liberal Democrats have delivered a tax cut for millions across Britain As of today [April 6th] the income tax threshold will rise to £8,105, giving a tax cut worth £130 a year to thousands of people across the borough. On top of this, 2,500 low-earners will stop paying income tax altogether. This is part of the Liberal Democrats promise to make the first £10,000 of earnings tax free. When completed, this will deliver a tax cut worth £720 to 21 million people across Britain. This means someone working full-time on the minimum wage will have had their income tax bill halved. Commenting, Co-Chair of the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Committee on Business, Innovation and Skills Lorely Burt MP said: "I'm proud that Liberal Democrats did the right thing and made rebalancing the tax system a priority, putting it on the front page of our manifesto. More than a million people will have been lifted out of paying Income Tax all together and over 20m basic-rate taxpayers have received a £330 tax cut since the Coalition Government came into power. "At the same time, Liberal Democrats are making sure the rich pay their fair share, by closing loopholes, introducing a tycoon tax and cracking down on tax avoidance. As we clean up the economic mess Labour left behind, it is right that the broadest shoulders bear the heaviest burdens. Commenting further, she said: "The tax system had gotten increasingly unfair under successive governments over the last few decades, sucking more and more people into paying Income Tax. "It was patently unfair that when Liberal Democrats came into office, millions of low-paid workers were paying a higher proportion of their income in tax than the richest were. We are putting this right by giving tax cuts to the poor and making the rich pay their fair share." Published and Promoted by Claire O'Kane on behalf of Lorely Burt and the Solihull and Meriden Liberal Democrats, all at 81 Warwick Road, Solihull, B92 7HPPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Cardiff Central's Liberal Democrat MP, Jenny Willott, has welcomed the rise in the income tax personal allowance which comes into force today [6th April] that will put £130 back in the pocket of 138,000 low and middle income workers in Cardiff. The rise will also mean that 5,700 of the lowest paid people in the city are lifted out of paying income tax altogether. This comes on top of the previous increase last year which saw 3,900 people lifted out of tax. Commenting Jenny Willott said: "The changes coming into force today will help ease the pressure on many thousands of people across Cardiff who are coping with higher costs of living and will mean that the very lowest paid no longer see their hard earned cash taken back in tax by the Government. "Once again the Liberal Democrats are turning the front page of our manifesto into reality benefiting millions of low and middle income workers across the country. "Today's changes, coupled with the increase we introduced last year has meant a £330 tax cut for 20 million basic rate taxpayers since the Lib Dems took office, and next year will see an even bigger rise. "Whilst Labour in the Assembly and Westminster sit on their hands and refuse to take difficult decisions, and the Conservatives focus on the super rich, the Lib Dems are the only party making a real difference for people in Cardiff and across the UK." Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

On 6 April 2012 the Personal Allowance will be raised for the second year in a row, meaning 153,500 people in Dorset will get a £130 Income Tax cut and the number of the lowest paid people who have been lifted out of paying any Income Tax will reach 7,600. Commenting, Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole said: "The tax system had gotten increasingly unfair under successive governments over the last few decades, sucking more and more people into paying Income Tax. "It was patently unfair that when Liberal Democrats came into office, millions of low-paid workers were paying a higher proportion of their income in tax than the richest were. "I'm proud that Liberal Democrats did the right thing and made rebalancing the tax system a priority, putting it on the front page of our manifesto. More than a million people will have been lifted out of paying Income Tax all together and over 20m basic-rate taxpayers have received a £330 tax cut since the Coalition Government came into power. "At the same time, Liberal Democrats are making sure the rich pay their fair share, by closing loopholes, introducing a tycoon tax and cracking down on tax avoidance. As we clean up the economic mess Labour left behind, it is right that the broadest shoulders bear the heaviest burdens." Notes: The Personal Allowance, also known as the Income Tax threshold, will rise to £8,105 on 6 April 2012, up from £6,475 under Labour. In the early 1970s, the Personal Allowance was worth around 28% of average earnings. By 2010 that had dropped to around 20% as wages had outpaced the increase in the Allowance. Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ETPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Solihull MP Lorely Burt visited a local school this week in order to talk about the new student finance system and answer questions from students about how it works. Mrs Burt spoke with Sixth Formers from St Peters Catholic School in Solihull and explained how the new system should not prevent them from applying to university. Lorely met with sixth formers to discuss the new system of university funding Commenting Mrs Burt said: "It was fantastic to have the chance to sit down with the students today and explain to them what the new system means for them. "That's why I came to St Peter's School today. The new system got a lot of news coverage but individual students will have questions, and it's my job as their MP to give them answers. "There is a lot of misinformation flying around about what the system means for people who want to go to University. I want to make sure that students are not put off going into higher education because of misinformation. "The fact is that repayments will be lower per month than the current system and no one will have to pay anything back until they are earning more than £21,000 after they graduate." Commenting further, St Peter's Headteacher Mrs Frances McGarry said: "We were delighted to welcome Lorely Burt here today to talk about student finance. "The new system has got a lot of coverage in the press but it was good to have Mrs Burt here as it gave our students a great chance to talk to her about their concerns and get answers to their questions." Published and Promoted by Claire O'Kane on behalf of Lorely Burt and the Solihull and Meriden Liberal Democrats, all at 81 Warwick Road, Solihull, B92 7HPPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

On Monday 2 April 2012, the £1bn Youth Contract will start. The Youth Contract was announced last year by Liberal Democrat Leader and Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg to tackle youth unemployment. Lorely Burt has welcomed Nick Clegg's 'Youth Contract' The Youth Contract aims to ensure that all jobless young people are earning or learning again before long-term damage is done. In Solihull, 1,740 18 to 24-year olds are currently in receipt of Jobseeker's Allowance and would stand to benefit from the Youth Contract. The Youth Contract will provide at least 410,000 new work places for 18 to 24-year olds into work over the next three years. This includes 160,000 wage subsidies and 250,000 new work experience placements. A new programme to will help 16 and 17-year olds who are not in employment, education or training (NEETs). This will help the most disengaged of the 17,000 people in the West Midlands get back to school or college, onto an apprenticeship or into a job with training. In addition, there will be at least 20,000 more incentive payments to encourage employers to take on young apprentices in England. Commenting, Solihull MP Lorely Burt said: "In these difficult times Liberal Democrats are doing the right thing and making sure we help those who need it most. "If young people are out of work, the consequences of that will be felt for a long time afterwards. We have to ensure that the young people of today do not have a false start to their careers. "The Youth Contract will help those who need it most through advice, support, training and by giving people in Solihull the experience necessary to be successful in the work place. "While we're clearing up the economic mess that Labour left behind, the Coalition Government is ensuring that our children do not bear the consequences of Labour's mistakes. "As a Liberal Democrat, I am proud that the Coalition Government is doing the right thing to prevent another lost generation." Commenting further, Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg said: `"Youth unemployment is a slow-burn social disaster and an economic waste. "We can't lose the skills and talent of our young people - right when we need them most. We need the next generation to help us build a new economy. "The aim of the Youth Contract is to get every unemployed young person earning or learning again before long-term damage is done, giving them the skills for a lifetime of work. "This is a £1bn package and it will get young people into proper, lasting jobs." Published and Promoted by Claire O'Kane on behalf of Lorely Burt and the Solihull and Meriden Liberal Democrats, all at 81 Warwick Road, Solihull, B92 7HPPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Great news at the beginning of this week for schools in Haringey. After years of our campaign to get fairer funding, the coalition government has agreed to adjust the funding formula.

For decades Haringey's schools have had to pay Inner London costs without Inner London funding - leaving local pupils short-changed. For 13 years the Labour Government did nothing about this injustice and when I launched our campaign back in 2007 I was a lone voice. But thanks to the huge support from the thousands of local Haringey residents who responded to our leaflets and emails and signed our petitions this campaign snowballed.

The change brings us into line with other boroughs like Hackney and Islington in terms of the inner / outer inequality. As a result of this campaign, schools in Haringey will now receive more funding per pupil - a great campaign success story!

However the full details of the new funding formula have not been published yet, so I've written to the Education Secretary welcoming the promised changes but demanding the very best deal for Haringey. Rest assured the campaign will continue until our schools have got the fair funding they deserve.

Brent Central MP Sarah Teather has criticised tube bosses for misleading Brent residents over improvements to the Jubilee line A new timetable for the Jubilee line was introduced on 25 March which Boris Johnson had promised would deliver 30 trains per hour in both directions at the busiest times. However, the new timetable shows that this will only be the case for about 30 minutes. To make matters worse, in 2005 the then Managing Director of London Underground, Tim O'Toole, told the House of Commons Transport Committee that the Jubilee line upgrades would see the frequency of trains per hour on the line increase to 33 by 2012. Concerns over the reliability of the Jubilee line also persist. As a key route to the Olympic Park, the Jubilee line is expected to be significantly busier than usual throughout the games. However, on the Friday before the new timetable was introduced, more than 350 passengers had to be walked to safety along tunnels following points failures at Waterloo and London Bridge. This followed major disruption the day before when a signal failure at North Greenwich disrupted the entire line. Tube users in Ms Teather's constituency repeatedly faced severe disruption while the upgrade work took place. Since 2004, the Jubilee line was closed at the weekend 222 times, including disruption on 50 weekends during 2009. Commenting, local Lib Dem MP Sarah Teather said "After 8 years of upgrade work it is very disappointing that commuters in my constituency won't even get 30 trains for a full hour every morning. This isn't what we were promised when the upgrade began. "Tube users in Brent have had to put up with a five day tube service while still paying for a seven day one and I'm sure they will feel let down by this news. "With less than four months to go until the start of the Olympics the continued reliability issues are a major concern. The Mayor and TfL must provide assurances that the recent delays will not be repeated." Published and promoted by Sarah Teather and Brent Liberal Democrats, 70 Walm Lane, Willesden Green, London NW2 4RAPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Local campaigner Alison Hopkins has become Brent's newest councillor after winning the by-election in Dollis Hill. The Liberal Democrat candidate triumphed by 37 votes in the highly marginal ward New Lib Dem Council Alison Hopkins (2nd from right) campaigning with Sarah Teather MP and Baroness Ludford MEP Alison, who has lived in Dollis Hill for over 55 years, has campaigned against the Labour Council's plans to close half of the libraries in Brent. These include Cricklewood and Neasden libraries which, until their closure, served local residents Alison is also one of the founding members of the Coalition for a Sustainable Brent Cross Cricklewood Regeneration, a campaign group that has worked with Brent Central MP Sarah Teather to fight Barnet's plans to build a massive rubbish dump on the doorstep of Dollis Hill. The win in Dollis Hill is the first Lib Dem victory against Labour in London since the last General Election. The 37 vote majority was 10 votes higher than in 2010. The by-election was held following the death of Lib Dem councillor Alec Castle. Commenting, local Lib Dem MP Sarah Teather said: "It's great news that Alison has been elected as the new councillor for Dollis Hill. I know she'll be a fantastic champion for local people. "This result shows that the Labour Council can't just run roughshod over the needs and wishes of local people and expect to get away with it." Published and promoted by Sarah Teather and Brent Liberal Democrats, 70 Walm Lane, Willesden Green, London NW2 4RAPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Annette Brooke has welcomed today's statement to Parliament by Planning Minister Greg Clark. The MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, and Co-Chair of the Liberal Democrat DCLG Policy Committee said: "During the consultation period, I and my colleagues in the Lib Dem Policy Committee wrote a strong response setting out our worries concerning the document. I am pleased to say that it seems as though the Government has taken on board our concerns, and at first sight the document looks much improved. It is reassuring that along with a commitment to sustainable development, the five principles of the UK Sustainable Development Strategy are included in the document. The document now makes clear that all three pillars - economic, social and environmental, will be taken together in a balanced way. I am pleased to see a commitment to develop brownfield sites first, and a much needed transition period, which was something entirely necessary to enable local authorities to work with the new framework. It appears that lots of listening on the part of the Government has taken place. I will be taking time to look more closely at the final document, as the devil could be in the detail. But I am encouraged by what I have seen and heard today, and am proud of the role I and the Lib Dem DCLG Policy Committee have played in the process." Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ETPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Solihull MP Lorely Burt and local Liberal Democrats are urging Solihull Council to use new powers in order to tackle the growing problem of pavement parking across the borough. Councillor Claire O'Kane and Lorely Burt are launching a campaign to tackle parking problems in Solihull Olton Ward Councillor Claire O'Kane will today [Tuesday 27th March] put forward a motion urging the council to use the powers given to them by Liberal Democrat Transport Minister Norman Baker, in order to tackle pavement parking 'hot-spots' across the borough. Commenting Councillor O'Kane said: "I knock on doors regularly in my ward and the one issue that comes up all the time is people parking on pavements. "Not only does create problems for local residents but also causes damage to our pavement and forces the council to spend money repairing the damaged pavements. "By using the new powers, the council can help keep local residents safe and save taxpayers money at the same time. It is a no-brainer." Commenting further, Solihull MP Lorely Burt said: "Pavement parking is a nuisance for local residents and pedestrians. It restricts access for people using the pavement and makes it especially difficult for wheelchair users or people with pushchairs. "This leads to the very dangerous situation of them having to walk in the road, which is obviously something we should not be forcing people to do. "The coalition Government have given local authorities the power to introduce pavement parking bans for particular stretches of road and I hope that the council will look at using them to tackle some of the hot spots." Published and Promoted by Claire O'Kane on behalf of Lorely Burt and the Solihull and Meriden Liberal Democrats, all at 81 Warwick Road, Solihull, B92 7HPPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Now that the dust has settled from last week's Budget, I thought I'd drop you an email setting out what the budget, and other recent changes, mean for people inCardiff. This budget shows the influence that Liberal Democrats have had in Government. There is an awful lot to be proud of, in particular the fact that even in difficult economic times, we have delivered the biggest increase in the income tax personal allowance in 30 years, putting money into the pockets of over 20 million working families across theUK. The personal allowance increase has come straight from the Lib Dem Manifesto into the Chancellor's Red Book. After decades of Lib Dems working hard locally but without a strong national voice, our policies are now being implemented and are helping people across the country. So what does this mean for people inCardiff? 138,000 people in Cardiff will see a £130 tax cut this April and 5,700 people will be lifted out of paying income tax altogether 134,000 people in our city will get another £220 tax cut next April and a further 4,930 low income households will no longer pay income tax This is a huge boost to hard working low and middle income families, but it is not the only thing the Coalition Government is delivering thanks to the Lib Dems: In April the Basic State Pension will rise by £5.31, the largest cash increase ever, thanks to the Lib Dem's 'Triple Lock' on Pensions. The Government will soon introduce a new £140-a-week flat rate pension, which will stop millions of older people, particularly women, having to apply for means-tested top-up benefits. The welfare grant and council tax relief for families of the armed forces will be doubled. Households where one member earns over £60,000 will no longer receive Child Benefit. This Budget is also good for the businesses thatCardiffrelies on: Cardiff will get up to £12 million to fund new ultra-fast broadband for 142,000 residents and 10,000 businesses as well as high-speed wireless connectivity for 196,000 more residents. Next month businesses will see Corporation Tax cut to 24%. By 2014 Corporation Tax will be cut to just 22% helping boost businesses in Cardiff. The Government is simplifying the tax system for small businesses with a turnover under £77,000 making life easier. The Government will also pilot new ways to help young entrepreneurs by supporting young people with the start up costs of setting up a new business. April will also see the start of the Youth Contract, which will invest £1 billion across the UK to get young people into work. In difficult economic times it's vital we make sure we can pay for all these changes. That's why the Government is asking the rich to pay more by: Increasing the level of stamp duty on new homes worth over £2 million to 7%. Cracking down on stamp duty avoidance by the super rich. Increasing the Bank Levy to raise £2.5 billion a year from banks. All of this will raise an estimated five times more than the 50p top rate of income tax, which was all too easy to avoid. However, this isn't all: the Government has committed to working with the Welsh Government to examine the case for electrification of the Valleys train line, and is to launch a £100 million fund to develop new research at universities, which I'm sure will benefit institutions in Cardiff. I won't pretend that the Budget is perfect. In coalition compromises will always be made. Different parties have different priorities: for the Conservatives it was cutting the 50p tax rate for millionaires, for the Lib Dems it was cutting tax rates for those on low and middle incomes and making sure that the rich pay their fair share. I believe that we can be proud of what Liberal Democrats have delivered for people in Cardiff and across theUK. Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Jenny Willott, the Liberal Democrat MP for Cardiff Central, has today called on people in Cardiff to help the Prostate Cancer Charity develop a new set of national standards for prostate cancer care. The charity has compiled a draft set of standards aimed at improving the treatment and care of people with prostate cancer across the UK, and is now asking members of the public with experience of prostate cancer to help finalise the standards. Once finalised the Prostate Cancer Charity will work with officials in Whitehall and the Welsh Government to implement the new standards across the country. Backing the call, Jenny Willott said: 'Prostate Cancer is the most common form of cancer in men across the UK. Here in Wales almost 166 men in every 100,000 are affected so it's incredibly important that people can access the care they need. "That's why I hope that those of my constituents who have suffered from prostate cancer, or have friends and loved ones who have been affected, will take the Prostate Cancer Charity's survey to help create a national set of standards. "I also hope that the Welsh and UK Governments will take on board this work to develop a comprehensive strategy to tackle prostate cancer in the future." People can take the survey by going to: www.prostate-cancer.org.uk/takeaction Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Jenny Willott, the Liberal Democrat MP for Cardiff Central, has today welcomed Government proposals to bring in a minimum price for alcohol, calling them a big step forward in tackling dangerous drinking habits. Jenny has campaigned for minimum pricing since 2009 when figures showed that around 7000 people in Wales could die due to alcohol by 2019. The Government is consulting on introducing a minimum price of 40p per unit of alcohol. This would not increase the prices people pay in pubs but would tackle low and below cost supermarket offers which encourage dangerous drinking. Commenting Jenny said: "I am delighted that the Coalition Government is throwing its weight behind a minimum price for alcohol. This is an idea that is long overdue and could have a real impact on alcohol related deaths in Wales and across the country. "The plans would also support our local pubs, which encourage responsible drinking, by ensuring supermarkets can't sell cheap, high alcohol content ciders and spirits at extremely low prices. "If we are to reduce anti-social behaviour and tackle the current high number of alcohol-related injuries and deaths then we must end pocket money prices for alcohol at supermarkets and invest in treatment and support for those who do have difficulties with drink." Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Annette at the World Water event last year. Today is World Water Day and to mark it I am putting my support behind international charity WaterAid's Water Works campaign. In Mid Dorset and North Poole a ready supply of safe water is a necessity that we are lucky enough to take for granted. Preventable diseases caused by dirty water and poor sanitation are the biggest killer of children in Africa, and illness and hours spent collecting water from distant sources keep children out of school and prevent adults from earning a living. Safe water and sanitation transform lives, improve health and lifts communities out of poverty. Earlier this month we learnt that the world has met a really important target in the fight to improve water access - the UN's Millennium Development Goal on Water. This is welcome news, showing that aid is working and that we are making steps toward eradicating poverty. However, there is still a long way to go to ensure that everyone has access to safe water. 783 million people are still without even basic water services and progress towards the UN's target for proper sanitation is far too slow - it will currently take around 350 years for everyone in Africa to have access to adequate sanitation. Not having these essential services traps people in a cycle of poverty, so we in the UK and other countries need to concentrate our efforts on bringing water and sanitation to all. This World Water Day, I am proud to support international charity WaterAid's campaign, Water Works. I want to highlight the life changing impact of safe water and sanitation ahead of the vital High Level Meeting on water and sanitation that is happening in Washington DC next month. The UK Government is critical to the success of this meeting and our Secretary of State for International Development, Andrew Mitchell, plans to attend. You too can put your support towards this campaign at www.wateraid.org/waterworks. Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ETPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

As part of the Budget, the Chancellor has announced that from next year, the Income Tax threshold will be raised further, ensuring that no one pays any income tax on the first £9,205 they earn. Across Dorset that means 13,470 people will be lifted out of paying Income Tax all together as well as a £220 tax cut for 128,030. This is on top of tax cuts of £200 last year and a further £130 next month. Commenting, Annette Brooke MP said: "The Chancellor has done the right thing in listening to Liberal Democrat calls for the Income Tax threshold to be raised further. "As a Liberal Democrat, I want to see a fairer tax system where help is provided for those who need it most and where the richest pay their fair share. "Raising the Income Tax threshold to £9,205 will help average working people in Mid Dorset and North Poole who have been struggling with bills and higher cost of living." Commenting further, Liberal Democrat Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Danny Alexander said: "Liberal Democrats have been clear in our priorities for the Budget. We wanted to see a Budget for the millions, not the millionaires. "The Coalition Government inherited an unfair tax system from Labour, who in their 13 years hit ordinary working families hardest by abolishing the 10p tax rate while letting tycoons get away with shameless tax avoidance. "Liberal Democrats in the Coalition Government are doing the right thing to clear up the mess Labour left behind, making sure the wealthiest pay their fair share by clamping down on tax avoidance, introducing a 'tycoon tax' and putting an end to stamp duty dodging by the super rich." "Raising the Income Tax threshold is a key Liberal Democrat commitment that the Coalition Government is implementing. The announcement in the Budget will mean almost 2m people will be taken out of paying Income Tax all together in the UK and give nearly 21m people a £220 tax cut." Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ETPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Over 20 million working people will be better off next year after Liberal Democrats in the Coalition Government delivered the biggest ever increase in the income tax personal allowance in the Budget. The massive £3.5bn tax cut for working people delivers: The biggest ever single uplift in the tax threshold A personal allowance of £9,205 in April 2013 21 million working people getting an extra £220 tax cut Brings the total tax cut for basic rate tax payers to £550 Brings the total number of people lifted out of tax to 2 million. The Liberal Democrats have ensured this is a budget for the millions not for the millionaires. That's why the biggest move in this Budget is a tax cut for ordinary workers, going further and faster towards the Liberal Democrat goal of making the first ten thousand pounds you earn tax-free. From a pledge on the front page of our 2010 manifesto directly to the pockets of working people. Thanks to the Liberal Democrats, people working full time earning the minimum wage will have seen their income tax bill cut in half. We have delivered on Nick Clegg's pledge to go "further and faster" on the personal tax allowance. This means that 21m basic rate taxpayers will get an extra £220 cut in their income tax bills and a further 840,000 people will be taken out of paying income tax altogether. Last years announcement that Child Benefit would be withdrawn from higher-rate tax payers caused many people to question the rules - especially for one earner familes. The budget today introduced a higher limit before the benefit is withdrawn and a "taper" to make the scheme. The Liberal Democrats were also commited to making sure that this was a budget that saw those earning most paying their fair share. New taxes on the very richest will raise FIVE times as much from the super-rich as next years cut on the top rate of tax from 50p to 45p will cost: Stamp duty increased to 7% for multi-million pound homes New 15% tax on companies buying property over £2m Crack-down on tax avoidance for the richest To stimulate the economy, there are new measures to help businesses across the country: Reducing red-tape on business taxes for small business Cutting corporation tax to help British business Getting more money from the banks to loan more to British businesses Liberal Democrat Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Danny Alexander, said: "As part of the Coalition budget deal, we agreed to reduce the top rate of tax to 45p - but only after securing a series of new taxes on the wealthy that pay for it five times over. "Labour's 50p rate turned out not to work effectively. By introducing taxes that do work, like a tycoon tax, raising stamp duty, blocking stamp duty avoidance, and getting non-resident companies to pay capital gains tax on their residential property, we have secured real progress on the taxation of wealth. This is a budget for the many, not the few. "We've stuck to our tough but necessary plan to deal with this country's financial problems. Britain can't afford unfunded giveaways - unlike the last Labour government, we have made sure everything is paid for. "The Budget shows real progress on our commitments to infrastructure - on roads, railways, and renewable energy. Tougher green taxes on company cars will help cut emissions as well as raising money. "We've also secured new support for our creative and aerospace industries, technology investment and getting the best new ideas from our Universities into production. This, and further business tax simplification, means that we have delivered a budget for growth as well as fairness." Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Commenting on today's Budget, Jenny Willott, the Liberal Democrat MP for Cardiff Central, welcomed tax reductions for people on low and middle incomes. Jenny said: "Today the Chancellor announced the biggest increase in the income tax personal allowance in thirty years, increasing the allowance by £1,100 to £9,205. "This reduces the taxes of 1.1 million people across Wales and means 42,000 people will be lifted out of paying income tax altogether. Thanks to the Liberal Democrats in Government, those on the minimum wage have seen their income tax bill cut in half since the Coalition took office." Commenting on other measures in the Budget, Jenny said: "This Budget is good news for Cardiff. The Chancellor announced that our city will receive £12 million for ultra-fast broadband, and that Westminster will work with the Welsh Government to look at electrification of the Valleys railway lines. "The Coalition is doing all this whilst making sure that rich pay more. The Government is introducing measures that mean the richest in society will pay five times more than they currently do through the 50p highest rate of tax. "This Budget has the Lib Dems stamped all over it. It shows the Government's dedication to helping struggling families and proves that the Lib Dems are making a real difference in Government." Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Local Lib Dem MP Sarah Teather has called on the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, and Brent Council to clean up the air that local residents are forced to breath. In recent weeks pollution at Neasden Lane, in the heart of Ms Teather's Brent Central constituency, has reached dangerously high levels. The quality of air in Neasden Lane has frequently been shown to be the worst in London and last week the pollution index hit 10 (the maximum level). At pollution levels this high, even normally fit and healthy individuals can find it hard to breath. Sarah Teather has written to the Mayor and Brent Council urging them to take urgent action to address the high levels of pollutants. As well as being in close proximity to the very busy North Circular, air quality on Neasden Lane has also suffered due to activity at Neasden Goods Yard. The high levels of pollution came a day after the Mayor revealed that last year over 4,000 deaths in the capital could be attributed to poor air quality. Mr Johnson has also received criticism for his decision to deploy eight new buses based on the old Routemaster. The new buses cost £1.4 million each, enough to buy seven conventional double-decker buses. Brian Paddick, the Liberal Democrat Mayoral candidate, has said that he would electrify London's entire bus fleet and help small and medium-sized businesses upgrade their vehicles to low carbon models. Commenting, Brent Central MP Sarah Teather said: "The shocking state of air quality around Neasden Lane has been a problem for local people for far too long. It's a major health risk for everyone who lives, works or shops in the area. "Boris Johnson has frequently spoken about his green credentials, but his empty words of are little use to my constituents suffering from damaging health problems. "Instead of the stream of gimmicks we've witnessed under Boris, we need a Mayor with significant plans for cleaning up London's appalling air." Published and promoted by Sarah Teather and Brent Liberal Democrats, 70 Walm Lane, Willesden Green, London NW2 4RAPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Liberal Democrat MP for Cardiff Central Jenny Willott is encouraging sports fans in cardiff Central to attend become Unified Sports® Coaches, by attending the free Unified Sports® Seminar at the Sport Wales National Centre, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff on Saturday 31st March 2012. Special Olympics Great Britain is running a nationwide search for sports fans with a heart willing to make a difference in their community. With the whole country sports-mad with the Olympics, the national charity is hoping to create a new generation of coaches for the future with six free Unified Sports® Seminars held across Great Britain in Cardiff (31/03), Birmingham (21/04), Middlesbrough (12/05), London (26/05), Glasgow (09/06) and Runcorn (23/06). Unified Sports® breaks down social barriers between people with disabilities and those without, both on and off the field of play. By creating mixed teams, the scheme promotes social interaction and full inclusion. It teaches young people through sport that being different is okay. Jason Cornwell, Special Olympics GB Football and Unified Sports® Manager comments "It's a great opportunity to give children and adults with learning disabilities a sporting chance. Most people have never met someone with a learning disability. These seminars and the Unified Sports® programme will change the way communities think about people who are different." The Unified Sports® football programme was launched in 2008 at the House of Commons with England Ladies Football coach Hope Powell and Sir Matthew Pinsent and has continued to grow over the years to now include more than 600 participants. Last month, Special Olympics GB sponsor Coca-Cola launched a national Unified Sports® initiative with NBA and England Basketball legend John Amaechi to expand the Unified Sports® programme into other team sports including basketball, table tennis, tennis, badminton (doubles) and sailing delivered through sport centres, clubs and communities all over the country. Coca-Cola is the only Olympic Worldwide partner to sponsor all three Olympic movements. Coca-Cola GB believes that helping to expand the Unified Sports® programme will inspire a legacy of increased grassroots sports participation and make it easier for people with learning disabilities to take part and compete in sport in their communities. The Unified Sports® Seminars are free to Sports Fans eager to coach or get involved, as well as current team sports coaches, sports development officers and managers, sports leaders, club and group leaders, National Governing Body representatives (either national, regional or local), and Local Authority representatives. Saturday 31st March - Sport Wales National Centre, Sophia Gardens, CF11 9SW Contacts: To RSVP or for more information: Jason Cornwell Jason.cornwell@sogb.org.uk Direct Dial: 020 7375 7616 +44 (0) 07500 969 343 Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Liberal Democrat MP for Cardiff Central Jenny Willott MP has nominated local band Hullabaloo to represent Cardiff Central in this years Rock the House competition. Rock the House is a Parliamentary live music and venue competition founded by Mike Weatherley MP. The competition celebrates the best in unsigned artists and helps raise political awareness of the importance of the music industry to employment and overseas earnings. Successful nominees will go forward to the national competition which will be judged by a panel of international music industry experts and musicians and the finalists will be announced on Friday 18th May. The finalists will take part in a battle of the bands to determine the winner on Wednesday 30th May and the winner in each category will perform live at a final competition reception on the Terrace at the House of Commons in the evening. Jenny commented: "I am pleased to nominate Hullabaloo as the Cardiff Central representative for the Rock the House competition. It is great to see a band from the constituency taking part and I wish them all the best for the competition." More information about Hullabaloo can be found on their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/hullabalooband Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Solihull MP Lorely Burt has commented on the news that the Olympic Torch will be passing through the streets of Solihull on day 44 of its nationwide journey ahead of the London Olympics. The official street-by-street route was confirmed today by the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) and will see the torch travel down Streetsbrook Road to the town centre then onto High Street, Church Hill Road, Prince's Way and Blossomfield Road on Sunday July 1st 2012. Commenting, Mrs Burt said: "The Olympics will be an exciting time for the UK and I know residents up and down the country are looking forward to seeing the games next summer. "But the chance to see the torch up close and personal is a once in a lifetime chance and it is fantastic that the organisers have been able to get the torch to so many different parts of the UK, including here in Solihull. "95% of the population will be within 10 miles of the torch, but we're fortunate enough to have to come right to our doorstep. "I know our local residents will be lining the streets for a chance to glimpse the torch and I'll be right alongside them." Published and Promoted by Claire O'Kane on behalf of Lorely Burt and the Solihull and Meriden Liberal Democrats, all at 81 Warwick Road, Solihull, B92 7HPPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

It was a busy day yesterday - launching the Coalition's consultation which outlines plans to enable same-sex couples to have a civil marriage ceremony. You can access a copy of the full consultation document on the Home Office website - here .

The Coaltion Government recognises that there are a wide range of views on this issue and wants to hear from all perspectives. So please send in your views by completing a simple, online survey available here .

You can follow this on twitter at #equalcivilmarriage.

If you have any queries, please email Holly.Riley

Solihull MP Lorely Burt has welcomed news that 6,630 homes in Solihull have received free loft or cavity wall insulation since 2008, according to recently released figures. Cavity Wall insulation helps reduce energy bills Under the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT) energy companies are obliged to help households in England and Wales reduce their use of electricity and gas to lower their carbon emissions. Suppliers are required to concentrate at least 40% of their activity on vulnerable and low-income households, such as people over 70. Commenting, Lorely Burt said: "These figures reveal how going green can save people money. Thanks to this duty on energy companies to insulate houses without cost to the homeowner, many households will have lower bills and can keep their houses warmer. "From this autumn, Liberal Democrats have ensured the Green Deal will continue this work. The Green Deal will mean every home and business in Solihull is properly insulated over the coming years. "With the Green Deal, the Coalition Government is doing the right thing for the environment, household budgets and the economy. Not only does this mean lower energy bills for everyone but this huge investment will create green jobs and investment which leave a lasting legacy." Published and Promoted by Claire O'Kane on behalf of Lorely Burt and the Solihull and Meriden Liberal Democrats, all at 81 Warwick Road, Solihull, B92 7HPPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Sarah Teather MP has congratulated a local Primary School teacher on receiving a national award for advancing education through the use of ICT. Ophelia Vanderpuye, Head of ICT at Oakington Manor Primary School, Brent, was announced as the winner of the Primary Award at the Naace Impact Awards last weekend. Ms Vanderpuye was nominated for the award as a result of her work integrating technology into education. As well as incorporating 3D technology into classroom activities, Ms Vanderpuye has also put her considerable ICT skills to use with the Brent Nature Forum - of which she is a founder member - to help teach local pupils about nature and conserving the environment. In the video to support Ophelia's nomination, pupils at Oakington Manor Primary School - which was awarded the Naace ICT Mark last year - praised their ICT teacher for using technology to make lessons more interesting. There was also support for Ms Vanderpuye from teaching colleagues in Denmark and Nigeria. The winners of the Naace ICT Impact Awards were announced at the Naace Strategic Conference Impact Awards Dinner on Friday 9 March at Leicester Marriot Hotel, Leicester. Naace is a membership organisation and charity and supports schools and individuals in advancing education through ICT. Commenting, Brent Central MP Sarah Teather: "It is fantastic that Ophelia has been rewarded for her outstanding work and innovative use of ICT. I am certain that she will be an inspiration for other teachers across Brent and the country. "Ms Vanderpuye has used technology to find wonderful new ways to help engage pupils in their work. She should be very proud of her achievements and long may her good work continue." Published and promoted by Sarah Teather and Brent Liberal Democrats, 70 Walm Lane, Willesden Green, London NW2 4RAPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Solihull MP Lorely Burt today [Wednesday] asked Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg what steps the Government was taking to promote the presence of women on boards of major companies. Lorely Burt spoke up in Prime Ministers Questions today to raise the issue Mrs Burt asked the question during Prime Ministers Questions today, where Nick Clegg was standing in whilst David Cameron was visiting the United States. Commenting, Co-Chair of the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Committee on Business, Innovation and Skills, Mrs Burt said: "I welcome the news that the proportion of women on the boards of FTSE 100 companies is now 15%, up from 12.6% this time last year. "It is widely recognised that having a diverse make up at boardroom level is beneficial to a company's bottom line and I am hopeful that the Government can press on so that we can achieve our 25% target by 2015. "By increasing the diversity of our boards we can increase their productivity and provide the jobs and growth that our economy needs." In response to Mrs Burt's question, Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg agreed that there was a greater need for better representation, saying: "It is excellent news that there has been real progress on this issue, far more progress than was delivered by 13 years under Labour, to get more women onto our boards. I think that everybody now agrees that having more women on boards is good for all of the companies involved. "There was a woefully unrepresentative mix on our boards and I very much hope that we can continue to apply the right kind voluntary pressure to see that increase in the future." Published and Promoted by Claire O'Kane on behalf of Lorely Burt and the Solihull and Meriden Liberal Democrats, all at 81 Warwick Road, Solihull, B92 7HPPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, has backed 'The Big Switch' campaign for energy customers to get a cheaper deal. The Big Switch, launched last month by Which? and 38 Degrees, is a completely new way for people to buy their energy. This will be the first time in the UK that a large number of people will join together as a group to negotiate a deal with energy companies. Annette is urging local people to join the more than 200,000-strong group who have already signed up to The Big Switch, and to use their collective power to cut their energy bills and help shake up the market. Which? has invited all energy companies to take part and will be negotiating with them to secure the cheapest deal. Energy companies will be asked to submit a market leading deal and take part in a reverse auction. Once we've secured a deal, Which? will contact everyone who signed up with a personalised savings estimate. Which? will handle the switching process, making it as quick and easy as possible. People can join The Big Switch until 31 March via www.whichbigswitch.co.uk Annette said: "The Big Switch is a great campaign to help consumers get a better deal. Many vulnerable people in my constituency are crippled by high energy bills, and so I am pleased to support this campaign and encourage people in Mid Dorset and North Poole to get involved in The Big Switch campaign." Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ETPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Jenny Willott, Lib Dem MP for Cardiff Central and Eluned Parrott, Lib Dem AM for the South Wales Central Region, will be holding a joint advice surgery on Friday 16th March with a Which? energy expert. The advice surgery is part of the Which? Live Energy Event inCardiff and it will give constituents the opportunity to discuss energy related issues with their local Lib Dem representatives. The event will take place between 11.30-12.30 on Friday 16th March in St Davids Shopping Centre. No appointment is necessary. Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Cardiff Central's Liberal Democrat MP, Jenny Willott, has today welcome figures showing that over 5000 homes in Cardiff Central have received free loft or cavity wall insulation since 2008. Under the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT) energy companies are obliged to help households in Wales reduce their use of electricity and gas to lower their carbon emissions. Suppliers are required to concentrate at least 40% of their activity on vulnerable and low-income households, such as people over 70. In Cardiff Central 5,111 households have benefited from wall or loft insulation with 29,000 people benefiting across Cardiff as a whole. Commenting, Jenny said: "These figures show that going green can save people money. Thanks to this duty on energy companies to insulate houses without cost to the homeowner, many households will have lower bills and can keep their houses warmer. "From this autumn, Liberal Democrats have ensured the Green Deal will continue this work. The Green Deal will mean every home and business in Cardiff is properly insulated over the coming years. "With the Green Deal, the Coalition Government is doing the right thing for the environment, household budgets and the economy. Not only does this mean lower energy bills for everyone but this huge investment will create green jobs and investment which leave a lasting legacy." Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, has been thanked by The Royal British Legion for taking the time to learn about its welfare support for the whole Armed Forces family. Annette Brooke MP attended an event at the House of Commons organised by The Royal British Legion to highlight their important work. At the event, Annette Brooke MP was told about the Legion's work to improve the welfare of the Armed Forces family in the local area. Tim Purdon the Legion's Southern Regional Manager, said, "It was great to see Annette Brooke, and we really appreciated her making the time to drop in. Many people don't realise that we spend nearly £1.4 million a week on helping both the serving and the ex-Service communities, including their families, so we were delighted to tell her about the range of services we provide. We help everyone from a child of a serving family needing an adventure break to a young entrepreneur needing advice and assistance to be his own boss." Annette Brooke MP said, "I was really pleased to see my local Regional Manager and Legion Welfare staff. The Legion does very important welfare work for some of my most vulnerable constituents in both the serving and ex-Service communities. It is vital that we, as a nation, are there for those serving in current conflicts, and for the families of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. I was grateful for the opportunity to learn more about how the Legion stands shoulder to shoulder with all who serve. They deserve as much support as we can give them". Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ETPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole is working with children's continence charity Education and Resources for Improving Childhood Continence and the Paediatric Continence Forum on a campaign to establish better standards for school toilets and washing facilities. The Government plans to remove regulation of school toilets and washing facilities in the spring. Pupils' facilities are already held to lower standards than adult employees. This standards gap will now widen, raising serious concerns about children's health. ERIC and the PCF presented Annette with a petition in the form of a giant toilet roll, signed by over 1,000 parents, children and health professionals calling on the Government to rethink their plans. Annette said: "School toilets affect children's physical and psychological health and wellbeing. We must ensure there are adequate facilities available for children, so that children aren't put off using the toilet at school." Director of ERIC, Jenny Perez said, "Bizarrely, teachers' toilet facilities are protected in law but there are no minimum standards-no bog standard-for pupils' toilets. Schools are not even obliged to provide soap or toilet paper. Now the government wants to cut the one regulation there is-the minimum number of toilets per number of pupils." "Inadequate facilities pose an infection risk and can cause children to avoid going to the toilet, which leads to continence problems. Getting the School Premises Regulations right will improve health outcomes for all children including those with continence issues." Notes: (1) A large randomised study of school facilities in the UK carried out in 2003 by the CPHVA and ERIC found that a third of schools did not have soap in their bathrooms, over a third had no toilet paper, over a third had faulty cubicles that were missing locks or seats, and over half had no disabled bathrooms available to students. (2) Results from a survey carried out by ERIC and Netmums in November: 25% of pupils said they avoid going to the toilet because they are dirty 31% of pupils said they had toilets with broken locks 19% of pupils avoid drinking so they don't have to go to the toilet 53% of parents felt their child does not drink enough at school 91% of parents thoughts pupil toilets should be cleaned twice a day or more 91% of parents thought that cleanliness/condition of pupil toilets should be a priority for schools Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ETPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Liberal Democrat Leader Nick Clegg used his speech to the Party's Spring conference in NewcastleGateshead to call for the forthcoming budget to be a "budget for fairness" and pledged that it would help working familes. The Deputy Prime Minister pledged that by 2015 Britain would have seen an end to control orders, the first gay marriages and the first elections to the House of Lords. Nick Clegg's conference speech in full: This year will show the best of Britain. The Olympics and the Diamond Jubilee, a nation proud of our past, but with our face to the future. A nation that treasures liberty, honours hard work and values fair play and fair chances. That is the character of our country: strong, confident, united. And our character as a nation is being tested, because even in this year of celebration families are under pressure, worrying about paying their bills, about keeping their jobs, about the future. The road to full recovery for our economy will be long, and it will be hard. Anybody who says there is a quick or easy way out is kidding themselves. So the Coalition Government is working hard to clean up after the financial storm of 2008. Sweeping up Labour's mess and keeping our economy safe. At times like these, we must pull together. Not let ourselves be pulled apart. Pull together as one nation. A liberal nation because that is the spirit of Britain. Some people think there is something slightly un-British about liberalism. But this country, our country, is the home of liberty. And we Liberal Democrats are heirs to the great, British liberal cause. I am proud that now, in this Coalition Government, Liberal Democrats are repairing Labour's industrial-scale destruction of liberty. Reversing 28 days of detention without trial, destroying the DNA records of innocent people held by the state, ending the illiberal nonsense of ID cards. British liberties restored by British liberals. Before 2015, because of us there will be: the first gay marriage - and an end to child detention the first bank levy - an end to huge tax loopholes for the rich the first elections to House of Lords - an end to Control Orders the first coalition government in our lifetimes ...and an end to the myth that Liberal Democrats can't govern. We are governing to fix our economy. We are governing to fight for fairness. We are in government - and we are on your side. So yes, these are hard times. But this will be a good year for a great nation. A good year for Britain. But let me tell you, this will be a good year for British liberalism too. Our biggest challenge is to rescue our economy. We need to sort out the financial mess Labour left us. But we need economic reform too. We need a new economy that serves not one square mile, but one nation. Not creative accounting, but creative industries. Not the City, but all our cities. Healing the divide between North and South. That's why our Regional Growth Fund - that Ian Wrigglesworth has helped to lead - is investing £2.4 billion. Creating more than 300 hundred thousand jobs in the areas that need them most. And we will bring sanity and responsibility to our banking sector. That's why we've put up the bank levy. And why we are protecting high street banks from risky investments. We will free our cities. That's why we are striking deals with our biggest cities: Sheffield and Manchester Liverpool and Leeds Bristol and Birmingham Nottingham and Newcastle Giving all of these great cities new powers and new opportunities, to be the engines of growth again. And we will rebalance power in the workplace. That's why I want us to build a 'John Lewis' economy, where workers have a real stake. Not capital versus labour, bosses versus workers but modern enterprises built on shared endeavour and shared profit. An old liberal idea to build a new liberal economy. And a sustainable economy, one that protects the environment. Tackling climate change, green jobs for the future, green apprenticeships and a Green Deal to cut energy bills. Some say we have to choose between boosting growth and being green. What a load of rubbish. Going for growth means going green. The race is on to lead the world in clean energy. The new economic powerhouses - China, India, Brazil - are competing. So the choice for the UK is simple: wake up, or end up playing catch up. Going green is not a luxury for the good times. It is the best road out of the bad times. Our party is the green party of government. We have always been a green party. And let me tell you this: we always will be a green party because we need an economy fit for the future to pull us out of this economic downturn. And in these hard times, we have to look out for each other. That's why I fought so hard for benefits to be increased fully in line with inflation. The biggest cash rise ever in the basic state pension because we promised to look after pensioners. And we will. Benefits for the unemployed were protected, too. Not everyone agreed with me on this, if you believed some of the stories. You would think these benefits are unlimited handouts for so-called "scroungers". But these are benefits for ordinary people. Many of them laid off through no fault of their own and who strive to get back into work. Most people who claim Job Seekers Allowance are off benefits within three months. They don't all sit there waiting for the next welfare cheque. That is a dangerous myth, that dishonours those down on their luck. A friend of mine recently shared his memories of his father becoming unemployed. His Dad signed on but every day, he set the alarm for the same time as he had done for his job. He got up, shaved, put on a shirt and tie and sat at the kitchen table, working to get a job. And my friend said: "I've never been more proud of my Dad". So let's never forget. Unemployment benefits are benefits for people who fall on hard times and hard times are not the moment to slash them. But if you are on benefit, you owe it to the nation, to yourself, and to your family to strain every sinew to find a job. To get up every day, just like my friend's Dad at the kitchen table and work at finding a job. That's why I am such strong supporter of the basic idea driving the Coalition's welfare reforms to make work pay, boost independence and give real help finding a job rather than leaving people stuck on the dole, enslaved by poverty. That is why, in a few weeks time, I will be launching the new Youth Contract. A Liberal Democrat drive for youth jobs: 20,000 more apprenticeships, 160,000 new jobs and 250,000 work experience places. A £1 billion scheme to get every jobless youngster earning or learning, getting all our young people earning or learning. Because no matter how hard things may be we will never, ever leave our young people behind. That includes encouraging work experience. There's been some controversy about this policy but I make no apology for it because we are doing the right thing. Labour's benefit rules actually penalised unemployed youngsters for getting work experience. So thousands of them ended up on the sofa, glued to the TV, cut off from the world of work, wasting time and losing hope. Our policy means young people can get up and get on, keep their skills alive, keep up the habits of a working life and improve their chance of landing a job. Because let me tell you this: there is nothing liberal about leaving our young people to waste away on the dole. So: we all have a part to play, a duty to the nation, and this duty is greatest of all for those with the greatest means. Those with the broadest shoulders should carry the heaviest burden - that is basic justice, Liberal justice. But that is not how it feels today. Too often, rather than paying their dues the wealthy pay their accountants to get them out of it. Avoiding tax, minimising the amount they have to contribute - that's the name of their game. Boasting about the latest wheeze for moving an asset here, a property there and a loophole everywhere. All to make the tax bill lower. Let me tell you, few things make me angrier as the unemployed struggle to find work, as ordinary families struggle to make ends meet, as young people struggle to get on the housing ladder: the sight of the wealthiest scheming to keep their tax bill down to the bare minimum is frankly disgraceful. Multi-millionaires avoiding tax by moving their money around. So: we will call time on the tycoon tax dodgers and make sure everyone pays a fair level of tax. We've already raised capital gains tax, cut tax reliefs for the wealthiest, clamped down on tax avoidance at the top and we will go further because the Liberal Democrats have a crystal clear approach. A philosophy of tax as old as our party, described by Mill, pursued by Gladstone, implemented by Lloyd George: tax wealth, not wages. That is why we will raise the income tax threshold to £10,000. A radical tax policy. Our tax policy. From next month, 25 million people will have more money in their pocket and over a million low-paid workers will have stopped paying income tax altogether. Just think about that for a moment: a million more workers with no tax bill because of us, because of you. That's what it means to be a Liberal Democrat: real tax cuts at a time of real need. But we have to do more. That is why the Budget in ten days time must offer concrete help to hard-pressed, hard-working families: a big increase in the income tax threshold, further and faster towards £10,000. Help we promised, help we must deliver in Government, today. I want the Budget to show how we are anchoring this Government in the centre ground. Credible - but fair. The last Labour budgets led our nation to the economic precipice. Fantasy budgets issued by a party in denial - out of ideas - and abdicating responsibility. This month's Coalition budget will show the determination of both parties in Government to repair the public finances. Keep our economy safe and help working families. The last big tax-cutting budget was in 1988. Nigel Lawson cut billions from the tax bills of the highest-paid workers: a budget for the few, not for the many. But this year's Coalition Budget must be a budget for fairness - not an 80s Lawson budget but a modern liberal budget. Because we need a tax system for a nation pulling together: not being pulled apart. More important now than ever, when the forces of division are so strong. In dark economic times, people can turn inwards, close their doors, look for scapegoats. Fear can breed resentment and division: divisions between north and south between the nations of the UK, between different races or religions, between rich and poor, between the generations. Britain has a proud record of diversity and tolerance but we cannot be complacent. When the economy weakens, prejudice can breed. So let's fight it, in every corner of our nation. We are bringing forward proposals for gay marriage, already provoking debate. Let me just say, if you are a young gay person, your freedom to love who you choose is a fundamental right in a liberal society - and you will always have our support. Let's also fight for liberalism in London where just one more Liberal Democrat member of the Assembly would ensure the BNP gets kicked off. What a great moment for British tolerance that would be. Let's wipe away the ugly face of racism and reaction. I call on all Londoners - vote for Brian Paddick, vote Liberal Democrat and kick out the BNP bigots. And let me also say a word or two about Scotland. I want the Scottish people to have much more power for over Scottish affairs. The Liberal Democrats are, after all, the party of home rule. But I also know that, as nations in a United Kingdom, we are better together than we would be apart: richer, safer and stronger. Alex Salmond wants to break up the nations of the United Kingdom. I want to keep them together. He says this is a time for division - I say it is a time for unity. He wants to split us apart - I want us to pull together. It is our job, as liberals, to fight against the forces of division. Fight for our vision of an optimistic, open and tolerant nation: a nation confident enough to face outwards to the world. Arguing, as I will be, at the Rio+20 Summit for green growth to create jobs, engaging with emerging nations to drive free trade, supporting President Obama's drive, in Korea this year to keep nuclear material out of the hands of terrorists and becoming the first major economy to hit the UN's 0.7 per cent target for foreign aid. Real help for the poorest in the world, promised by us and the Conservatives in opposition - delivered by us together in government. This is a time that demands a better politics. A politics of the national interest. That's why I am proud of this Coalition Government. We have shown that two parties, two very different parties, can govern together. Never again will the political Luddites be able to say that coalitions don't work. Coalition is working, it is has been tested and it has passed the test. Take NHS reform. Controversial, yes. Difficult, yes. But the value of coalition has been proven because this is a coalition Government. The health bill was stopped in its tracks and rewritten because this is a coalition Government. Competition will be the servant of health care, not the master because this is a coalition government. This is a bill for patients not profits. It is not a Liberal Democrat health bill but it is a better bill because of the Liberal Democrats, a better bill because of you. A better bill because of Shirley Williams - Shirley: thank you. So: I am proud of how Coalition is working but I am even more proud of us, of you. The Liberal Democrats are once again a truly national party of government. The only party of the centre ground, not of the left or right, of north or south, rich or poor but doing the right thing for the whole nation. The other parties are bound and gagged by vested interests. We are not. The other parties are hemmed into certain parts of the country. Look at the electoral map: blue seats in the south, red ones in the north. Look at where the money comes from: trade unions on one side, City financiers on the other. That is why we can say today: the Liberal Democrats are the only true one nation party. A one nation party of the radical centre, representing all regions and nations. Seeing not what divides us - but what unites us. Sound on the economy, passionate about fairness: doing the right thing and battling vested interests. Challenging the status quo. For this is the timeless liberal mission: taking on the establishment when it fails the people. A more urgent challenge today than for generations because the old establishment has failed. The two square miles - the City and Westminster have failed. Failed the ordinary people of this country and must not be allowed to fail them again. Now that we're in Government, people might ask if we can still be the party that challenges the establishment. The answer to that is an emphatic yes. I may be Deputy Prime Minister but let me tell you: I am as much of a radical as ever. Jo Grimond decried the conservatives of all parties, those who he said showed a 'sentiment in favour of things as they are': Things as they are means an economy for executives not ordinary workers Things as they are means a bank system that bankrupts our economy Things as they are means life chances being crushed by the fortunes of birth Things as they are means a tax system that hurts ordinary working families Things are they are means a House of Lords stuffed with machine politicians Things as they are means political parties kow-towing to media moguls Things as they are just won't do any more And we are in politics to change them. We are the pioneers of British politics: our eyes on the horizon. By 2015, we will have done a lot but we will have plenty left to do. Take education - a touchstone issue for this party. We will have changed the landscape by the end of this parliament, spending £2.5 billion a year on our pupil premium to strengthen our schools and create new opportunities for our children. But that is just the beginning. So I want our ambitions for education to be at the very heart of our manifesto in 2015. Education that delivers on the liberal promise: that every child can go as far as their talent will take them. That is what we Liberal Democrats will fight for. So: 2015 is not the destination. 2015 is a staging post. This country will be a more liberal nation but we will just be beginning to tackle the deep problems that cramp the lives of our citizens and hobble our economy. Because let me tell you this: in 2015 we won't be looking back, asking people to thank us for what we have done. We will be looking forwards and asking for their support for what we can do together in the future. We won't have finished the job in 2015. We will just be getting started, just getting started on making this nation. Stronger. Fairer. Greener. Freer. A more liberal Britain with every passing year: that's the prize. Let's get out there and fight for it. Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Jenny Willott, Cardiff Central's Liberal Democrat MP, has used International Women's Day today to highlight the rising cost of childcare in Cardiff Central. Statistics show that nurseries and childminders in the constituency now cost an average of £5,670 a year. The UK average cost of childcare has risen rapidly in recent years but still sits at £4,993 a year, almost 12% less than costs in the capital. Costs in Cardiff Central also outstrip the rest of Wales by a huge 18.6%. Costs across Wales average at £4,618. Commenting on the findings, Jenny Willott said that the Coalition Government in Westminster was already taking steps to help parents with the cost of childcare, but that more needs to be done in future. Jenny said: "Childcare is a huge concern for working families across the UK and particularly for women. Childcare providers in Cardiff Central do a fantastic job but, if we are to ensure that parents can return to work we must ensure they can afford the costs of childcare. "The Coalition Government is already working hard to ensure that this is the case. We are going to increase the amount spent on Childcare Tax Credits by £300m to ensure that families receive help with childcare costs even if they are only working a few hours a week. We have also ensured that 3 and 4 year olds continue to get 15 hours of free early years' education and in England we have extended this to the most disadvantaged 2 year olds. "As a working mother I know the importance of good quality, reliable and affordable childcare. I hope that the Government's actions help to reduce the cost of childcare, but it's clear that more needs to be done to give all the parents the chance to work if they want to." Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Jenny Willott MP has reiterated her support for the campaign to save the Vulcan Hotel in Adamsdown from being demolished, following the announcement that the pub will be closed on May 31st. She is writing to Brains, the Welsh Assembly Government and developer Rapport to see what can be done to stop the closure. Jenny commented: I was saddened to hear that a date has been confirmed for the closure of the Vulcan Hotel. I was very involved in the campaign the first time around and I'll do everything I can again. The Vulcan Hotel is hugely important to Cardiff and it would be a great loss to the community if it closes. A three-year lease was granted by the pub's owner, businessman Derek Rapport, to Brains in 2009, but the lease is now due to come to an end, and Brains says it plans to hand the pub back to Mr Rapport. Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

A £50 million summer schools fund opened last week to help the most disadvantaged pupils has been welcomed by Brent Central MP Sarah Teather. The fund will help thousands of pupils in Brent making the transition from primary to secondary school. Secondary schools across Brent can sign up for £500 for every disadvantaged pupil taking part in a two-week summer school. This money is in addition to the £8.5 million schools in Brent will receive in extra funding this year as part of the Pupil Premium announced by Sarah Teather, the Liberal Democrat Children's Minister. Headteachers can use the money to design and run summer schools, targeting pupils who will benefit the most. The funding could be used for activities such as helping pupils become familiar with their new school, providing additional support in English and maths, or trips to theatres and museums. Commenting, local MP Sarah Teather said: "The move from primary to secondary school can sometimes be tough for children. For those who do struggle to make the jump, there can be a dip in performance that can last for years. "We know that those who struggle most are often among the poorest in society, but we also know that just two weeks' activities and education can help them at this tricky time in their lives. Summer schools will give some of the most disadvantaged pupils in Brent the chance to swim rather than sink in those first critical weeks of secondary school." "Social background has been a deciding factor in a child's achievement at school for far too long. This new fund, as well as significant extra funding available through the Pupil Premium, will help schools tackle the inequalities that are currently part of our education system." Published and promoted by Sarah Teather and Brent Liberal Democrats, 70 Walm Lane, Willesden Green, London NW2 4RAPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Solihull MP Lorely Burt has condemned the destruction of the historic ring of oaks after they were chopped down last week, a move made possible because of callous local Conservative councillors. The trees, which were originally due to be relocated under the terms of the planning application, were destroyed last Thursday (1st March) just days after local Conservatives voted to remove that clause from the application. That meant that the oak trees, one of which was more than 300 years old, could be destroyed, contrary to promises made to local residents during the application process. The developers wasted little time moving in after giving the go ahead, and the entire set of oak trees have now been destroyed. Commenting, Mrs Burt said: "This is an absolute disgrace. We have lost an area of great natural beauty and a local landmark because of the actions of local Tories. In just days we've moved from believing the trees would be preserved to them being totally destroyed. They were part of the rich history of Shirley and now they are gone forever. "My inbox has exploded over the last 7 days with people e-mailing me asking how we can save the trees and expressing their disgust at the actions of the local Conservatives. I have to e-mail them all back saying 'Sorry, it's too late' and it makes me absolutely sick every time. The 350 year old Oak Tree is now gone forever "The local Conservatives have, once again, demonstrated how out of touch they are with the people of Shirley. I am yet to see anyone from the local Conservative party explain why they voted for this destruction of these beautiful trees. They owe local Shirley residents an explanation." Published and Promoted by Claire O'Kane on behalf of Lorely Burt and the Solihull and Meriden Liberal Democrats, all at 81 Warwick Road, Solihull, B92 7HPPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Jenny Willott MP has been contacted about an event in Cardiff for those interested in renewable heat. To meet the demand from businesses and voluntary groups who are interested in applying for the Renewable Heat Incentive to bring down their heating bills, and help groups with the application process, Ofgem is organising a number of application help events - including one in Cardiff. The Renewable Heat Incentive is a world first financial incentive scheme for renewable heat generation that will help reduce carbon emissions and meet renewable energy targets. The scheme is currently open to applications from eligible generators of renewable heat for commercial, industrial, not for profit and public sector purposes and to producers of biomethane. Ofgem are holding an event in Cardiff on Tuesday 27 March, at Park Inn between 1pm and 5pm. There is also an accreditation enquiries line available on 0845 200 2122. Further information can be found here: http://www.ofgem.gov.uk/e-serve/RHI/Pages/RHI.aspx Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Solihull MP Lorely Burt has called on residents across the Borough to claim back money back from banks who may have mis-sold them Payment Protection Insurance (PPI). On the day that letters were sent to millions of people across the country advising them on how to claim, Mrs Burt has called on residents to make sure they get back what they are owed. Commenting, Co-Chair of the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Committee on Business, Innovation and Skills Lorely Burt MP said: "These letters will contain important information about how people can get back money they are owed if they were mis-sold this insurance by their banks. Thousands of people were sold this insurance by banks who knew they didn't need it. It was wrong, and it is fair that these people now get that money back. "I'd urge people to read them and then make sure they claim money back if they are eligible." Mrs Burt was also keen to highlight that there was no need for people to go through a claims company in order to get what they were owed. Commenting further, she said: "These claims can be made by an individual using the instructions set out in the letter from the bank. There is no need for anyone to use a separate company, who will skim profit off the top of the money these residents are owed." Published and Promoted by Claire O'Kane on behalf of Lorely Burt and the Solihull and Meriden Liberal Democrats, all at 81 Warwick Road, Solihull, B92 7HPPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Solihull MP Lorely Burt has welcomed the £50m summer schools fund announced by Liberal Democrat Leader and Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg last September, which have opened for applications. They are designed to help up to 100,000 of the most disadvantaged pupils with the transition from primary to secondary school. Lorely Burt has welcomed £50m for primary schools, which was announced by Nick Clegg last year. In Solihull, there around 4,500 children eligible for this fund. Head teachers will be able to design and run summer schools, targeting pupils who will benefit the most. The funding could be used for activities such as: Transitional activities to help familiarise pupils with their new environment. Activities could include meeting teachers, having a tour of the school or learning more about their new curriculum. Additional intensive support in English and mathematics to enable pupils who need it to make progress in these key areas before they start the secondary curriculum, both as catch up and preparation for the new term. Wider enrichment activities such as arts, music and sports activities, trips to theatres and museums, visits to local higher education institutions and employers etc. Commenting, Solihull MP Lorely Burt said: "For too long, social background has been a deciding factor in a child's success in our schools. As a Liberal Democrat, I believe that in a fair society it is a government's responsibility to close the gulf in achievement between the poorest children and their classmates. "Evidence shows that disadvantaged children can slip further behind as they move into secondary school. That is why the Coalition Government is doing the right thing by helping heads and governors to build on their own induction arrangements and give these children an extra hand. "The Liberal Democrats' commitment to the most disadvantaged children doesn't stop there. As well as this £50m fund, we are making significant extra funding available through the Pupil Premium. "This will help schools tackle the inequalities that have been a part of our schools for far too long. In Solihull, that means that this year, disadvantaged children will finally be getting the extra support they need to succeed thanks to an extra £4,342,000." Commenting further, Liberal Democrat Leader and Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg said: "As any parent knows, the move from primary to secondary school can sometimes be tough. For those who struggle to make the jump, there can be a dip in performance that can last for years. "We know that those who struggle most are often among the poorest in society, but we also know that just two weeks' activities and education can help them at this tricky time in their lives. "Summer schools will give some of the most disadvantaged pupils the chance to swim rather than sink in those first critical weeks of secondary school. "We want every child to succeed, regardless of their background, and this is a crucial part of the Coalition Government's commitment to making this happen." Published and Promoted by Claire O'Kane on behalf of Lorely Burt and the Solihull and Meriden Liberal Democrats, all at 81 Warwick Road, Solihull, B92 7HPPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Cardiff Central's Liberal Democrat MP, Jenny Willott, has given her support to Age Cymru's 'Rule Out Abuse' campaign, which calls on the Welsh Assembly Government to introduce new legislation to strengthen support and protection for victims of elder abuse. An estimated 39,000 older people in Wales suffer abuse in their own homes with that abuse taking many forms including physical abuse, financial abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse and neglect. Currently there is no legal obligation on public authorities to investigate when concerns are raised that an adult is at risk of being abused. To show her support Jenny signed the "Rule Out Abuse" charter which lays out ten changes that need to be made to better support and protect vulnerable adults in Wales. Commenting, Jenny said: "We need urgent action to protect some of society's most vulnerable people from harm. This is why I am backing Age Cymru's campaign and have signed the 'Rule Out Abuse' charter." "It is concerning that Wales has the highest rate of elder abuse in the UK and I am committed to working with Age Cymru and other organisations to tackle this problem head on. Abuse can happen anywhere and is most often carried out by people in a position of trust. The Rule Out Abuse campaign has been developed by Age Cymru following extensive research into ways of tackling elder abuse and consultation with adult protection experts. The campaign identifies a range of actions which should be taken to better protect adults at risk by increasing awareness and strengthening adult protection processes, so that tackling abuse is given the priority it deserves. Victoria Lloyd Age Cymru's Director of Influencing says: "Age Cymru is delighted that Jenny Willott MP has given her support to the campaign. "We believe that a clear legislative framework, outlining legal duties for key agencies to tackle abuse, would ensure that individuals are adequately supported through the adult protection processes and that each agency brings their specific expertise to stop incidents of abuse. "This is why Age Cymru feels that introducing a legal obligation to investigate suspected cases of abuse would be a significant step forward in ruling out elder abuse in Wales once and for all" For further information and to sign the Rule Out Abuse charter visit www.agecymru.org.uk/ruleoutabuse Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

It's International Women's Day on Thursday - and my local paper, The Journal, have asked me to name my top 5 influential women of all time.

I know who mine are but who would be yours?

Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, is encouraging thousands of smokers to 'take the leap' and stop smoking this month on No Smoking Day. This year smokers are being asked carry out the campaign slogan 'take the leap' from February 29 - leap year day - and get ready to quit on No Smoking Day itself - Wednesday 14 March. Annette Brooke MP, posing with a giant version of the light-hearted campaign poster, said: "Stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do to boost your health and the money in your pocket. Quitting can be hard, but there is lots of support available and you can do it in the knowledge that you'll be one of thousands of others trying to do the same thing." One in five (21%) UK adults smoke, including 18 per cent of people in the South West. But UK figures show two thirds want to quit. Vishnee Sauntoo, a smoking cessation adviser who now works on the No Smoking Day campaign, said: "Now is the time for smokers to get ready to quit, so stock up on patches and gum, or visiting your GP or stop smoking service for help and advice. "Tell friends and family what you're going to do so they can support you along the way. However you decide to quit, the preparations you make can play a big part in how successful you are when you come to take the leap." No Smoking Day, which recently merged with the British Heart Foundation, is an annual health campaign now in its 29th year. It is responsible for helping more than 750,000 smokers attempt to quit on the day, and for inspiring another two million to seek out information to help them quit in the future. For more information on the benefits of quitting as well as top quit tips, visit www.taketheleap.co.uk ENDS Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ETPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Brent Central MP Sarah Teather has welcomed new funding that will help young people who have struggled to find employment or training after leaving school. Liberal Democrat leader and Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, has announced that London will receive over £13 million to get the city's youngsters who are not in employment, education or training (NEET) earning or learning again. As part of the Youth Contract, the Coalition Government will, for the first time, target funding through tailored support on a payment-by-results system to 16 and 17-year-olds with no GCSEs at A* - C who are at the highest risk of long-term disengagement. In Brent, one in every twenty young people are NEET. The scheme will invite bids from charities and businesses for contracts worth up to £2,200 for every young person they help. Support will be tailored to suit individuals' needs, and will include basic skills training and interview practice. Commenting, local MP Sarah Teather said: "I am delighted that the Coalition Government is doing the right thing and supporting young people in Brent who have found it hard to find a job or training since they've left school. Across London, this funding will help to create around 7,000 opportunities for 16 to 18 year olds. "The scheme will help them gain valuable experience and skills that they need to stay in education or find a job. Sitting at home with nothing to do when you're so young can be a real blow. "Youth unemployment is a slow burn social disaster so it's right that although money is tight, the Coalition Government is prioritising investment in the Youth Contract to get young people earning or learning." Published and promoted by Sarah Teather and Brent Liberal Democrats, 70 Walm Lane, Willesden Green, London NW2 4RAPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole has again pressed the Government to take action on the issue of roadside litter in a Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs written question. Annette asked whether there were plans to hold a summit on roadside litter. The Government response was positive, with Parliamentary Under Secretary of State Richard Benyon MP confirming that a roundtable discussion is going to take place with a number of representatives from the vehicle and environmental sectors. It is hoped that this discussion will give rise to a number of voluntary actions that can be taken by local councils and vehicle sector representatives to combat the problem of roadside litter. This move comes after Annette's question to Caroline Spelman, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in the Commons last month about what more she would do to empower local councils to take effective action against people in vehicles responsible for roadside littering. The question raised audible approval from across the house. Annette commented on the news; 'I am thrilled to hear that this discussion on roadside litter is going to take place. This is an issue of real concern to my constituents and for communities across the country. The selfishness of motorists who blight our landscape in this way is a cause of great anger. I hope that local councils and stakeholders use this opportunity to take action to deal with the problem." Full question and answer: Annette Brooke: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether she plans to hold a summit on roadside litter. [95927] Richard Benyon: In March, the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, my right hon. Friend the Member for Meriden (Mrs Spelman), will host a meeting of representatives from the vehicle sector, including hirers, manufacturers, trade associations, retailers and others, to discuss the voluntary actions they can take to help alleviate the problem of littering from vehicles. Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ETPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Solihull MP Lorely Burt has joined staff from Jaguar Land Rover to celebrate the construction of the 1 millionth Land Rover Discovery, which rolled off the production line this morning in at the Lode Lane plant in Solihull. The 1 millionth Land Rover Discovery was built at the Lode Lane Plant in Solihull In celebration of this, Jaguar Land Rover have launched their 'Journey of Discovery' which will see four Land Rover Discovery's undertaking a 50-day journey across 8,000 miles and more than a dozen countries. As part of the project, they will be raising £1m to help provide safe, clean drinking water for people in Uganda. Commenting, Mrs Burt said: "Today is a wonderful celebration of British engineering. The Land Rover is one of the most iconic cars in the world and it is a great honour for the town that the millionth one was built right here in Solihull. "The Journey of Discovery is the perfect way to mark the achievements of the last 23 years for the Land Rover Discovery, and the money that they are raising will help some of the poorest people in the world find safe water to drink." Commenting further, Mrs Burt paid tribute to the staff at the plant, saying: "It is a tribute to the fantastic contribution the staff have made over the years, even during the tough times that the plant has recently experienced. "It is not so long ago that we were worrying about whether we'd have a plant here at all, but thanks to the fantastic work of JLR and the staff here at the plant we've got a secure future that is seeing record sales levels and will hopefully see another million Land Rovers produced here." Published and Promoted by Claire O'Kane on behalf of Lorely Burt and the Solihull and Meriden Liberal Democrats, all at 81 Warwick Road, Solihull, B92 7HPPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Solihull MP Lorely Burt has slammed the decision to allow the destruction of three hundred year old oak trees as part of the controversial 'Parkgate' scheme in Shirley. Lorely Burt has expressed outrage that a 300 year old oak tree will be destroyed thanks to Solihull Conservatives The trees were due to be relocated as part of the redevelopment process but because the necessary preparatory work was never carried out, the move has now been deemed too difficult. Conservative members of the planning committee voted unanimously last week to remove the requirement for the relocation to be carried out. This means that the set of historic oak trees will be completely destroyed. Commenting, Mrs Burt said: "This is an absolute betrayal of the residents of Shirley. One of the biggest concerns amongst people I spoke to about the Parkgate scheme was the loss of this beautiful set of oak trees. "That's why the clause was inserted to require the trees to be relocated. Now that the Tories have voted to remove this, we are going to lose these historic trees forever. It is a travesty." Commenting further, Mrs Burt said: "A Conservative councillor at the planning committee even questioned the reason for the public outcry, demonstrating how out of touch the Conservatives are with local residents in Shirley. They steamrolled this development through despite huge objections and now are going back on the promises they made to concerned local people. It is not good enough." Published and Promoted by Claire O'Kane on behalf of Lorely Burt and the Solihull and Meriden Liberal Democrats, all at 81 Warwick Road, Solihull, B92 7HPPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, last week questioned the Secretary of State for Transport, Justine Greening MP on the forthcoming discontinuation of local bus service 347/387, which runs through Lytchett Matravers and Bere Regis. Annette raised the issue at Transport Oral Questions on Thursday 23rd February. After only months of operation, it has been announced that the service will cease to function from April 14th 2012. This announcement has caused great concern for villagers who rely on the bus services for transport from rural areas. In particular, vulnerable groups would be affected by this move, as many elderly people use the local bus services to get into town. Annette raised her concerns about the extra expenses that will be incurred to Dorset County Council, which will have to restore the service out of its budget. The Secretary of State for Transport answered that she would ask officials to explore the matter further Annette commented: 'Local bus services are essential for many constituents who live in rural areas of the constituency. I will continue to press Dorset County Council for an alternative solution, but answers must be given as to how a company which has so recently been awarded a contract can simply terminate the service." Full Question and Answer: Annette Brooke: How is it possible for a company to win a competitive tender to provide a bus service but to cease operating it within months, claiming that it is unviable, and causing great concern to those in villages dependent on the service and, presumably, extra expense to Dorset county council given that this service must be restored? What advice can the Secretary of State give? Justine Greening: I am grateful to the hon. Lady for that question. She will be aware that all local bus operators must have an operators' licence, which indicates financial standing at the time that the operator was licensed by a traffic commissioner. Local transport authorities can check with the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency whether operators hold a current licence. I am not aware of any barrier to a local transport authority ensuring, through its procurement process, whether the current financial status of a bus operator is sound, but I shall ask my officials to explore the matter further with the county council. Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ETPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Brent Central MP Sarah Teather has written to Jeremy Hunt, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, about Labour-run Brent Council's decision to close six libraries in the borough. Sarah's latest letter, below, is in response to the news that Mr Hunt is minded not to hold a public inquiry into the decision: Dear Jeremy, Library Services in Brent Further to my letter of 19 December 2011, I am writing regarding Brent Council's decision to drastically reduce the number of libraries in the borough. As you are aware, I believe that there have been serious flaws in both the procedure and final decision undertaken by Brent Council and have called for a public inquiry to be held. As you have recently let it be known that you are minded to decide that there are no good reasons for an inquiry, I am today writing to highlight a number of key issues that are pertinent to your final decision due later this month. In a letter dated 14 February 2012 from your Department's legal advisers in response to Margeret Bailey's request for a judicial review, it is stated that Brent Council's figures show an 18% increase in visits to the six remaining libraries. However, this figure must be considered alongside the fact that across the borough the number of library visits has dropped by an average of nearly 20,000 for each month since the closures when compared with the visits for the previous year. Brent library visits per month: Month 2010/11 2011/12 % change actual change October 156,274 131,396 -15.9% -24,878 November 137,746 113,448 -17.6% -24,298 December 107,888 100,020 -7.3% -7,868 January 129,064 109,911 -14.8% -19,153 average -13.9% -19,049 I am deeply concerned by the impact the closure of half the borough's libraries will have on educational standards. The reduction in locally accessible libraries will, I believe, reduce the number of young people using libraries. Brent Council's own Equality Impact Assessment addresses these concerns by saying that the majority of young people will be able to migrate easily to one of the remaining libraries as they can use public transport free of charge. However, many schools currently use libraries as a learning resource during the school day. If these changes go ahead, it will not be safe nor practical to take classes of 20 or more pupils on public transport. For example, Mora Primary School in my constituency is located five or six minutes walk away from one of the closed libraries, Cricklewood library. Since the closures took effect, the school will now face a 30 minute journey to its nearest alternative in Willesden Green, comprising of an 18 minute bus journey and two walks at each end of around six minutes each. Brent Council have refused to work with local groups to come up with alternative proposals that would reduce the cost to the Council without the massive reduction in library provision that the current plans entail. For example, the Friends of Kensal Library have submitted business plans to run the library as a community library making use of volunteers and funding additional costs through fundraising and donations. As you will be aware, community libraries have worked elsewhere - Little Chalfont Library in Buckinghamshire became a community library in 2007 and has increased footfall as well as its book stock considerably, all while being staffed by volunteers - yet Brent Council have so far refused to give community groups a chance. I believe that the issues listed above warrant investigation to ensure that Brent continues to provide a comprehensive library service and I would urge you to strongly consider holding a public inquiry to examine the Council's decision making process. I look forward to hearing from you. Yours sincerely, Sarah Teather MP Published and promoted by Sarah Teather and Brent Liberal Democrats, 70 Walm Lane, Willesden Green, London NW2 4RAPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

The Brent Liberal Democrats have selected Dollis Hill resident Alison Hopkins as their candidate for the Dollis Hill by-election on March 22nd. A local through and through, Alison has lived in Dollis Hill for over 55 years, went to Braintcroft primary school and married her husband at the local church - St Mary and St Andrew - in 1974. Liberal Democrat candidate for Dollis Hill, Alison Hopkins Alison has a long record of campaigning for local people. As the Neasden representative of the Brent SOS libraries campaign she has been fighting the Labour Council's plans to close half the libraries in Brent, including both the libraries serving Dollis Hill residents - in Neasden and Cricklewood. She is campaigning against the Council's slashing of the street cleaning budget that has seen rubbish pile up in Dollis Hill's streets and she has taken a stand against the Labour Council's frittering away of thousands of pounds on luxury hotel away-days and expensive meals, money that could have been used to keep the libraries open and the dumped rubbish off Dollis Hill's streets. Alison is also one of the founding members of the Coalition for a Sustainable Brent Cross Cricklewood Regeneration, a campaign group which has worked with Sarah Teather MP, fighting to stop Barnet's plans to build a massive rubbish dump on the doorsteps of Dollis Hill schools. The Dollis Hill by-election is set to be a tight race between Sarah Teather's Liberal Democrats and Brent Labour Council bosses' candidate. In 2010, the Conservatives finished in third place - they cannot win in Dollis Hill. Local campaigner Alison Hopkins said: "I'm delighted to have been selected as the Liberal Democrat candidate in Dollis Hill. I grew up here, have lived here almost all my life and have witnessed firsthand what the Labour Council's waste and neglect has done to our area. "I will stand up for local residents on the issues that really matter - the closure of our libraries, the rubbish in our streets and the preservation of our wonderful local community." Sarah Teather MP said: "It is great news that Alison will be standing for the Liberal Democrats in Dollis Hill. She's been campaigning on local issues for years and knows the area like the back of her hand." "At a time like this, with a wasteful Labour council getting rid of many of the important services that local people rely on, I know Alison will be a real champion for Dollis Hill." Commenting, Paul Lorber, the leader of the Liberal Democrat Group on Brent Council, said: "The Labour-run Council have run rough-shod over the wishes of local people. They've failed to listen to the concerns over the library closures and cut back on street cleaning while Labour councillors spend thousands of taxpayers' pounds on luxury awaydays and meals. This election is a great chance for the people of Dollis Hill to tell the Labour Council that they have had enough of their waste and neglect." Published and promoted by Sarah Teather and Brent Liberal Democrats, 70 Walm Lane, Willesden Green, London NW2 4RAPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Jenny Willott MP is encouraging youth organisations in Cardiff Central to apply for Starbucks Youth Action in 2012, a youth community engagement programme that has been rolled out in conjunction with UK Youth across Cardiff. Starbucks Youth Action is a youth investment programme for 16-24 years that is all about empowering local young people to identify what needs to change in their community and develop a project to bring about that change. Through seed funding, training and support provided by its youth charities and volunteers from Starbucks, last year 52 youth-led projects across ten UK cities were supported encompassing everything from youth mentoring schemes to arts projects for disabled young people. In 2012 a total of £100,000 investment will be available across the ten participating cities, including up to £10,000 of seed funding available across Cardiff which we anticipate would be shared across 4-5 projects. The application process for 2012 is now open with the deadline for applications on Monday 5 March. Full details of the programme and how to apply can be found at www.starbucks.co.uk/responsibility/community/youth-action. Published and promoted by Cardiff Lib Dems, 99 Woodville Road, Cardiff CF24 4DY.Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY