Women Liberal Democrats

Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, has questioned the Government over its support for local landlord accreditation schemes. Annette raised the issue during Department of Communities and Local Government Questions in the House of Commons on Monday. Annette's question came as MPs queried the ministerial team over standards in the private rented sector. Annette asked: "What is the Department's view on local landlord accreditation schemes, and what advice does he give on such schemes to local authorities?" Having had a good experience with a local accreditation scheme run by Poole Borough District Council, Annette sought to highlight the positive impacts these schemes can have in raising standards. In his response, Grant Shapps, the Minister of State for Housing and Local Government, confirmed his support for such schemes. He said, "local accreditation and licensing schemes can be good value for local people." He also highlighted the flexibility of these schemes, noting their ability to meet local needs, and concluded; "it can be fitted in with what the community requires." Question and Answer in Full: Annette Brooke (Mid Dorset and North Poole) (LD): What is the Department's view on local landlord accreditation schemes, and what advice does he give on such schemes to local authorities? Grant Shapps: Local accreditation and licensing schemes can be good value for local people. I attended a local accreditation in Welwyn Hatfield on Thursday evening. The scheme is very good and designed locally to address local problems; in our case, it happens to be a student population. That is the advantage of doing it locally: it can be fitted in with what the community requires. To read the question in full visit: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201212/cmhansrd/cm120130/debtext/120130-0001.htm#12013011000335 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 welcomed Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of the Liberal Democrats Nick Clegg to Solihull on Friday [27th January] for a visit to a local school. Mr Clegg was shown around Peterbrook Primary School in Solihull, which was one of many schools in the area which received money thanks to the Liberal Democrat 'Pupil Premium.' Nick Clegg and Lorely Burt met children and helped sell cakes to raise money for the Dogs Trust The school, which was in receipt of £26,840, showed the Deputy Prime Minister how they were using that money to raise the aspirations and hopes of the young people at the school. The Deputy Prime Minister was grilled by Year 3 pupils, with questions ranging from what he wanted to be when he was little to whether he got good reports at school. Some of the pupils then demonstrated the motion capture and green screen technology that the school are using to promote learning and development. Lorely Burt MP then joined Nick Clegg MP to help the school raise money for the Dogs Trust through a cake sale. Commenting, Lorely Burt MP said: "I was delighted to welcome Nick Clegg to Peterbrook School today so he could see for himself how the money Liberal Democrats fought for is being used to change the lives of children in Solihull. "I was blown away when I saw how the school were using the money to support the children and further their aspirations. I think this is the perfect example of how extra funding can be used to improve children's life chances and I'm glad that the Deputy Prime Minister was here to see it." Commenting further, Leader of the Liberal Democrats and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: "I enjoyed every second of my visit to Peterbrook. The kids were happy and enthusiastic and they clearly love the school. "I have nothing but praise for Steve McGaw and his team and it was great to see how they are putting the Pupil Premium to good use, especially the new Child and Family Support Worker it has funded. "The Pupil Premium is something I am incredibly passionate about. All the evidence shows that the earlier to help to stop children falling behind in class the better their life chances. It could mean smaller class sizes, catch up classes or one-to-one tuition for the children that need it the most. But it won't just help the poorest children, it will help all their classmates too. Fewer children falling behind means less disruption in classes and a better education for every pupil." Commenting further Steve McGaw, Headteacher of Peterbrook Primary School, said: "The Pupil Premium funding provides numerous enrichment learning opportunities for all pupils at Peterbrook, regardless of their background. "It supports our creative curriculum, it has further developed our extra-curricular clubs programme and allows us to maximise our efforts to encourage all pupils to be the best that they can be." 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 took part in the Bupa 'Get Moving' Challenge to raise awareness of the benefits of taking regular exercise and was in with a chance of winning £500 of sports equipment for a local school or sports club. Organised by Bupa in partnership with MEND, the Youth Sport Trust and Diabetes UK, Annette joined other Members of Parliament on the walk, which took in some of London's most famous landmarks. Commenting on the walk, Annette said: "I can't wait to find out if I've won. The walk was fun and made even better with the prospect of winning some equipment for people in my constituency. Fingers crossed. Martin George, Managing Director, Group Development, Bupa, said: "It's great that Members of Parliament are taking part in the Bupa 'Get Moving' Challenge to be in with a chance of winning sports equipment for a local school or sports club. Bupa and our partners [MEND, Youth Sport Trust and Diabetes UK] are committed to helping people to get moving and live healthier lifestyles and walking is an excellent way of achieving this." 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

I recently visited FoodCycle's Station House Community Café . They also had celeb Thom from Channel 4's 'Three Hungry Boys' . We were invited there to show our support for FoodCycle and help to reach their £5,000 target on crowdsourcing website PeopleFund.it.

The café is based at MIND in Haringey on Stapleton Hall Road. It uses surplus food and dedicated volunteers to create healthy meals for the community every Friday lunchtime, running a 'pay what you can' scheme so anyone can come along.

To help keep the Café running, they're offering rewards in return for pledges on www.peoplefund.it/foodcycle including a VIP dinner for two, signed cookbooks and FoodCycle aprons and T-shirts. The Café needs £3,000 to reach the target which will help it to run for another year.

If you are interested in supporting this local good cause please visit: www.peoplefund.it/foodcycle

The campaign to push back against the relentless pressure to be a singular perfect shape and size continues. Here is my recent piece on the Government Body Confidence campaign for the Huffington Post.

Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole has signed a Book of Commitment in the House of Commons, in doing so pledging her commitment to Holocaust Memorial Day and honouring those who died during the Holocaust. Friday January 27th marked the 67th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the Nazi concentration and extermination camp which is the site of the largest mass murder in history - and in the weeks running up to the day, the Holocaust Educational Trust placed a Book of Commitment in the House of Commons, giving MPs the chance to honour those who were persecuted and killed during their Holocaust and encouraging constituents to actively speak out against prejudice and bigotry today. In signing the Book of Commitment, Annette paid tribute to the extraordinary men and women who having survived the Holocaust, work to educate young people about what they endured, through the Holocaust Educational Trust's Outreach programme. In the weeks around Holocaust Memorial Day, thousands of commemorative events will be arranged by schools, faith groups and community organisations across the country, remembering all the victims of the Holocaust and subsequent genocides. This year, people will also be encouraged to take a stand against racism and prejudice today - and to speak out against hatred wherever they encounter it. Annette said: "Holocaust Memorial Day marks the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau - and is an important opportunity to remember the victims of genocide. I encourage all constituents to mark the day and to commit to 'speaking up and speaking out' against prejudice today." Karen Pollock MBE, Chief Executive of the Holocaust Educational Trust, said: "We are proud that Annette is supporting Holocaust Memorial Day this year. It is vitally important that we both remember and learn from the appalling events of the Holocaust - as well as ensuring that we continue to challenge all forms of bigotry." 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

This week Solihull MP signed a Book of Commitment in the House of Commons, in doing so pledging her commitment to Holocaust Memorial Day and honouring those who died during the Holocaust. Friday January 27th will mark the 67th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the Nazi concentration and extermination camp which is the site of the largest mass murder in history - and in the weeks running up to the day, the Holocaust Educational Trust placed a Book of Commitment in the House of Commons, giving MPs the chance to honour those who were persecuted and killed during their Holocaust and encouraging constituents to actively speak out against prejudice and bigotry today. Lorely signed the Holocaust Memorial Book this week in the House of Commons In signing the Book of Commitment Lorely Burt MP paid tribute to the extraordinary men and women who having survived the Holocaust, work to educate young people about what they endured, through the Holocaust Educational Trust's Outreach programme. Commenting, Mrs Burt said: "Holocaust Memorial Day marks the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau - and is an important opportunity to both remember the victims of genocide. I encourage all constituents to mark the day and to commit to 'speaking up and speaking out' against prejudice today." In the weeks around Holocaust Memorial Day, thousands of commemorative events will be arranged by schools, faith groups and community organisations across the country, remembering all the victims of the Holocaust and subsequent genocides. This year, people will also be encouraged to take a stand against racism and prejudice today - and to speak out against hatred wherever they encounter it. Karen Pollock MBE, Chief Executive of the Holocaust Educational Trust, said: "We are proud that Lorely Burt MP is supporting Holocaust Memorial Day this year. It is vitally important that we both remember and learn from the appalling events of the Holocaust - as well as ensuring that we continue to challenge all forms of bigotry." 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, the Liberal Democrat MP for Cardiff Central, has welcomed news that Post Offices in Cardiff Central have been saved by Liberal Democrat Business Minister, Ed Davey. After ending Labour's shameful Post Office closure programme, which saw more than 7100 Post Offices disappear in their 13 years in office, Ed Davey has announced that a ten-year deal between the Post Office and the Royal Mail has been reached. The deal gives additional certainty to subpostmasters across the UK and covers the full range of Royal Mail products available at post offices such as first and second class post, parcels, air mail, recorded and special deliveries. Many local Post Offices will now remain open thanks to the Liberal Democrats. Commenting, Jenny said: "After years of Post Office closures under the Labour Government, it is excellent news that Liberal Democrats are doing the right thing by ensuring that the Post Office has a sustainable future ahead of it through investment and by brokering this deal with Royal Mail. "Post Offices are a vital part of our communities and are the lynchpin of our towns and villages. "Labour left Royal Mail in a terrible mess and it is Liberal Democrats in the Coalition Government who have stopped closures and put Royal Mail and the Post Office on a secure footing. Our plans mean that we will never see the kind of planned closures that devastated local communities under the previous Government. "The 20 million people who use the Post Office every week don't deserve anything less from us." Commenting further, Ed Davey MP, Business Minister, said: "A year ago I set out a radical plan to transform Post Office's future, with £1.34bn of Government support and investment but without any closure programmes. Since then the Post Office has made good progress in becoming more competitive, building on its strengths. "While it will take several years to turn round the Post Office's finances, it's increasingly clear the reforms are beginning to work. "The 10-year deal struck between Royal Mail and the Post Office will give sub-postmasters and others greater confidence. "The signs are extremely encouraging for the future of the Post Office." 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

The Daylight Saving Bill was derailed by a small group of MPs on Friday but pressure is growing on the Government to give the bill a fair hearing. Local MP Annette Brooke has joined scores of other politicians and organisations calling for more parliamentary time to see it through. The bill would mandate the Government to conduct a comprehensive review of the costs and benefits of putting clocks forward an hour throughout the UK, resulting in lighter evenings every day of the year. If this concludes that a change would be beneficial, the government will run a three-year trial of the new system, subject to consent from the devolved governments of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Even with huge support from over 140 MPs at Friday's debate, a couple of politicians were able to block the bill by simply running down the clock. Annette said: "The will of the house was for the Daylight Saving Bill to proceed. I, and many of my colleagues, set aside Friday to attend the debate after receiving a huge number of letters of support from constituents. Despite overwhelming support, a tiny minority employed wrecking tactics to scupper the bill. It's imperative the Government give the bill more time - so it can have the hearing it deserves". 10:10's Lighter Later campaign has been leading the campaign for clock change. The campaign has the backing of over 90 organisations working on an enormous range of issues, from sport and tourism to, road safety and environmental protection. "The support we saw on Friday is pretty unprecedented when it comes to a private members bill. It's imperative the government gives the bill more time" said Daniel Vockins, Lighter Later campaign manager. 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, yesterday sought assurances from the Government that Britain's tax system will be made fairer and more equitable in the upcoming budget. She raised the issue during Treasury Questions in the House of Commons. Questions were taken by the Chief Secretary to the Treasury Danny Alexander due to the Chancellor's attendance at the EU's Economic and Financial Affairs Council. Annette spoke out on this following the Institute for Fiscal Studies' assertion that the Autumn Statement's "new tax and benefit measures are, on average, a takeaway from lower-income families with children." Specifically she asked what more actions could be taken to make our tax system fairer. Annette highlighted some possible approaches including "a demonstrable crackdown on tax avoidance, perhaps a mansion tax, and certainly more progressive tax measures". In responding Mr Alexander asserted that the tax system had become fairer under this government and that "the bank levy, the increase in capital gains tax, changes to pensions tax relief and the maintenance of the 50p rate all help to enable us to meet our commitment to increase the income tax personal allowance to £10,000." However due to the continuing need for cuts Mr Alexander did state that "we need to redouble our efforts, both to tackle tax avoidance and to deliver the income tax cuts that we have promised." After leaving the chamber Annette said, "We must keep fighting for fair taxes. The Government has gone someway in this; I certainly welcome the increased income tax personal allowance. But more progressive policies are needed. We must do more on tax avoidance; it is unacceptable that at time of hardship for ordinary people an estimated £5 billion is lost to the treasury every year." Question and Answer in Full: 9. Annette Brooke (Mid Dorset and North Poole) (LD): What steps he plans to take to ensure that the burden of taxation is fairly distributed. [91200] The Chief Secretary to the Treasury (Danny Alexander): We are significantly shifting the burden of taxation away from people on lower incomes and on to those with broader shoulders. The bank levy, the increase in capital gains tax, changes to pensions tax relief and the maintenance of the 50p rate all help to enable us to meet our commitment to increase the income tax personal allowance to £10,000, cutting taxes for millions of hard-pressed, hard-working families. Annette Brooke: I thank my right hon. Friend for that answer. However, the Institute for Fiscal Studies said of the autumn statement: "New tax and benefit measures are, on average, a takeaway from lower-income families with children, and giveaway to middle and top of income distribution". 24 Jan 2012: Column 156 What further approaches will he take in the forthcoming Budget to ensure that we are all in it together, be it a demonstrable crackdown on tax avoidance, perhaps a mansion tax, and certainly more progressive tax measures? Danny Alexander: Of course, the burden of the deficit reduction is fair overall, and we know that the burden falls most highly on the richest 20% of the population. However, with spending cuts needing to continue for longer-another two years-we need to redouble our efforts, both to tackle tax avoidance and to deliver the income tax cuts that we have promised, by lifting the personal allowance as rapidly as the nation can afford. Those are, of course, issues that we shall be considering in the run-up to the Budget. To read Treasury Questions in full visit: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201212/cmhansrd/cm120124/debtext/120124-0001.htm#12012451000510 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

Mid Dorset and North Poole MP Annette Brooke met with physiotherapists at the House of Commons last week to hear their concerns about the impact of budget constraints on physiotherapy services. Annette was told that patients are waiting longer for treatment as NHS physiotherapy services struggle to cope with budget cuts and staff shortages. She was attending the parliamentary launch of 'Stretched to the Limit', a hard-hitting report from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) which draws on an analysis of statistics gained through an audit of all primary care trusts (PCTs) in England using freedom of information laws; plus two separate surveys of physiotherapy managers. The audit found that in the worst case, patients are waiting up to 27 weeks to access physiotherapy, potentially causing their condition to worsen. Nearly two thirds of managers surveyed by the CSP said they do not expect to have sufficient resources to meet demand for physiotherapy services this financial year. Commenting on the report, Annette said: "Physiotherapy services play a vital role in the treatment and support of thousands of my constituents with a wide range of health conditions. It is crucial that these services are protected to ensure people have prompt access to the high quality care and outcomes that physiotherapy provides." The 'Stretched to the Limit' report also found: More than half (57 per cent) of physiotherapy managers reported cuts to patient services. Nearly 60 per cent said these cuts had, or would, reduce the number of treatment sessions a patient could receive. One in four managers said patient safety was compromised by cuts they were experiencing. 70 per cent of managers who reported safety concerns had also seen cuts in specialist physio posts and 'down-banding' in their workplace - the cost-saving practice of reducing the responsibilities of a post so that it can be filled by a less-experienced physiotherapist. Phil Gray, Chief Executive of the CSP said: "This report paints a disturbing picture of what is happening right now to NHS physiotherapy services across the country. Patients are waiting longer to get the physiotherapy treatment they need, which increases the risk that their condition will worsen." The full report is available to read on the CSP website: http://www.csp.org.uk/sites/files/csp/secure/stretched-to-the-limit-2012.pdf. 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

Climate week 2012 Climate Week is a supercharged national campaign to inspire a new wave of action on climate change. It culminates with thousands of events and activities taking place throughout the week of 12 to 18 March 2012, planned by organisations from every part of society. Showcasing real, practical ways to combat climate change, the campaign aims to renew our ambition to create a more sustainable, low-carbon future. Supporters Climate Week is backed by every part of society - from the Prime Minister to Paul McCartney, the NHS to the National Trust, the TUC to the CBI, Girlguiding UK to the National Association of Head Teachers. During the first Climate Week in 2011 over 3,000 events were attended by half a million people across the UK. The Climate Week Challenge The Climate Week Challenge in 2011 was Britain's biggest ever environmental competition, with over 145,000 people participating in the one day and one-hour versions. You can register now for the 2012 Climate Week Challenge, which will be revealed on Monday 12 March at 9am. Entries are now open for the prestigious Climate Week Awards, recognising the most inspirational and impressive actions taking place in every sector. In 2011 the judging panel contained figures such as the eminent economist Lord Stern, the former President of Ireland, Mary Robinson, and Booker Prize-winning author, Ian McEwan. Other highlights from 2011 include the Climate Week T-shirt, modelled by celebrities such as Lily Cole, Gemma Arterton and James Blunt. The Climate Week Pub Quiz took place in hundreds of pubs and workplaces. There were over 1,000 pieces of media coverage about Climate Week, with articles in most national newspapers and coverage on BBC1, including a whole episode of Blue Peter inspired by the campaign. How you can get involved. Organisations can get involved right now by starting to plan an event for Climate Week. This provides a unique opportunity to profile their own initiatives and innovations to stakeholders and staff, customers and the community, members and the media.They can also spread the word in advance, so that others find out about Climate Week in time to plan their own activities. Individuals can help right now by asking the organisations they know - such as their workplace or local school - to plan an event or activity for Climate Week. They can also visit the Climate Week website to find out more about what they can do in their local area, or how to get involved online. To find out more about Climate Week go to www.climateweek.com, email info@climateweek.com or telephone on 020 3397 2601. 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 welcomed news that Post Offices in Solihull have been saved by Liberal Democrat Business Minister, Ed Davey. After ending Labour's shameful Post Office closure programme, which saw more than 7100 Post Offices disappear in their 13 years in office, Ed Davey has announce a ten-year deal between the Post Office and the Royal Mail has been reached. The deal gives additional certainty to subpostmasters across theUKand covers the full range of Royal Mail products available at post offices such as first and second class post, parcels, air mail, recorded and special deliveries. Many local Post Offices will now remain open thanks to the Liberal Democrats The deal adds to other recent progress for the Post Office, with extra Government cash kicking in, new national and local government contracts won, successful piloting of new models to transform many local post offices and improvements in financial services offered. Commenting, Mrs Burt said: "After years of Post Office closures under the Labour Government, it is excellent news that Liberal Democrats are doing the right thing by ensuring that the Post Office has a sustainable future ahead of it through investment and by brokering this deal with Royal Mail. "Post Offices are a vital part of our communities and are the lynchpin of our towns and villages. More than 20m people visit a Post Office every week to send letters to loved ones, to manage their finances or to renew passports for holidays and hundreds of thousands of pensioners rely on them every day for their pensions. "Labour left Royal Mail in a terrible mess and it is Liberal Democrats in the Coalition Government who have stopped closures and put Royal Mail and the Post Office on a secure footing. Our plans mean that we will never see the kind of planned closures that devastated local communities under the previous Government. "The 20m people who use the Post Office every week don't deserve anything less from us." Commenting further, Ed Davey said: "A year ago I set out a radical plan to transform Post Office's future, with £1.34bn of Government support and investment but without any closure programmes. "Since then the Post Office has made good progress to become more competitive, building on its strengths. "While it will take several years to turn round the Post Office's finances, it's increasingly clear the reforms are beginning to work. "The 10-year deal struck between Royal Mail and the Post Office will give subpostmasters and others greater confidence. "The signs are extremely encouraging for the future of the Post Office." 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 attended a parliamentary reception in the House of Commons, organised by Sands, the stillbirth and neonatal death charity, for the launch of their new report, Preventing Babies' Deaths: what needs to be done. 6,500 babies are stillborn or die shortly after birth every year in the UK. The charity's report proposes that 1,200 babies' lives could be saved every year through a combination of more research, better care and greater awareness of the risks of stillbirth and newborn baby death. Annette, pictured at last Wednesday's event with bereaved parents and local residents Emma and Nick Johnston, pledged her support for the Sands campaign. She said: "I was shocked to discover the scale of baby deaths in the UK. 17 babies are stillborn or die shortly after birth every day, with stillbirth being the largest contributor to child deaths under the age of five years. These deaths have a devastating impact on parents and their families, and I fully support Sands in their call for urgent action to prevent baby deaths in the future." The Report highlights that advances in neonatal medicine have led to small but welcome reductions in the number of newborn babies dying, however, Sands remains extremely concerned by the UK's persistently high stillbirth rates; stillbirth numbers in the UK are the same today as they were in the late 1990s, with 1 in 200 babies being stillborn. The UK has one of the highest stillbirth rates when compared to similar high income countries, yet Sands strongly believes that with the appropriate commitment and investment in research and improved care, a reduction in these rates is achievable and should be a key focus for all those concerned with maternity services. Neal Long, Chief Executive of Sands, addressed MPs at the parliamentary reception, "A third of stillborn babies - around 1,200 babies - are perfectly formed and born at gestations when they might safely be delivered. But routine antenatal care is failing to detect far too many babies who need help. These babies' deaths are those that Sands, researchers and clinicians working in obstetrics, believe are avoidable deaths. "We want to see real national commitment to tackling this ignored tragedy and preventing all avoidable baby deaths in the future. We want lives saved and families spared the desperate heartbreak of losing their precious baby." What are the facts today? 17 babies die every day in the UK, 11 are stillborn and another 6 die shortly after birth - this equates to 6,500 babies dying every year Stillbirth is not a rare event; 1 in 200 babies are stillborn (die in the womb after 24 weeks gestation) and a third of these deaths happen at full term, (after 37 weeks gestation), at an age when a baby is preparing to start life outside the womb. If these babies can be identified, then early delivery could save many of these babies' lives Babies who die within the first four weeks of life (neonatal deaths) are also not rare, 1 in 300 babies die before they are a month old UK rates of stillbirth are the same today as in the late 1990s, in the same period infant mortality rates have fallen to their lowest ever rate While there is proper focus and concern about preventing child deaths caused by, for example meningitis (around 50 deaths per year); road deaths (81 in 2009); or cot deaths (400 per year), the 4,000 stillbirths each year are more or less ignored The Lancet medical journal's 2011 Stillbirth Series, showed the UK to be among the poorest performing countries when it comes to tackling stillbirth, placing us 33rd out of 35 similar high income countries. Sands Preventing Babies' Deaths Report outlines the key issues contributing to baby deaths in the UK and the action we believe is needed to prevent deaths in the future. Read the full report at www.uk-sands.org 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 attended a parliamentary reception in the House of Commons, organised by Sands, the stillbirth and neonatal death charity, for the launch of their new report, Preventing Babies' Deaths: what needs to be done. 6,500 babies are stillborn or die shortly after birth every year in the UK. The charity's report proposes that 1,200 babies' lives could be saved every year through a combination of more research, better care and greater awareness of the risks of stillbirth and newborn baby death. Lorely Burt MP met with Solihull SANDS member Jean Bowden to discuss the report Lorely Burt MP pledged her support for the Sands campaign, saying: "I was shocked to discover the scale of baby deaths in the UK. 17 babies are stillborn or die shortly after birth every day, with stillbirth being the largest contributor to child deaths under the age of five years. These deaths have a devastating impact on parents and their families, and I fully support Sands in their call for urgent action to prevent baby deaths in the future." The Report highlights that advances in neonatal medicine have led to small but welcome reductions in the number of newborn babies dying, however, Sands remains extremely concerned by the UK's persistently high stillbirth rates; stillbirth numbers in the UK are the same today as they were in the late 1990s, with 1 in 200 babies being stillborn. The UK has one of the highest stillbirth rates when compared to similar high income countries, yet Sands strongly believes that with the appropriate commitment and investment in research and improved care, a reduction in these rates is achievable and should be a key focus for all those concerned with maternity services. Neal Long, Chief Executive of Sands, addressed MPs at the parliamentary reception, "A third of stillborn babies - around 1,200 babies - are perfectly formed and born at gestations when they might safely be delivered. But routine antenatal care is failing to detect far too many babies who need help. These babies' deaths are those that Sands, researchers and clinicians working in obstetrics, believe are avoidable deaths. "We want to see real national commitment to tackling this ignored tragedy and preventing all avoidable baby deaths in the future. We want lives saved and families spared the desperate heartbreak of losing their precious baby." 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

This is my most recent column published in the Ham & High:

Our Parliament has come a long way in recent years. In fact, watching 'The Iron Lady' with Margaret Thatcher sticking out like a blue female sore thumb amongst the total male greyness of the then chamber - it reminded me of how recently in history this establishment was nearly all male.

However, despite real progress, it is still nowhere near reflecting the percentage of women in the country - and that is without even starting to talk about other aspects of diversity such as ethnicity, class or disability…

It is in everyone's interests to have a Parliament that is made up of the best people for the job, and that includes a range of people who can best represent the diversity that exists in our communities - and who bring the benefits of a diverse set of experiences.

We do not just elect individuals, we elect people to be members of a team (their party, government/opposition, Parliament overall) - and, just as in sport, good teams have the right mix to be more than simply the sum of their parts. Good teams need variety and diversity.

We all suffer if that is missing because we end up with worse decision-making if Parliament is made up of a monochrome slice of uniformity.

There have been tremendous strides made in recent years. Whatever your views on how best to get there - Labour's all women shortlists made a massive change in the culture of both the Labour party and parliament. The Conservatives, using a very different mechanism, have also made great strides in terms of their diversity. And we (Liberal Democrats) had worked incredibly hard on mentoring and monitoring and had succeeded in getting women in winnable seats in 2010 - but sadly we didn't win them.

In our case we now have the Leadership Academy which will support a small, but ambitious and able cohort of under-represented groups as key candidates for the future. Winnable seats will have to have two of the graduate candidates from the Leadership Academy on their shortlists. Members will still have the final choice of course - but we will not just be sitting on our hands thinking that nothing needs doing.

I responded for the Government in the recent debate on representation in Parliament last week. The Speaker's Conference a couple of years back made a number of recommendations - for Government, for the House and for political parties in terms of improving the diversity of their elected representatives.

Some of the recommendations have been introduced to date - including the holding of this debate s. It is legal until 2030 to employ all women shortlists if a political party wishes so to do. The Equality Act now allows us to balance our shortlists with people from under-represented groups if we wish. There is an 'access to elected office' plan and fund to support those with disabilities in being candidates about to be announced in detail and a raft of other measures.

What was clear from the debate - and very heart warming - was that everyone across the political divide is working hard to improve our representative quality.

Each party has its own traditions and beliefs, so each party has to find its own solutions for the shared problem we have of how unrepresentative Parliament. The political system needs to give parties the options to pick their own solutions - which it now does.

But as ever in politics - as it should be in a democracy - what matters is not only what the system permits or what politicians want, but what the public demands.

You do not have to wait until an election though. If you know someone talented, why not encourage them to get stuck into politics and stand themselves? The readers of these columns are a wonderfully diverse group - and I'm sure that the people you know and could encourage would be more diverse than the current make-up of Parliament!

Solihull MP Lorely Burt has slammed Tory Council plans to scrap free parking in Shirley town centre. Mrs Burt raised the issue this week in the House of Commons during a debate on local high streets, highlighting that charging for the car parks would put more pressure on shops already struggling to make ends meet. Lorely Burt raised the issue in the House of Commons this week The plans will mean the car parks, which were previously free under the Liberal Democrats, will now begin charging for the first time, forcing people to pay to park if they stay longer than thirty minutes. Commenting, Mrs Burt said: "It is crazy. The Tory councillors talk about helping regenerate Shirley town centre but how is this meant to help? They are out of touch with the needs of local shopkeepers, who rely on the footfall that the free parking brings in order to survive. "At a time of economic difficulty, this is the last thing that a struggling town centre needs. The council should be looking at ways to make it easier for the local shops, not harder. These charges will choke off Shirley town centre. "To make matters worse, the council document doesn't even mention speaking to local residents about their views on the changes. The overflow created as people seek to avoid the charges will have a huge affect on the local residents, but the council don't seem to think speaking to them is important." Commenting further, local campaigner and former Councillor Tim Hodgson said: "I've stood on doorsteps and listened to local residents. They are furious that the council are making it harder for them to support their local shops. They are all feeling the pinch at the minute and many have said that this is the last thing that they need at this difficult economic time." 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 pressed the Government to take more action in fighting and preventing littering along roadsides. Annette raised the issue during Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Oral Questions in the House of Commons this morning. Annette first praised those in her constituency that voluntarily pick up litter, citing Canford Heath Community Litter Pickers. She then asked Caroline Spelman, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what more will she would do to empower local councils to take effective action against people in vehicles who are responsible for roadside littering. The question raised audible approval from across the house. In response Mrs Spelman accepted that the problem was a serious one and cited a number of potential actions. She accepted the need for a broad approach to the issue and said that, "we have to start in schools by educating children and taking them with us on litter picks, because it then dawns on them what a nuisance this is." She also highlighted a private members bill currently going through Parliament which would make littering from vehicles a civil offence. If implemented at a trial stage, Mrs Spelman said, "we should look at the efficacy of that measure to see what wider lessons we can learn." Mrs Spelman was also keen to point out the actions the Government has already been taking. She reaffirmed support for the Keep Britain Tidy's "Love Where You Live" campaign. She also said, "we are cracking down on fly-tippers by introducing powers to seize the vehicles of suspected offenders and are working with the court authorities on increased sentencing." After leaving the chamber Annette said, "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 welcome the Secretary of State's comments, although when dealing with roadside littering, we must always keep safety as the number one priority. I am glad the Government is onboard in tackling this and I look forward to a proactive approach." Question and Answer: Annette Brooke (Mid Dorset and North Poole) (LD): What steps she is taking to tackle littering and fly-tipping. [90496] The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Mrs Caroline Spelman): Changing behaviour is the key on such environmental issues. That is why the Government supports the national fly-tipping prevention group and initiatives such as Keep Britain Tidy's "Love Where You Live" campaign, which I launched with Kirstie Allsopp last autumn. We are cracking down on fly-tippers by introducing powers to seize the vehicles of suspected offenders and are working with the court authorities on increased sentencing. Annette Brooke: I thank the Secretary of State for her answer. I congratulate all those involved in community litter picks, including those at Canford Heath in my constituency. Litter alongside the busy roads that link our communities is a blot on the landscape. What more will she do to empower local councils to take effective action against people in vehicles who are responsible for such littering? Mrs Spelman: I freely acknowledge that that is a problem. When I jog around the lanes where I live in the countryside, it appalls me to see what has been dropped casually out of car windows. It is systematically cleared by the council, but within a very short period it is back. This is about changing behaviour. We have to start in schools by educating children and taking them with us on litter picks, because it then dawns on them what a nuisance this is. In addition, an interesting opportunity is presented by a private Bill that is going through Parliament, which will enable London borough councils to tackle the problem of littering from vehicles by making it a civil offence. We should look at the efficacy of that measure to see what wider lessons we can learn. 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

Lorely Burt had rejected the idea that a new 'Thames Estuary Airport' is the best way to improve Britain's airline capacity, saying that the development of regional airports such as Birmingham is a better course to take. Media reports in the last few days have reported a formal consultation on the proposed new airport, dubbed 'Boris Island' because of the support from London Mayor Boris Johnson, is due to be announced but Mrs Burt is unconvinced. Commenting, Lorely Burt MP said: Lorely Burt has called on the Government to consider looking outside London when establishing a new 'hub' airport "The idea that we should be adding another airport into London doesn't sit right with me. The airspace above London is already some of the most crowded in the world and it doesn't make any sense to increase that, especially when there are other alternatives. "Instead of this London-centric approach, I'd urge the Government to look at increasing the capacity at regional airports, such as our local one in Birmingham. It makes far more sense to spread the burden across several regions, rather than concentrate it on one city. "Birmingham has excellent road link and rail links already, and the construction of High Speed 2 will only improve those. It is perfectly placed to provide an alternative to the Mayor's vanity project." Mrs Burt was also keen to highlight the economic benefits of investing in regional airports saying: "The Government consistently talks about rebalancing the economy. In order to do that, we have to shift away from this thinking that London is the only place capable of acting as a transport hub. It is about time some other areas got a chance to get a piece of the action. "If we invest in regional airports that brings wider economic benefits to an area, through better business opportunities and more jobs for the local population. We should be spreading those benefits around, rather than just limiting them to the south-east." However, Mrs Burt stopped short of supporting a second runway at Birmingham, saying: "I've received assurances from the airport that they can accommodate an extra 18 million passengers without the necessity of an extra runway. I think once we have a runway extension the airport will have plenty of capacity to provide the services that are required." 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

Local MP Annette Brooke is backing a bill to objectively look at the benefits of moving the clocks forward by one hour. Annette Brooke, who represents Mid Dorset and North Poole, is backing the Daylight Saving Bill which receives its Third Reading in the House of Commons tomorrow. The bill calls on the Government to conduct a comprehensive review of the costs and benefits of putting clocks forward an hour throughout the UK, resulting in lighter evenings every day of the year. "The arguments in favour of clock change are compelling. This one simple low-cost policy could bring wide ranging benefits to the whole of the UK including saving lives on our roads, creating much needed jobs in the tourism sector and reducing the fear of crime on dark evenings." said Annette Brooke MP. Supporters argue that lighter evenings would save lives on our roads by making more of our busiest evening rush hours occur in daylight, create jobs by boosting the tourism sector, and make many people, especially older people, feel safer going out in the evenings for longer. Lighter Later, the group coordinating the campaign for change, says support for the cause has never been stronger. "The Daylight Saving Bill is supported by over 90 national organisations from The AA to SAGA and The FA backing lighter evenings. On the year the Olympics comes to Britain, this would be a brilliant legacy for our young athletes." said Daniel Vockins, campaign manager. Members of the public can find out more about the move and check if their MP is in support of the move at www.lighterlater.org 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

Rising fuel bills are stretching household finances and people are looking for ways to save money on their energy bills. Help is at hand through Big Energy Week (16-21 January 2012) which is being run by Citizens Advice - and has received support from local MP Annette Brooke. During Big Energy Week you can get practical advice on cutting your fuel bills and help to see if you are getting all of the financial support you are entitled to. You can pick up a leaflet with tips and advice on cutting your fuel bills at your local Citizens Advice Bureau. A new website - www.bigenergyweek.org.uk - is full of tips on how to cut your energy bills. The website also has details of local Big Energy Week events in your area. Citizens Advice, Chief Executive, Gillian Guy said: "We know hikes in prices have put extra pressure on people's budgets at a time when money is already tight. Day in day out our Bureaux is helping people who can't afford their fuel bills. "We're worried that some people are struggling unnecessarily because they're not on the best deal; live in homes that haemorrhage heat or are not getting all of the financial help available to them." Annette said: "Fuel bills are a big worry for many people at the moment. I am pleased to support Big Energy Week and hope it will make a big difference to my constituents by saving them money on their bills." Big Energy Week is helping people save money on their bills by encouraging them to: Contact your supplier to check you are you are on the best tariff and payment method for you. Monthly direct debit is on average £100 cheaper per year than paying by cash or cheque. Visit an accredited switching website to see if you could get your energy cheaper elsewhere. You may be able to save up to £200 off your annual bill by shopping around for a different supplier, particularly if you have never changed energy firm. Insulate the walls and the loft of your home and you could save on average around £120 per year. All major gas and electricity suppliers are giving away free or discounted insulation to any household, not just their own customers. Ask if you're eligible so you don't miss out. That goes for heating oil customers too. Check you are not missing out on any benefits or tax credits that could up your income; your local Citizens Advice Bureaux can help you with this. Using less energy could save you money, just by doing simple things like turning off lights and switching appliances off at the wall. Turning your thermostat down 1°C alone could cut your heating bill by £60 on average. If you are unable to pay your bills you should contact your energy supplier immediately as they have to help you manage your bills in a way that you can afford. If you use heating oil or liquid petroleum gas to heat your home, shop around and compare prices from different oil suppliers. You could also save money by buying in bulk with your neighbours; check if there is an oil club you can join or start one up. 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, today sought to safeguard the future of Wareham Middle School's playing fields. During Education Questions in the House of Commons Annette asked Nick Gibb, the Minister for Schools, if both the Department of Education and Sport England would scrutinise any proposal to sell the playing fields very carefully. Annette's concerns are shared by many of her constituents, who want to protect the playing fields for use by the community and the children of Wareham. Annette's question comes as part of a campaign by local people to oppose proposals by Dorset County Council to sell off a large proportion of the playing fields for development. In his response Nick Gibb stated that Dorset County Council had not, as of yet, filed an application to sell the playing fields. Under rules laid down by the School Standards and Framework Act 1998, the county council would have to seek approval from the Secretary of State in order to sell the fields. He further assured Annette that if such an application is made, the Secretary of State would take advice from the independent school playing fields advisory panel before making his decision. After Education Questions Annette said, "We must keep fighting to protect Wareham's playing fields. With the school's closure forthcoming, it is crucial that we safeguard a lasting legacy for the playing fields. I think everyone agrees that they must be retained for community use, as they are an area of huge importance to local sports teams." Question and Answer in Full: School Playing Fields 2. Annette Brooke (Mid Dorset and North Poole) (LD): What his policy is on the sale of school playing fields; and if he will make a statement. [89248] The Minister of State, Department for Education (Mr Nick Gibb): Playing fields are an important part of a school's estate, and sport is a critical element of any school curriculum. The Secretary of State's consent is needed to sell school playing fields under section 77 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998. School playing fields can be sold only if they are genuinely surplus, with all proceeds being used to improve sports or educational facilities. The Education Act 2011 also gives the Secretary of State power to direct that, instead of being disposed of, the land should be transferred to an academy or free school. Annette Brooke: I thank the Minister for that answer. Will he make sure there is careful scrutiny by both Sport England and his Department of the proposed sale of playing fields at Wareham middle school? There are overwhelming objections locally, including from the district council and the town council, identifying the already overall shortage of playing fields. There is widespread community use of the fields, and there is particular opposition to the site's being sold for an out of town supermarket and its possible replacement with inferior provision. Mr Gibb: The short answer is, yes we will. The long answer is that there has not yet been an application from Dorset county council to dispose of the Wareham school playing field. If such an application is made, the Secretary of State's approval to dispose of the playing field will be required, and he will take advice from the independent school playing fields advisory panel. 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

Business leaders have backed the £1bn Youth Contract, announced by Liberal Democrat Leader and Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg in November, which aims to ensure that all jobless young people are earning or learning again before long-term damage is done. In the West Midlands, 20,000 18 to 24-year-olds are currently in receipt of Jobseeker's Allowance and would stand to benefit from the Youth Contract. The Deputy Prime Minister's 'Youth Contract' will help thousands of young people across Solihull Britain's four biggest employer organisations, the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), have formally backed the Youth Contract and will also urge their members to back the initiative. Starting next April, 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 20,000 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: "Youth unemployment is an economic waste and a slow-burn social disaster. If young people are out of work, the consequences of that will be felt for decades afterwards. We need to ensure young people do not have a false start. "That is why it is excellent news that Britain's four biggest employer organisations are backing the scheme. I look forward to working with local employers to make sure the Youth Contract is a success so that we won't lose the skills and talent of our young people - right when we need them most. "As a Liberal Democrat, I am proud that the Coalition Government is working with business to do the right thing to prevent another lost generation." Commenting further, Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg said: "Supporting people into work is my priority for 2012 and helping young people get proper lasting jobs is especially important. "The Youth Contract will make sure every unemployed young person starts earning or learning again before long term damage is done. "But government can't do this alone, we need businesses to play their part too. That's why the support of the Confederation of British Industry, British Chambers of Commerce, British Retail Consortium and Federation of Small Businesses is such good news." 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 voiced her support for the localist direction taken in the Local Government Finance Bill, which received its second reading in the House of Commons yesterday. Speaking in the Chamber last night Annette said, "I welcome the general thrust of the Bill: to devolve greater financial powers and freedoms to councils." The Bill seeks to introduce a business rate retention scheme which will allow councils to raise over 80% of their revenues locally and give them a stake in supporting local shops and companies. Annette argued that "the proposals in the Bill will move us away from a complex, non-transparent, centralised system, which offered no built-in incentives for councils to drive economic growth." Annette, who welcomed the Government's recent announcements of a £100m Empty Homes programme to bring vacant properties back into use, supported the bill's proposals to introduce "an empty home premium after a property has been empty for two years." This means the council, under certain circumstances, could have the discretion to charge full council tax plus 50% more if the property has been empty for 2 years or more. There are currently 300,000 properties in England that have been vacant for longer than 6 months. Annette, highlighting what a big issue second homes are in her local area, suggested that the Government should also consider introducing a second home premium similar to the empty home premium. She highlighted that an astounding 7.29% of homes in part of Purbeck are second homes. Annette believes that by tackling both second homes and empty homes, we can help deal with the housing supply shortage for local people. After the debate Annette said: "I am very positive about giving local authorities the freedom and resources to help local communities and grow local economies. If we can get the detail right on this bill it will be a big step forward for localism. I will keep focusing on the important issues and pushing for a fair and flexible system of local government finance." To read the debate in full visit: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm120110/debtext/120110-0003.htm 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 the Government announcement that High Speed Rail Link between London and Birmingham will go ahead. Lorely Burt has welcomed the Government investment in our train services The link, named 'HS2', will reduce journey times from London to Birmingham to 49 minutes and will bring around £29bn of economic benefit. Commenting, Mrs Burt said: "This is excellent news. The Liberal Democrats were the first party to call for the high speed rail link - as far back as 2004. It will make life easier for passengers and bring huge benefits to the country as a whole, generating economic growth and creating jobs. "The rest of the world are literally speeding ahead when it comes to high-speed rail and we are playing catch up. This investment will provide jobs and growth for the West Midlands and will make it a more attractive place to do business. "It is obviously important that we keep a keen eye on the physical impacts of the project to ensure that we keep any environmental changes to our area to a minimum, but I believe the plans as they stand do that. "This project will also improve connections further north and up to Scotland, so it is important that the Government starts planning for the next phases soon. "HS2 promises to bring future economic trade and prosperity and even this first stage will go a long way to solving the north/south divide." 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

Well - it's nice to get good news to start off the year.

A poll by Liberal Democrat Voice amongst its member only forum rates how ministers have done: which four ministers have most improved their standing, who is minister of the year and who has done worst.

My column published in the Ham & High this last week:

It's been quite a year - both in government and in the constituency. And there is no real separation between those two. The constituency is where legislation and the economy hit the street. The people who come to my advice surgery and the letters, emails and phone calls that come in from local residents at the rate of between two and four hundred per day are my reliable barometer of local peoples' lives.

Sadly, the stand out of the local year has to be the riots, which kicked off in Tottenham and then spread - not only to Wood Green in my constituency - but across the country. The images of peoples' lives in flames and wanton looting seared into the nations psyche. I have written about the riots, cause and effect before, but in terms of my own actions at the time - I was duty Minister at the Home Office on the Sunday. With Boris, the PM, the DPM and the Home Sec out of the country - it was down to me to go out on the airwaves to speak to the nation. And of course - locally - going to visit the traders in Wood Green who had been left for hours the night the riot kicked off without police coming to their frantic calls and then visiting Tottenham High Road with Nick Clegg on the Monday to see the devastation for ourselves, meet some of those who had suffered the consequences of the riots and all of the local partners who needed to put things in place for recovery and help and support.

More generally, as a Liberal Democrat in a coalition government, it has meant making terribly hard decisions in order to do the right thing for the nation. I would have loved to come into government like Labour did in 1997 with a flourishing economy. But the economy not only is not flourishing - but takes all we can do not to go under. So I totally support and believe that the stringent measures we have taken as a government are what is protecting us from the hideous interest rates that we see hit other countries like Italy, Greece and Ireland. If we had those interest rates - the job losses and loss of homes would be massive compared to what we are suffering now.

The economy has dominated all - and will do for some time to come. So without rehearsing a full list of Liberal Democrat achievements in government I will mention a couple of key policies delivered - both which go to the heartbeat of Liberal Democrats - fairness.

Thanks to Liberal Democrats, the coalition has taken over a million of the lowest paid out of tax altogether and put £200 back in the pockets of 23 million low and middle income earners.

Our 'pupil premium' (which is money that the follows the child and is awarded on the basis of deprivation), has meant that even during these tough times in Haringey we received £5.3 million extra for our schools the first year of the pupil premium. This year it has gone up to £8.8 million and this will go on rising year on year of this government. Education is the key transformative for so many children.

More personally in my government portfolio (which is Equalities and Criminal Information) I have been very fortunate to be able to commence the Equality Act (nine tenths enacted); see civil partnerships in religious premises become law; announce that the government will consult on same sex marriage next March; produced action plans on: violence against women, equalities and transgender; introduce consultations: on stalking; on widening the definition of domestic violence; on the disclosure of information about previous convictions men have of harm to women (Clare's Law); get rid of identity cards; reduce vetting and barring back to common sense levels; ban wheel clamping on private land; set up a Body Confidence campaign group (fighting the impossible pressure of the perfect image); find some funding for male domestic violence groups; play a part in the change of the laws of accession; ensure that government messages on women's rights (a moment in history with the Arab Spring and Afghanistan), violence against women and LGB&T rights are taken across the world by travelling ministers; play a part in the Bonn Conference on Afghanistan post 2014; tackle Homophobia and Transphobia in sport with the Sports Charter; support and pursue more women on boards, equal pay; women entrepreneurs - and a lot more - which there just isn't room to cover in this column.

But as ever - home is where the heart is - and here in Hornsey & Wood Green there have been many, many campaigns. Perhaps the biggest of which is fighting against plans which are supported by Labour Haringey for a massive waste plant at Pinkham Way . We have stopped them at the moment (thanks to lots of local people, Liberal Democrat Cllr Juliet Solomon and the Pinkham Way Alliance and the three local MPs) - but vigilance is key. As to Labour's plans to make rubbish collections once every two weeks - judging from our survey - not wanted!

I have also - as always - been delighted to visit countless local people, schools, projects and events and you can always see what I am up to if you go to my website and look at the news section which covers what I do locally.

As ever, it has been an absolute honour and privilege to serve as your MP and I thank you all for your contribution in answering my emails and my surveys and for being the best constituents an MP could ever want.

Please just get in touch if ever I can be of help.

Wishing you all a very Happy 2012.

Annette Brooke MP is backing Meningitis Research Foundation's campaign 'Meningitis Matters' - to raise awareness of meningitis and septicaemia, and to ensure that tackling the diseases remains a top public health priority while the current NHS reforms are implemented. Meningitis is still a serious and life-threatening disease, affecting around 3,400 people in the UK each year. Infants and young people are at greatest risk: meningitis causes the largest number of deaths amongst children under five - more than any other infectious disease. The Meningitis Matters campaign aims to raise awareness of the disease and ensure that the NHS reforms do not have a destabilising effect on meningitis research, surveillance and immunisation rates. Supporting the campaign, Annette Brooke MP met with Nicky and Matt McClure, local constituents and parents of meningitis survivor Megan, in Parliament this week, to find out more about the diseases, and how the lives and outcomes of those affected could be improved. Along with other MPs, Annette Brooke MP has signed an Early Day Motion (EDM 2476) calling on the Government to introduce new meningitis vaccines as soon as readily available. Many deadly strains of meningitis remain uncontrolled, and vaccination is still the most effective way to prevent and control it. Annette Brooke MP said: "Meningitis hasn't gone away - it still kills far too many children in the UK. Although real progress has been made over the last decade, more needs to be done to tackle this terrible disease and to improve survival rates and save lives." Meningitis Matters calls on the Government to ensure that: Vaccines that prevent meningitis are introduced into the immunisation schedule as soon as they become available Healthcare professionals have sufficient training to enable them to identify and manage meningitis Adequate follow-up, care and support are provided to those left with after-effects of meningitis and septicaemia. 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

Yesterday, Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset & North Poole, spoke on the provision of health services for disabled children in an adjournment debate she called in the House of Commons. Annette highlighted to the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Public Health Anne Milton MP the fact that disabled children and those with complex health needs are disproportionate users of health services, but they face long-standing barriers to accessing both universal and specialist health services. Annette called on the Department of Health to set out a clear vision for the way in which the reformed system will meet the needs of these children. Annette accepted that given the coalition's proposed policy changes, there are some potentially amazing opportunities-specifically within the Health and Social Care Bill, but added that the Government needs to grasp those opportunities and address the issues that are seen as threats. Among the concerns she raised, Annette pressed the Minister on the need for measures to ensure that the Secretary of State, the NHS Commissioning Board, clinical networks and senates, health and wellbeing boards, clinical commissioning groups and HealthWatch or monitoring bodies will prioritise child health. Annette argued that the Secretary of State should to be required to set priorities for child health as part of his mandate to the NHS Commissioning Board. Annette pressed the need for integrated services. She pointed out that there are many concerns about the fact that although there is currently a statutory duty to provide education services identified in a statement, there is not the same statutory duty for the provision of health services. The Bill also does not provide a platform for education providers to take part in local decision making at health and wellbeing board level, which will make integrated commissioning more difficult. Annette pointed out that specific attention must be given to the health processes and professionals who work within child health, or the modernisation of the NHS could perpetuate a system that fails children, particularly disabled children and those with complex and/or palliative care needs. The Minister assured Annette that the Government are doing what they can to improve the availability and quality of health care for all children and young people, including those with disabilities, as she acknowledged that the NHS, as it currently works, does not get everything right for children and young people. In her response Mrs Milton set out the goals of the Government, including the right start to life in the foundation years, improved support for mental health and well-being, more co-operative and joined-up services for children with disabilities, and improved health in adolescence. She added that the Government are moving towards a service in which the use of evidence-based treatment is adopted consistently and to the best effect; in which promoting good health is of equal importance to caring for the sick; and in which children, young people and their families are always involved in decisions about their care. To read the full debate visit: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm111215/debtext/111215-0004.htm#11121581000232 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 joined leading animal welfare and veterinary organisations, trade unions and canine companions in a Christmas wish list on Wednesday 14th December appealing for urgent government action on the issue of irresponsible dog ownership and dog law reform. MPs from all major political parties were joined by representatives from twenty organisations who are calling on the coalition government to deliver on their agreement that enforcement agencies should "target irresponsible owners of dangerous dogs." Those present are hoping to successfully introduce a government Bill in the Queen's Speech next year updating current dog control legislation to improve public and worker safety as well as animal welfare and reduce the costs of enforcement to the public purse. The issue of irresponsible dog ownership covers many different areas, from allowing dogs to foul or stray, to encouraging them to be dangerously out of control, contributing to anti-social behaviour or even using them as a weapon. There is much evidence that dog ownership has a benefit to society when the dog is well trained and the owner is responsible. Organisations behind today's Christmas wish list and the petition include: Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, The Blue Cross, British Telecom, British Veterinary Association, Communication Workers Union, Dogs Trust, GMB, Guide Dogs, IIRSM, Kennel Club, National Dog Wardens Association, Police Federation, Prospect, Royal Mail Group, Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, RSPCA, UNISON, USDAW, Unite, Wood Green, The Animal Charity and Virgin Media. 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

Local MP Annette Brooke joined disability rights campaigners, train company staff, and rail passengers to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Disabled Persons Railcard at a reception in the Houses of Parliament. The reception heard from Transport Minister Norman Baker MP; Sir Bert Massie, one of the founders of the Railcard; and Chief Executive of the Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC), Michael Roberts. Annette also welcomed new figures released by ATOC, which manages the Railcard, showing that record numbers of people with disabilities are getting about by train, with 3.5 million trips made last year. Launched in 1981, the Railcard was the first of its kind in Europe and offers cardholders and a friend or companion travelling with them 1/3 off the cost of most train tickets on the National Rail network. Journeys made using the Railcard have more than doubled in the last 15 years. On average last year, Disabled Persons Railcard holders made 29 journeys and saved £99 on rail travel. If they had held a Railcard since 1981, on average they would have saved almost £2,500 and travelled more than 40,000 miles. As well as the savings offered for disabled passengers, train companies attribute the continuing rise in numbers to significant improvements in facilities and services on trains. Examples of major changes and developments include: - In 2009, ATOC launched Stations Made Easy, an interactive web guide showing access facilities and layouts of all 2,500 stations in Britain, the first such tool of its kind for a railway network. - A national training DVD to improve the quality and delivery of disability awareness training for rail staff - 'Everything you wanted to know about disability but were afraid to ask'. - An improved system for booking and delivering support to passengers who need help when travelling - Passenger Assist - which takes advantage of improvements in technology and delivers booking confirmations to passengers. - Collaboration with Department for Transport and Network Rail to secure major improvements to station access across the rail network. Annette said: "With more than three and a half million trips made using the Disabled Persons Railcard last year, it's clear what an important contribution it makes to the lives of so many people with disabilities. "I know that many people in Mid Dorset and North Poole rely on their Railcard. That's why I was delighted to wish it a happy 30th birthday and to congratulate ATOC and train companies on their record breaking year." Michael Roberts, ATOC Chief Executive, said: "I was very pleased Annette was able to join us to celebrate this occasion. Train companies are committed to responding to passengers' needs and will continue to work closely with Annette, disability charities and support groups to improve services even further in Mid Dorset and North Poole and across the country. "Accessible public transport plays a key role in allowing disabled people to lead an independent life, so it's good news that more and more people are taking advantage of the Disabled Persons Railcard." 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 provided her support for better financial education in schools on Monday by attending the launch of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Financial Education for Young People report on Financial Education and the Curriculum. The report recommends the Government should promote the provision of high quality financial education in schools in England. Around one in four economically active adults is functionally innumerate. A survey by the UK Payments Council has found a notable lack of knowledge around the meaning of some of the most common financial terms, for example, only 36% of people understand that the term APR relates to payments. Moreover, lack of financial education has cost Brits nearly £250 million in charges and penalties alone, with almost a quarter (24%) having been hit by charges because they don't understand the terms and conditions of financial products, according to research from uSwitch.com. A survey carried out by the inquiry found that in schools across England the existing provision of personal finance education is ad hoc, with only 45% of teachers reporting that they have ever taught the subject. The report recommends that: Financial education should be compulsory in every school's curriculum and assessed. Every school should have a dedicated 'champion' to coordinate financial education drawn from the senior leadership team. Banks and businesses can play an important role, particularly the British Bankers Association. Primary schools should continue to teach financial education using a cross-curriculum approach, but teachers must be able teach basic maths and money skills. Secondary schools should use a cross-curriculum approach grounded in maths and personal social health and economic (PSHE) education. PSHE should cover finance education as one of four strands with clear outcomes, and improved training and assessment. All teaching materials should be quality marked by a trusted body. Annette Brooke MP said."In an ever increasingly complex financial world it is important that young people are fully equipped to make informed financial decisions. I support the improvement of the provision of personal finance in schools and call on the Government to include these recommendations as part of their review of the National Curriculum." Carol Vorderman says: '"About half of 16 year olds fail their GCSE Maths. Of those who gain a Grade C, many still find it difficult to calculate percentages. It is time for the skills that everybody needs to juggle an ever complicated world are taught fully and properly through the Maths curriculum. At the moment, the young people who fail Maths are taught a watered down version of what the top 15% need: this includes levels of trigonometry and algebra, which they will never use again, if they ever get to understand it in the first place. They need the fundamentals of arithmetic and its applications as a priority. it's time for change." Martin Lewis of MoneySavingExpert.com, whose e-petition has now had the magic 100,000 sign it, says: "For once, thankfully, we have a bunch of politicians who aren't pussy-footing around. They're actually using the C word - compulsory. We need compulsory financial education in our schools. Our nation is financially illiterate, for over 20 years we've educated our youth into debt when they go to university, but never about debt. Breaking this cycle will mean less mis-selling, fewer bad debts, better consumers and could save the public coffers a fortune." Wendy van den Hende, Chief Executive of pfeg says: "Young people want to learn how to manage their money, and school is an excellent place for this to happen. Teachers clearly want it to be part of the curriculum, so that it is taken seriously and has the support it deserves to be taught effectively." 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 this week visited her local sorting office to see how the staff at Royal Mail are getting on with the Christmas deliveries, and to thank them for their work. Lorely with postman Barry Fielding, who has been with the Royal Mail for 34 years. Lorely met staff at the sorting office and discussed with them the challenges and changes that they are currently facing and how they deal with the mountains of post and parcels that arrive around Christmas. Commenting, Mrs Burt said: "The staff at the Royal Mail do a fantastic job all year round, but their job is especially vital at Christmas. No one wants their gift or card to be delayed and the extra effort that the staff here at the sorting office put in make sure that doesn't happen. The amount of mail they get through is tremendous and I know how much people appreciate the work that they do." 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

I was very proud today to launch the Government's Advancing transgender equality: a plan for action - the first ever Government action plan to advance transgender equality.

It lays out the Government's vision and commitment to improve transgender people's lives. To view the action plan and our e-bulletin, please click here.

The action plan was formulated with the trans community and I would like to thank everyone who took time to speak to us, attend our events and respond to our e-surveys. All of the input, challenge and continued hard work by the community themselves have made the action plan possible.

PS Support our campaign to tackle homophobia and transphobia in sport. Sign the Charter for Action by 'liking' our facebook page

Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, chaired a well attended and productive meeting of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Mobile Homes yesterday in the Palace of Westminster. The session brought MPs together with a member of the police force, the consumer rights agency Consumer Focus and various park home stakeholders to discuss the pressing issues that surround the industry. Consensus among the independent experts met with willingness from MPs and the group agreed upon a number of specific actions to take forward. MPs agreed to contact the Association of Chief Police Officers to call for a single officer to lead on park home issues within the police force. They also agreed to invite Grant Shapps MP, a Minister at the Department of Communities and Local Government, to attend the next meeting of the APPG - importantly his department will be publishing a consultation on the park homes industry in the New Year. The MPs also agreed to keep pressure up on the Government over park home energy issues. After the meeting had finished Annette said, "I am so pleased at the high level of interest and agreement we saw today over tackling park home issues. Today we saw clear evidence, from independent experts, about the extent and severity of the problems that affect park home residents across the country. We can now push on in Parliament in the hope of making a real difference." 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

Co-founder of the Campaign for Body Confidence Jo Swinson MP has welcomed the findings of a new report which suggests women and girls prefer more natural images of beauty. The research was compiled by advertising think-tank Credos, and follows recent ASA rulings against misleading cosmetics adverts and questions about the extent of airbrushing and digital manipulation in beauty advertising. Commenting, Jo Swinson said: "Not only did 84% of young women surveyed say that airbrushing to change the body shape of a model in adverts is unacceptable, but the highest proportion of them chose a natural image when asked which was more beautiful. "It's clear that this group prefer advertising images which come closer to reflecting reality, rather than the damaging super-skinny ideals which we are constantly bombarded with. "Growing concerns about idealised images and recent ASA rulings against misleading ads have already given the advertisers food for thought. By taking on board the views highlighted in this research, advertisers have the opportunity to connect successfully with young women instead of damaging their brand with this group." Credos' research will be released publicly on 7th December 2011. For more information and to download a copy of Credos' research, visit their website: www.credos.org.uk . For more information on the Campaign for Body Confidence, see the website: www.campaignforbodyconfidence.org.uk Published and promoted by Jo Swinson, 4 Springfield House, Emerson Road, Bishopbriggs G64 1QEPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, yesterday pressed the Government on its policy towards adult social care funding in the House of Commons. She raised the issue with Bob Neill MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, during Department of Communities and Local Government questions. Annette's question focused on the reduced spending on services for those with lesser needs. Annette pointed out that this may prove a false economy as smaller interventions today may prevent the need for more serious interventions in the future. She also highlighted the difficult situation being faced by many councils across the southwest region in trying to fund increasingly expensive social care bills. Specifically, Annette sought more freedom for councils to act proactively. She asked if Mr Neill would, "consider making it easier to invest to save, so that we can have important interventions now rather than later?" In his response Mr Neill highlighted the need to give councils proper flexibility to manage their budgets to meet local needs. He also offered to meet with Annette to discuss the issue in more detail. After leaving the chamber Annette said, "I am glad to hear the Government talk about increasing the autonomy of local authorities and councils. I am a firm believer that a local, tailored approach to this issue is the way forward. We need to give councils all the support we can in order to ensure the best possible quality of social care, especially when it comes to adult social care. " Question and Answer: Annette Brooke (Mid Dorset and North Poole) (LD): Notwithstanding the very welcome move to bring health and social care funding together and the extra money this year, councils across the south-west are struggling with the increasing burden of social services funding, particularly for adult care. Does the Minister share my concern that services to those with lesser needs is being cut, but that that is storing up more problems for the future? Will he consider making it easier to invest to save, so that we can have important interventions now rather than later? Robert Neill: I understand my hon. Friend's point and I would be happy to meet her to discuss those matters in more detail. On the other hand, we need to give adequate flexibility to local authorities to prioritise their spend to reflect local needs and pressures, but I will happily discuss the matter further with her. To read DCLG questions in the full visit: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm111205/debtext/111205-0001.htm#1112057000485 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 marked World AIDS Day and the 30th anniversary of the discovery of AIDS by pledging her commitment to ensuring the UK does all it can to bring an end to the epidemic. At an event hosted by the APPG on HIV and AIDS in Westminster, Lorely Burt MP met with students and campaigners to discuss the UK's role in the effort to tackle the virus. Lorely met with students from the 'Stop Aids' Campaign Seven million people around the world are now accessing lifesaving HIV medicines - thanks in large part to the support of theUK. However more still needs to be done as nine million people are still waiting to access treatment. Significantly new evidence this year shows that HIV treatment not only keeps people alive, but also reduces the chances of spreading the virus by 96%. This new evidence, combined with existing proven prevention, treatment and care efforts mean we can now credibly speak about bringing an end to aids. Commenting, Lorely Burt MP said, "On World AIDS Day we should reflect on what we have done to save the lives of mothers and children, fathers and families all around the world. Our effort to tackle HIV and AIDS has been an incredible success. For the first time we now have the chance to bring an end to AIDS within a generation - it's a chance we cannot allow to slip away." Commenting further, Mrs Burt said: "British people have helped to transform millions of lives across the developing world. I believe that we can all be proud of this record. I am going to ask the government to make the effort to bring an end to AIDS and resolving the crisis at the Global Fund a top priority so we can continue to be proud of delivering on our promises to the world's most vulnerable." Lorely Burt met with volunteers and activists from the Stop AIDS Campaign, Restless Development and Gemin-I. Diarmaid McDonald, Stop AIDS Campaign coordinator said, "Lorely Burt MP's support is vital to the global effort to tackle AIDS. Right now we have a chance to end the epidemic, but global resources for HIV are dropping and the Global Fund - which covers half of the total AIDS response is so short of cash it is stopping all expansion until 2014. This will put the lives of millions at risk. The support of X will go along way to averting this crisis." 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 cash boost for local councils through the New Homes Bonus, announced by Liberal Democrat Communities Minister Andrew Stunell. The money means councils are rewarded for building new homes and bringing empty homes back into use. In Solihull, the Coalition has given £1.4m, delivering 311 new homes and bringing 51 empty homes back in to use. This is the latest in a line of steps the Government have taken to boost the housing market, following on from an extension of the 'Right to Buy' scheme and an announcement of a Government backed mortgage indemnity scheme that will allow first-time buyers to get onto the housing ladder. Commenting, Lorely Burt MP said: "After 13 years of Labour's failure, the Liberal Democrats are determined to get Britain building again. The New Homes Bonus is doing exactly that. "We're already seeing new homes built in Solihull and empty homes being brought back in to use. "This is something the Liberal Democrats have long campaigned for and we are now delivering in Government." Commenting further, Liberal Democrat Communities Minister Andrew Stunell said: "These are very pleasing figures, showing that the New Homes Bonus is acting as a spur to get councils building new homes and bringing more empty homes back into use. "It's a win-win situation for local communities - £430m of extra funding for frontline services and 159,000 extra homes for local people. "Labour's top-down approach to building homes just didn't work. It was unrealistic and ineffective, and didn't take into account local needs or wishes. "Instead the New Homes Bonus is introducing a culture change - making it easier to persuade local people to go for development, and rewarding communities that go for growth." 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, today sought assurances from Chris Huhne MP, the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, that park home owners will receive equitable treatment in the provision of energy discount schemes. She also sought to raise the profile of the Green Deal in relation to park home owners. During Department of Energy and Climate Change Oral Questions in the House of Commons, Annette asked whether schemes designed to help struggling households pay their fuel bills could be made available to those in park homes, as many park home owners had previously been ineligible for assistance. Site owners are likely to buy in bulk and then resell, perhaps at quite a high price, meaning park home owners cannot apply for assistance. In his answer Mr Huhne both acknowledged the extent of the problem and promised action to "get to the bottom of this." Annette also pressed Mr Huhne to better promote the benefits of the Green Deal on offer to park home owners, and she called for a specific information campaign targeted at park home owners. The Green Deal offers households the chance to make energy efficient improvements cheaper by paying costs from future energy bill savings. Annette wanted to stress that park homes will be eligible for these improvements as long as they meet the general baseline criteria. The Secretary of State agreed that: "It is crucial that we have the dialogue that she asks for to ensure that we help those people as far as we can." Annette said: "Increasing the rights and protections of park home owners, many of whom are elderly or vulnerable, is an incredibly important issue and one that we must keep pressing the Government on. We must get the word out that the Green Deal can offer substantive benefits to park home owners who were often unfairly frozen out of other schemes." Question and Answer: 6. Annette Brooke (Mid Dorset and North Poole) (LD): What recent assessment he has made of the effects of Government policy on household energy bills. [83966] The Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change (Chris Huhne): I am delighted to say, Mr Speaker, that I do have the answer to this question. On 23 November, DECC published its updated assessment of the impact of energy and climate change policies on energy prices and bills. The latest estimates show that the average household dual fuel bill is currently 2% higher than it would have been if energy and climate change policies were not introduced. By 2020, these policies will mean that the average household dual fuel bill will be 7% lower than it would have been in the same year in the absence of our policies. Annette Brooke: I thank the Secretary of State for that answer. Would he be prepared to work with the Department for Communities and Local Government to see how the benefits of the discount schemes for people on low incomes could be extended to park homes, where the site owner is likely to buy in bulk and then resell, perhaps at quite a high price? To help the very vulnerable people in park homes, could there be a specific campaign to tell park home owners that they are eligible for the green deal? Chris Huhne: I am grateful to my hon. Friend for that question. As a long-standing campaigner for people who live in park homes, she knows that they are far too often overlooked in schemes that benefit people who live in substantial and ordinary properties. It is crucial that we have the dialogue that she asks for to ensure that we help those people as far as we can. There are obviously practical issues that we need to address. We will try to get to the bottom of this. For DECC questions in full visit: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm111129/halltext/111129h0002.htm#11112943000325 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

Commenting on the announcement that the Coalition Government is to drop plans to remove the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance from people in residential care homes, Co-Chair of the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Party Committee on Work and Pensions, Jenny Willott said: "I am delighted that after months of pressure these proposals have finally been dropped. "Liberal Democrats have consistently opposed these plans, which would have cut a vital lifeline for many disabled people, and the Party passed a conference motion earlier this year calling for the decision to be overturned. "Today's announcement ensures that the Coalition Government is doing the right thing by protecting 80,000 people, including many disabled children, who would have lost the mobility support that allows them to lead active and independent lives." 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 welcomed the announcement in the Chancellor's Autumn Statement that the Basic State Pension will rise by the full amount of inflation. The move means that next year around 10,300 pensioners in Cardiff Central will see their Basic State Pension increase by 5.2% at a total cost of over £2.8 million. The announcement ends speculation that the Chancellor was planning to increase pensions by less than inflation, a suggestion which was opposed by the Liberal Democrats. Commenting, Jenny, who is also co-chair of the Lib Dem Parliamentary Party Committee on Work and Pensions, said: "I am delighted that pensioners will see the full increase in their Basic State Pension. This will be an important boost for pensioners in Cardiff and across Wales. "At a time when everyone is facing a squeeze on their living costs it is important that we ensure that the Basic State Pension keeps track with the costs faced by pensioners. "In Government the Lib Dems have ensured, through the 'Triple Lock', that the Basic State Pension will always rise by the highest of prices, earnings or 2.5%. This announcement shows the Triple Lock in 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

Solihull MP Lorely Burt has welcomed the announcement of plans by the Coalition Government to make sure carers are able get a break. Last year, Liberal Democrat Care Minister, Paul Burstow announced an extra £400m for Primary Care Trusts to allow carers to take a well-earned break, but a recent study has found that many PCTs are not spending this money on carers. The Coalition Government has now announced a new framework to ensure that by September next year, the local NHS must have plans in place to support carers and must publish these plans. Commenting, Mrs Burt said: "In difficult times Liberal Democrats are doing the right thing and making sure we help those who need it most. "I am proud that Liberal Democrats are making life a little bit easier for carers in Solihull who are some of the most unsung heroes we have. "This is a manifesto commitment that the Liberal Democrats are delivering in the Coalition Government." Commenting further, Liberal Democrat Care Minister, Paul Burstow said: "We know that most people who need care would prefer for it to be provided by a loved one and that personal touch can make the world of difference to their lives. "Family carers contribute billions of pounds to the economy with the amount of care and support they give, driven by nothing but a selfless desire to help those they love, reducing the need for local authorities and the NHS to step in. "It is only right we try and reward those carers with a few days off here and there, or a short break away, to alleviate them of the day-to-day pressure that comes with caring. "That is why we have asked the NHS to work closer than ever before with local authorities, to pool their money, to agree plans and to make sure carers get the break they all deserve." 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

Jo has urged people to fight Scottish Boundary Commission proposals to split Milngavie and Bearsden under new Westminster constituency boundaries. Jo with local MYSP Ross Greer on the proposed 'boundary' by Bearsden Primary School In order to reduce the number of MPs in the House of Commons from 650 to 600, the Boundary Commission for Scotland recently put forward initial proposals which recommended changes to the current shape of the East Dunbartonshire constituency. Under the proposed changes, the Bearsden North ward would join with West Dunbartonshire to become a new West Dunbartonshire and Bearsden constituency. The rest of the current East Dunbartonshire constituency would join with the rest of Kirkintilloch, Lennoxtown, Milton of Campsie, Twechar and Kilsyth to become a new East Dunbartonshire & Kilsyth constituency. The Scottish Boundary Commission is now inviting views from the public on the proposals, and Jo attended a public hearing session in Glasgow to put her views forward. Representatives from Milngavie Community Council, Bearsden North Community Council and Bearsden East Community Council also attended and spoke out against the current proposals. Commenting, Jo said: "My most recent e-consultation found that out of around 150 responses, 75% opposed the Boundary Commission's proposals, the vast majority of whom were opposed to splitting Milngavie and Bearsden. At the public hearing I put forward the case to retain the Milngavie and Bearsden community in one constituency, and it's now time for local people to continue that fight. "Splitting half of Bearsden off from the rest of the town and from Milngavie would mean dividing what is a naturally very integrated area - in terms of shops, services, transport and local government. With a joint coat of arms and links going back centuries, the shared history and sense of community is highly significant. Half of Bearsden would be only a small part of the new West Dunbartonshire and Bearsden constituency, and many people told me they are worried that their views would be marginalised. "There are alternatives the Boundary Commission could propose. For example, the community of Drumchapel shares many transport and shopping links with West Dunbartonshire and could more logically join with that area instead of half of Bearsden doing so. We know from the past that the Boundary Commission often does listen to local community voices, if they are loud enough! "Changing these plans to remove Bearsden North from the rest of Bearsden and Milngavie in Parliamentary representation will take a lot of public pressure, so please get in touch and submit your comments by emailing comments@scottishboundaries.gov.uk or writing to Boundary Commission for Scotland, Thistle House, 91 Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh, EH12 5HD by Wednesday 4thJanuary." Published and promoted by Jo Swinson, 4 Springfield House, Emerson Road, Bishopbriggs G64 1QEPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

You will have seen on the news the death of two young men - both who had been at dance music events at Alexandra Palace on Friday and Saturday. One other young man is in hospital in a stable condition.

The management at the Palace have put out this statement

The key point being that if you were at the Palace and took any substances and do not feel well - then please go to A& E to get checked out.

The police are investigating the incident.

Solihull MP Lorely Burt has welcomed the £1bn Youth Contract to tackle youth unemployment, announced today by Liberal Democrat Leader and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg. In Solihull, 1,720 18-24 year olds are currently in receipt of Jobseeker's Allowance and would stand to benefit from the Youth Contract. Starting next April, 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 further programme will help 16 and 17 year olds who are not in employment, education or training (NEETs). This will help the most disengaged of the 20,000 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, Co-chair of the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Committee on Business, Innovation & Skills, Lorely Burt said: "If young people are out of work, the consequences of that will be felt for decades afterwards. We need to ensure that the young people of today do not have a false start. "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 an economic waste and a slow-burn social disaster. "We can't lose the skills and talent of our young people - right when we need them most. We can't afford to leave our young men and women on the scrap heap. 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 working or learning again before long-term damage is done. "This is a £1bn package and what's different about it is that it gets young people into proper, lasting jobs in the private sector." 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

Commenting on the Youth Contact which has today been announced by Deputy Prime Minister and Liberal Democrat Leader, Nick Clegg, Co-Chair of the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Party Committee on Work and Pensions, Jenny Willott said: "With youth unemployment rising considerably under Labour and currently standing at a worryingly high level, the Coalition Government is determined to ensure we don't lose a generation of young people because of the mistakes of this generation. "We know that school leavers being out of work for a long period of time can have a drastic effect on the rest of their lives. So today's announcement by Nick Clegg will ensure that every young person has the start in life that they deserve. What makes this package unique is that it gets young people into training or lasting employment, ensuring they don't fall behind. "When money is tight, Liberal Democrats are determined to do the right thing and prioritise the future of our young people. We will make sure those who are willing and able have the opportunities and support they need to make sure no one falls behind." 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

Jo Swinson MP has engaged with local students in debate and discussion about life in politics on a recent visit to Douglas Academy. A former pupil of Douglas Academy, Jo joined in with events to mark the school's 'Careers Day'. Jo participated in a 'speed-meeting' careers conference session for the S2 pupils with people who have interesting jobs - named 'You Can Do Anything'. She then joined the school's debating club to discuss the motion 'This house would set a maximum limit for salaries'. Commenting, Jo said: "It was great to be back at Douglas Academy, which is always a bit of a trip down memory lane for me. The S2 pupils really seemed to enjoy hearing from various local figures about different careers - a unique way of showing young people that there is no limit to the kind of job ambitions they can pursue after school. "It was also great to share tips and techniques with the debating club, who are entering debating competitions in the new year. I was impressed by the pupils' enthusiasm for putting their cases across on what is a very interesting topic: far more civilised that that of the Commons Chamber during PMQs!" Published and promoted by Jo Swinson, 4 Springfield House, Emerson Road, Bishopbriggs G64 1QEPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

GreenN8 has put together a clip with Stroud Green's residents and LibDem politicians explaining why the Boundary Commission should leave Stroud Green in the Hornsey & Wood Green constituency and not move it into Tottenham.

Here is the film marvellously put together by Ofer: http://www.youtube.com/GreenN8TV

Jo with (from left to right) David Nicolson (NFUS Branch Secretary), Fiona Mcleod MSP, Steven Wilson (Farmer), Anne Mckechin MP, Mary Fisher (NFUS Branch Secretary) and Willie Wilson (Farmer and Forth & Clyde NFUS Regional Chairman). Visiting Westerhill Farm near Bishopbriggs, Jo Swinson MP recently got a taste of day-to-day life on the farm. Accompanied by fellow Scottish politicians Ann McKechin MP and Fiona McLeod MSP, Jo donned her wellies to take a tour of the farm led by Willie Wilson, Regional Chairman of the National Farmers Union of Scotland in Forth and Clyde. The 220-acre farm, owned by Willie and his family, is currently home to around 150 beef cows and produces barley, oilseed rape, wheat and oats. Commenting, Jo said: "I was delighted to visit Westerhill Farm and see first-hand how owner Willie and his sons are keeping up the hard work. The scale of their operation is impressive, looking after around 150 cows and 600 acres of grassland! "The Scottish farming community is the cornerstone of our countryside, and farmers have faced real challenges in recent years, amidst rising prices and the tough economic climate. It's vital that local people continue to support farms like Westerhill through buying locally - particularly in the run up to this year's festive season." More information on the National Farmers Union of Scotland can be found on http://www.nfus.org.uk. Published and promoted by Jo Swinson, 4 Springfield House, Emerson Road, Bishopbriggs G64 1QEPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Solihull MP Lorely burt has welcomed the news that apprenticeships have reached record highs in the academic year 2010/11, thanks to Liberal Democrats in the Coalition Government. In Solihull, 720 people took on an apprenticeship in 2010/11, an increase of 53%. In total, more than 440,000 learners started an apprenticeship last year, which is an increase of 50% compared to the year before. Apprenticeships give people the skills and experience needed to succeed on the job market and create the skills necessary in the workforce for sustainable growth. Commenting, Liberal Democrat Co-chair for Business, Innovation and Skills Mrs Burt said: "Apprenticeships make companies more productive and give young people the experience and skills they need. "Liberal Democrats are determined to tackle youth unemployment and get our economy back on track. Apprenticeships are a huge part of that. "Apprenticeships are beneficial to all involved and the record rise in learners taking them up is great news for Solihull and the economy as a whole. "Small businesses form the backbone of our economy and the announcements by Liberal Democrat Business Secretary, Vince Cable, are very welcome. They show the Coalition Government is determined to do the right thing and create sustainable growth, driven by our local employers." Liberal Democrats have long called for a significant increase in apprenticeships and Lib Dem Business Secretary, Vince Cable, has made this a priority. To support more employers, especially small businesses, to take on apprentices, the Coalition Government this week announced a number of measures, including: Offering employers with up to 50 employees an incentive payment of £1,500 to take on apprentices aged 16-24. This will encourage small employers to take on up to 20,000 apprentices. Streamlining processes so that it takes just a month for an employer to advertise for an apprentice. Ensuring that the National Apprenticeship Service better supports the needs of small employers - through more effectively targeted advice and guidance and helping training providers work more effectively with local SMEs. Commenting, Mrs Burt said: "Apprenticeships make companies more productive and give young people the experience and skills they need. "Liberal Democrats are determined to tackle youth unemployment and get our economy back on track. Apprenticeships are a huge part of that. "Apprenticeships are beneficial to all involved and the record rise in learners taking them up is great news for Solihull and the economy as a whole. "Small businesses form the backbone of our economy and the announcements by Liberal Democrat Business Secretary, Vince Cable, are very welcome. They show the Coalition Government is determined to do the right thing and create sustainable growth, driven by our local employers." Commenting further, Liberal Democrat Business Secretary, Vince Cable said: "The apprenticeships programme is a success story, with record numbers of learners starting an apprenticeship this year. But I have listened to employers, and will go further to ensure that investment is targeted where impact is greatest, delivering the specific skills businesses need to drive growth. "Apprenticeships are proven to boost the life chances of young people, and are a sound investment in our future competitiveness. So when times are tough, it's right that we provide additional support to help the smallest firms meet training costs. "We'll cut no corners on quality. Apprenticeships will remain the gold standard for excellence in vocational training - but where red tape serves no purpose, we'll strip it away." 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

Jo Swinson MP is encouraging local people to support a campaign raising funds and awareness for prostate cancer charities. Supported by 'Mo-Sistas' like Jo, thousands of men across the country have pledged to grow a moustache as 'Mo-Bros' to attract sponsorship for the Movember prostate cancer campaign. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in men; every year 37,000 men are diagnosed in the UK. Last year over 111,000 people in the UK supported the Movember campaign, raising £11.7 million for The Prostate Cancer Charity and The Institute of Cancer Research. There is still time to make a donation to a specific 'Mo-Bro' or just a general donation to these charities by visiting uk.movember.com/donate. Commenting, Jo said: "Talking about health is not something that comes easily to many men, so it's vital that we raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of diseases like prostate cancer. Even if you don't want to grow a moustache, you can still donate to the Movember fund and improve someone's life. "Movember is a fun campaign which gets a serious message across - one man dies of prostate cancer every hour in the UK, so it's time to put this important issue in the spotlight. Good luck to all those East Dunbartonshire residents and my Parliamentary colleagues taking part in this year's Movember - I look forward to seeing their new looks!" More information about Movember and how to take part can be found on http://uk.movember.com/. The Prostate Cancer Charity fights prostate cancer through research, support, information provision and campaigning. For more information visit www.prostate-cancer.org.uk Published and promoted by Jo Swinson, 4 Springfield House, Emerson Road, Bishopbriggs G64 1QEPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Myself and many others have spent years campaigning to highlight the issue of domestic violence, and so I was delighted to speak at a conference today hosted by the City of London's City Bridge Trust, NSPCC and Refuge looking at what can be done to meet the needs of children affected by domestic violence.

There are some great services out there that support thousands of vulnerable women and children, but it is concerning that new research by the NSPCC and Refuge shows children's views are often ignored and considered second to those of women suffering from violent abuse.

The report highlights some isolated examples of promising work in this area that we can build on, but the researchers found children can be sidelined, and some of the most vulnerable children and young people are the least likely to get help.

We must do more to tackle this issue, and ensure children as well as the women are able to access adequate support, and that children have a role in shaping the services that directly affect them. You can read my full speech from the conference here:

Introduction
Good morning. I would like to start by thanking Refuge and the NSPCC for inviting me here today and giving me an invaluable opportunity to hear from these incredible young people.

It's easy as a Minister to get stuck in Parliament or in the Home Office, and to simply read reports and meet officials, but it is so important for me to hear first hand from the people whose lives are affected by the issues I am working hard to address.

I would like to commend the panel for having the bravery to talk about your experiences.

I was so moved to hear about your lives and the difficulties that you have overcome. It is truly humbling to stand in front of you to hear about the challenges you've faced, but to see that you've not let these stop you from moving forward.

Your voices bring this research to life and underscore its importance.

And Michelle.

I am always thrilled to meet successful business women as I'm very aware of the unique challenges they face (especially when dealing with Lord Sugar).

But your success is even more commendable in light of your own experiences as a child. It is a tribute to your character that you have not let this hold you back, and your tremendous success shows that no matter what terrible events you endure as a child, they need not define your future.
However, we cannot let these inspiring stories distract us from the reality facing so many children living with domestic violence and the important messages in your research.

Why is this report important?
As minister responsible for the Government's action plan to end violence against women and girls, tackling domestic violence is one of my most important responsibilities and one that is always at the forefront of my mind.

The level of violence faced by women and girls continues to shock me - in the last year alone, there were over 1 million female victims of domestic abuse in England and Wales.

That's nearly 2 women each minute - another 20 victims by the time I finish speaking. This is simply deplorable. It is a scandal and an outrage that over the course of their lifetimes a quarter of women will experience this horrific crime.
But what we forget is that these women often have children and when violence enters the family home, it enters the lives of everyone there. No one is left untouched.

Living with those 1 million victims are many more children, powerless to end the violence that surrounds them and desperate for it to stop.

Whether violence happens in the next room, directly in front of children or involves children themselves, it casts a devastating cloud over their daily lives and stops their childhood instantly.

From speaking to victims myself, I know how hard they try to shield their children from violence, to the extent that they will endanger their own lives further to protect their children.

But we are understanding more and more that when children grow up in a home tainted by violence, their development, their wellbeing and their relationships with both parents - perpetrator and victim - are all adversely affected and the damage is deep and long lasting.

We recognise in law that seeing or overhearing violence to another person in the home is potentially detrimental to children's welfare, and, as your report identified, this is increasing the notification of domestic violence cases to children's services. But we need to think more about quite how far reaching the impact is and how differentiated our response to children needs to be.

We know how victims in violent relationships struggle to know what they should do, but too often we don't acknowledge the confusion felt by children trying to reconcile the image they have of a loving parent, with the violent perpetrator who destroys family life.
We often focus our efforts on moving victims and their families out of violent homes, but do we think enough about the support children need to adjust to new homes and new schools, and the new life these bring.

Listening to the stories of the young people on the panel today, I am struck by some of the particular issues you raised: services rarely open outside school hours - so you can't access them without missing school; more promotion of sites like The Hideout - the Women's Aid website for young peopl and the need to treat every child individually with a solution that address their needs personally.

Government strategy and action
So what are we doing? First, let me be clear - the protection of children is a priority for this government and protecting them from domestic violence is a personal priority for me.

To that end we have allocated £28 million of stable Home Office funding for specialist violence against women and girls services until 2015.

The majority of this funding is directed to local areas and is going to support independent domestic violence advisers, and multi-agency risk assessment conference co-ordinators.

Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference Coordinators
The key feature of Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences, of which there are over 250, is that they bring together all the relevant agencies to secure the safety of high-risk domestic violence victims.

They facilitate that vital link with child-focused services, helping to ensure the needs of children are considered alongside the needs of their parents.

I was really pleased to read in your report that those areas that used these arrangements offer a better prospect of providing the comprehensive, differentiated response that children living with domestic violence need.

This year we have granted funding for 54 Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference coordinator posts and I hope that this will enable a more child-focused approach to domestic violence.

Independent Domestic Violence Advisers
Victims are represented at these conferences by their Independent Domestic Violence Adviser, an IDVA.

These are trained specialist who provides that crucial tailored support, focused on a family's unique circumstances, including the effect on any children.

In some areas there are even specialist advisers for children. Blackpool, for example, has a specialist Children's IDVA Service who provides weekly drop in sessions for young people at local high schools.

We know that these specialists play a crucial role in putting children at the heart of the discussion and having put funding toward 144 posts this year, I hope personalised support is making a difference to the lives of more families, and more children than ever before.

Police
The police also play an important part and have a statutory responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.

To strengthen this, we also amended the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Bill so that Police and Crime Commissioners would, rightly, have child safety as a priority.

Domestic Violence Protection Orders
We are also piloting new powers for the police in three areas - Greater Manchester, West Mercia and Wiltshire.

Domestic Violence Protection Orders address one of the key themes that you identified when talking to children - that in some cases children want to get away, and stay away, from the abuser.

These orders prevent the perpetrator from returning to a residence and from having contact with the victim for up to 28 days, for example.
They give a victim and her children immediate protection and also enable an unstable family environment to stabilise, minimising the disruption that is so damaging and helping children return to the normal life they crave.

If they prove successful, we will look to roll them out more widely.

Government funding
We know that statutory services can do all this better with the support of children's charities, like the NSPCC.

That is why earlier this year we announced that we would award grants worth £60 million to go directly to fund the voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations that work with children, young people, parents and families.

Over £170,000 of the grant, this year, has been awarded specifically to address the issue of domestic violence.
In addition, the Government has awarded the NSPCC a new grant totalling £11.2 million between 2011-2015 for investment in ChildLine and the NSPCC Helpline.
These services really do provide a lifeline for children trying to survive situations that, as a parent, I can barely bring myself to imagine.

MUNRO REVIEW
But we know we must do more and that our systems do not always function as we would wish them to.

Professor Eileen Munro's review of child protection services in England showed us that the system is not working as well as it should. And this includes working with adult's services to tackle domestic violence.

The Government has accepted Professor Munro's fundamental argument that the child protection system has lost its focus on the things that matter most: the views and experiences of children themselves.

As I have heard today, and seen in your report, we need a fundamental shift in the way the system works.

Children should be at the centre of discussions that affect them, not cast aside and dictated to. They of all people understand best what they need and how they feel about what has happened to them.

They need to be able to talk to skilled adults themselves; they need to be the authors of their own stories.

The Government's approach to child protection reform is therefore driven by three key principles:
• trusting skilled frontline professionals to use their own judgement;
• reducing bureaucracy and prescription;
• and, most important of all, making the system child-centred.

We need to enable professionals to focus on the needs of children and young people, so they are better protected and their welfare better promoted.

We are not seeking to impose a one size fits all approach, nor introduce a host of new procedures. We believe that local leaders with their partners should have the freedom to design and deliver services.

But we do think that however they choose to meet needs of children and young people, they must put those children and young people at the heart of the decision making process.

And to show our commitment to making this happen, and to address one the key recommendations of your research, I would like to invite all of the young people on the panel here today to come at meet with me.

What I have heard already today has been invaluable, but I'm sure it only touches the tip of the iceberg and you have much more that you would like to contribute.

Please come to the Home Office and we can continue these discussions.

Lorely Burt MP has welcomed the Coalition Government announcements to clamp down on unfair bank charges following a review of consumer credit and personal insolvency. Lorely tabled a Private Members Bill to end unfair bank charges Liberal Democrats have led calls to end unfair bank charges and give consumers more choice. Today's announcement also includes measures to: End introductory offers for store cards that tempt customers into expensive credit arrangements Ensure bank customers have the option of getting text or email alerts if they are close to going into the red The Coalition Government's response came from Liberal Democrat Business Minister Ed Davey and follows last year's Private Members Bill calling for an end to unfair bank charges by Co-chair of the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Business Committee, Lorely Burt. Commenting, Lorely Burt said: "The measures are a welcome step for consumers. They will provide transparency and security without burdening businesses with additional regulation and legislation. These steps demonstrate what the Coalition Government can achieve by working closely with industry. "Liberal Democrats have always been at the forefront in taking on unfair bank charges. We were the only party to challenge them in our manifesto and now we're making sure something is done about them by the Coalition Government. "I brought my Private Members Bill forward because I know the huge concern there is over extortionate level of the charges that people can be hit with by going a couple of pounds over their overdraft. This agreement will give individuals real control over their finances and provide the transparency that Liberal Democrats have long been calling for." 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

This is my column from the Ham & High published last Thursday:

There was a girl I knew when I was growing up - let's call her Joanna for the purposes of this column. We shared our growing pains from school dramas, parental clashes (hers) paternal loss (mine) and of course - boyfriend issues.

One such boyfriend turned out to be a nightmare after Joanna had ended their relationship. One night she called me, came over and in tears told me what she was going through: phone calls that never stopped - persistent following. Whenever she came out of wherever she was - he would be outside. One night I remember she called me because he was in the garden outside her flat just standing looking up at her window. She was frightened and felt hounded and abused - as if her life wasn't her own.

Joanna's suffering only stopped when she moved abroad. But her suffering, albeit truly dreadful, was of a different order than the experiences of the three women I met on Monday in Manchester.

I was there to launch the Coalition Government's consultation on stalking. There I met Rachel and Kelly - victims of terrifying stalking themselves - and Sarah. Sarah's sister Katy had ended up being murdered by her partner. There were countless incidences, police called, social services involvement, family involvement - but none of the interventions held sway. And that is the issue - that despite the fact we have the laws in place to deal with stalking - still victims feel they are being let down.

The tales told to me in Manchester were of clear threats being present and opportunities to address the harm being missed, sentences not passed, agencies not acting, police not taking the issue seriously enough, prosecutors not passing stiff enough sentences, breaches of restraining orders being virtually ignored.

In Joanna's day (over 30 years ago) - that was just tough. The police weren't interested and if there was no actual assault - then women (and men) just had to put up with it.

Since 1997 we have had the Protection from Harassment Act (1997). This is the law which is there to protect all of us from stalking in all its forms. The Act was drafted so that it might extend to any form of persistent conduct which causes alarm or distress. However, it doesn't specifically mention the word stalking or cyber stalking.

Stalking and cyber stalking are included within the Act, but some campaigners and organisations in this arena believe that because the actual words are not mentioned specifically - the police do not always realise that the Act can be used to tackle stalking and fail to take the appropriate action to deal with it.

The definition used in the British Crime Survey is 'two or more incidents (causing distress, fear or alarm) of obscene or threatening unwanted letters or phone calls, waiting or loitering around home or workplace following or watching, or interfering with or damaging personal property by any person, including a partner of family member'.

According to the British Crime Survey last year almost 1 in 25 women aged 16-59 are a victim of stalking every year. Over a lifetime, stalking affects almost one in five women and one in ten men.

Stalking is an issue which profoundly affects many lives often in the most devastating ways and it is a priority in the Government's program to tackle violence against women and girls and is underpinned by the 'Call to End Violence Against Women and Girls - Action Plan which you can see at www.homeoffice.govuk/vawg

Stalking removes our most basic of rights - that of feeling safe in our own skin and in control of our own life. The effect of stalking on victims' lives can be incredibly wide-reaching. Stalking is a crime of power, control and intimidation, with victims denied the right to chose who is in their lives and who is not. It is a crime which can reach into every corner of a victim's life and every minute of their day.

Whether it is training or attitudes for the police and other agencies, the impact of the Crown Prosecution Service guidelines or whether restraining orders are effective or not or whether it is a change in the terminology in the law or both - action is clearly needed.

That is why we need to know what more we can do to ensure that perpetrators of this crime are brought to justice and victims have support. That is why we are consulting to see what more we might be able to do.

The consultation will run for twelve weeks.

Susan, Ivan and Jo holding the winning entries The winners of Jo's annual Christmas card competition, to design a card and poem on the 'Scottish Christmas' theme, have been announced. The winners are as follows: Christmas design competition (to be printed on the card's front cover) - Gavin McCusker, Bishopbriggs Academy. Christmas poem competition (to be printed inside the card) - Olivia Fotheringham, P5, Lairdsland Primary. The runners-up are as follows: Christmas design competition - Chloe Gemmell, P7, Balmuildy Primary, Hannah Rigby, P7a Lairdsland Primary. Christmas poem competition - Holly Rigby, P3, Lairdsland Primary, Ross Mair, P7, Balmuildy Primary. The cards will be printed by Glasgow printers AroPrint, and the winners and runners-up with each receive a prize of book tokens for the Milngavie Bookshop. Jo was joined in judging the cards by President of the Milngavie Art Club, Rev. Dr Ivan Draper, and Susan Frize, Milngavie Bookshop owner. With the busy Christmas period fast approaching, Susan is now taking customer enquiries for Christmas orders - for more information see the Milngavie Bookshop website - www.milngaviebookshop.co.uk Commenting, Jo Swinson said: "Congratulations to Gavin and Olivia on the winning design and poem! As always all the children who entered showed off their creative talents, and it was a really tough choice to find the winning entries. "However with the help of my fellow judges Susan and Ivan we found the winning entries on this year's 'Scottish Christmas' theme. I'm grateful to all the children who entered - and will be calling in at local schools in the coming weeks to present certificates to say thank you." Commenting, Milngavie Bookshop owner and fellow judge Susan Frize commented: "Milngavie Bookshop is delighted to be involved in a competition which encourages local children to be creative in both art and poetry. We love to see children inspired to write and reading books is a brilliant gateway to the imagination. Well done to all the entrants for making it such a hard decision to choose the winners." Jo was helped in judging the competition Susan Frize, owner of Milngavie Bookshop - www.milngaviebookshop.co.uk - and Rev. Dr Ivan Draper who is President of the Milngavie Art Club - www.milngavieart.org. The cards will be printed by local Glasgow-based printers AroPrint - www.aroprint.co.uk . Published and promoted by Jo Swinson, 4 Springfield House, Emerson Road, Bishopbriggs G64 1QEPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Sarah Teather's office is moving from 1 High Road, Willesden Green, London, NW10 2TE to 70 Walm Lane, Willesden Green, London, NW2 4RA. In order to move Sarah's office will be closed for two weeks from Tuesday the 15th of November - Wednesday the 30th of November. It will reopen on Thursday the 1st of December for normal office hours 4pm - 6pm. Unfortunately it will not be possible for Sarah's caseworkers to answer questions about cases or take any new cases during the period the office is closed. If you would like to speak to Sarah during this period she is holding an advice surgery on the 18th of November at Willesden Green Library 95 High Road, Willesden Green NW10 2SF from 9.30am - 11.30am. Published and promoted by Sarah Teather and Brent Liberal Democrats, 1 High Road, Willesden Green, London NW10 2TEPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Lorely Burt MP has today welcomed the announcement by Jaguar Land Rover to create 1,000 new jobs in her Solihull constituency Lorely Burt MP on a recent visit to Jaguar Land Rover The new posts, located at the company's Lode Lane plant, will see an increase in the on-site workforce of more than 25 percent. Commenting, Mrs Burt said: "This is fantastic news for the area and for Jaguar Land Rover. They had a tough time during the recession and had to make some difficult decisions but those decisions are now being vindicated. "12 months ago we were celebrating the fact they were keeping the plant open at all and now we're talking about 1000 new direct jobs for our area, and even more down the supply chain. This investment will also bring job security to the thousands of workers already employed at the factory. "This is exactly the sort of private sector growth that the Government are looking for and have been supporting through schemes such as the Regional Growth Fund." This announcement comes just weeks after Jaguar Land Rover confirmed a £355m plan to build a new engine plant at the i54 site, a deal made possible by £10m of Government investment. Commenting further, Mrs Burt said: "This is the latest in a line of investments that Jaguar Land Rover has made in our region and that demonstrates how confident they feel about the future of the West Midlands and the UK economy as a whole. "Announcements like today's show that people see the region as somewhere where they want to invest and that is good news 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

Jenny Willott MP and Eluned Parrott AM will be joining Llanedeyrn and Pentwyn's Councillors for a special advice surgery on saving energy and keeping warm this winter. The advice surgery will be held in conjunction with NEST, which is the Welsh Government's fuel poverty scheme. The surgery which is being held between 11.30 am and 12.30pm at Llanederyn's Powerhouse, CF23 9PN and is open to all local residents and there's no need for an appointment. 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 residents will be able to get into the Olympic spirit next summer as the official Olympic torch route passes through Solihull, it has been revealed this week. The torch, which will travel 8,000 miles around the UK from Land's End to the Olympic Park in London, will pass through Solihull on July 1st 2012, day 44 of its UK wide relay. Commenting, Solihull MP Lorely 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." For full details on the torch route go to http://www.london2012.com/olympic-torch-relay-map 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 MP has welcomed £14.9m of Government funding for infrastructure projects in Birmingham and Solihull. The Growing Places Fund, announced today by the Department of Communities and Local Government, will provide £500m to local authorities and Local Enterprise Partnerships to use to fund infrastructure projects in their region. Commenting, Mrs Burt said: "This money will provide a shot in the arm for our local economy. By investing in infrastructure we can promote house building and job creation across our local area. "This is the latest in a long line of Government announcements that are designed to get our economy moving. We had the second round of the Regional Growth Fund last week, taking the total RGF funding in our region to £207m and now we have this £14.9m. "The West Midlands was the hardest hit during the recession but this series of investments demonstrate the commitment that the Government has to getting our region back on its feet. "This money will be made available to the local partnerships, run by local people who understand what the local area needs, rather someone sat a 100 miles away in Whitehall. It will be their job to unlock the growth potential in the region and I look forward to working with them to do that." 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 urged the Boundary Commissioners to think again in proposing to split Shirley West and Shirley South away from Shirley East and the rest of Solihull constituency. Under current Boundary Commission proposals, the two wards will become part of a new constituency to be called Kenilworth and Dorridge, while Solihull takes in Sheldon ward from Birmingham. The Conservative proposals place the two Shirleys in with 3 Stratford wards and 7 Warwick wards, geographically spreading the new constituency even further, while Solihull takes on Hall Green. Both the Labour and Liberal Democrat alternative plans keep Solihull constituency as it is. Speaking at the Boundary Commissioner consultation in Birmingham last Friday, Mrs Burt said: 'One of the main requirements of the commissioners is to keep communities together. This proposal splits Shirley - a strong local community - in two, and puts the West and the South into an artificially constructed constituency with which it has nothing in common. Solihull is perfect as it is.' She said she thought it totally inappropriate to split a community down the middle in this way and substitute either Sheldon or Hall Green. 'The motto for Solihull is 'Urbs in Rure' ie town in the country. I feel that by splitting up the communities in the way the Boundary Commission suggest, we'd be getting a bit less 'rure' and a bit more 'urbs. 'The truth is people are passionate about the place they live in: it's an intrinsic part of their identity. The history of our area is rich, and in some areas people are almost tribal in their feelings of belonging to it: and it shapes their identity. 'Please don't rip the heart out of Shirley', she pleaded. Notes to Editors: For further information on the Boundary Commission proposals, and to let them know your own thoughts, you can visit: http://consultation.boundarycommissionforengland.independent.gov.uk/whats-proposed/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

Jenny Willott, Liberal Democrat MP for Cardiff Central, today presented the Cardiff and the Vale Alzheimer's Society with a cheque for £1500 - money she raised as part of her 8 day husky trek across 400km of the Arctic in February 2007. Jenny raised £10,000 in total from her 'Arctic Challenge' in 2007, with the money going to local charity Ty Hafan Children's Hospice, as well as to national charities Crimestoppers, Cancer Research UK and the Children's Society. The extra £1500 was recently made available for Jenny to donate to a local charity of her choice after the remaining money raised from the 2007 challenge was split between the MPs who took part in the challenge. As a long standing supporter of the Cardiff and the Vale Alzheimer's Society, Jenny nominated it as her chosen charity to receive the money. Jenny commented: "I am delighted to be able to help the Cardiff and the Vale Alzheimer's Society with this donation. Taking part in The Arctic Challenge was a great way to raise money for charity and I am pleased that I have now been able to support two local charities in Cardiff Central. The Cardiff and the Vale Alzheimer's Society provides great support to people affected by dementia in Cardiff and I hope this money will help them to continue their excellent work " 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 the release of the Independent report by Lord Low into the case for keeping the Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for people living in residential care homes, Jenny Willott MP, the Co-Chair of the Liberal Democrats Parliamentary Party Committee on Work and Pensions, said: "The Low Report shows yet again the clear case for retaining the mobility component of DLA for people who live in residential care homes. "Mobility support through this benefit is a vital lifeline for those in residential care homes. It allows often very disabled people the chance to be active members of their community, see their friends and family and have a life outside their care. "Proposals to abolish the mobility component for these people are fundamentally flawed. I very much hope that the Government listens to this report and I will continue to work hard with my Lib Dem colleagues to ensure that the Government reconsiders." 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 welcomed new jobs in the West Midlands thanks to £207m of investment from the Government's Regional Growth Fund. The funding has been awarded to organisations such as the Birmingham Post, who will use the money to establish an SME start up fund for small businesses in Birmingham, Solihull and Coventry. The West Midlands is the biggest beneficiary from the Regional Growth Fund in terms of total jobs and the second highest in funding terms, with a total investment of £207m in West Midlands companies. Commenting, Mrs Burt said: "The allocation of funding will create jobs and growth and is a vote of confidence in our area. "Whilst Labour were cosying up to the financial speculators in the City of London, the West Midlands economy declined during the so called 'boom' years. "Today's announcement puts us back on track, with a targeted strategy that aims to ensure we never become so reliant on one area of growth again. "The new jobs and investment will build a sustainable local economy here in the West Midlands and puts on a firmer footing for the future." Commenting further, Liberal Democrat Leader and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: "I am delighted to be able to announce this boost to business, which will jump start growth and create jobs that last in the places that really need it. "This targeted support for businesses across the country allows them to expand and create jobs. "It unlocks private sector investment - with an estimated £6 put in for every £1 of public money. "People in the rest of Britain have been let down for far too long by governments in thrall to one Square Mile of it. "The first pot of Regional Growth Fund money is already making a difference across the country - helping to rebalance our economy so that every region and sector benefits." 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, Lib Dem MP for Cardiff Central, is encouraging local residents to take advantage of the Green Insurance Company's Green Grants scheme for local environmental projects. The Green Grants initiative, launched in 2010, offers communities throughout the UK the opportunity to apply for funding to help support local environmental projects. The initiative proved so successful last year that the company has doubled the initial funding value to a total of £40,000 for the coming awards. Last year more than 300 applications were received from environmental community groups across the UK. The initiative, which was awarded the title of Business Sustainability Initiative of the Year at the British Insurer Awards 2011, helps to promote sustainable living in local communities and raise awareness of the company brand for the eco-conscious consumer. Jenny Willott, Lib Dem MP for Cardiff Central commented: "This is a great opportunity for local environmental projects to gain extra funding and I would encourage people to think about community projects that could benefit and to apply for this funding." Gordon Ross, The Green Insurance Company's Green Grants spokesperson, said: "We were amazed by the response to the Green Grants initiative last year, and wanted to do something even bigger in 2011. The £10,000 grant could fund a great local environmental initiative while the £30,000 of smaller grants will ensure we are able to help projects all across the UK. We're excited to see the applications which come in. "The grants we awarded last year have already been making a real difference up and down the country, so we hope that by providing a bigger pot of money we'll be able to help lots more organisations have a positive green impact on their local areas." The Green Insurance Company has set up an easy-to-use online application form available at http://www.greeninsurancegiving.co.uk/grants.php and is inviting applications up until 30th November 2011. The announcements of the projects that have been successful in achieving the grants of up to £2000 will be made in January 2012. 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

Jo opening the Dementia Resource Centre with Henry Simmons (middle) Bearsden's new Dementia Resource Centre will make a difference to the thousands of local people whose lives are touched by dementia, says Jo Swinson MP. At the official launch of Alzheimer Scotland's new Dementia Resource Centre in Bearsden, Jo joined Alzheimer Scotland's Chief Executive Henry Simmons and local dementia carer Scott Arthur to welcome the new centre. The new Bearsden Resource Centre is a key part of Alzheimer Scotland's vision to ensure that dementia sufferers and their families do not feel isolated by offering personal and day care, carer support groups and information. Commenting, Jo said: "I was delighted to help launch the new Alzheimer Scotland Dementia Resource Centre in Bearsden. The centre marks a great improvement in local services for the nearly 2000 local dementia sufferers and their families and carers, many of whom can feel isolated and unsupported when dealing with this devastating illness. "I hope the new Dementia Resource Centre will lead the way in providing advice, support, and raising awareness of dementia here in East Dunbartonshire." Alzheimer Scotland (charity no. SC022315) helps people with Dementia, their carers and families. For more information visit: www.alzscot.org For advice on Dementia phone the 24 hour national freephone Dementia Helpline on 0808 808 3000 Published and promoted by Jo Swinson, 4 Springfield House, Emerson Road, Bishopbriggs G64 1QEPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Jenny Willott, the Co-Chair of the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Party Committee on Work and Pensions and MP for Cardiff Central, has said that the Government needs to restore the faith of sick and disabled people in the Work Capability Assessment (WCA). Speaking during Oral Questions to the Department for Work and Pensions, Jenny said that many sick and disabled people do not trust Atos, the company who conduct the WCA for the Government, or the WCA process itself due to the high number of incorrect decisions that have been made. Jenny welcomed Government changes to the way the assessment is conducted but said more training was needed for Atos assessors to restore faith in the system. Responding, Chris Grayling MP, the Minister for Employment, encouraged disability organisations to help train decision makers within DWP. Commenting Jenny said: "The Government, assisted by Professor Harrington, have made great strides towards improving the WCA but it's important that we go even further. "The WCA has been so poor for so long and many sick and disabled people have been terrified by horror stories about the way Atos work and some of the ludicrous decisions they have made. We need not only to improve the system, but also to restore the faith of people that the system will treat them fairly. "This means ensuring that the assessment process is fit for purpose, but also providing better training for DWP decision makers and Atos assessors so that claimants and the public can trust that decisions are sound and everyone gets a fair hearing. 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 supported the launch of the Silver Star Diabetes Challenge at the Houses of Commons. At the special MPs' testing event, held on Wednesday 19th October, Jenny took the quick and simple Type 2 diabetes test to help raise awareness of the need for public testing for the disease. Jenny was also issued with a Silver Star Pedometer to measure the number of steps taken during a Parliamentary Week as part of the 50 day challenge. The public can keep track of their MP on the Silver Star website and the winner of the 50 day challenge will be announced in February 2012. The key to preventing diabetes is physical activity and a healthy diet. The NHS spends £1 million per hour on diabetes related illnesses and it is estimated that more than one million people in the UK are unaware that they have the condition. Jenny said 'The diabetes test was so easy. It only takes two minutes and can save lives. I hope my constituents will also take the test and I am looking forward to finding out the results of the pedometer challenge in February'. Special Guest Hari Dhillon, Dr. Michael Spence on BBC's Holby City, joined the effort to highlight the problem of diabetes worldwide, 'The evening was a triumph and I was delighted to contribute to such a worthwhile cause'. Silver Star, launched in January 2007, is a registered charity campaigning to raise diabetes awareness. The Charity runs Mobile Diabetes Units (MDU) that carry out diabetes testing. They seek to promote culturally sensitive healthcare, with particular regard to the high prevalence of diabetes in the major towns and cities of Britain. The Units travel to local community centres, schools, work places and other organisations. The Chairman of the Trustees for Silver Star, Dr Modhwadia said 'The diabetes test is so quick and simple. I am delighted that so many MPs decided to take the test and be part of the Challenge. It will help raise awareness of this largely unseen health condition" 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

Jo Swinson with Robin and Urszula Watkinson. A Bearsden couple received a taste of Parliament last week with local MP Jo Swinson. Robin and Urszula Watkinson contacted Jo's office a few months ago to organise a visit to Parliament - a service that Jo is encouraging local residents to take advantage of. Mr and Mrs Watkinson took in the rich history of Westminster on a Parliamentary tour, then met Jo for a chat about issues of the day before watching Prime Minister's Questions from the public gallery. Commenting, Jo said: "It was a real pleasure to meet Mr and Mrs Watkinson: speaking to constituents is one of the most important parts of my job and it's great to hear from local people when they visit London. "If organised through the MP, Parliamentary tours are free, so I would encourage any interested East Dunbartonshire residents to get in touch if they'd like to plan a Westminster visit: email me at jo.swinson.mp@parliament.uk or call my office on 0141 7622209." Commenting, Robin Watkinson said: "The tour of the Palace of Westminster was fascinating steeped in 1000 years of history. The highlight was Prime Minister's question time where we experienced at first hand the cut and thrust of our political system. It was a great pleasure, to meet Jo have the opportunity to exchange views." For more information, see Jo's Parliamentary Tours web page: www.joswinson.org.uk/en/page/parliamentary-tours Published and promoted by Jo Swinson, 4 Springfield House, Emerson Road, Bishopbriggs G64 1QEPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Jo Swinson MP has highlighted the need for early intervention in Scotland to improve children's chances. The figures put East Dunbartonshire as one of the lowest areas of the country in terms of the number of people without qualifications - coming 104th out of 632 local authorities. The area also fared significantly better than neighbouring areas Glasgow North East and West Dunbartonshire, ranking 632nd and 521st respectively for people with qualifications. The breadth of results highlighted the significant educational attainment gap across Britain. Commenting, Jo Swinson said: "It's good to see East Dunbartonshire ranking highly in the UK for the amount of people with qualifications. This is a tribute to the fantastic work carried out by teachers and parents, as I have seen on my regular visits to local schools. "However with clear gaps across the country, we must ensure that future generations have the same fair start in life. With the Pupil Premium, the Liberal Democrats are delivering on £1.25bn of support for those children across England who need extra help to reach their potential. The Scottish Government now needs to step up its action on early intervention in order to reduce the achievement gap and give every child a fair start in life." 6.6% of people in East Dunbartonshire do not have any qualifications, ranking 104th out of 632 in the UK. Figures taken from the annual ONS population survey - data from Nomis 4th July 2011 - on % of population in each UK area with no qualifications aged 16-64. Published and promoted by Jo Swinson, 4 Springfield House, Emerson Road, Bishopbriggs G64 1QEPrinted (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Jenny Willott, the Lib Dem MP for Cardiff Central and Co-Chair of the Party's Parliamentary Committee on Work and Pensions, has today welcomed the Government's announcement of changes to the planned increase in the State Pension Age for women. Jenny had previously criticised plans which would have seen hundreds of thousands of women asked to work up to two years longer in order to claim their State Pension, at short notice. She called on the Government to provide protection for the worst affected women. Thanks to this pressure, the Government has announced it will cap the maximum increase any women will see at 18 months. This is a £1.1 billion change that will see a quarter of a million women better off as well as another quarter of a million men who will see their planned increase reduce as well. Commenting Jenny said: "I welcome today's announcement that shows the Government has listened to our concerns and capped the maximum increase that women will see. This will protect a half a million people, including hundreds of thousands of women who would have been worst affected by the change. "Liberal Democrats had made clear to the Government that the proposal to raise the age of the state pension was unfair on many women and we were joined by campaigners in urging the Government to rethink. "With life expectancy set to increase, the Government's aim is a simple, decent State Pension for pensioners, which is easy to understand, efficient to deliver and affordable." 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 the Government to support investment in green technology to help increase employment in Wales. She hit out at claims that measures to combat climate change were at odds with building the economy and that support to tackle climate change could 'put the country out of business'. She urged the Government to support green investment in Wales to help create new jobs in emerging industries. Commenting she said: "Those who claim we must choose between tackling climate change or creating jobs are being short sighted. Many countries around the world are desperate to become world leaders in green technologies as they know it is vital to the future of their economy and Wales shouldn't be left behind. "Wales has perfect conditions for creating new, green jobs in wind, wave and solar technologies. We need to harness the resources we have and the expertise produced by our universities to strengthen this emerging part of our economy. "I very much hope that clear heads will prevail and that the Government will strongly support green investment and the fight against climate change." 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

Jo Swinson MP is encouraging local people to draw up a Will and help raise money for charity. Throughout November, Will Aid solicitors are drawing up free basic Wills with the hope that clients will donate the fee they would normally charge - a suggested £85 for a single will, £125 for 'mirror' wills and £40 for a change to an existing will - to the Will Aid charity fund. The money raised will be shared between charities including Age UK, British Red Cross, NSPCC and Save the Children. This year's appointments are booking now - to find a participating solicitor, visit www.willaid.org.uk/will-makers/find-solicitor or call 0300 0300 013. Commenting, Jo said: "East Dunbartonshire residents should take this opportunity to obtain an affordable Will, providing their own family with security for the future while at the same time as helping those families most in need." "Last year, Will Aid raised £1.5 million for good causes, so I would encourage local people to get in touch with local participating solicitors to draw up their own Will." Will Aid is an annual fundraising campaign involving nine of the UK's leading charities: ActionAid, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, Age UK, NSPCC, Save the Children, Sightsavers, SCIAF (Scotland) and Trocaire (N. Ireland). Further information is available at www.willaid.org.uk. To contact the press office, please call 01460 271182 or email sue@willaid.org.uk Published and promoted by Jo Swinson, 4 Springfield House, Emerson Road, Bishopbriggs G64 1QEPrinted (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 South Wales Central, are celebrating after holding a successful Macmillan Coffee Morning at Waterloo Gardens Teahouse in Penylan. The event, held on Friday 7th October, raised over £225 for Macmillan. Jenny commented: "Thanks very much to everyone who attended our coffee morning. I'm pleased we were able to support Macmillan and raise £225, an improvement on last year's total. I would also like to say a special thanks to Mr Kas Ali at Waterloo Gardens Teahouse for his generosity in donating all the proceeds taken from the morning to Macmillan." The money raised will go towards helping improve the lives of people affected by cancer, both those living with cancer and also their families and carers. 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