Evening Star Column - 15th May 2012
"Raising the Bar
I am pleased that the County Council is organising a conference on attainment and aspiration in Suffolk. Following my column last week, I was assured that BT had taken on some apprentices from Suffolk but I am awaiting detailed information. Some of the information I am starting to receive in the survey does suggest a lack of science and engineering skills - jobs that often bring higher wages. Work ethic is given as another attribute in short supply. If I can be away from Parliament that day, I will be listening and adding my bit. Focusing on education, including preparing our young people for the jobs available locally, is one of the best gifts we can give to the next generation.
Last week's Queen's Speech covered a number of areas. In terms of jobs and growth, the two most important for me are the Energy Bill and the Red Tape Bill. The first will give consumers help with energy bills and also companies more certainty on low-carbon electricity prices. That is key for EDF and Centrica for Sizewell C. The Red Tape Bill will bring forward a number of rules and regulations to be scrapped, leading on from the Red Tape Challenge (which is still running online). Complying with regulations takes up time that could be used elsewhere in the business. The challenge has looked at whether those rules are still necessary, could there be fewer but better? The other significant bill focuses on children and families, switching the focus from maternity to parental leave so that families can decide for themselves how best to care for their baby and also looking at the costs of childcare. The government may put more and more money into childcare but actually, it will be tackling why it has got so much more expensive in the last few years - primarily due to government regulation.
I spoke at a local Rotary event last week. As elsewhere, the people there give up their time to do good for others. I have always said that the Big Society already existed in many parts of our country and that the bigger challenge was to stop various bodies, including central and local government, getting in the way of the good work they do. One example was the coordination of a big event. For the first time, scrutiny by a big cross-council-police committee was involved with a number of officials and the one organiser. The outcome involved one small action. For the amount of extra work involved in compliance, there is a risk that the event will not happen after this year. I will make local councillors aware so that the application of rules stops being an industry in itself. Common sense should prevail more.
Raising the roof is a phrase more associated with nightclubs and pop concerts but the screams accompanying the winners of Britain's Got Talent final on Saturday and the cannon of confetti spooked the winner. Being a dog lover, of course I voted for Pudsey & Ashleigh. 3 amazing routines during the series made them hard to beat. The other acts did themselves proud and boosted the show back to the top and really did prove that Britain's Got Talent."
Evening Star Column - 8th May 2012
"Jobs for the Boys and Girls - Education, Education, Education
I heard last week that of the 50 apprentices taken on by BT recently, not a single one was from Suffolk. I don't blame BT for that - if not enough people apply or the calibre is not high enough, then just having a local address does not merit getting a job. What to do? This problem has not arisen overnight but needs some very specific analysis and focuse. In a report out from Parliament, there are 3 critical phases of intervention for a child - from 0-3, the time during primary school and the final choices after leaving school. Although the County Council does not control all the secondary schools in Suffolk as many have become academies, there is still a strategic role it can play, particularly at primary school level. Consistently, our secondary schools as a whole have not performed though there are some stellar exceptions. Last year on GCSE basis, Suffolk was rated 121st of 152 authorities though did better on A levels. The Government and OFSTED (the schools inspection agency) is playing its part in several ways - reducing paperwork, reducing and focusing the compulsory elements of the national curriculum, increasing standards for new teachers, introducing new schools where there is parental demand, accelerating the academies programme and stepping up the inspection regime and standards for each rating. The age for leaving education or training is rising and government has also played its part in increasing the number of apprenticeships it funds (an increase locally of 55% last year). This can continue to rise. There are big opportunities now and in the future with energy growth - let's make sure together that we grab these chances.
That is one of the reasons why I wrote to businesses in Suffolk Coastal to survey general conditions but also to ask about plans on growth, exporting, skills,recruitment and raise awareness of apprenticeships. Once I have the results of that survey I will share results with readers and also our business groups. I sent surveys to registered addresses so your accountant may have your letter but please contact my office on 01394 610045 if you have not received a survey.
Another Parliamentary report grabbed the headlines for mainly the wrong reason. My select committee agreed last week that senior managers from News International had misled Parliament. We could not agree on whether Rupert Murdoch was fit to run a business. For a start, we had not looked into that as part of our investigation, it is not Commons convention to assess selections of evidence that have not been presented to Parliament and the independent regulator OFCOM is busy making that assessment. Just as the committee was careful not to make conclusions on individuals who have been arrrested and are under investigation, a bit more thought on the impact on the statutory process would have been more sensible. As such the strength of the report was somewhat diluted for a few global headlines. We will return to this in Parliament. First up though is the Queen's Speech that sets the agenda for the next year."
Evening Star Column - 1st May 2012
"First, a very hearty congratulations to Nigel Pickover and all his team on the Star for their achievement on winning the Regional Newspaper of the Year award. Local reporting with a campaigning element are key ingredients in making the Star a must-buy paper. I hope the team gets a nice party to celebrate, Ed.
Today should also see the publication of my select committee's report on phone-hacking and News International. It comes right in the middle of the intriguing sessions on the relationships between press and the politicians. Our inquiry has had a narrow focus, assessing whether or not executives of News International have misled Parliament. It has not sought to investigate the broad topic of media ethics though some comments are likely to be made to that effect. For the record, yes, I do proactively speak to journalists here in Suffolk and vice-versa. I think you would be surprised otherwise. Contrast that to national media though where I am the one who gets called to go on TV or radio or write something for the press. I have turned down every media bid in the last few days on that to avoid straying into the conclusions of our report which we only agreed yesterday. We are not quasi-judicial and it is a peer group of MPs who have had a chance to look at something in detail and form a view. It has been over nine months since we started our enquiry and it has been pain-staking but it has shown the power of Parliament to pursue investigations, which has helped lead to the Leveson inquiry.
I bought a lot of stamps at the weekend before the prices shot up. I have complained to OFCOM - the independent regulator - about the rise. They assure me that Royal Mail did renegotiate the contracts with other private mail companies anad that consumers were not subsidising other businesses. The privilege of receiving post daily straight into our homes is certainly not enjoyed in every country. I do not accept it is still the cheapest in Europe but there is nothing more special than receiving a letter or a card from a friend through the post - certainly means a lot more than email. I also took the opportunity to forward buy some of the envelopes we use in Parliament.
Finally, I want to wish those taking exams at the moment the best of luck. It has been a while since I took mine and I recall them being a bit later in May and June while at school. As such, I occasionally made the mistake of watching the World Cup or Euro Cup in Mexico and West Germany rather than doing that bit of revision or simply having a good night's sleep. I am sure it is even easier to be distracted now but this crucial time is too important. I know advice from an adult is not always received well but honestly, take the TV out of your room and leave your phone downstairs - it will be worth it."
Evening Star Column - 25th April 2012
It never rains, it only pours
"Some may wonder if a drought order was really necessary after the April showers that have hit Suffolk with a vengeance. I cannot help think that we should announce droughts a little earlier in order to encourage the elements a little further and I hope that a lot of this rain is being gathered by farmers and gardeners for when the sun hopefully returns.
The showers did not put off people attending the Open Day at Landguard Fort or the volunteering roadshow. If you missed it, you can contact the local volunteer centre at 108 Queens Road or call 284770.
Stormy showers also spring to mind with the ongoing debate on the Budget last week. While many of us will have dragged out the umbrella, you still always feel a little damp afterwards. That could sum up part of the mood at Westminster that the broad brushes of the Budget were right - raising the tax threshold and giving 24 million people a tax cut when people need that bit extra in their pockets. Meanwhile, looking at tax harmonisation on VAT, I have been following up on issues relating to static caravans. Perhaps not an issue specifically for Suffolk Coastal residents but it may have an impact on our caravan parks that provide jobs and trade for surrounding businesses. I don't think the Treasury civil servants understand the business model and I will be asking our local holiday home and caravan parks to submit to the Treasury consultation on this. I wonder how many high-flying Treasury folk spent their summer holidays in a static caravan. I recall Combe Martin in Devon being a regular haunt for the Coffey family with the excitement of a new caravan each time.
My column's title this week also reminds me of the nursery rhyme, "It's raining, it's pouring, ..." triggering the reflection of the power of story telling. History is brought alive by passing common stories from one generation to the next - in the formality of lessons, in heroic poetry, in art and cinema detailing great feats of our forefathers (and mothers). Politicians have to share their vision, their story of what they want the future to look like, often drawing on stories of the past (perhaps the Grimm Brothers' Tales). That is also necessary in the vision for our towns of Ipswich and Felixstowe in South East Suffolk. With that vision comes belief and self-confidence. There is a lot to look forward to in the next few months - the Tour Britain Cycle race starting in Ipswich, the Diamond Jubilee and of course, the Olympics/Paralympics including the Torch Relay. Let's ensure our towns grab the opportunity to propel ourselves forward."
Evening Star Column - 17th April 2012
"Parliament is back in session and we are going through the Finance Bill in some detail. Some of the more news-worthy changes are not due to take effect till next year. One of the changes is to put a limit on tax relief and so limiting how much you can reduce your tax bill. Reliefs are granted in many different forms – e.g. writing off business losses, repair or mortgage interest charges on rental properties and similar. There are more popular ways of reducing your tax bill if you are a higher rate tax payer. If you save into a pension, you can get some tax relief. Some time ago, the Government moved to cap pension tax relief. Now, instead of trying to capture all other reliefs individually, the Treasury decided to put it together. To be fair, in the Budget, specific mention was made that there would be discussions with philanthropists on this particular point and they will happen. A formal consultation will be launched in May. Locally how will this impact? The children's hospice (EACH) has already suggested it will have no impact as they do not get such big donations of half a million pounds or so from individuals. I know the Suffolk Foundation is concerned on the impact on donors. Essentially, we need to get the balance right on this. It is good to encourage significant donations to charities and to universities. We also need to make sure we keep the tax coming in to the Treasury to pay for the NHS, schools, armed forces and police.
I am pleased that we are getting movement on the new site on Felixstowe seafront. As part of a package of continued investment in the town, it is important that all areas are looked at, not just the Spa Gardens or Hamilton Road. Talking of the main shopping area, I hope the Portas pilot bid is successful. I was not asked to support it unlike four other towns in the constituency, but I expect it will have a good shout. Ipswich has already benefited from this fund as it already has a high proportion of closed shops.
Later this week, I am due to meet the Housing Minister to follow up on concerns about the situation with Flagship Housing Association. I will also be discussing the Coastal Communities Fund as I believe that our area should get a good deal out of this, rather than the funds go to places where no revenues are generated from the Crown Estates. Local council leader Ray Herring will be with me in Westminster to make the case.
Finally, as an early warning call, I am hosting a "Coffey Direct" in Felixstowe Town Hall on Friday 4th May from 1115am till noon. You can come and ask me anything you like about any topic (well within reason!) Of course there is a space limit but don't arrive too early as I will be finishing my surgery there at about 11."
Evening Star Column - 10th April 2012
"I hope you enjoyed a break over Easter, even if the rain did somewhat spoil it but as I will inform the Head of the Civil Service who holidayed here, we all know we desperately need the rain. Some gardens will have been happy for it after the hosepipe ban came into effect for some parts of Suffolk. I expect our farmers will be even happier as it gives a chance to capture some water into reservoirs and allow the rivers to recover. Thinking of water, the restored Tide Mill in Woodbridge looks fantastic. I had a sneak preview and it has been an impressive job. Well done to Tony Hubbard and his team.
The other thing I enjoyed was that on Easter Sunday, it was nice to see families out and about together. This is the one Sunday of the year that big stores cannot open at all. The world didn't stop. No great panic buying of milk or bread but a welcome chance to be together. The Government is bringing in a Bill to allow all-day Sunday shopping from before the Olympics till after the Paralympics. I can understand it for those stores right by Olympic venues but does everywhere need to be open? I do not think so.
Of course, I do want to help businesses prosper and I hosted a business surgery focusing on banking and mentoring. Thanks to those who came along. I am hosting a breakfast meeting with Peter Aldous MP and UKTI on 18th May focusing on exporting. If you are interested, please contact my office on 01394 610045.
Finally, with fellow MPs Dr Dan Poulter and Peter Aldous, I met councillors and officials from the County and District councils to discuss transport issues re:Sizewell C and the A12. We are united in seeking a bypass to solve the 4 village problem, particularly that bend at Farnham, but I am keen that all the pinchpoints on the A12 are fixed and that the issue is not just shunted elsewhere. This is important to get right before approval goes ahead. I am pleased we are having constructive talks on it."
Evening Star Column - 3rd April 2012
"Last week, with a group of other East Anglian MPs, I met the Prime Minister in Downing Street to discuss challenges andopportunities for our counties. The message of investing in infrastructure was a constant message. We covered a number of topics usually coming back to rail and road, as well as challenges of rurality on health and education as well as broadband. It was a very positive meeting. I was last in the Cabinet Room about 18 years ago. Then we got tea in a cup and saucer. This time we got tea in a nice mug. Shows in a small way how life has moved on.
Talking of broadband, the Suffolk sign-up has been split up by parish and town. Near the very bottom of expressions of interest are Felixstowe (0.5% households) Trimley St Mary 0.5%, Trimley St Martin 1.0, Martlesham 1.1, Nacton 1.1 and it starts to get considerably better with Levington, Brightwell, Foxhall& Purdis Farm over 4%. The deadline has been extended to mid-April. It is important that we get as many expressions of interest as possible. Sign up at www.suffolk.gov.uk/broadband or call my office 01394 610045 for a paper copy.
One of the main issues of the week was the threatened fuel strike and the advice given by Government to fill our tanks. Last Monday, drivers voted to strike. The big concern was having a strike over Easter - which would hurt tourism in Suffolk. There was plenty of fuel in the depots and the only way to facilitate getting it out to our stations with a full delivery is to encourage us all to fill up. I know locally that led to some queues. I always try to buy my fuel in the Suffolk - spending money locally - so with 3 miles left on the tripometer I had to join the queue in Woodbridge. However, it was about 15 minutes and then on my way. The outcome? Unite called off threat of an Easter strike within 24 hours of government's call to fill up. It is difficult to understand exactly what the issue is. The average salary for a tanker driver is £45,000 in case anyone is thinking of re-training.
Finally, momentum towards the Olympics continues. I was at a meeting of local businesses assessing the final steps towards this summer and the years beyond. Then on Saturday, instead of attending the opening of the Harry Potter studio tour, I was at the Olympic Park for the National Lottery run. A great public event to christen the new running track. The day before, I had the joy of presenting two £50,000 cheques to Deben Yacht Club and Woodbridge Rugby Club on behalf of Sports England - who get a lot of cash from the Lottery. The legacy is developing. Do you have a sports project that needs some capital? Be inspired and go for gold."
Evening Star Column - 27th March 2012
"After the fairytale opening of the Treehouse by HRH The Duchess of Cambridge and the exchange of speeches with HM The Queen with Parliament to celebrate her Diamond Jubilee, business in Parliament resumed with the final passing of the Health and Social Care Bill. The Government accepted the last batch of Lords Amendments and so passed into law the Bill which puts patients in charge of their healthcare with GPs as their co-pilots. I have not yet met the new chair of the East Suffolk group but have met other GPs. I have also had one letter from a dissenting GP. There is some genuine excitement on how to improve patient care and experience with more treatments in surgeries or closer to home instead of travelling to hospital. I still have not had any complaints concerning the move to Saxmundham of the out of hours base. The information forthcoming shows more home visits have been done but this has worked well with more staff in one base, instead of two.
The other big event of the Parliamentary week was the Budget. I am delighted that over two million more people will now not pay income tax. This is a big step for helping the lowest paid in society. This is a balanced budget and very clearly a budget to help business, entrepreneurs and innovation. The Government does not magic jobs out of thin air but it can make the UK an attractive place to set up and grow businesses, which are necessary for jobs. As for pensioners, no pensioner pays more out in tax due to the changes announced for the income they receive now. I have had some emails in from pensioners concerned about this. What I have said to them is that they will not lose out in cash terms on income they earn now and that over half of pensioners already pay no tax now. This Government kept all the benefits and put into law the triple pensions lock guaranteeing the highest rate of inflation, average earnings increase and 2.5%. Gone are the days of 75p a week increase and in the last two years, the two pension increases total £9.80 per week. The latest increase of £5.30 reflects inflation of 5.2% last September. Inflation has already fallen to 3.4% last month. For some pensioners who contacted me and are still working, the combination of not paying National Insurance and the higher tax allowance meant that compared to people under 65 who they worked alongside, their take-home pay was over 15% higher for doing the same job. I am not sure that is exactly fair. Intergenerational challenges face us. Younger people have far lower expectations of pensions, it is more difficult to buy a house and if there is something that can be done to help lift two million people out of paying tax, I am sure their grandparents would be the first to volunteer.
This week, Parliament debates assisted suicide. It is this kind of ethical debate that can see Parliament at its best and at its worst. The latter may surprise you but very strongly held views can be castigated as being irrational, heartless, bigoted and so on. I strongly believe we should not legalise assisted suicide. I know from my postbag there are some who feel strongly we should. I have supported an amendment that promotes palliative and end of life care, just as we see at St Elizabeth's and the Treehouse. There is no doubt that life can be hard, especially with long-lasting illnesses. However, nor do we want the situation as in Holland where mobile "end of life" units chalk up over 3000 accelerated deaths a year. The current legal guidance sets out clearly the grounds for prosecution and at no point does it legalise assisted suicide. To be clear, I do not suggest that life has to be prolonged indefinitely. Indeed, relatives and friends have chosen not to have treatment that could cure or be resuscitated but instead decided to end their days as peacefully and as pain free as possible. The glimpse of love, of care, of peace that epitomise the Treehouse approach to life are ones that we should all enjoy."
Evening Star Column - 20th March 2012
"The Port of Felixstowe gave a warm welcome to Minister Mike Penning MP as he triggered the ground-breaking for thenew rail terminal. As MD David Gledhill reminded us, for every container on a train, there is one fewer lorry required to transport goods up the A14. This is another welcome investment from Hutchison. What may not be so welcome is the start of the campaign to remove off-peak trains on the Felixstowe to Ipswich line. With my business hat on, I fully understand why the Port wants to do this. It will be far cheaper to lay on buses than to dual the line. My concern is that this could mark the eventual stopping of the train line, that we should encourage the Port to continue to dual the line and if the strapline of Felixstowe is Days Out by the Sea, then removing a reliable rail link for a bus may not be attractive for on-spec shoppers and tourists. It seems ironic that putting more containers onto freight means more people on the road. Please let me know your views.
Last week, I enjoyed the East of England Co-op's event for sourcing goods locally. The Co-op does well in promoting local suppliers and Suffolk has a good story to tell (even better to taste). The other thing we do well is tourism. I popped over to Sutton Hoo for English Tourism week. The exhibition hall has been open for 10 years and over a million visitors in that time. It re-opens this week and I hope it will do well with Olympic tourism. I am looking forward to a conference next month on World War 2 tourism, in cooperation with other countries on the North Sea border. I wonder if people realise how much happened here in Suffolk. Sad tales on the Orwell, the take-off points for Joe Kennedy Jr - the Kennedy being groomed for President rather than JFK- and I believe Glen Miller, the role of Landguard Fort, the sad canoeist memorial at Sizewell, further development of radar and pill boxes everywhere. There is much for us to share particularly with American tourists whose forefathers fought alongside us.
I have got used to brushing with royalty this week. After the Humble Address in Parliament, Her Majesty the Queen is visiting Parliament today (Tuesday) and will give an address in Westminster Hall. Afterwards, I am lucky to have been drawn in the ballot for after-speech drinks in the Royal Gallery. Of course, yesterday, we had the delightful HRH Duchess of Cambridge formally open the Treehouse. EACH is a splendid charity and Suffolk foik were tremendous last year in raising so much money. I am sure that the people who met the Duchess will treasure that for a long time."
Evening Star Column - 13th March 2012
"Want Super-fast Broadband in Suffolk? Register your Interest today
Last week, I attended the Broadband Conference organised by Suffolk County Council. Various points were made by speakers and audience participants about speeds, technologies and coverage. The point I wanted to stress and do so again today is that we must show our interest by registering. This is not about signing a contract but an indication of interest that you want faster broadband and wider coverage. So far only just over 5000 households across all of Suffolk have done this and some more businesses. I think our target of 10,000 is not particularly ambitious. The County has set up In the Race to Infinity, where I used to live in Hampshire, over 90% of households registered their interest and they were one of the six winners. So come on – ask your neighbours, ask your friends – have you signed up? Register online at www.suffolk.gov.uk/broadband or you can call my office for a hard copy on 01394 610045.
It is great news that Rendlesham Parish Council is one of the early pace-setters in developing its Neighbourhood Plan. The Localism Act allows for plans devised and voted on by local communities to be a key input to planning policy. The plan cannot stop the Council deciding where housing can go or how many houses, however, it can give real teeth on how you want the shape and feel of your community to look. For example, if your village has 50% bungalows now and a community decides that is a key element of the village, then it can put forward that future development must also have 50% bungalows.
Consultation has just closed on the changes to red diesel to be used in cruising boats. Due to various European laws, the Government has acted to only allow red diesel to be used in UK waters. Several constituents have written to me on this as it will stop currently legal trips if a boat is powered by red diesel. The knock-on impact will add more cost to marinas and to boat users. Why does this matter? Duty is paid. It seems Belgium is getting officious. I want to see our Government push back on this so it is not a further cost on businesses or a tax on leisure activities.
I was delighted to attend the First Light Awards in London last week – set up to recognise young film-making talent. One of the finalists was Ipswich's Outreach Youth with Sticks and Stones. A very powerful short film addressing that what is said (or indeed not said) can be as wounding as being punched and attacked physically.
At the end of this month, I am hosting a business banking surgery in Melton for any business in the constituency. The Banking Association, a bank manager and a mentor will be there to answer questions. Places are limited but please email or contact my office (number above) to register.
Finally, Parliament debated its Humble Address relating to the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. Tributes were paid to the many years of service, including that of Prince Philip, and her commitment to duty. Many MPs shared their insight and amusing anecdotes of their direct interaction. I gave a short speech paying my own tribute. I have never met the Queen but remember queuing for my mug at school for the Silver Jubilee, the follow-on parties and more celebrations back in 2002. Of course, the Queen has a privileged life and, in my view, she has repaid that in full."
Evening Star Column - 6th March 2012
"The iconic buildings of the Bartlett and the Spa in Felixstowe are now at different stages in their lives. The planning committee has given the go-ahead to convert the Bartlett into homes without any social housing contribution under the strict advice of planning officers. I hope this does not become a precedent for other developments in the town or nearby as we do need to keep up the number of lower-priced homes to be built. At least, there is some clarity now on the way forward for healthcare in the area and for cash to be released from its sale for the new, larger surgery in Felixstowe accommodating GPs and other healthcare provision from the Central Surgery. This will free up a new site for development at the top of town once the GPs sell it. Regarding the Spa, I am keen to see a solution for this building that will maintain its leisure use but it will need to be able to stand largely on its own feet. I have had very brief conversations with other parties on its viability. With such a venue, it is clear that having just one or two events per week is not enough to run a building of that size. A minimum of three events and considerably more in the peak summer periods would need to be supported. I think there is an opportunity there and I will do what I can to make it happen.
I was thrilled that the new Academy Building has secured its planning permission. This is another important step. There is another barrier to be overcome - literally - in the crossing point across the railway tracks. Safety is key for our children. I hope we can secure a common-sense solution. As I pointed out in a recent debate on Network Rail, its currency seems to be units of half a million pounds. I hope we can get the work done for a lot less rather than be bussing children from all over the place.
I spoke at a conference last week on the South North Sea and opportunities for jobs. Around this area, the obvious opportunities are in Sizewell and across the water at Harwich, an important port for assembly of turbines. More can be done to boost training and re-training opportunities. This is currently focused in the Lowestoft end of Suffolk. Currently UCS is not offering such opportunities locally and to be fair, it takes a fair amount of investment to give appopriate training but I wonder if the Haven area is unnecessarily missing out. I will follow up with the Haven Gateway to see what we can realistically do locally.
Finally, the Welfare Reform Bill became an Act of Parliament last week. It will still take some years to get all the reforms through the system till we end up with universal credit. This policy is one of the most popular on the doorstep - you will earn more if you work than if you don't work, unless you cannot work. Some further reforms added to this will start to unravel some of the daft situation of people working here for a few years and being able to export child benefit and similar benefits across Europe. There is still a lot of unravelling to get through. There are some people who never seem to want to leave the benefits trap. Most do. With this change and the Work Programme, including the Work Experience programme, we have made a good start."
Evening Star Column - 28th February 2012
"
Rock the House!
I attended two music spectacular events this week – the final of Felixstowe's Got Talent and the Brit Awards. Both were entertaining and both showed what talent Suffolk has. I felt very proud as Framlingham's own Ed Sheeran played on stage and received two awards. There was an array of talent – domestic and home-grown – that saw the Brits as being really important ceremony to showcase their acts. The music business is a huge export business worth £1.25 billion pounds to the UK economy. That is why I was glad to recognise this in the House of Commons last week, seeking a debate and recognising Adele's great achievements in winning six Grammys (the US music awards). Adele got her big international break at the Brits last year. So who knows, it could be Suffolk's Sheeran taking the US by storm this year.On a slightly different stage, I did enjoy Felixstowe's Got Talent. The winner was young Connie Lamb who belted out impressive song from Les Miserables, really bringing it to life on stage – very impressive and still only 11 years old. I also enjoyed "Awesome Foursome" – a guitar band – who got the crowd singing along. I have encouraged them and am now encouraging others to enter a competition called "Rock the House". I have to nominate a singer, a band, an under-18 act and a rock venue (under 500 people) for a nationwide competition organised by MPs in the House of Commons. For more details, look online at my website http://www.theresecoffeymp.com/rth-2012/ or directly on http://www.rockthehouse2012.com/about.html .
This has been a golden year for Music in Parliament as legislation, now just awaiting Royal Assent, will come in shortly to allow live music to be back in pubs without specific licensing if unamplified or amplified if in a small venue. Bands just starting out need venues and it is good for pubs. I hope it will be enacted shortly.
The creative economy is not just about music though – all sorts of culture adds to our leisure industry, domestically and internationally. The Oscars and the BAFTAs were united in many of their choices on stellar performances with a French film, "The Artist", taking most of the honours. Meryl Streep deserved her Oscar and while the UK had many nominations, capturing best short film, I hope we are more successful next year.
The Health Bill continues in the House. There was a debate on Wednesday which shed much heat rather than light. I welcome the changes to the NHS that will put patients in the driving seat with GPs as co-patients. By putting decisions on where you are treated in your hands with your doctor's advice, I think we will see many daily healthcare decisions being made closer to home. Of course, not every local hospital can give you treatment for every specific ailment. However, I do think it will increase the chances of facilities like the excellent Felixstowe Community Hospital being kept open and it will once again make out of hours' care the responsibility of our GPs. Our GP commissioning groups in Suffolk are already being formed. I am looking forward to meeting the Ipswich & East Suffolk group in the next week, having already met the Waveney group before who are well underway with the changes."
Evening Star Column - 21st February 2012
"Last week was Parliamentary recess, coinciding with half-term, which allowed me to spend a few weekdays in theconstituency. I decided to try a tour to get round to some of the villages where I will not be holding a surgery. Some of the session venues worked, others didn't so I will learn from that. Across the constituency, planning and roads were probably the most prevalent. Planning usually is a hot topic but for 90% of it, Members of Parliament are not involved at all in the planning process. The only exception is the setting of new policies or guidelines in Westminster that are rolled out across the country. Almost all the roads in the area are also County Council responsibility with the exception of the A14. Nevertheless, the information will be shared with the appropriate bodies and people to try to get some solutions for local residents. Some of the areas where I can help will be acted upon – restoring post office facilities, questions on tax and red tape. One area raised that is a joint area of initiative is affordable housing. There I will work with our local council and see what I can do in Westminster to get things moving.
Affordable housing was the topic of a joint meeting with Council leader Ray Herring, Housing Portfolio Councillor T-J Haworth and the Chairman and Chief Executive of Flagship Housing. There are a lot of empty homes in Suffolk Coastal and a significant number are with Flagship. Finance arrangements have changed in recent years but I felt it important to understand where we are with getting these houses and homes back into circulation. The Council was criticised recently for selling off some houses but better to get the homes back into use than standing empty. Empty homes also cost the council (and therefore YOU)money with the New Homes Bonus as they reduce the amount of money the council receives. That is why the Government has legislated to allow councils to charge an extra 50% council tax to owners of empty homes so there is additional incentive for using them. I was pleased that the Chief Executive accepted that a recent issue involving removal of snow in sheltered housing areas will be addressed in the future by their community rangers. This issue is not going away and I will keep readers updated.
Helping people back to work is an important priority for this Government. We are in an interesting situation where both the level of employment and unemployment have risen. There are more people working than two years ago. There are more people unemployed. This seeming contradiction is that the number of people who have put themselves forward to work has risen. Sometimes people may have stopped working and not claimed any job-related benefits, e.g. retired before the state pension age or stay-at-home parents. That has changed so more are registered as looking for work. I reported last week on National Apprenticeship Week, the programme which has gone from strength to strength. These are real jobs that don't stop once the training has finished. The Government is also trying work experience schemes to give people a chance to show what they can do. The latest scheme that is coming under criticism is to say to people who have been on benefits for some time is to say that we will arrange some work for you to keep you or get you in the work habit while you are getting your benefits. If you don't do that, you don't get your benefits. In my selection meeting, I advocated this "workfare" as it is known. Getting people up and ready every day, turning into work on time, doing a real job, working with other people are all positive steps towards getting that elusive regular job. JSA for over 25 is £67 per week. That's approximately 10 hours on the minimum wage. I have no problem saying to people that this is the right thing to do. I had suggested that a similar number of hours could be worked in public companies, in the public sector, in charities and in third sector organisations. Other time during the week can still be spent on the job hunt. Workfare is not a return to the workhouse; it is actually a progressive way forward to help people back on the job escalator."
Evening Star Column - 14th February 2012
"It was National Apprenticeships Week last week. In Suffolk Coastal, 790 people were in apprenticeships up 55% fromthe year before. I took the opportunity to visit the Adam and Eve salon to meet young Antonio Tella who was doing the tricky task of colouring the hair of Laura Brightman, under the careful tutelage of co-owner Reginaldo and WS Training. Apprenticeships are not confined to the service sectors. Both BT and EDF have hotly-contested apprenticeship schemes, Itron in Felixstowe and Brafe Engineering in Woodbridge have all taken on apprentices in the last 12 months. National Apprenticeship Week is a great opportunity to congratulate apprentices across Suffolk Coastal on the fantastic work they are doing and to highlight the huge benefits apprenticeships bring.
Last week also saw National Libraries Day on the Saturday. I visited two libraries and the experience was very different. One was pretty dead, the other had been thriving throughout most of the day with the support of community groups. Around the same time, the new structure for all libraries across Suffolk came into being. It so happened my select committee started its inquiry on library closures. I could not be there for the evidence session but watched it again on BBC Parliament. It was an interesting discussion with footfall down, spending on IT growing and being more than that spent on books. It begged the question what does the library do? If the biggest growth is in reading and library campaigners felt they had a vital role in supporting the reading of children then the question then grows about the role of literacy in our schools, nurseries and Sure Start. There were also views expressed about the balance between books and buildings – what is more important? Clive Fox from Aldeburgh is the Chairman of the new IPS for Suffolk libraries and I wish him great success. I think that the combination of community involvement while keeping the mobile library service going is a model that may well be copied across the country.
I am continuing to visit schools across the constituency, though I need to visit a few more in Felixstowe, and to hear about the success and challenges in our schools. We all have to work hard to increase the aspiration of our youth and to step up attatinment levels across the board. Though I don't think money is the only solution to helping that, I do think Suffolk schools should get a fair share on funding. Over time, the rurality element of school funding (reflecting the population sparsity) has declined and I think it is time to reverse that trend. I spoke up for Suffolk schools last week in a debate on the future of small rural schools. Suffolk chose to keep small schools open. It can lead to wide age ranges within a class but I support the wishes of parents and local communities. Some schools like Peasenhall and Middleton share a headteacher and also move children about during the day on one or two days of the week to support learning. Both have outstanding Ofsted grades. I am doing more research on this at the moment and I accept that if Suffolk schools again, other areas will lose out. Well, I do believe in fairness and have contributed to the consultation on funding formula."
Evening Star Column - 7th February 2012
"I think all of Suffolk saw the snow this weekend. It is vital for us all to keep warm but please look in on your neighboursto ensure they are ok. I understand people may be worried about bills but the free Home Heat Helpline 0800 336699 can offer advice on keeping your home warm and on fuel bills. It was so cold this weekend that, for those eligible, the cold weather payments have kicked in for many Suffolk postcodes. After the successful Surviving Winter appeal, I have written to the Suffolk Foundation and Age UK to ask them to prioritise residents who are off the gas grid. Heating your home via oil, LPG or coal is so much more expensive than using gas and if last winter is anything to go by, the oil price will shoot up (just as I need to order some). I recently met Suffolk ACRE to discuss their new oil-buying club. I think this is a useful idea but we discussed the challenge of people signing up without having a quoted price or really an indicative price. Bulk-buying should lead to lower prices and the prices since the scheme started have shown a reduction compared to smaller buying groups and price comparison websites. I have challenged them to think how this aspect of the otherwise excellent service could be improved. Credit to our council workers and the emergency services for ploughing on regardless. The bin was collected Monday morning like usual (but I wish the lorry hadn't gone quite so quickly down the hill –cue prayers that the brakes would work properly). The gritters were out and good job all round I think.
The debate I had helped secure on Network Rail was held last week. Most MPs who contributed were dissatisfied with the performance of Network Rail. Clearly there are concerns that large bonuses may be awarded when the Rail Regulator has served a breach of notice for failures. The corporate setup was patched together ten years ago and it is time for a review. I want Network Rail to succeed and as I discussed last week, some changes seem to be underway. One significant change is the deeper partnership with Abellio, who took over running our Suffolk trains on Sunday. After a good Sunday, the snow turning to ice led to some delays as trains reduced their speed slightly. If journeys to work in our cars took considerably longer, I think we can forgive an extra ten minutes' time to London, but it is key that a new tone is set straightaway and that we do see a change under Abellio.
After a week when Sir Fred became Mr Goodwin, a Cabinet Minister resigned after being charged with the serious offence of perverting the course of justice. Now it is sub-judice, I will not offer my views on this matter but no doubt, it is another blow to the public perception of politicians. The alleged offence is serious as it undermines the very nature of our justice system. These changes bring new opportunities though and through the reshuffle, the new Minister in charge of the Post Office is MP for North Norfolk, Norman Lamb. A Liberal Democrat yes but critically a rural MP who will understand the frustration of dealing with the Post Office in trying to protect small post offices and Outreach services.
Finally, Her Majesty has been our Queen for sixty years and what a wonderful sixty years it has been. Undoubtedly she has enjoyed a life of privilege and may not have faced financial problems but her family life is not atypical from many of us – losing her father when still quite young, shepherding her own family through their own troubles – actually three out of four children divorcing is probably higher than average – while she enjoys the steadfast support of the Duke of Edinburgh. To think she has seen more than ten Prime Ministers come and go, is Head of State for a quarter of the global population and embraces the Commonwealth. Queen Elizabeth is attending Parliament in March to celebrate the occasion. It is a few months off yet but I expect the celebrations in June will be an opportunity to reflect on her service and another glorious excuse for a good party."
Evening Star Column - 31st January 2012
One of the unpublicised (and deemed unglamorous) aspects of Parliamentary life is sitting through delegated legislation committees. These are to review Statutory Instruments which, in my experience so far, are voted through with no opposition. The meetings usually last all of about 20-30 minutes and only 2 people speak - the Minister and his/her Shadow - so they can be seen as a bit of a chore. Two memorable ones were the increase in the minimum wage and the raising of the subsidy for Post Offices to £500 million. This week, I substituted for a colleague and arrived to be told it would go the full scheduled 90 minutes. (I knew I would be seeking a large glass of wine from my colleague in compensation.) However, it proved to be very interesting as it concerned the arrangements for the new Police and Crime Commissioner. This is the role taking over from the Police Authority and will be elected this November. It is going to be a full-time leadership role and will play a key role in the strategy and prioritisation of tackling crime. It is important to include safeguards to ensure there is no interference with the Chief Constable and his leadership of the police force. If anyone is interested in standing for this role, do get in touch but there is some more information - www.homeoffice.gov.uk/police/police-crime-commissioners/
Having secured a debate on Network Rail with other colleagues, no surprise then that senior management were keen to meet me in advance of the debate. It was a useful exchange and it seems changes are underway already both on internal operations and also preparing with the new franchisee Abellio. I took the opportunity to discuss the issue of Network Rail's objections to the Academy and the insistence on siting a footbridge off Runnacles Way. I hope that these difficulties can be overcome and that Network Rail will continue to improve the service for all users.
The big political story of the weekend was the decision by the Chief Executive of RBS (Stephen Hester) to not claim his bonus. He also waived his bonus last year. I am supportive of paying appropriate rewards for success - which may well be considerably more money than you and I both earn in a lifetime. I think what is difficult to understand is that bonuses are being awarded when the value of the bank (both its asset value and equity values) have dropped significantly - which does not obviously indicate success. When it comes to profit and loss, in 2010, RBS made a loss of £1.1 billion, better than the loss in 2009 of £3.6 billion and far better than the £24.3 biillion loss in 2008. 2011 full year results are not yet out but it seems that for the first time since the crash that RBS will make a substantial profit. That is why the RBS board felt justified in awarding a bonus, according to Stephen Hester's contract. Of course, Labour have gone for the kill on this and to a large extent has won. However, who set up the contract? Labour. Who negotiated the effective take-over and chose not to change other contracts? Labour. Who was in power when Stephen Hester was awarded a potential bonus of £6 million? Labour. Dealing with paradox is something all politicians have to do but sadly, this smacks of hypocrisy. What's the solution? I think Stephen Hester should get his big bonus when the bank has been profitable for some times and the government has sold its shares. By then, RBS will have been turned around and he will truly deserve a bonus. Otherwise, the taxpayer is unlikely to ever see a financial return on the RBS bail-out.
It was a great close to the week at Felixstowe Spa with a charity concert organised by Felixstowe Radio in aid of EACH. The theatre was packed out which was no surprise with the attraction of X Factor winner Matt Cardle. I spotted Matt arriving in a small car to be greeted by some hardy Felixstowe fans who gave a bit of a whoop rather than a full-on scream. The rest of the line-up also performed well with some toe-tapping stuff. In addition to talent already known around Felixstowe, Cediq Havana got the crowd going and a lot of interaction.
Evening Star Column - 24th January 2012
A "warm welcome to the new Ipswich Star and Felixstowe Star. My very first article for the Evening Star was just a year ago and credit to the Evening Star for 126 years. Of course, I am fully expecting the new Stars to continue bringing local news and views as well as campaign on the issues that matter to local residents.
Congratulations are due to everyone at Felixstowe Community Hospital on their excellent review by CQC. I am sure all users of the hospital will be delighted. This review strengthens the case for keeping community hospitals.
I spoke up for our port on two occasions in Parliament last week. The first was in a debate when a group of Southampton MPs were complaining that legal action concerning their planning application brought by Hutchison Ports was a commercial spoiler. The fact is that the Southampton port did not do the proper assessment and when the MMO decided to give consent anyway, I would have been astonished if our Port had not intervened. Of course, Hutchison won its case. The point of this is that companies should expect consistency from the Government and its agencies. If there is a desire for less regulation, it should apply across the board. I used the analogy of football rules applying to one club and not their rivals. Uproar would ensue! I also spoke in the main debate on Ports, asking for careful consideration of joining up policies on rail and roads, as well as much more careful consideration of marine conservation zones.
Finally, after visiting retailers on Hamilton Road, I enjoyed an afternoon of bingo at the Palace. My select committee is doing an inquiry on gambling at the moment and I raised the issue of inconsistent tax rates with the Treasury Minister, Chloe Smith. Bingo pays 20% while betting shops pay 15%. There seems to be no reason apart from history. The Minister used to work for a consulting firm who recently produced research to show that by bringing down the rate, the Government would get more revenue. I had a warm welcome on Saturday and saw it was well-priced entertainment but it also provided a friendly community. People travelled from Woodbridge and it was good to see that companionship across the tables. I didn't win but I am sure I will be back another time."
Evening Star Column - 17th January 2012
"I joined a Norfolk/Suffolk banking summit with MPs and regional directors of the big banks last week. It is vital that businesses with good business plans can access finance to keep their businesses running and for investment. The summit offered opportunities for members of the Federation of Small Business to interact with those bank managers that can make decisions and for MPs to press the case for accessibility to finance, not always through your local bank. Credit unions have just been given powers to extend small loans to businesses. Foundation East is a community foundation that can also help. Finally, the British Banking Association are setting up a network of mentors who can help businesses review their business plans. I hope to set up a surgery soon. Having a Treasury Minister at the summit, Chloe Smith, was a bonus and she can take that message directly to George Osborne.
This is Big Energy Week – focusing on how you can pay less for your heating while still staying warm. Some quite simple changes to your home can reduce your heating bills while keeping you warm. All the energy companies are doing something. British Gas is offering free loft or cavity wall insulation for all existing customers. People in target groups canall get help. I bought insulating tape for my windows and door frames which cost less than £4 and will make a difference. The best innovation though comes from uswitch.com for those of us who don't have internet access. Simply send them your latest bill via Freepost Uswitch or call for free to 0800 0930607.
I raised the issue of rural Post Offices in Parliament with the Prime Minister last week. I am pursuing this as it is a classic case of a government agency being given plenty of money to do a job (it has increased substantially under this Government) that is wanted by the public but somehow, it just doesn't get done. I was also able to praise the postmaster, Tony Whatling, who has served for over 60 years and is still carrying on. My debate on deregulation went well. The Minister agreed that we need to go further. Regulation is something that affects many people. I spoke about a variety of examples but an obvious one for us to look at is the regulation of childcare. The cost of childcare doubled under the last Labour government, while the number of childminders halved. A lot of this was regulation required to be a childminder. I am sure we all remember those policewomen who were threatened with prosecution for looking after each other's children. It turns out OFSTED spends the majority of its budget on inspecting childcare facilities while the number of inspections has reduced. Why does this matter? Cost. The amount of subsidy for childcare has increased. More hours are offered "free" though costs continue to spiral. We need to change this.
It was very disappointing that the ambulance targets were again not met in the East of England. I will continue to put pressure on the Board and our local NHS so that Suffolk residents do not get forgotten. The week ahead brings further debate on the NHS, high streets and ports. All important topics for readers in Felixstowe, Ipswich and east Suffolk."
Evening Star Column - 10th January 2012
"Parliament resumes this week. First day back, I have secured a short debate on deregulation - the famous red tape thatwe are keen to cut back, reducing its stranglehold on business and growth. Deregulation is happening - you can check out the "red tape challenge" online but we need to go quicker and faster, as it is a low-cost way of stimulating growth. Less cost on business can equal cheaper goods, cheaper to employ someone, easier to make or sell something. Of course, some regulation is required in many areas, enforcing the civic bonds that we have to each other, that employers have for their employees and businesses for their customers - car insurance, basic health and safety, consumer protection and so on. Europe generates a lot of regulation enacting the single market but also for the the environment. There was controversy recently when the Chancellor called for a review of the Habitats Directive. I support that as I do the Water Directive. We need to strike a balance between the environment and keeping our daily life going, including businesses and farming. I met local farmers last week concerned with the regulations on water and abstraction. This is a genuine threat to farming in east Suffolk which I will take up.
Also last week, amidst other engagements, I visited Sizewell A. It is quite unusual to be in a business that you are intentionally running down but still needs to be closed well. The radioactive material left within the building is now very-low powered but still needs to be removed, which should happen by 2014, though this building will be around for a long time to come.
Two films have been out in the last week, both likely to feature in the Oscars - War Horse and The Iron Lady. I enjoyed Meryl Streeps' portrayal of Margaret Thatcher (as you may expect) but the story is told using flashbacks, events are not in chronological order and certain key scenes of the film did not happen in real life. This last dramatisation technique is widespread - I can think of Cry Freedom for Steve Biko (the ANC activist) or In The Name of the Father for the alleged IRA Guildford Four - where pivotal, emotional and dramatic scenes did not actually occur but are added to deepen connections with the audience in a short space of time. Real life might be a bit dull if told second by second (not all our lives can be as exciting as 24's Jack Bauer). Some current MPs are in the film, helping to liven up the extras in the Chamber scenes and I still remember when Ms Streep visited Parliament to watch Prime Minister's Questions.
I am really looking forward to seeing War Horse, which I have seen on the stage and I know to pack the tissues. I am sure the horse must have been based on the sturdy, loyal Suffolk punch; fitting then that the screenplay (the dramatisation) is written by Suffolk resident Richard Curtis."
Evening Star Column - 3rd January 2012
"Happy New Year
2012 got off to a cracking start with the fireworks in London, showcasing Big Ben right from the start and focusing on theOlympics. Fellow Conservative MP Mark Lancaster was heavily involved as it was his family firm that staged the firework display. I believe Mark was involved in laying the fireworks in Parliament - a bit different from Guy Fawkes.
2012 will bring a number of exciting moments in Suffolk. The Olympic torch relay on July 5th stops at ten places in my constituency including Woodbridge and Felixstowe. I was delighted that at the last moment, a large number of schools in the constituency became full members of the Olympics Get Set network. This opens up greater chances for our schoolchildren to become more involved in the national event. I am sure there will also be many street parties across the area for the Diamond Jubilee. Planning for both is already underway by our local councils.
The New Year's honours list brought recognition to some local people who have been pioneering in helping others. The New Year also brought some new initiatives from the Government. Probably the most headline-catching was the plan to stop council or housing association tenants from sub-letting their homes and for those wealthy enough to make them pay market rents. I think this is common sense. Union leaders getting subsidised accommodation? People who live abroad for part of the year or move in with someone else? That will free up either homes or money to help those who really need help to get a roof over their heads.
Another initiative is some extra money to help councils get older people out of hospital and back to their own homes when they are well. This seems to be a particular problem in the north of my constituency and I hope we can make progress on that. The focus of healthcare is changing so more routine activities can be done at your GP surgery or at home rather than travelling to hospital. This usually produces better outcomes at a lower cost. This is one of the reasons why the Government is pressing on with its reforms to put your local GP as your co-pilot on your healthcare.
I don't tend to set New Year resolutions but there are some important targets for the year ahead. More progress on broadband (have you signed up to show your support?), localised targets on ambulance responses, the A12, restoration of hourly rail services from Ipswich to Lowestoft, new marine plans, the starting of free schools and hopefully, greater opportunities for high value jobs in our part of Suffolk. 2012 will continue to be a challenging year economically but there will be plenty to keep us smiling with moments of national and local joy. An extra bank holiday. Suffolk Olympians and Paralympians? Even England might win Euro 2012!"
Evening Star Column - 28th December 2011
"I hope you all enjoyed a merry Christmas. The weather was certainly mild, a contrast to Christmas 2010, and it seems that the High Streets had some Christmas cheer. Relaxing, enjoying a few more channels since the switchover, Dr Who was a modern take while Downton Abbey harked back to a classic age and had the best one-liners, particularly from Maggie Smith. Like many TV shows, it is time to do a Christmas special and a review of the year. Quite a daunting task given what a busy place Suffolk Coastal is (and I will not cover everything) but a few statistics first.
I spoke in Parliament 82 times asking questions, making speeches and contributions to debates. I asked 36 written questions. I signed 31 Early Day Motions, proposing three on War Memorials, BBC Local Radio and IT Skills Launch. In July, my Private Members' Bill (on shipwreck removal costs) received Royal Assent and is now an Act of Parliament. An additional 3400 constituents contacted me for the first time. My team and I have handled over 6000 queries. I have continued to hold two surgeries every month, except August when I am out and about across the constituency. I visited nine schools (and will visit many more in 2012) and have proactively contacted schools and charities on various opportunities, particularly concerning the Olympics. Thanks to my team (those who are still here and those who have moved on) for their support.
A year ago, the unwelcome Christmas present was that the Environment Agency had dropped the Felixstowe seafront coastal defence works. Quickly into action, working with Cllr Andy Smith, we managed to get the works restored and I am delighted that they have progressed so well. A welcome Christmas present higher up the coast for Thorpeness residents who came together with the EA and council to defend their shoreline in an innovative approach, which I think will act as a blueprint across the country for partnership working. More work is needed though on Marine Conservation Zones which is part of an attempt to bring some planning structure to our marine environment. The case still is being made for our fishermen and trying to increase quotas. I appreciate the proposals are not wholly popular but I think they provide an opportunity to ensure fishing stays within our small communities from the Ferry upwards.
Later in the year, the Port celebrated its 125th Birthday. The party was spectacular at the Port and on the seafront. With a touch of magic from Princess Anne and a visit later in the year from the new Secretary of State for Transport, helping the Port is one of my key activities as it is so important for the prosperity of Felixstowe. That is why I serve as Vice-Chairman of the Parliamentary Group for Ports and Maritime, as well as Co-Chairman of Coastal and Marine which focuses more on erosion, conservation zones and coastal communities. I was pleased to be re-elected to both those posts this year.
Another key national infrastructure asset is Sizewell. Much progress was made in the year to move this project on which again is good nationally for our energy resilience and locally for new jobs and potential contracts. EDF has submitted its planning application for its Somerset plant and soon, we should see the same for Sizewell. A key part of that will be resolving the A12 situation for the 4 villages. Offshore, the wind turbines have started turning and more are due in 2012. The Green Coast of Suffolk is becoming THE energy centre for the UK and that was recognised by the Prime Minister.
Further recognition from the Prime Minister came to the people of Suffolk for their role in raising over £3 million for the Treehouse Appeal. I really saw how people came together across the county to support those less fortunate than ourselves. I appreciate this happens regularly and that is another aspect of Suffolk life that makes the county very special. I was delighted later in the year to welcome David Cameron and the Cabinet to Suffolk. It was a welcome boost for members of the Cabinet to get out and about in East Anglia to see our successes and our challenges.
One of my proudest moments in the year was to welcome the Commanding Officer (CO) and RSM of 23 Engineers to Parliament. This followed the Parliamentary Welcome of 16 Air Assault Brigade with our own CO leading the parade with the RSM bringing up the rear. Under Lt Colonel Ross' leadership, the regiment continues to be a source of pride for the local community. Long may that continue with the new CO due in the spring. Endorsing our military engagement in Libya was a key moment in the year. I am proud the UK did involve itself and am even more pleased that the campaign is now over. Of course more can be done in other states but we will only press on if we get the whole UN Security Council endorsement for such action.
A significant issue for any rural MP is healthcare. The CQC failure at Ipswich was an unwelcome note but I was pleased that the Hospital staff recognised the challenge and fixed it. I never take our hard working nurses, doctors and support staff for granted but nor will I stand back from focusing attention where it is needed. That is also true of ambulances. Working with other Suffolk MPs, we have put the spotlight on the Ambulance Trust and it is starting to pay dividends. While most call-outs do not require people to go to hospital, it is important that rural constituents receive a very good service when they dial 999. I have also taken up concerns on the Out of Hours service and pressed the case for a new surgery for Felixstowe. Other emergency services also had to be protected and I was delighted to campaign with the Evening Star on keeping a permanent fire service in Felixstowe.
A few things where I have not made as progress as I would like are on post offices. There are a number of constituents not getting the service they should and I will keep fighting their corner in the New Year. Ditto for the businesses in Hamilton Road who had a terrible shock with business rates increases that were completely unplanned. I will support any individual appeals made. Something which I have been working on for a while has been the cost of fuel for those living away from the gas grid. The cost of heating oil is still very high but the OFT study I helped secure did not lead to concerns on competition grounds, though the same could not be said for those using LPG. I will continue to work on this in 2012. More meetings with the Minister were held in December and I have now set up a Parliamentary group on the matter. I am looking to secure greater consumer protection for such residents as well as focusing help on those houses hardest to insulate. Fuel poverty is highly acute in Suffolk Coastal and perhaps a forgotten issue in Westminster.
The beautiful surroundings in which we live should never be taken for granted. Our farmers do a lot to keep our country fed as well as preserve the countryside. A big issue early in 2011 was the Government's proposals concerning forests. I held a lively public meeting in Rendlesham where questions and opinions were addressed. I took a lot of these back to Westminster and was pleased to see significant changes to the policy. I still think there are changes to be made to help improve biodiversity and stop the daft situation where we still import most of the wood we used but hopefully addressed in a more considered way. The issues surrounding Sutton Heath's change in habitat as well as tackling issues on noise were also contentious issues. It is true that finding a balance to conserving the environment and everyday practicalities (like the A12 issues) can be quite a tightrope but one on which we must gain consensus. The lack of rain early in the year contributed to a scorched looking Suffolk with genuine concerns for our farmers, many of whom rely on abstraction from aquifers and rivers in order to irrigate crops. No sooner had I raised this with the Prime Minister and the rain shortly followed but still there is work to be done on building up reservoirs and modifying licences to allow abstraction around the year, as well as allowing our rivers to recover.
My ongoing work on the Select Committee for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport has continued to be very enjoyable and, I think, worthwhile. The headlines went to our inquiry on phone-hacking, including the grilling of the Murdochs. Other reports included the Arts, FIFA and Football Governance. The most important inquiry we undertook though was for the Spectrum Auction. This probably has the most direct relevance to Suffolk Coastal residents in improving mobile broadband access with the next generation of spectrum being lined up for auction. I was pressing for coverage that would include Suffolk residents. This is not to go against the fixed-line broadband programme (which after a difficult start is progressing well) but to supplement it. All Suffolk MPs are working hard to ensure that we have much better broadband alongside the County Council and our LEP.
I know that 2011 has been a difficult year financially for many and there is no getting away from 2012 being another challenge. I do think the Government is right to tackle the deficit, to redirect funds to schemes which it believes will produce better results for children and youngsters. I also think it is right to push more decision-making down to local level away from Whitehall. There are a number of reforms concerning welfare, employment, education, health and local government that will have long-lasting, beneficial effects for us all.
I look back with a lot of fondness on 2011 (including turning the big 40) and am looking forward to 2012. More to say on that next week – dreams of Olympics and Paralympics glory, the Diamond Jubilee (God willing) and much more progress on broadband and trains."
Evening Star Column - 20th December 2011
"It is good news to see that the sea defences along Felixstowe seafront are so far advanced, especially given the recent weather. Perhaps more worrying on first hearing was the news about the Spa Pavilion. However, I do think that these moments allow for better solutions to come forward. Save the Spa is a good rallying cry and that includes encouraging the people of Felixstowe to come forward and say what they want at the Spa, what will encourage you to go there more often if at all? I met Tourism Minister John Penrose last week for a briefing on tourism matters. John's constituency of Weston-super-Mare faces similar challenges but there have been moves to remove unnecessary legislation and renewed focus on coastal towns.
The A14 challenge has been started to bring forward thoughts on how the A14 can be improved, particularly with key bottlenecks. You do not need a full-blown motorway to keep traffic moving - anyone stuck on the M25 or other motorways can tell you the junctions where they usually get stuck at peak times as cars queue to get on and off.
Of course, one of the other disruptions that we have seen more of than we should recently are the mindless, criminal acts of dropping or throwing stones at cars. Heaven knows what possesses someone to do that but it is absolutely right that the Police put their full efforts into finding these thugs, hopefully before someone is killed.
We all know how important the A14 is but the other popular form of travel in Felixstowe and East Suffolk is the train. I met Felixstowe Travelwatch (Richard Holland and Bryan Frost) last week to discuss their concerns and it was opportune as I met Abellio on Monday. The rail summit later in the work where my excellent colleague Ben Gummer MP pressed the case for investment on the main line. Concerning our branch lines, Abellio will not be able to make significant investment but they are planning to give a facelift to existing carriages and to improve the customer experience through better information available particularly on delays and to make it easier to buy tickets. That includes better deals available online which till now you would need to pick up at a ticket office or upgraded ticket machine. Instead, you can print out at home or buy on your smartphone. One of the key reasons for delays are issues with signalling or disruption to the track. In the short term, Abellio cannot fix that but they also hope to be able to bid for work which would provide useful competition to Network Rail.
Finally, can I wish all readers of the Evening Star a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year."
Evening Star Column - 13th December 2011
"Last week, the Prime Minister and the Cabinet were in Suffolk for the second of their regional meetings. It was really useful for Suffolk to showcase its qualities, the opportunities available and the challenges it faces. The task remains for us as MPs to keep the flag flying for our county. One of the most useful conversations was with Dr Vince Cable, Business Secretary, on the opportunities for IT companies at Adastral Park itself and it is well set up to be a Technology Innovation Centre. It will be for the LEP to decide whether to champion this bid but I think that this innovation cluster is well placed. The trip to Felixstowe Port was also important and the teams down there did a great job of making the new Transport Secretary, Justine Greening, aware of the great history but also the great future that lies ahead. That requires support from the Government to ensure a fair platform for all port operators. The investment undertaken by Hutchison Whampoa convinces me that Felixstowe will continue to be the premier container port but only the basis of fair competition.
Ambulance response times are a constant thorn in the side of many rural residents in and around Ipswich and Felixstowe. The situation gets significantly worse as you move further away from the hospital. I was pleased to meet the Health Minister Simon Burns MP last week and to raise this matter at the heart of government. Unfortunately, due to the rearranged time, my neighbouring MP Dr Dan Poulter was unable to join that specific meeting but we are united in seeking a fairer deal for all our constituents. The issue at the moment is that targets only have to be met entirely across the East of England. Neither of us think that is good enough. At the meeting were the Chief Executive of the Ambulance Service, the Chief Executive of NHS Norfolk, Great Yarmouth & Waveney and the commissioning director of NHS Suffolk. I am pleased to report that there are changes afoot to start in April next year so that we will start to see targets by county, which is a step in the right direction. When the commissioning groups of doctors take on the responsibility, I hope the targets will be met area by area.
I am sad to report that the Attorney General has decided not to press to appeal for a longer sentence for Jacob Dunne, who was convicted for the manslaughter of James Hodgkinson. I am sure his family and friends will be upset by that decision. I do trust the judgement of Dominic Grieve (the Attorney General) who is an experienced lawyer and has sought advice. The view is that it is unlikely that another judge would significantly increase the sentence and so it is not appropriate to appeal. Nothing can replace the life of this young man who did so much and who was taken from them in such a cruel way. I appreciate it is not much solace but I will contact the Ministry of Justice on the matter of sentencing guidelines. A review has been undertaken and it is worth pointing out examples where it seems a travesty of justice.
Ready? Get Set? Go? Last plug for children and parents to encourage their schools to be full members of the Olympics Get Set Network. This is a great opportunity for the Olympics to touch every child across Suffolk and for the chance to win some tickets. The closing date is this Friday. Separately, the County Council has announced a small grants programme to encourage communities to celebrate London 2012. With 10 torch stops in my constituency, there will be no excuse to roll out the bunting. More information online at www.risingtothechallenge.org"
Evening Star Column - 6th December 2011
"In between our scrutiny of the Murdochs and News International, my Select Committee has been reviewing gambling. I am sure many of us have a flutter on the National or buy National Lottery tickets. Some readers will be regular bingo players or will have entertained themselves on Felixstowe seafront at one of the amusement arcades. In 2005, the then Labour government rushed through the Gambling Act, in negotiation with other parties, just before that General Election. 6 years on, the view is that it has pretty much failed to achieve what it set out to do. Costs and regulation rose, online betting firms took their operations offshore so tax revenue fell, limited liberalisation appears to have distorted the market between venues and many bingo halls have struggled to survive and very few casinos have started - certainly not the super-casino envisaged in Manchester.
The committee has heard evidence from a variety of sources - from bookmakers to the Salvation Army to the trade body for amusements and piers. Of course, Felixstowe has its own seafront with assorted entertainments and arcades. I have not yet added the Felixstowe Palace bingo hall to my list of visits but will do so soon. I know that locally there is frustration about the tight controls on number of machines in the arcades and that it is inconsistent with other high street betting shops. Of course, we have to be mindful of problem gambling and how people can be identified and helped. The financial impact can be very significant for families.
The committee has visited a number of outlets in and around London to get a feel of the different experiences offered. It is standard practice for Select Committees to look at how other countries have adopted or changed laws. That is why last week, I was abroad with the Select Committee as part of our gambling inquiry. We have already met politicians and civil servants from other European countries understanding the differing regimes, usually reflecting cultural or ethical practices. For example, it is illegal to gamble online in Germany while in France, you can only bet on horseracing through one state-owned monopoly. Further afield, the USA has very specific laws state by state on gambling. Las Vegas is eponymous for casinos. I have visited there before with my work at Mars (we had a chocolate plant 20 minutes away). I am not sure that something as big as Vegas is what we would be looking for in our country but it is interesting to see how the local economy thrives as well as potentially significant crime. One of the largest buildings in the world is a casino in Macao, a very small region of China, not much bigger than Felixstowe and Walton. Australia has a similar culture and legislative climate to the UK and has liberalised gambling. Not-for-profit social clubs are numerous in Australia - people are picked up by the club and taken in for a meal and socialising as well as perhaps a bit of gambling on a fruit machine. A senator was elected to the Australian Parliament on a "No Pokie" ticket. A pokie is a generic term for what we would call a fruit machine. He is still there and Australia is looking at its own reforms now both for high street and online gambling. Japan is well known for its pachinko parlours (think vertical pin ball crossed with a fruit machine).
Like all inquiries, I cannot pre-judge the outcome but so far, I think there are some obvious changes including measures to bring online betting back to Britain. Changing the inequity of the different percentage of tax paid by betting shops and bingo halls. Till now, the Government has decided where new casinos can be sited so why not let local councils say that they are happy to host one? Would a casino be a good, fun idea for Felixstowe? Or would it be folly?"
Evening Star Column - 29th November 2011
"The Suffolk coast was battered by a tidal surge on Sunday night. As of writing, it seems no serious damage has been done and only minor flooding occurred. None of this is new but stresses why we need to ensure flood defences are maintained and to continue to build resilience into properties. There is no doubt that there is less money available than in the last few years but we know from local experience that such money can be stretched further. Recently, a project in our area was costed up by a few different firms and there were significant differences between established contractors.
This week, it seems likely that the strike by a number of public sector workers will go ahead. I think that is a great shame given the offer made to union bosses at the start of the month that would do a lot to help those at the low end of the salary scale as well as those close to retirement. I understand that these changes means working longer, paying in some more and possibly receiving less. For most people working in the private sector, this is nothing new - it is extremely rare for any company to continue to offer a final salary scheme. In fact, many schemes are now defined contribution rather than defined benefit, which is what would still be enjoyed by public sector workers. A good pension is important and with the average life expectancy increasing, most pension schemes require additional contributions. MPs are not immune. I pay 11.9% of my salary into a generous scheme and we voted through for IPSA to come up with a potential increase as of April next year.
I met the Financial Secretary concerning the business rate revaluation undertaken for shops in Hamilton Road. I did not get much joy from the meeting from officials or the Minister but I have undertaken to support the appeals of any business. Separately, concerning the sad news at Itron, I have been following up on what support may be available from central government. The Talent Retention Scheme is focused on advanced manufacturing and engineering skills. I will be finding out more and seeing how it can help affected workers.
My other meeting last week with Culture and Media Minister Ed Vaizey was somewhat more hopeful. Many who have recently switched to Freeview have not enjoyed the upgrade to the full suite of Freeview channels. The Minister had not been aware of the extent of the issue and has pledged to look into it. I recognise resources are tight but hope we can come up with something creative.
Finally, I know many Felixstowe residents were rightly upset by the lenient sentence given to the murderer of James Hodgkinson. I have contacted the Attorney General on the matter and urged him to apply for a sentencing review. He is seeking more information from the Crown Prosecution Service before making his decision."
Evening Star Column - 22nd November 2011
"What do Jamie Oliver, Alexander McQueen and Sir Alex Ferguson all have in common? They all started out as apprentices.
Many people may not know that some of our greatest achievers learnt their crafts on the job. And many people may not know that across the country there are thousands – hundreds of thousands – who are following in their footsteps by becoming apprentices.
In fact, the numbers are rapidly increasing. Here in Suffolk Coastal, there were 490 new apprentices in 2009/10 and 710 this last year. The surge is set to continue thanks to the government's new incentive, announced this week, whereby small businesses will be given £1,500 if they take on an apprentice aged between 16 and 24.
Why do I know this will be a success? Because the coalition has a great record in this area. The Chancellor George Osborne promised 50,000 extra apprenticeships for over 19s – but it delivered more than 100,000. Labour wanted 360,000 apprenticeships by 2020 – but the coalition smashed that target nine years early. Recruiting apprentices used to mean battling with bureaucracy – but following this week's announcement, it will only take one month to start advertising such a position.
But what is so great about apprenticeships?
First: opportunity. You leave school or college and you find yourself at a crossroads. One path leads to university, another to a gap year, another to work. But there is another path: one which leads you to becoming an apprentice. And the best thing is that you can earn and learn at the same time.
The second fantastic thing about apprenticeships is the skills they provide. More and more employers are saying that graduates and school leavers do not have the skills necessary for the working world. University isn't always the best option – sometimes an apprenticeship will be a better way of developing a young person's skills in a way that is directly tailored to the workplace. This doesn't mean less rigour. Apprenticeships tend to be intensive, focussed and hands-on. In fact, under this week's announcement, apprenticeship providers will be required to offer training in English and Maths up to the standard of a good GCSE.
Thirdly – and most importantly – apprenticeships are vital at a time when we face the biggest economic crisis any of us have known, when unemployment is, consequently, soaring. Jobs and growth are the answer, and apprenticeships are vital. I hear from countless constituents who write to me or come to my surgeries saying they have sent off hundreds of CVs to little avail. The most common feedback they get is that they lack experience. This is especially true when lean times mean businesses are less willing to recruit younger employees. But apprenticeships make people workplace-wise, and more employable.
I have seen for myself the excellent work of the apprentices at Newton Commercial in Leiston and there are several hotly-contestetd schemes at BT and EDF. Marco Pierre White has backed Greene King's new scheme.
Apprenticeships are good for the economy, good for employers and, most importantly, good for apprentices themselves. So I am delighted that here in Suffolk Coastal and across the UK we are adding many more names to the list of people who have started glittering careers as apprentices."
Evening Star Column - 15th November 2011
"This weekend I attended remembrance services at Aldeburgh and Rock Barracks in Woodbridge. At the base of 23Engineers we remembered the two soldiers, in squadrons attached to 23 Engineers who lost their lives in the latest deployment to Afghanistan. It was a simple ceremony and made very poignant in the middle of the parade square. Earlier that morning I visited Kyson Primary School in Woodbridge where a tremendous assembly by Year 6 gave the other young people insight (well researched) into the meaning of the poppy. It was encouraging that more poppies have been sold this year than ever before and that there has been an increased number of people attending public services across Suffolk.
At Kyson Primary School we finished our assembly with a prayer. What struck me as well as at the other service I attended that day was that children didn't know all of the words to the Lords Prayer. I have to say this really surprised me as schools should undertake a daily act of worship in every class or indeed at assemblies. Some may see saying the Lords Prayer as some form of religious indoctrination. They may be right, but actually saying the words in the prayer or singing the National Anthem are very much part of civic society in what is still formally a Christian country. I wonder how many other civic ties we are losing either by lack of confidence or lack of desire which perpetuates the decline of such tradition.
I was very pleased to have formal conformation that Ipswich Hospital has passed its second Care Quality Commission inspection. This report concludes that all staff at the hospital are working hard for patients and patients will have greater confidence that they will be treated with dignity at all times. As I said in the House of Commons a few weeks ago, I was very impressed by the response to the first report, the humility of accepting things had gone wrong but also in the determination to get it right and the hard work has paid off.
With the costs of food, clothing, and energy all on the increase, now is the time to start winter-proofing your home to keep energy costs down. Currently, around £1 of every £4 spent on heating our homes is wasted because of a lack of adequate insulation and with over 6 million cavity walls unfilled, and 10 million lofts left unlagged nationwide, huge amounts of money is being wasted.
Customers of British Gas can take advantage of the company's offer to insulate their homes for free if they apply before 22nd December 2011. Customers on lower incomes, whoever their supplier is, can also call a special helpline to see if they are eligible for free insulation or discounted bills the Home Heat Helpline is 0800 980 8177.
So take up the free energy efficiency that you are entitled to by doing this you could save hundreds of pounds every year."
Evening Star Column - 9th November 2011
"The exciting news is out that Felixstowe and Woodbridge will both be hosting the Olympic Torch. Actually 10 stops are planned in my constituency which is very exciting. There is also the opportunity to get involved in Local Leaders initiative. I have already encouraged the schools to join the Get Set programme. Olympics fever will be reignited with this news.
This week we will be commemorating those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom of our country. Many readers will be appalled by the desecration of war memorials. I have tabled a motion asking for such people to be prosecuted vigorously and also to encourage the Heritage Lottery Fund to set aside funds to restore memorials to their full glory. The Sunday Telegraph has taken this up and launched its own campaign. I will be attending Rock Barracks on Friday and then at Aldeburgh this year for their Remembrance Services. It so happened that I was in Belfast for part of this weekend and decided to attend the Remembrance Service which traditionally they hold before the 11th. I was surprised to see Padre Andrew Totten as preacher. I last saw him at the service just before 23 Engineers deployed to Afghanistan so an extraordinary coincidence and he gave a good sermon.
Locally, readers will have been thinking of the Hodgkinson family after the killer of their son received only a 30 month sentence for manslaughter. I will be contacting the Attorney General on this matter as it does seem very little for an unprovoked attack resulting in the loss of life.
I am sure that thoughts have also gone out to the workers at Itron in Felixstowe. I have met the HR director on the matter. It seems that the global company has decided to outsource part of the production that was done in-house and to reduce the number of manufacturing sites from four to two. Having their factories on the continent seemed to be better for their operation logistically. I understand that negotiations are ongoing with the union about the redundancy settlement and that a Job Club will start mid-summer. I am sure that the skills the manufacturing employees have will stand them in good stead for other opportunities that may arise locally."
Evening Star Column - 1st November 2011
"My aunt died today (Monday). Fortunately for her, it was quite a short time between the onset of suffering and her passing away. For her son and daughter, grandchildren and wider family, there was an opportunity to say goodbye. The care she received in the last few days of her life did much, I believe, to help her have a peaceful death. Such stories were not much evident in the debate in Westminster last week on 'NHS Care of Older People'. MPs had many stories of concern and in some cases, mirrored the complaints which I receive more regularly than I would like. Suffolk Coastal has one of the highest percentages of pensioners (I think it is 15th of 650) as constituents. It is well established that on average, your greatest call on the NHS comes at moments of childbirth and in the last year of one's life. That is why I agree (as Peter Aldous, Waveney MP, stated in the debate) that the proportion of elderly should be reflected in the allocation of health spending, as it used to be. Given the level of interest in the debate, I chose to confine my remarks to recent issues in local hospitals but could have also spoken about the role of hospices and concerns on timeliness of ambulances, given that many constituents are an hour or more away from an A&E. Ipswich and James Paget Hospitals both failed their first CQC inspection on aspects relating to care of the elderly. At the time, I was very impressed with the response from the Ipswich leadership in acknowledging the failings and the call to arms to get it right. That seems to have worked and I am expect a favourable report after the second inspection. That is why I was pleased to praise the people working at Ipswich Hospital. I contrasted that to the experience at the hospital that covers patients at the northern end of my constituency. Unfortunately, the James Paget failed a second inspection. Improvements were recorded and I noted that the report was complimentary about staff but there were still moderate concerns about meeting nutritional needs and the management of medicines. The response from the leadership after the first report suggested that they knew the problems existed but that CQC had somewhat got it wrong and I understand that the reaction had not changed particularly after the second report. That is why, with a distinct lack of positive vibes, I felt that I could not let the debate pass without making a plea for some fresh leadership on behalf of constituents and in reaction to an anonymous letter purporting to be from GPs. I was disappointed that the Deputy Chair of Governors seemed to dismiss the whistleblowing as that may discourage it in the future. Should I have made the call? Well, I stand by it though to be honest, I hope the Chairman proves me wrong and that the James Paget gets a glowing report 3rd time round. For a nice life, it would be easier for MPs not to talk about local problems or call for new leadership but on such an issue, when the message emanating from the leadership seemed to be contradictory to external assessment, I feel we have to make that unpopular stand.
Half-term is over and back to school for many, perhaps just in time for Parliament Week. Question Time is being filmed in Westminster Hall this week and there are various events in and around Westminster. I will be speaking at Farlingaye High School on Friday on Communications Day – perfect to showcase the role of the Chamber as the voice of representative democracy. There is a photograph competition online asking for your take on democracy, though not a picture of Big Ben! http://www.parliamentweek.org/
I also spoke in Westminster on the Opposition Day's debate on Green Growth. It was a good opportunity to highlight the local success on recycling – which is all thanks to you. I think our 3-bin system works well as food is removed every week. There is little point in generating hot air in Westminster as it is on the ground action through our councils that can make the real difference to making it as easy as possible to recycle. Of course, using fewer resources in the first place is best but the modern 3 Rs are reduce, re-use, recycle.
Finally, for the record, I did not vote for a referendum on the EU. I was contacted by 92 people by the time of the vote and a few more afterwards. As I said to those people, bearing in mind that I did not stand on a manifesto of voting for a referendum on EU membership, this Government has committed not to transfer powers or competences to the EU without the say-so of a referendum and has put that in law through the EU Act. Further, I think it is right that we spend our energy focusing on the everyday matters for our constituents – health, crime, the economy and jobs – rather than spend a few years discussing constitutional arrangements. That does not mean that we stand idly by but the project is already underway across Whitehall to identify those areas where goldplated or unintended consequences of EU legislation are stopping growth. We can fix those without recourse to referendums."
Evening Star Column - 25th October 2011
"Everyone likes to get something for nothing and that is true for the schools whose parents and teachers collected vouchers for useful equipment for their schools. It was then a delight to join pupils and teachers from the primary schools of Kyson, Waldringfield and Martlesham Beacon Hill as they enjoyed some bonus goodies to use at school. I understand this is a marketing tool for the supermarket and others do it but this little ceremony was an extra thank you to some local schools. I understand each of the schools secured some extra equipment for sport or helping in the classroom (a visualiser – the modern form of an overhead projector). The children were a credit to their schools and we all know, "Every little helps".
In, Out, Shake It All About – I should have copyrighted that term to discuss the Referendum vote as it is now being used by many commentators. Though I write this before the vote on a referendum takes place, the deliberate vagueness of the 3-option referendum was designed to attract support but the reality is that it complicated the desire to put pressure on the Government to start clawing back powers from the EU. The call to renegotiate does not require a referendum, we just need to get on and decide what we need back and ask for it. Of course, it is more complex than that but leadership often requires reaching through to the simplicity beyond and staying focused. I can understand why colleagues felt they wanted this show of opinion. Every day, we can read examples of money being wasted or frustrating bureaucracy that adds costs to business and government but I am swayed by the arguments that we do not need three years of constitutional discussions but to focus on economic improvement – jobs and growth. We have the EU Act of Parliament already in law- where any future transfer of powers and sovereignty to the EU would need to be approved in a referendum. That is more than happened in the last government.
I attended the refresh of Innovation Martlesham and pressed the button for the cutting of a digital cake. We have a world-class centre of IT excellence on our doorstep and the Incubator provides a great place for new talent to establish itself in the heart of the campus. Co-locate and collaborate are the mantras. Innovation is a key driver for economic growth and a great source of competitive advantage. Gillette always has its next product ready before it launches any new product – in order to be ready to be ahead of the game. Actually, many companies do collaborate on rather innovative technology in order to open up new markets of a critical mass – food technology springs to mind due to my previous employment but there are IT consortia that work on new platforms – e.g. the new Freeview, YouView which is due out in 2012.
Finally, as the nights draw in (clocks go back this weekend) and there is a distinct chill in the air, I was pleased that the OFT published its report on off-gas grid households. It suggests that oil markets are competitive but there are problems with LPG. I still think there is a case for all consumers to have the protection of OFGEM rather than rely on local trading standards officers but the Minister is willing to talk to us on that matter, which I shall do."
Evening Star Column - 18th October 2011
"I had a warm welcome at Felixstowe Academy this week. I visited the Maidstone campus (the Orwell site) and met the new Principal Mr Chamberlain, Ms Doyle Head of Maidstone Campus and Mr Salter, Head of Garrison Campus. It is early days for the new Academy but there is clear ambition for the school. We talked about some of the immediate challenges for the school, including logistics for next year, the selection of the new governors and also had a chance to look over the the plans for the new building. I understand it has been reported that there will be narrow corridors and some staggered timing because the school could not cope. Actually, the corridors will be more than wide enough for a modern tank and to me, it makes sense at such a large school for lunchtime to be staggered between year groups. There is a lot of ambition from the school leadership team. Of course, the nitty gritty needs to be ironed out but I share the ambition and aspiration for the current and future youth of Felixstowe.
Sadder news to hear that the Blue Cross will not be going ahead with the new centre at Foxhall.However,it has committed itself to Suffolk for the future and we will hold them to that. My own dog Rizzo was a rescue and has brought me much joy, though sadly did not win at the Westminster Dog of the Year Show. Never mind- she is on her last legs with diabetes and cataracts but she will always be a winner for me.
Back in Westminster, I met the Chief Executive of the Ambulance Service that covers Suffolk. My neighbour Dan Poulter MP has also been pursuing the same issue - rural Suffolk falling behind on ambulance response times. The meeting was constructive but I still had the same concerns that rural areas would still not get a timely service even after service changes that would help somewhat. This is mainly because how the service is measured and only regional targets are set. I understand that only 4% of 999 ambulance calls results in someone going to hospital so I am happy to see more triage over the phone and appropriate response given but while Luton may have its "booze bus", I will not rest until we have a 999 service in which everyone can be confident that they will have the ambulance when they need it."
Evening Star Column - 12th October 2011
"Later this week, I am meeting Andrew Newton who is the Chief Executive of the Ambulance Trust for East of England. He is coming to Parliament and several other MPs will be joining the meeting to voice their concerns. I understand that Suffolk is a rural county but why is it only our county that fails the targets for response times. Thank heavens for our local community responders, particurlarly in the rural areas, who are literally a vital lifeline. I have also asked for information not just on average times but actual range of times it takes to respond to emergency calls. With challenges to local services, we cannot afford for the first point of emergency contact to fall short.
"Readers may well be concerned about the oil spill from the container ship off the coast of New Zealand and the perils for Felixstowe as the largest container port in the UK. My understanding is that the breach on the reef would be very difficult to recreate in our area but nevertheless, the Maritime & Coastguard Agency has to be alert to perceived new dangers and procedures that can help mitigate such accidents. I will be writing to the MCA to see what reassesment it may make of current procedures for oil recovery.
Planning reforms have been of concern to some people recently. The consultation is now open on this matter. I think there is a lot in the reforms that will be beneficial. The essence of planning has never changed since planning laws were introduced - development should be allowed unless there is a good reason not to. Some of the reforms strengthen current policies on environmental matters while removing unnecessary central diktats on how many parking places a particular kind of development can have per household. The suggestions of mass sprawl are somewhat overstated. In essence, local councils will have more freedom to undertake proposed developments according to local need and adapting those developments to suit the local situation. That is where neighbourhood or parish plans add to the shape and feel of such development. For example, take a village where half the houses are thatched. It would be perfectly acceptable to insist in a parish plan that half of any future houses are also thatched, to retain the character of that village. Take local affordable housing. Currently, the local council may say that new houses cannot be built on a field adjoining the village. If the vast majority of the parish vote to say that they do want a development of affordable housing to cater for the next generation, they can do that.
Parliament is now back from conference recess and will be busy till Christmas week. I am looking forward to some constituents visiting Parliament including a group from Farlingaye High School and a Rotary group from Felixstowe. Parliament recently won a Visitor Attraction award. It is a magical place. I can arrange visits for any constituent but timing is key. Tours are free when Parliament is sitting but there is a charge on Saturdays and during recess. Please get in touch if you wish to visit."
Evening Star Column - 4th October 2011
This week I am in Manchester for the Conservative Party conference. These events are a mixture of meeting old friends, seeing colleagues and showcasing new ideas. For the leadership, the Government, there is the chance to release new policies. Probably the most eye-catching is the chance to freeze council tax for another year. That will be welcomed by many families - young and old alike - recognising the challenges that we all face. The Chancellor also announced new opportunities to bid for infrastructure investment. For my own part, I contributed a chapter to a book focusing on culture, arts and media. Probably the soundbite that will get written up in the political blogs will be the suggestion of the BBCusing the red button to perhaps elect directors that represent licence-fee payers or to vote on licence fee increases, removing the political negotiations that happen every few years.
Readers will already be aware of Suffolk MPs pressing for a better rail future. I visited Stourbridge with local councillor Graham Newman, transport cabinet member Guy McGregor and others to see the Parry People Mover. Essentially, tram trains have been invented with some clever but straightforward technology that are cheaper to run than conventional trains and do not need the overhead wires that you see on many tram systems across the country. There are ideas to re-open the Saxmundham to Leiston line. I can see that but also could see these to be used to replace the branch lines for, say, the Felixstowe to Ipswich service and possibly the entire East Suffolk line. It was so simple that even I managed to drive the tram train for about 150 yards (not on the public line I should add). I hope we can take this forward - well done Guy for having some vision on this for Suffolk.
On the NHS front, there was some movement on the new Central Surgery premises at the latest NHS Suffolk board meeting, though conditional on securing receipts from the Bartlett Hospital sale. The Bartlett Hospital is very special for the people of Felixstowe. I know that there are many campaigners concerned that it is no longer being used for medical or caring needs. Given recent history and the general direction of NHS care, more treatments are being and will be delivered locally through GP surgeries and community hospitals. It really is for local GPs to decide whether the Bartlett should be part of that local infrastructure or if the money realised would be better put into brand new facilities. This debate will come to a head soon but I am always interested in your views."
Evening Star Column - 27th September 2011
"Difficult news for the Hospital this week as the need to balance its books comes at a changing time for the treatment of patients. A general thrust of medical treatment is to offer more procedures in the surgery or even at home, removing the need to go to hospital. This direction of travel started a while ago and will continue which leads to the challenge for our hospital. If there is less work being directed there, then the logical conclusion is that fewer people need to work in the hospital. And yet, when we need our hospital for more difficult or emergency cases, we want to receive the best possible treatment. So, this is a balancing act for the Chief Executive of Ipswich Hospital, Mr Reed, and I hope that the recent investment in front-line care will be rewarded when the CQC inspectors return. The situation at Ipswich is not unusual as more treatment is undertaken at our local GP surgery. I think that is a good thing - particularly in a rural county so I call on the teams at Ipswich Hospital to pull together in this consultation to prepare for the best long-term future.
This week has also been interesting for the nursing profession. The head of the RCN suggested that newly-qualified nurses spend too much time on theory and not enough on real-life practice before going on to the wards full time. Separately, he is reported to have said that nurses should expect help from visiting relatives to feed and care for patients. One thing that leapt out from the last CQC inspection was that there were lapses in care that rightly shocked Star readers. People have written to me praising the staff and also letters of criticism reflecting the report. My experience of working life is that an organisation gets stronger when the individuals in it recognise the shortcomings without trying to deflect the blame, come forward with solutions bottom-up not just top-down and hold each other to account..not just wait for the Boss to do it.
Finally, I started a ten-minute rule Bill on the subject of providing hydration and nutrition for the terminally ill. I think it is cruel for someone to have their life's end accelerated by not being able to have some food or some water to drink. My Bill is narrowly defined and it has attracted some support from those in favour and against assisted suicide. To avoid doubt, I don't support assisted suicide or euthanasia but I am happy to work with any MP to end this tragic, desperate way for someone to die."
Evening Star Column - 13th September 2011
"I enjoyed walking from Snape Maltings to Thorpeness to raise money for WaterAid. My 3 amigos (Patti, Julia and Helen) and Ringo kept up a steady pace. My predecessor John Gummer suggested that the view from Snape across the reedbeds to Iken was one of his favourite outlooks and I can fully understand why. The same day, some friends participated in the Suffolk Historic Churches cycle-ride. It is great that the people of Suffolk feel strongly about supporting various causes and long may that continue.
The County Council has announced its consultation on services you want to see. I think this is the right approach to have that conversation about what you value. My only concern though is that there are some things the county has to do (its statutory duty) that at first sight may seem very expensive and perhaps not the most popular. If there are ideas that come out of this that need changes from central Government, I am more than happy to try to see sensible requirements dropped or changed. The Government started by stopping a whole lot of reporting and assessment that the Council estimated cost £2 million per year. It's small amount compared to the necessary savings but "every little counts".
Last week, there was heated discussion on the Health Bill. Actually, a lot of it was heat rather than light – particularly discussing abortion counselling. I am proposing a new Bill this week that guarantees the terminally ill access to hydration and nutrition. Death comes to us all and without being too morbid, we have to acknowledge it happens and actually think a little bit about how we want it to happen. I am strongly opposed to euthanasia and assisted suicide. However, that doesn't mean that I think someone has to be constantly resuscitated to prolong the life of someone who may have just days to live. However, I am vehemently opposed to the removal of water or food (usually provided through a tube) as I think it is terribly cruel for someone to starve to death or die through lack of water. I may be opposed but these opportunities give MPs the chance to raise particular issues, even if a Bill is unlikely.
I was back at Snape Maltings this Sunday for the Suffolk Youth Music Concert. The array of talent from our young people still at school was a joy to behold and just shows that Suffolk music has a bright future. For any of you who watched Last Night of the Proms, you will have heard Britten's Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra as well as his rendition of the National Anthem and reference to the Queen opening Snape Maltings over 40 years ago. I particularly enjoyed the Strings' version of "The Final Countdown" – a song from 1986 which took me down memory lane to finishing my O levels and considering my A levels. Well, this week, schools have resumed and young people have taken the next step on their educational journey. I hope the academic year proves as fruitful for them as the music accomplishment I enjoyed at the weekend.
Finally, the initial proposals for the boundary changes have been unveiled. Though there is a long way to go till the final outcome, no change is proposed for Suffolk Coastal. I hope to have the joy, therefore, of re-presenting myself for election in 2015 and indeed representing this area beyond that".
Evening Star Column - 6th September 2011
The new academy is opening in Felixstowe (http://www.felixstoweacademy.org/) and I want to wish the students, staff and new principal well in this school year. I am confident that the Academy will build on the recent progress and be a credit to the town. I like the new school logo, looking similar to the Visit Felixstowe, so at least the branding is a positive start. I hope to visit the new Academy next month and see the changes made already.
Evening Star Column - 29th August 2011
One aspect of being an MP is the opportunity to interact with a number of organisations. To deepen understanding though, some organisations have devised schemes that allow you a much more in-depth relationship so that you can truly get to understand the issues of a particular sector. Probably the best well-known such scheme is the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme; about 40 MPs per year effectively join one of the Armed Forces and take about 30 days over 18 months to work with the Army, Navy or Air Force. Other schemes have followed suit including one for industry and one for sport. Given my interest in sport and being on the DCMS committee, I opted to join the Sport England scheme and was partnered with the Football Association – a dream pairing for any football fan. The aim is to gain an understanding of some of the governance, operational and strategic issues that the governing body of a particular sport faces. The scheme is supposed to be mutual so the sporting body gets an opportunity to see more about Parliament. Due to my committee's inquiry into football governance, some of my activities have been delayed so I am cramming in quite a few sessions to get back on track to complete the Fellowship by spring 2012.
So far, I have observed the Monday morning review of sporting incidents that were not spotted by referees, leading to potential yellow or red cards. That particular morning was the first time a player had been sanctioned for using Twitter in an inappropriate way. I also attended the opening match of the new Women's Super League, trying to put women's football on a higher level. This last weekend, I was fortunate to accompany the Chairman of the FA, David Bernstein, around Suffolk. We visited Sudbury, a wheelchair team and found out more about work with people of learning difficulties. I have always believed that sport can touch people's livesin extraordinary ways and these visits reinforced that. Next week, I will be at Wembley stadium for the England vs Wales match actually looking at policing and crowd control. So although I had already bought a ticket, I will likely be in a control room somewhere. This will prove particularly interesting as I felt it was an over-reaction to the riots that the last match at Wembley was cancelled. With less than a year to go to the Olympics, I feel that our international sporting events really have to proceed and that we could have trusted 70,000 patriotic fans with our friendly Dutch allies would have been a great advert for life as normal and Britain at its best. That will be one of the topics that I follow up on next week.
Finally, well done to all the students who received their exam results. I am sure that your parents and teachers were proud of your achievements. For those of you planning to go to college and those heading back to sixth form, I hope the sun returns for a few days before you resume your studies. For those hoping to start work straight away, if you have not found anything yet, then do consider an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships cover many industries in Suffolk so the choice will be quite wide. Go online to www.apprenticeships.org.uk for the prospect of a great career.
Evening Star Column - 23rd August 2011
"The last two weeks I have enjoyed visiting a few more carnivals and fetes which are an important part of the village and town calendar. They take a lot of preparation and thank you to those steadfast people who take on the challenge every year. I stayed on home turf on Sunday to enjoy the Westleton Barrel Fair. Having missed the Westleton villagers' race, I joined the allcomers and managed a meritable second – a lady from Kesgrave just pipped me for it. For those of you not aware of this particular festivity, it involves pushing barrels with a pole downhill and for the gentlemen, they have the joy of pushing the barrels back uphill as well. It is funny to watch as those barrels develop a mind of their own. There is a wider theme to this though in that one particular fete nearly became a cropper as the magic licence had not been applied for in time. This led to fewer activities sadly but the fete still went ahead. Threatened with prosecution, the fete organiser threatened publicity that the council had effectively cancelled the fete. Common sense prevailed. Across the summer, constant feedback has been the bureaucracy involved in getting licenses, the costs of arranging street closures and large premiums for insurance. Going wider, fewer pubs have impromptu music sessions because they need a licence, brass bands need to have a licence to play at a fete and so on. What does a licence actually achieve? Usually it is just some paperwork with a big tick. This is something that the Government had said they would look at – reducing the red tape for communities, reviewing licensing arrangements and I have been assured they will sort it out for 2012. I will keep on the case on this and the increasing costs to stage events needs to be tackled.
I was back in Parliament again this week as my select committee reviewed further evidence provided by James Murdoch and others. We decided to call more witnesses in September and from there, we may well need to recall James Murdoch to provide further evidence on seeming contradictions. As I've said before, this isn't a trial but we are being systematic in trying to get to the truth. Again, there are consultations with our Parliamentary lawyer and the police to ensure we don't jeopardise their investigation. We are not planning to call other people like Piers Morgan who still refuses to who played him the voicemail recording of Paul McCartney's message for Heather Mills and how it was obtained. I am sure he will be called by the Leveson Inquiry that is starting soon.
I really felt for all Ipswich fans on Saturdays. Readers will know I still support the team of my childhood – Liverpool – and I had enjoyed watching them win earlier in the day. Next Saturday, I am joining the Chairman of the FA on a tour of Suffolk and will get to see the Ipswich-Leeds game. I may hook up with my neighbouring MP and season ticket-holder Ben Gummer. I hope the result is better than Saturday and I am sure Paul Jewell and the team will turn the ship around.
Finally, a bit ahead of myself but plugging it early, I am doing a charity walk for WaterAid on September 10th. This charity helps supply safe water, sanitation and hygiene education at the cost of £15 per person for life. Some of us are walking along the coast but I admit I have chosen the flattest walk – from Snape to Thorpeness. If you want to sponsor, visit www.justgiving.com/suffolkcoastal or text 70070 SUCO99 £x (with x the amount) to donate. If you want to join me on the walk, email me therese.coffey.mp@parliament.uk"
Evening Star Column - 16th August 2011
"I was delighted to see the clouds did not deter the crowds for the Felixstowe Carnival. I had the pleasure of helping judge the floats along with Cllr Slemmings, Cllr Garfield, the Mayor Cllr Savage and her escort Mrs Peggy Osborne. There was plenty of imagination and effort put into the floats with young and old alike. The Carnival Queen and her Princesses looked stunning. I was delighted that the Carnival King and Queen of Felixstowe's twin town Wesel joined the procession.
Suffolk Police helped the Met last week to help regain full control of the streets across London. I know that there was some anxiety that it would leave Suffolk exposed but I am pleased that there were no reports of any trouble locally. Parliament was recalled. That's the second time in one summer. Before 2011, the last occasion Parliament was recalled was for the Iraq war. Thursday provided the opportunity to raise matters with the Prime Minister and to voice constituents' concerns. I have a particular concern concerning the concentration of young offenders in Young Offenders' Institutes, including YOI Warren Hill locally. I have not visited since the disturbance last year but I know it was a concern for the then Governor. I wrote to the Prime Minister, Prisons Minister and spoke to the Home Secretary about the matter.
Of course, the actions of the rioters was disgraceful. Stealing and destroying others' property has been rightly condemned. I am pleased that the Government is helping the businesses get back on their feet. Restoring normality as quickly as possible is imperative for those neighbourhoods and communities. I grew up in Liverpool and just about remember the 1981 riots. I recall our buses not being able to go the normal route to town, that we were asked to house a school classmate of my sister for a few days and that ultimately, the only people who suffered were those from the local community. It's right that we look at what happened and not rush into a knee-jerk response but respect for each other as well as respect for authority has to be addressed.
In terms of police tactics, it's easy to look back but it is also important to learn lessons. Actually, in terms of public order containment and minimising physical violence, containing the riots and using CCTV to identify and later arrest culprits will have proved successful. However, given the concerns and backlash against seeming non-intervention, it was also right that the Met changed its tactics into proactive intervention to prevent looting and criminal damage. Should this have been done on Monday night rather than Tuesday night? I'll let you judge. Would the looting have spread if the intervention had been more impactful on the Sunday or Monday night? These matters will be reviewed by the Police in the near future.
The debate in Parliament did turn at some points to the issue of police numbers. We all want visible policing. We also need to balance the books as a nation. So how do we square the circle? The latest study of how police officer's time is used indicates an average of 12% on the streets and 22% on paperwork. That's at the top level and yes, back room roles like custody, being in court, training are also important. But just imagine we if we could reverse the percentage of time on the streets with that spent on paperwork. I believe that can be done and the work is underway. It will take resolve to push through but more hours out there rather than just the number of available pairs of feet for the street. That's the smarter way to go."
Evening Star Column - 9th August 2011
"I enjoyed time in Felixstowe amongst other places this week, starting off with opening the Felixstowe Art Group's 60th Exhibition. A wide choice of styles was on show. Several caught my eye and I purchased a perspective of Felixstowe seafront and Spa that I will hang in my Westminster office. I understand the Art Group caters for all ages and offers a warm welcome to newcomers– Rikki Evans is the man to contact.
I visited the Port to see the Port Health team and the Seafarers' Centre. It was very interesting to see the work that the Port Health team does and some of its challenges. Felixstowe Port Health Authority has an excellent reputation and works well with other ports around the country. Leading the way with its IT knowledge and the thoroughness of its dedicated workforce, it is reassuring to know we are in such good hands when it comes to the safety of goods and produce entering our country.
The Seafarers' Centre was a warm, inviting place that offers such an important facility for visiting ship crew. Whether that was picking up a delivery of food from the local Iceland or more usually a place to phone home from a private setting or to access the internet, the Centre had thousands of crew through its doors last year and it is clearly a valued facility. Volunteers play an important role picking up the crew from their ships and helping in the centre. Another key aspect is the spiritual wellbeing of these seafarers. Given that people can be at sea for months, if not a couple of years, at a time, these havens can offer a chance for reflection and more formal religious services. I know that at times of distress, a quiet time on your own or with a chaplain can be very comforting.
While I was down on the Peninsula, it was useful to visit Landguard Fort and the Nature Reserve. The tour of the fort was very informative and good to make connections as well as discuss future plans, including a bid for a Lottery grant. It is a very interesting place on our doorstep and with the use of the facility for one of the art projects of the Cultural Olympiad, a little gem that is lucky to have dedicated volunteers. It is also a showcase on how local management for English Heritage is a win-win partnership and could act as a role model for other sites. By the way, dogs can go in to – useful to note for local dog-owners. Next door to the Fort is the splendid Nature Reserve. I had never been here before and I was astonished at the rich diversity as well as seeing quite a few fishermen enjoying their leisure activity. The new boardwalk makes a real difference and opens up access for those not keen on crunching across shingle. Again, volunteers helped to put this together. Sarah Wynne, the ranger, is very engaging and has her own blog and twitter account. So much to see and do – I look forward to going back. For more information on this jewel in our crown, go online to www.landguardpartnership.org.uk
Finally, I met traders from Hamilton Road facilitated by the Chamber of Trade & Commerce. I did secure a meeting with the Valuation Office Agency which gave clarity to the business rates situation but not solutions as of yet. So I will press on to see what we can get changed and will take that up with Ministers when I am back in Parliament next week.
Felixstowe has a bright future – recognising its heritage, taking its opportunities for growth and a remarkable community who are excellent ambassadors. Sadly, there is a very small minority who, despite all the opportunities on offer, choose to cause damage and vandalise parts of the town. I am delighted that the Mayor, Cllr Doreen Savage, is working with local police to get this changed. Genuinely, there is so much to do in fabulous Felixstowe that there is no excuse for anyone of any age to be bored."
Evening Star Column - 2nd August 2011
"The sun is back just in time for the summer holidays and the tourist season, making a stark contrast from the rain that greeted festival-goers at Latitude. Glorious sunshine was on tap last Wednesday as the country initiated the count-down to the Olympics. I was happy to lend my support to the Olympics in Parliament and am looking forward to an exciting year ahead. Talking of sunshine, I spoke to the Prime Minister and joked I would not bring up drought again, given we had been blessed with more rain in one month than in the last six. Nevertheless, I hope that the Agencies have worked with our farmers to ensure we could capture as much of the downpour that didn't seep into the soil.
Suffolk Coastal continues to be vibrant with plenty of entertainment up and down the coast. On Saturday, like many other dog-lovers, I enjoyed Suffolk Dog Day at Helmingham Hall. Rizzo was in doggy heaven meeting and greeting so many four-legged friends. It was nice to bump Last week, I enjoyed Red Rose Chain's performance of Twelfth Night. This is one of Shakespeare's better comedies and this version is more like Twelfth Night the Musical. You will certainly be entertained and the setting in the middle of Rendlesham Forest adds enchantment. Well done to the cast and crew for a lovely evening. Carnival season has also started and I know anticipation is building for the Felixstowe Carnival in a fortnight's time but before then, plenty other things to keep me busy.
Today, I will be spending all day in Felixstowe – at the Art Exhibition in the Methodist Church Hall, visiting the Port to see the Council's work on Port Health checking items coming into the country, then visiting Landguard Fort and Nature Reserve followed by visiting the Seafarers' Centre. I finish the day meeting local businesses affected by the Valuation Office's extra revaluation work which has seen business rates demand rocket. Clearly, we want a thriving High Street, especially after all the work that has been undertaken. Later this week, I am meeting Energy Minister Charles Hendry to help put the case for our coastal ports to capitalise on the energy boom on the Suffolk coast.
Coastal defences are back in the news in Felixstowe as we will see work get underway. I was delighted to work with Cllr Andy Smith and Suffolk Coastal District Council to seal the deal. Without this work, there was a real risk that the seafront and promenade would be under threat. There will be some disruption but better that for a couple of years than no sea-front at all.
Finally, MPs' costs made the headlines this week and my costs of £105,282.67 . Readers should be aware though that our costs were for 11 months of the year, most of the new MPs didn't have staff in place for all of those 11 months. In addition, after a year of settling down, I have decided to take on an extra pair of hands in the constituency and move some of the work from Westminster to Woodbridge to provide a more seamless service on casework while allowing some extra capacity for the team in London to keep on top of key projects. Most MPs told us newbies that it would take two to three years to really find a system that suits us and so it is proving. In any event, I appreciate that the costs spent on me and my office come from your taxes so I will continue to do my best to ensure every pound is spent carefully in support of me in my role representing you."
Evening Star Column - 26th July 2011
"Last week was quite extraordinary in Westminster. Tuesday, I was literally in the thick of it with the appearance of the Murdochs and Rebekah Brooks, with a shaving foam pie thrown in for good measure. We were relieved it wasn't something worse in the attack as it is important that witnesses can come to Parliament safely. An inquiry has already started into the security breach. The select committee meeting itself was a huge media event but actually, these sessions are not trials, no prosecutor or defender but more of an exploratory session. Members may be looking for the killer question or a headline is sought but most of the time, we are seeking to get a picture of the situation, follow up lines of enquiry and try to get to the truth. When we produce our report in the autumn, we can only refer to evidence that we gather during our inquiries – either through written submissions or oral evidence – so it is key to get background as well as detail. I used my financial background to follow how cash can leave the company and what records there are of such transactions. One of my colleagues got a bit carried away and asked questions for Mrs Brooks that I was supposed to ask, so I called for a copy of Hansard (the record of Parliament) to put some allegations made in the Chamber directly to her. I won't comment any more on what we heard or said till the report is out but the swiftness of response of Mrs Murdoch was extraordinary as she leapt to defend her husband, as was that of his lawyer trying to act as a shield between the man and Rupert (both women I should add!) Parliament is thought to have found some of its confidence again. Confidence is good, a circus is not.
Just one year to go to the Olympics and the excitement continues to build. Locally, you can read more about the East of England's involvement online at www.risingtothechallengeeast.co.uk . For the cultural Olympiad, Landguard Fort is playing an important role. I am looking forward to visiting there next week but in the meantime, check out www.onlandguardpoint.com .
Schools have broken up now and of course, it was the last day for Orwell High and Deben High Schools in their current format. The new academy opens in September. Thank you to all those involved in the schools and good luck to AET as preparations are finalised for the fresh start.
Finally, my Private Members' Bill received Royal Assent so I have navigated a piece of legislation through both Houses of Parliament (with the help of my friend Baroness Tina Stowell) to enact the Wreck Removal Convention Act 2011. I was lucky to get a place in the ballot and it is something that my predecessor never achieved (though of course he was in Government a long time) so another first for me. The Act essentially brings an international convention into UK law that requires boats blocking navigation lanes to be removed by the owner rather than at the expense of the taxpayer and over a certain size (300 gross tonnes), boats are compelled to have insurance. Imagine if a boat was wrecked just outside Felixstowe and closed the port? The economic consequences would be dire locally and prove a headache nationally. For those of you interested in reading more, http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2011/8/contents/enacted has the piece of legislation and you can look up my speech in Hansard on March 18th that adds a little colour."
Evening Star Column - 12th July 2011
''The summer recess is quickly approaching and where better than to spend a day by the seaside? Why sunny Felixstowe of course. The campaign for Felixstowe's Great Days for the Sea was helped by its presence at the Suffolk Show with a fresh new look and a great logo. Of course, the proof is in how many people make it down there but I think Felixstowe and the Ferry is a special place on the coast with a changing streetscape and seascape to experience. The wonderful news that the Seafront Gardens project has secured over £2 million of lottery funding is another great boost for the town. I am happy to back this campaign and to see many people enjoying themselves across the town and beaches.
A lot of other things happening in Felixstowe recently. I was back in Felixstowe on Sunday for the Mayor's Civic Service, held at the Salvation Army citadel in Cobbold Road. The band was great and the Sea Cadets looked very smart – a real credit to themselves, their parents and the volunteers who give up their time twice a week to help our youngsters. I also received confirmation from Education Minister Lord Hill that that the funding agreement for the new Felixstowe Academy has been signed off. I think this is great news for the children of Felixstowe and gives certainty for parents.
A week is a long time in politics. That certainly has been the case this last week with the fast-changing scene of phone hacking and the News of the World.
I attended the Commercial Radio Awards in London last week and was proud to present a prize for Social Action. It went to an Oxfordshire station who had done a week of reporting from British bases in Afghanistan, involving soldiers and getting them to share their stories. This is a great way that the media can really connect people and not the shameful activities of hacking into people's voicemails, especially when they are at their most vulnerable. A fine exponent of radio, John Humphrys was the keynote speaker at Thursday night's Anglian Business Awards. John also presents Mastermind and I enjoyed his joke that he loved asking questions on Mastermind as people wanted to give him a true answer! It was great to see such a range of businesses brimming with confidence.
Finally, people in the south of the constituency bordering Ipswich, Felixstowe and Woodbridge, all enjoyed (?) the switchover to digital TV last week. I hope it went smoothly. I know you may have to retune in a couple of weeks but this is important step to better TV reception and it frees up the airwaves for other services like mobile phones and broadband. If you did have any problems, you can check online at http://www.digitaluk.co.uk/find_help/troubleshooting or call 08456 505050 for help. I'm looking forward to the switchover in the north of the constituency. Till then, I will just have Channels 1 to 4. Hey ho.. who has time for too much TV anyway with so much going on in Felixstowe and Suffolk Coastal? Happy viewing.''
Evening Star Column - 5th July 2011
''I was pleased to discuss progress on the move to the new academy in Felixstowe with AET. It seems that some legal back and forth with neighbours to the Orwell site had held up initial works but I am assured that this will be resolved soon. The Felixstowe Academy formally opens in the Autumn term and will be joining some of its new neighbours like Farlingaye High who converted to academy status last week. I do support schools that are good enough to take charge of their own affairs and that option is now open to outstanding primary schools. However, I understand why primary schools are more reluctant to embrace this status as being much smaller outfits, HR, payroll and other matters may be a lot to take on, especially if you are in a very small school. I enjoyed my visits this week to Hollesley, Eyke and Coldfair Green. Some of our schools have such lovely play areas and learning classrooms. I may be a bit traditional on certain school matters but certainly the children were proactive in their learning and I met the School Councils at Hollesley and Eyke. Hollesley School has its own reporters and photographer so Evening Star – watch this space!
I hope to visit more in the Autumn term.
I would like to thank those headteachers, teachers, teaching assistants and parents who helped to keep most of the schools open across Suffolk Coastal. I do respect the right to strike but I don't always feel it is particularly effective when other workers and children suffer. I read that the BMA (the doctors' trade union) is considering industrial action. That was news to a few doctors I met last weekend who didn't seem at all keen. I recognise people feel strongly about their pensions but it is a fact of life that people are living longer, for which pensions have to be paid. Where I previously worked, the ongoing contributions to the final salary scheme reached about 38% of salary and eventually my company switched. As for the teachers' pension scheme, with teacher contributions of 6% and council or employer contributions of 14%, that leaves quite a gap for the taxpayer to pick up. I hope negotiations are brought to a successful conclusion which leaves teachers with a defined benefit scheme.
Last week, I held two public meetings in Sutton Heath looking at different local issues – concerns about noise from parties, thought to be coming from some travellers, and the change of the current Sutton Heath landscape to substantially greater proportion of heathland and fewer trees. It was very useful to have councillors and council officers as there as well our local superintendent who covers from all of East Suffolk and nature specialists. I thought we found some useful ways forward to keep residents involved and some ideas on next steps on both issues.
The first six months of the year have flown past. I look back and see what a busy time it has been across the constituency. I never wish my life away but the clock is ticking down to a few more events for which much detailed planning is needed – namely, the Olympics and before that, the Queen's Diamond Jubilee from 2nd to 5th June(God willing). More information is on the website www.direct.gov.uk/diamondjubilee but there are opportunities to get involved. Boatowners may want to participate in the Pageant – a flotilla of up to a thousand boats on the Thames. Some of our coastal villages and towns may want to have a Bonfire Beacon (the national beacon organiser lives in Gorleston). The Big Lunch on the Sunday will probably double up as the opportunity for the street parties but the extended weekend will be welcomed by all.''
Evening Star Column - 28th June 2011
Last week, I was very proud with other MPs to welcome 16 Air Assault Brigade to Parliament as part of the formal Homecoming to thank our Armed Forces for their service in Afghanistan. I was even prouder that the Parade was led by Lt Col Frazer Ross, the CO of our local regiment, 23 Engineers, based at Rock Barracks near Woodbridge and RSM Paddy Beattie brought up the rear. The 16 Air Assault Band also paraded and it was a good chance to say hello to some of the musicians who I had seen perform in Halesworth just a couple of months ago. It was highly appropriate that it also happened in Armed Forces Week and while there wasn't a specific event in the constituency relating to Armed Forces Day, there are several opportunities to show our backing for the Armed Forces, serving and veterans.
In Parliament, I ended up making two speeches last week – on the Opposition Day debate on the Economy and on a related matter of the Private Finance Initiative (PFI). I try not to be too tribal in Parliament as I want to see constructive debate and solutions rather than rehashing the past but this was an opportunity not to be missed when I heard the litany of complaints from the other side. On the PFI though, we heard from many colleagues the litany of terrible costs of money sadly which were the result of poor contract negotiation by the public sector. The examples ranged from being charged £333 to change one light bulb in a hospital, £300 to install an electric socket to £103 for a one-inch screw for an Army Land Rover that actually cost only £2. A colleague from Norfolk, Richard Bacon, raised the issue of the extended payment period for the Norwich & Norfolk Hospital while I expressed my reservations about the financing and costs of the six new Police Investigation Centres being opened in Suffolk and Norfolk at a combined capital outlay of £61 million but with operating charges, taxpayers will pay over £290 million in the next thirty years to pay for that. At the time of potential cuts to policing budgets, I would rather spend our money on frontline policing than new cells for detained prisoners but I hope that these new centres really do drive up detection and conviction rates significantly.
Finally, nominations close tomorrow for the Olympic torchbearers. This will be a great opportunity to have a taste of the magic of the Olympics in Suffolk. I am conscious a lot of people didn't get tickets in the first ballot. I have been lucky and got a pair of tickets for the Women's Modern Pentathlon. I have to wait to next month for the chance to apply for some more. I have also written to all schools in the constituency alerting them to the Get Set programme, which is an educational programme bringing the legacy of the Olympics into schools and sets aside some tickets for schoolchildren. Many schools have registered and this could be the chance for your child so encourage your head to Get Set and Go.
Evening Star Column - 14th June 2011
While I work in the office in Woodbridge, I tend to put on YouTube and put on a few favourite clips for background – Rhythm of Life from Sweet Charity plus Elbow's One Day Like This from the Abbey Road studios are regulars. Of course, I can only do that because I have broadband at a reasonable speed. Back at home in Westleton, I have to go to one corner of my bedroom in order to get a mobile or an internet signal on my phone or dongle. Two things have happened in the last week that could change that – the commitment of Suffolk County Council to invest up to £10 million in a county-wide network with money from the Government and more money from the private sector. I think this strategic investment by the county for the county will be key to the future delivery of services, the raising of attainment for our younger people and the enabling of business to be online. As importantly, the comprehensive nature of the broadband proposal will offer choice to Suffolk residents, which is important as a one-size-fits-all package will fill a hole but could soon become limiting. Separately, Suffolk ACRE has won a grant to bring a quicker solution for wireless broadband to parts of East Suffolk based on a base station at Parham. This could be operational by the end of this year and offer an interim or longterm solution for local communities. Finally, on broadband, I have spoken up on increasing mobile phone and broadband coverage to ensure that rural communities are not left behind. Mobile broadband, which could be helped by the Council's proposed investment, will become increasingly important. My select committee is starting an inquiry on spectrum and the auction process so I will speak up for Suffolk Coastal's needs from Felixstowe to Benacre.
Last week, I met the chief executive of Harmoni. It seems that the complaints that I have sent to the PCT have not been directly passed on to Harmoni, so I will rectify that. The chief executive believes that the standard of care and response times has improved recently but suggests that the service is being run at a loss. This is due to the difficulty of securing local doctors to do that out of hours work and so Harmoni brings in external doctors at a higher cost. Two things jump out – yes, they do language checks on foreign doctors but they do try to secure UK-based doctors for this service; separately, and this was highlighted at a meeting with the PCT last year, Suffolk does not seem to have a steady flow of GPs coming to our county. I have heard this in my discussions elsewhere with the GPs. When I eventually get a meeting agreed with the PCT, I will be raising this matter to see what progress has been made in the last year.
Finally, I hope you enjoyed the Royal British Legion's Poppy Weekend. It is their 90th anniversary and their aim is to raise £90 million this year. Help for Heroes provides funding for capital projects whereas the RBL offers many ongoing services and support.
Evening Star Column - 7th June 2011
''After visiting Ipswich Hospital last week with Dan Poulter MP, I am confident that changes have been made to improve the care experience that everyone should enjoy but am impatient at the pace of change. There is no doubt that it's a challenge to be at your best every minute, every hour, every day but that is what we all want from the NHS. I am also pleased to report that the PCT Board has agreed to review and work through the proposals for a new surgery in Felixstowe. This doesn't mean that the new surgery has been granted but it is better than outright rejection.
The Suffolk Show was a great success though with being more established as the MP, I ended up having more meetings than last year and less time to look around the show at the livestock and horses. I arrived early Day 2 and managed to observe some of the judging though I had to laugh at the yearling class with only one entrant that was in a bad mood and clearly didn't want to be there but he won the 1st prize anyway. I do enjoy the Show and feel that there is still a strong agricultural presence amidst other foodstuffs and shopping diversions. Well done to all those who entered and those who won prizes. HRH Princess Anne was sporting a natty pair of Olympics sunglasses but she had a word for everyone she met, including the long service awards winners. HRH seems to be a Suffolk regular and it is always a pleasure to have her in our county.
I had the pleasure of visiting Chelsea Flower Show and met the team from John Woods Nurseries of Pettistree. Their East Anglian terraced garden won a silver-gilt of which they should be jolly proud. It was fascinating to see how much could be fitted into one small garden – it certainly gave me inspiration. One of the challenges for many at the show was "holding back" their plants after all the sunshine. A similar challenge exists for our farmers and it is likely that abstraction restrictions will be placed by the end of this month. This is very difficult for our farmers so I hope that we can get some more rain very soon.
I was on TV a few times this week discussing the FIFA farce that we all witnessed in Zurich. I want FIFA to be a strong organisation and above any suspicion of doubt. I was glad to see some moves being made by Sepp Blatter but more could be done like allowing the Ethics Committee to start its own investigations and to have term limits for the President and vice-Presidents. I was pleased that it was the House of Commons that provided the platform for challenging allegations and will continue with others to keep up the scrutiny of those run the beautiful game.
Finally, have you caught the ITV mini-series Injustice that features Felixstowe and other Suffolk Coastal locations? I will be trying to watch though not always easy when waiting to vote in Parliament.''
Evening Star Column - 31st May 2011
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Ipswich Hospital had a terrible report last week, failing basic standards on dignity and nutrition. Reading the report, I felt for so many of our elderly population not receiving the best care possible. I am meeting the leadership team of the Hospital this Thursday and hope to get answers and some confidence that this team can sort out the problems very quickly. Of course, this is just one visit but that is the point of snap inspections to assess care levels at any time, recognising that patients are at their most vulnerable when in hospital.
Continuing the health theme, I recently visited Central Surgery in Felixstowe, meeting Dr Stephen Feltwell, Mrs Jennifer Molloy and some of the team. Central Surgery has somewhat outgrown its premises and is looking to Suffolk PCT for new facilities that would allow more care and services to be provided in Felixstowe, alongside the Community Hospital. The initial prognosis looked bleak but I wrote in support of the idea. I am pleased to report that Dr Feltwell spoke at the PCT Board meeting about his plans which were considered and fresh analysis will be undertaken. There is no doubt that this area of Suffolk is home to an increasingly ageing population. Our health facilities need to cater for their needs.
Cllr Mark Bee came to Westminster last week and we had a good session talking about next steps for Suffolk under his leadership. I have great confidence that Mark will take Suffolk in a confident direction, though fully understanding that we will need to save money. One of the issues we discussed was broadband and the disappointing news arrived a few days later. Formal feedback has not been received but from what I can tell, the 3 councils who secured funding were using quite a different approach to Suffolk in that they were investing in their council network as well. Suffolk has already done that in the past so that may be a reason for us to wait a little longer but not much, I hope.
President Obama spoke in Westminster Hall and started off with a good joke. I think his speech was well-crafted but was nothing revolutionary but reinforced the important ties between our countries. Seeing Mrs Obama head to Oxford University with the students of Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School, I am minded to encourage them to visit Suffolk, mindful of the inspiration of the first woman mayor of Aldeburgh.''
Evening Star Column - 24th May 2011
''It was sad to hear of the death of Charlie Manning and he was such a character in Felixstowe. I met him early on as an MP, touring his establishment and discussing the challenges of tourism but more specifically the licensing regime. He would have been pleased to hear of the Gambling Inquiry that my committee is about to launch, including the issues he raised. I am pleased that his family is going to continue the Mannings emporium and participate in the rejuvenation of Felixstowe seafront.
Talking of that, it is sad to see the boating pool lying in some disrepair? Why not fill this in with sand for the summer so kids can have a wind-free giant sand pit and with a little bit of patching up, we can temporarily solve the problem.
Last week, I visited Suffolk Cricket's primary school cricket competition at the ground in Dellwood Avenue. "Chance to Shine" is the title of their programme which I think is very good. We certainly saw some talent of the future on display and if clubs and county groups can come together to give some tasters and spot potential, that will be healthy for all children and reintroducing the scouting network. I have been in touch with schools last week about the Olympics "Get Set" network that can link all schools across the country. To be a member of the network, schools are asked to demonstrate a commitment to the Olympic & Paralympic values – respect, friendship, equality, excellence, inspiration, courage and determination. Who can argue with those values? Please encourage your schools to "Get Set" for 2012. More news on the Torch relay next week.
I am also trying to encourage schools to come to Parliament as part of understanding about citizenship. Orwell Park School visited last week and after a tour, we had a short discussion. Aldeburgh Primary School and a group from Farlingaye are coming later in the year but the invitation is there for all.
Finally, although Parliamentary duties prevented me from attending 23 Engineer Regiment's parade in Woodbridge, I did enjoy joining them for the Beating the Retreat ceremony in Elmhurst Park, Woodbridge on Friday night. On Sunday, 653 Squadron from the Army Air Corps marched in Aldeburgh with the RNLI, Coastguard and Leiston Air Cadets with some overhead Apache support. I do find these men and women truly inspiring in their examples of service and are a great advertisement for the Armed Forces and Emergency Services.
Enjoy the Bank Holiday weekend and half-term coming up. The Crabbing Championship at Walberswick may have been cancelled but there is nothing to stop us all getting outdoors and making the most of our marvellous county.''
Evening Star Column - 17th May 2011
''The new leader of Suffolk County Council, Mark Bee, is understandably taking time before his formal appointment this week to consider aspects of the programme the Council started as its new way of thinking on delivering council services. Cllr Bee is meeting the Suffolk MPs next week in Parliament. While he is there, I have asked to speak to him about the changes in fire provision for Felixstowe. Like many people in the town, I am concerned about the impact on residents and businesses, though I recognise the main Fire Station is moving to the east of Ipswich, closer to Felixstowe. In my submission to the consultation, I raised a few points including the timing and distance would be worse than it is today; that volunteer fire crew may not be released so often by their employers if they are being called out far more regularly and finally, that the Chief Fire Officer should have no other duties apart from Fire and look at management savings rather than front-line reductions. Currently, Chief Fire Officer Andy Fry is also lead officer in charge of Social Inclusion and Diversity. I think this is daft. Also, there are 8 rungs of management in Suffolk Fire Service despite, so I have been toled, being one of the smallest full-time fire services in the country. Similar to pressing for government to do what it can to remove red tape and enabling efficiency improvements for other emergency services, I am prepared to do the same for Fire if equipped with the right information.
In Parliament yesterday, I continued to raise concerns about the water shortages. In my discussions with water companies, I am pleased to say that us ordinary consumers should have no problems and that hosepipe bans are not thought necessary. However, the picture for farmers is more worrying and I have asked the Government to respond to the issue, including considering more storage facilities. The potential impact on food prices is significant for all of us. This is not just about immediate food prices but if hay is difficult to access for later in the year with a knock-on rise in meat produce in the future.
Suffolk MPs continue to work on the broadband project. The latest information we have is that anecdotally Suffolk is seen as a good bid but we have been encouraged to consider bringing Norfolk into our project to get bigger bang for our buck. I am happy to do that and it makes sense with our new LEP, New Anglia.
Finally, many of you know my dog Rizzo – a familiar sight on the campaign trail and at other events in the area. Rizzo has been slowing down recently which I thought was old age but she has been diagnosed with diabetes. I hadn't realised that there was a special insulin designed for dogs but my Mum and I have spent the weekend practising injections on banana skins and towels. When we pass the vet test, it is a fixed routine but one that will see (I hope) a newly-energised Rizzo ready for the Suffolk summer.''
Evening Star Article - 10th May 2011
''A significant item in my postbag recently has been concern about allotments. This has arisen because the Government opened a consultation on all statutory regulation it has, inviting comment from constituents and businesses on what duties the Government should continue to do or should consider stop doing. "Red tape" is what is often cited for strangling local initiatives and businesses so I welcome the Government's approach to look at what laws are in place. One of these is a 1908 law concerning allotments. Understandably, constituents were concerned but I am pleased to allay fears. The Government is fully committed to allotments being made available and are not under threat. The town and parish councils tend to be in charge of allotments locally, more land was dedicated in Woodbridge recently and of course, town and village plans can recommend additional sites. There is a lot of satisfaction growing your own food, as many farmers recognise.
Talking of farmers, as mentioned last week, the need for significant rain is getting critical. I was able to raise this in PMQs last week and have also secured a debate in Parliament. I am not expecting rain dances but for those religious minded, prayers can be offered! Our local farmers are used to dry conditions but spray irrigation has started much earlier than usual. The worry locally is that access to aquifers could be limited and we need Government agencies to be flexible. The risk is that yields will fall and food prices increase, so it is in all our interest to help our farmers right now. I am pleased that I have also secured a debate next Monday and hope to get an answer from the Environment Agency soon.
The local elections saw a big turnout across Suffolk Coastal as voters decided on their district council, town or parish councils and the AV referendum. Our area had one of the highest turnouts in the country and I was delighted with the thumping No result. In Felixstowe, Labour increased its representation at district and on the Town Council, Conservatives kept the same number of seats locally at district and there are now no Liberal Democrats. I want to thank everyone who voted, everyone who stood as a candidate, offer my congratulations to the victors and my commiserations to the others, especially those who lost their seats. I look forward to working with all of you.
Finally, a year ago, I was arriving in Westminster as a new girl and although the year has gone by so quickly, actually those first day nerves seem a lifetime ago. 3982 constituents have contacted me and I have dealt with 5240 cases. Thank you to my staff for being so diligent. I hope that I have been able to cover a lot of issues that I said would address. Most are work in progress – broadband, health services, farming - and I have picked up a few things during the year. Working with the Evening Star on different campaigns has been very good, including the fight for Felixstowe Fire Services. It is a true pleasure to represent Suffolk Coastal and thank you to you for making me feel so welcome.''
Evening Star Article - 3rd May 2011
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This last week has been a real chance to celebrate our country and have some extra time in Suffolk. I hope you all had fun with a street party or similar. The build up to the wedding was quite spectacular in Westminster. There was an early morning "dry run", practices for the happy couple in the Abbey and so many people setting up camp, alongside the throngs of media folks. I thought Westminster looked fabulous with all the flags and terrific ceremonial that we do so well. Well done to East Suffolk resident young Master Lowther-Pinkerton who did himself proud as one of the page boys.
I was busy though in Westminster last week even though we were back for just the three days. In that time, I managed to secure meetings with two ministers. I was pleased to meet Richard Benyon MP, Minister for Coastal Erosion, with Cllr Andy Smith. The Minister was in Suffolk Coastal last year and is very familiar with our challenges and some of our innovative solutions. We were able to discuss the concerns about how coastal erosion is increasingly becoming an add-on to more general flooding when the issues are usually very different. As has been said before, the impact of flooding is temporary, the impact of erosion is terminal! In particular, new Regional Flood Defence committees have been given additional responsibilities for coastal concerns, though no automatic representation of coastal authorities. However, the Minister gave good assurances on this matter and we left satisfied.
My second meeting was with Greg Barker MP, raising an issue on biomethane generated from food waste. The plant at Adnams Biogas was truly pioneering in that the gas generated is fed straight into the mains gas grid rather than converted into electricity, requiring other energy to do that converstion. However, the regulator OFGEM seems to have changed its view on whether this direct feed into the gas grid is legal or not. I am pleased to say that the full force of the Department for Energy and Climate Change will be used to try to fix this as quickly as possible. As part of our desire to be the greenest government ever, we need to ensure that legal niceties don't become the sticking point when common sense should reign.
At the same time, amidst all the festivities, political parties and referendum campaigners have been trying to keep up interest in the elections on May 5th. Readers won't be surprised to know that I will be voting No in the referendum. I believe in one person, one vote, counted once. The temperature of the referendum campaign seemed to rise in line with the glorious temperatures we all enjoyed over the Easter weekend but it will be over soon, thank heavens. However, I did ask Nick Clegg and Chris Huhne how many hours they worked as Ministers. Neither gave a specific answer but both were late. Work harder? I expect they already work rather hard. I'm just disappointed they think that a change in voting systems will make them work even harder.
I am amazed that it is a year since the General Election and I had the joy of being elected as Member of Parliament for Suffolk Coastal. 3966 of you have contacted me in the last year and I hope that I have been able to get you an answer, though admittedly not always the one you wanted. When you ask MPs of many years' service what their greatest achievement was, normally, it will be sorting out one particular case, cutting through the bureaucracy of government for a constituent. Every day is still very special and a great privilege to serve my constituents. Thank you for giving me that honour.''
Evening Star Article - 26th April 2011
We are sailing..
I was delighted to attend the opening of EAST's new boathouse at the Suffolk Harbour near Levington. Griff Rhys Jones did the opening very well (I picked up a few tips!) and it was great to see so many people there and I enjoyed a sail. EAST (East Anglian Sailing Trust) won the People's Lottery and gained £50,000 to add to their own fundraising efforts to vastly improve the facilities on offer to learn and enjoy sailing for people with disabilities. I am excited to hear of their new developments, partnering Suffolk Wildlife Trust. I did a sailing course several years ago but on the River Trent where there was hardly a puff of wind. I was freshly inspired to take this up as a hobby – highly appropriate really for Suffolk Coastal.
Feeling hot, hot hot
Being out on the River Orwell was glorious – the gentle breeze was the perfect antidote to an extraordinarily hot St George's Day. Such weather is spectacular for those of us enjoying one or two days' holiday and tremendous for tourism. However, spare a thought for our poor farmers who are desperate for some rain. Many of our local farmers have become specialists in irrigation and our microclimate is similar to that found in Israel and Syria but even still, to ensure there is a good harvest, some good soft rain is required. The other thing hotting up is the political temperature of the AV debate. I enjoyed the chance to debate live on BBC Suffolk with Cllr Andrew Cann who is pro-AV while I am firmly against. We managed to get through the whole debate without mentioning Nick Clegg once!
Back to Westminster
But recess is now over and Parliament has resumed with Health Questions. I hope to bring up the issue of healthcare in Felixstowe. The Central Surgery is bursting at the seams hoping for a new site while the Bartlett Convalescent Hospital is back up for development with planning permission being sought next month. I attended the exhibition held by NHS Suffolk showing the idea of a residential development. If this sale goes ahead, NHS Suffolk says it will use some of the money for Felixstowe healthcare but I know how much the Bartlett means to many in the town. I will be seeking views of local GPs and healthcare professionals on this key matter.
Last chance and then to party
Tuesday (today) is the last date to get your Olympics tickets. Grab the chance of a lifetime! Finally, I hope you enjoy your street party this Friday. My number of events has expanded to six but it will be a lovely day to celebrate. My bunting is already out and a bottle is already chilling in the fridge. Here's to the Bride & Groom!
Welcome
Thank you for visiting my website. It is a great honour to represent the people of Suffolk Coastal. I keep this website updated with news and details of my various activities as a member of Parliament.
Contact
Constituency: The National Hall, Sun Lane, Woodbridge, IP12 1EG
Call: 01394 610045
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Call: 0207 219 7164
E-mail: therese.coffey.mp@parliament.uk
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