Therese Welcomes Increase in Listed Places of Worship Grant
Therese has today welcomed the Chancellor of the Exchequer's decision to increase the amount available in the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme (LPWGS) by £30 million a year.
There has been some considerable concern at the proposal to abolish zero rated VAT for alterations to listed buildings and the impact this would have on churches including here in Suffolk. This Church of England calculated that this would cost churches some £20 million a year in increased VAT payments.
The Chancellor has therefore decided to stick to his policy, but to add an extra £30 million into the LPWGS.
Therese said "I am pleased that the Chancellor has listened to our representations which will allow listed churches of all denominations to meet the costs of alterations and repairs. We will also continue to press the message about static caravans".
Therese Joins Charity in call for Action Against Irresponsible Dog Ownership
Therese has joined the Dogs Trust, to call for action on tackling irresponsible dog ownership at the charity's annual House of Commons reception.
Therese said: "Tackling anti-social dog behaviour in Suffolk Coastal has become a key issue for constituents where incidences of anti-social behaviour involving dogs have been increasing in many areas.
"I am delighted that Dogs Trust is proactively looking to tackle the issue by getting down to grass roots. While legislation has its part to play, outreach work in local communities is vital in order to engage dog owners and to help prevent dog attacks from occurring."
Dogs Trust works with local authorities to tackle the root causes of irresponsible dog ownership. They know from working in affected communities that it is a complex social issue; one that requires a multi-agency approach to target harder to reach groups.
Summary of Dogs Trust work in local communities:
For years Dogs Trust has been working with vets to provide subsidised or free neutering for dog owners living on means-tested benefits in disadvantaged areas. The charity currently works with over 1,000 vets across the country.
Dogs Trust offers free microchips to every local authority and housing association in the UK.
The charity trains local authority staff to microchip and can even provide them with free scanners.
Responsible Dog Ownership Events - These highly popular events are organised in partnership with councils and local Housing Associations.
They provide a range of advice and leaflets about all aspects of dog ownership plus neutering vouchers and on-site access to free microchipping and low-cost preventative vet care.
"Estate Days" - Working with local authorities, Dogs Trust identifies areas where irresponsible dog ownership is most acute. By visiting these areas and offering leaflets, dog ownership advice, free microchipping and £10 HealthCheck Vouchers, the charity has reduced the numbers of dogs being abandoned on the streets.
For those areas where dog abandonment is highest, Dogs Trust offers local authorities free neutering vouchers which can be given to those dog owners who need them most.Since 2003, Dogs Trust has been providing free workshops to primary schools across most of the UK. The charity now has 13 full-time education officers who conduct around 3,000 classroom presentations a year. Education officers are briefed to target schools in communities with particularly bad social problems.
Energy Bill Included in the Queen’s Speech
Therese has today welcomed the inclusion of the Energy Bill in the Queen's Speech.
She said "In a week where there has been talk about EDF's ongoing investment in Sizewell it is great that the Energy Bill formed an integral part of the Queen's speech. The development of Sizewell C is essential for the future of our energy supply and will bring jobs and investment to this part of Suffolk."
"I would be very surprised if there was any change in EDF's commitment to Sizewell but the Energy Bill can only help cement that. It will reform the market introducing long-term contracts that pay a steady rate of return for low-carbon energy– meaning EDF will be able to determine their return on investment."
Therese added: "Only this morning I had a breakfast meeting with the Governor of Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil. Many parts of the world are looking for energy investment & skills. On the back of Sizewell C, we should aim to export our skills to countries like Brazil."
Government Doubles Commitment on Water
Therese has today welcomed the Governments intention to double the commitment on water and sanitation that it made last year to the third world.
Therese said "over the lifetime of this Parliament we will reach 60 million people, ensuring access to basic services such as communal water pumps as well as improved hygiene".
She added "As a supporter and fundraiser of Water Aid – I know the importance of this commitment. It is key to recognise that although we have a drought in this country, there are people in this world that don't have access to clean water and sanitation. I am pleased that the Department for International Development is leading the way on this."
Therese Welcomes Extension of Protection for Holidaymakers
Therese has today welcomed the extension to the ATOL (Air Travel Organisers' Licensing) scheme which provides moreeffective protection in today's holiday market.
The current scheme provides peace of mind to holidaymakers who have brought a package holiday including a flight in which if the travel company becomes insolvent customers will receive a full refund.
Therese said "Over the past few years the holiday market has changed with greater numbers of people assembling their own package holiday on the internet. The extension of the scheme is good news and ensures families are well protected."
'Flight Plus' holidays will now be protected by the ATOL scheme – where the flight and key elements such has hotel accommodation or car hire are requested within two consecutive days of each other.
Over time up to 6 million holidays per year will be fully protected under the enhanced scheme.
A Better Deal for Park Home Owners
Therese has this week backed reforms for a better deal for park home owners.
The Government have launched a consultation on the long running issue, in which some home owners, who are often elderly and on lower incomes, have been exploited.
Therese said "these proposed reforms will put the park home sector on a sustainable footing for the long term, allowing site operators to run good businesses offer a decent service to residents and ensure that home owners can live peacefully in their homes knowing that the law protects them from abuse."
"They include reforming the buying and selling process, local consultation on changes to site rules, licensing of sites and giving local councils and courts the powers to hold rogue site operators to account."
She added: "I encourage all residents of park home sites, including Priory Park and Falcon Park to add their voice to important law changes affecting their home."
The consultation, which is open until 28 May, is available here
Therese Meets Minister to represent concerns of Holiday Park Home Owners
Therese joined a delegation of Members of Parliament yesterday, to make representations to the Treasury about theproposed changes in VAT on certain types of Caravan.
They met with Treasury Minister, David Guake to represent concerns of holiday park home owners.
Therese said: "it was a useful meeting with the Minister and I will now be working with local park owners to make full use of the consultation so they can articulate their concerns to the Government".
The consultation has opened and can be available to view here - http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/budget2012/tiin-4807.htm
Voluntary Agreements Secured for LPG Market
Therese has today welcomed the announcement that the Office of Fair Trading has secured voluntary agreements from the major LPG suppliers to make changes to their customer contracts and improve transparency around switching and cancellation rights.
This OFT action follows on from its 2011 Off-Grid Energy Market Study, prompted by questions Therese asked in Parliament, which identified concerns that some suppliers may not be treating their domestic LPG customers fairly.
Therese said "This is fantastic news. The changes to the terms and conditions will mean customers will have improved rights to cancel or switch supplier and the exit costs will be made clearer, meaning customers can make an informed decision about whether to switch."
Most people with a large supplier-owned LPG tank on their premises, will usually enter into contracts for the supply of domestic bulk LPG. These contracts typically begin with a two year exclusive supply arrangement during which the customer is tied to the supplier.
The improvements to the terms and conditions for the supply of LPG and other relevant customer information will mean that customers can better understand how prices can change during this two year period, their switching and cancellation rights, and the associated exit costs.
Dementia Challenge becomes a National Priority
Therese has today welcomed the Prime Minister's commitment to make the UK a world leader on dementia.
In England 670,000 people have dementia and the number of people developing the disease is increasing. One in three people will develop dementia and it costs society an estimated £19 billion a year.
Therese said "it is important we make dementia a clear national priority. The Dementia Challenge sets out the Government's ambition to increase diagnosis rates, to raise awareness and to strengthen our research efforts so we can help those living with dementia have a better quality of life."
"Government cannot meet this challenge alone, which is why we are working closely with the Alzheimer's Society, voluntary groups, businesses, care providers and the research community."
She added "the Government is doubling funding for research, tackling diagnosis and calling for a radical shift in the way we talk, think and act on dementia
England is one of the first countries in the world to have a National Dementia Strategy.
National Planning Policy Framework Published
A new simplified planning framework has been published today which replaces over 1,300 pages of planning policy with just 52.
The National Planning Policy Framework which has been drawn up following an extensive consultation, gives guidance to local councils in drawing up local plans and determining planning applications.
Commenting on the policy, Therese said "This is an important move that gives our district councils greater say on planning policies in our part of Suffolk. It goes further and puts the views of parishes and towns on a firm footing when plans are being considered. No longer will Whitehall decide how many parking places per household will be allowed and instead, residents will have a view on how development can take place, though not a veto against the district council's democratically-taken decision on where and how much development will take place.
She added: "The new framework also allows greater discretion on criteria and possible sites for wind turbines, which has been cause for concern in rural parts of Suffolk Coastal. The good news is that DCLG officials are on standby to help our councils bring in that new guidance locally."
Business Forum to Boost Mentoring Opportunities in Suffolk Coastal
Therese is hosting a Business Forum for small and medium sized companies this Friday as she bids to assist localbusinesses.
The Better Business Finance initiative aims to help businesses thrive by providing them with the support of a business mentor, access to important information and improving access to finance.
The Business Forum is an opportunity for SMEs in Suffolk Coastal to talk about their business with Therese and to learn more about how they might benefit from having their own personal mentor.
Therese said "I am proud to host the Business Forum here in Suffolk Coastal. Recent Government research shows that small businesses who seek external help have a greater chance of success, increase their turnover and are able to grow their business. I want businesses in Suffolk to benefit from this mentoring opportunity and help boost the local economy"
The meeting will take place at Lindos Centre, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1PP on the 30th March 2012 from 3-5pm.
There are still some spaces left so if you want to attend please call the Constituency Office of Therese Coffey MP on 01394 610045 to book your place.
Therese Welcomes the Chancellor's Budget
Therese has today welcomed the Chancellor's Budget announcement which rewards work, encourages businesses andjob creation maintains the Government's commitment to reduce the deficit. She said, "The Government is committed to creating a more sustainable tax system that is fair for all and supports growth."
The Budget announces measures that support this goal, including:
An increase in the personal allowance by a further £1,100 to £9,205.
An additional 1% reduction in the main rate of corporation tax.
The rate will reduce to 24% in April 2012, 23% in April 2013 and 22% in April 2014.A reduction in the top rate of tax from 50 pence to 45 pence in April 2013, where the direct cost is paid for more than five times over by the better off.
A crackdown on tax avoidance to protect revenues.
Fuel duty is 6p lower than it would have been under the previous administration and a fair fuel stabiliser will be brought in.
Therese said: "The increase in personal allowance will mean 24 million people will pay less tax, people on the minimum wage will see their income tax bill cut in half and 2 million people will be taken out of income tax altogether. The cut in corporation tax means this is a budget that will boost business, innovation, jobs and growth. While no further changes were made on petrol duty in this budget, it is lower than it would have been if we had followed the last government's budget from 2010. We need an environment in Suffolk to encourage business start-ups and growth, to reward those who work and those entrepreneurs who create new jobs. I understand that some older people may be concerned about the age-related allowance changes. I stress that no-one will pay more tax in 2012-13 than they do today, they will not be cash losers. In fact, over half of all pensioners will not pay any tax after 2013/14. Since we changed the rules on pensions, pensioners are £120 a year better off than if we had kept to the last government's policies."
Therese Presses for a Fairer Funding of Suffolk Schools
Therese met with Education Minister Nick Gibb yesterday, to campaign for fairer funding for Suffolk Schools.
Therese said: "The rurality element of school funding has declined and I think it is time to reverse that trend. There definitely seems to be a bias towards urban schools, which is perhaps tradition given the more conventional aspects of social deprivation and the indices."
"I have contributed to the consultation on the funding formula, which has now closed and followed that up with a meeting with the Minister. He recognises the challenges of a sparse population, which includes the costs of school transport. He gave no commitment at this stage but it was a useful discussion."
Live Music Act Receives Royal Assent
The Live Music Bill received Royal Assent in Parliament this week, which makes it the Live Music Act.
The new legislation, that will come into effect this October, means that small venues under a 200-person capacity - will no longer need local authority permission to host performances of live amplified music between the hours of 8am-11pm.
Therese Coffey said: "Bands will now be able to play at village fetes without the unnecessary bureaucracy of applying for a licence. This exemption is fantastic news and a real boost for musicians and live music."
She went on to say: "Live music is such and important part of our culture and I want to promote it more widely. That is why I am supporting 'Rock The House', a national music competition with an opportunity to play live in the House of Commons"
Rock The House offers entry categories covering both Live Bands and Live Music Venues - and is open for entries now.
Entries can be submitted until the closing date of 31st March 2011. Further details and the official application forms are available online at: www.rockthehouse2012.com.
Therese Celebrates International Women’s Day
Yesterday in Parliament, Therese joined her colleagues in the House of Commons to mark International Women's Day.
She said "As the first female MP for Suffolk I was pleased to take part in International Women's Day a real celebration of women's achievements throughout the year."
"It is also an important reminder of the plight of some women both at home and abroad that suffer from violence and domestic abuse; that needs to be defeated."
"The Government are taking action on this and introducing a separate criminal offence of stalking, piloting Clare's law and continuing to fund rape crisis centres."
"We are also meeting all of our aid pledges to help women subjected to violence in Africa and around the World."
Safety Will Not be Compromised at Sizewell
Therese has today responded to claims that areas of the Suffolk Coast at risk of flooding could have an impact on the operation of Sizewell power station and has raised the matter in Parliament.
She said "This is not new news. We all know that the Suffolk coast is prone to flooding and coastal erosion. That is why we invest in coastal defences and will continue to invest in coastal defences"
"I raised this issue with the Minister in Parliament today and he has given me full assurances that safety will not be compromised".
She added "The Weightman Report, published after Fukushima, concluded that there was no reason to curtail the operation of nuclear power plants in the UK. The height of defences were specifically looked at for all nuclear sites. The defences at Sizewell were deemed to be high enough for any extreme weather event in the South North Sea"
Therese Speaks in Humble Address
Local MP, Therese Coffey today spoke in the Humble Address to Her Majesty as MP's gathered to celebrate the DiamondJubilee.
She praised her Majesty's commitment to service, family and true duty to the United Kingdom.
Therese highlighted the Queens commitment to the armed forces during her 60 year reign and further. She said "the Queen served during world war two, showing that what was good enough for her subjects was good enough for her. The example she set then was an important part of the national war effort."
Therese added "On Her Majesty's special weekend, we will all join her in celebrating what is great about our country. I am sure that she will continue to serve us for years to come."
Therese's Address to Her Majesty
"It is a great privilege to be called to speak in this debate and thereby have an opportunity to pay tribute to Her Majesty the Queen, both on my own part as her humble subject and on behalf of the residents of Suffolk Coastal. For so many of us, she is the only monarch we have ever known, and what a wonderful example she has set of service, of family and of true commitment to our United Kingdom. Members of my family proudly serve in the armed forces, and the Queen also served during world war two, showing that what was good enough for her subjects was good enough for her. The example she set then was an important part of the national war effort.
I also pay tribute to the Queen's steadfast consort, His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh. It is fantastic that he has recovered from his recent minor illness, and I am delighted that he will be starting the jubilee tour with his wife tomorrow in Leicester.
I pay tribute to the Queen for her visit to the Republic of Ireland last year. I wonder whether Her Majesty will ever realise the true extent of the impact she made. It may be a little controversial to say that it was a great parliamentarian, Cromwell, who tore Ireland apart. I think that the Queen's visit last year will have gone a long way towards restoring the relationship between our two great nations.
I do not pretend to have had any contact with Her Majesty, but we have heard some wonderful insights and amusing anecdotes today. I do know, however, that the people who receive honours from her and those who attend her garden parties are thrilled to do so, as are all the people who queue up as I did as little girl in 1977—I also got a commemorative mug—and line the streets of Liverpool, Wrexham and other places because we want to see our monarch. The only times that I have had any contact with Her Majesty are when she was gracious enough to grant Royal Assent to a private Member's Bill of mine, and thereby make it an Act of Parliament, and, of course, when I swore the oath to take office here in Parliament for the first time.
I think it is fair to say that Her Majesty has also touched the world. She is the Head of State for over a quarter of the world's population. That is celebrated in Commonwealth week and at the Commonwealth games—and I hope she will open the Olympic games later this year. I encourage colleagues to take the opportunity of diamond jubilee week to host a Commonwealth day reception in their constituencies, to mark the Queen's contribution not only to our country, but around the world.
As my right hon. Friend the Member for Mid Sussex (Nicholas Soames) said, there have been many changes during Her Majesty's reign. When the Leader of the Opposition, the right hon. Member for Doncaster North (Edward Miliband), mentioned TV sets, I remembered my mother telling me that the coronation was the first time she watched television. In Wrexham, people crowded into one particular shop, because the shopkeeper had bought a television just to be able to watch that ceremony, which changed history. Many other things have changed—one of my favourite dishes, coronation chicken, was invented for that day and is one of its lasting legacies.
We cannot praise Her Majesty's service to our country too highly. She is a mother, a grandmother and a great-grandmother. As has been said, she enjoys the company of dogs and horses, and on a visit to Suffolk earlier in the year, she went to Newmarket. On Her Majesty's special weekend, we will all join her in celebrating what is great about our country. I am sure that she will continue to serve us for years to come."
Therese shows her support for Water Works Campaign
Therese gave her support to WaterAid's Water Works campaign to bring safe water and sanitation to the world's poorestpeople at the House of Commons. The event hosted by Northumbrian Water (owners of Essex & Suffolk Water) for WaterAid came on the day that the United Nations announced that the Millennium Development Goal on water has been reached. An additional 2 billion people have accessed clean water within the last 20 years.
Therse said "It is great news that we have met the Millennium Development Goal on water – this shows that aid is working and that we are making steps forward to eradicating poverty."
She added "there is still much work to be done however, as 783 million people still don't have safe water to drink, and around 2.5 billion are lacking adequate sanitation. Not having these essential services traps people in poverty. The UK has a lead role to play along with other countries to concentrate our efforts on bringing water and sanitation to all."
To show your support for the campaign please visit: www.waterworks.me
Coastal Communities Fund Goes Live
Therese is today encouraging projects in Suffolk Coastal to bid for money as part of the Coastal Communities Fund as theapplication form goes live.
The form for organisations wishing to apply to the Coastal Communities Fund in the 2012-13 financial year is now available on the Big Lottery Fund (BIG) web site here.
Commenting, Therese said "The Coastal Communities Fund is great news for this part of Suffolk it has the potential to have a real and lasting impact on our local economy. The application form has now gone live and I encourage organisations to apply".
The fund will support a wide range of projects, including those that support charities, the environment, education and health – examples of projects could include support for developing renewable energy, improving skills or environmental safeguarding or improvement.
This will be paid for by allocating half of the revenue raised by the Crown Estate's marine activities, and is estimated to be £23.7 million in its first year, opening in April 2012.
Government Introduces Measures to Curb Metal Theft
Therese has today welcomed the further measures the Home Office is introducing to curb metal theft.
The Home Office is banning cash payments for scrap metal, introducing tougher penalties for rogue dealers and is boosting enforcement through a £5 million national metal theft taskforce.
Therese said "Metal theft is an increasing problem in the UK, we have seen here in Suffolk our churches, railway lines and public buildings have been affected. Earlier this year a large amount of lead was stolen from the roof of the GP surgery in Saxmundham"
"The Government are bringing in a range of measures to help prevent the theft including a multi-agency taskforce which will target both metal thieves and scrap metal dealers who trade in stolen goods and fuel the demand."
"The Government are amending the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill to create a new criminal offence banning cash payments to purchase scrap metal. Cash transactions for scrap metal are often completed without any proof of personal identification or proof that the individual legitimately owns the metal being sold. This leads to anonymous, low-risk transactions for those individuals who steal metal."
Therese added "we are also increasing the fines for all offences under the existing Scrap Metal Dealers Act 1964, which regulates the scrap metal recycling industry."
Business Rate Refund for the Port of Felixstowe
Therese Coffey has today welcomed the £310,000 refund for businesses in the Port of Felixstowe as the Governmentreverses the 'ports tax' brought in by the previous administration.
The Coalition Government announced in June 2010 that they would waive these backdated bills and the regulations come into force later this month. From the 31st March, affected businesses can claim back the relevant money they were required to pay and account for it in their balance sheet.
Therese said "this is very good news for the Port of Felixstowe, they can now move forward with putting that money to its rightful use – to build up their businesses, retain jobs and benefit from international trade."
She added "this sends a clear signal of this Government's determination to support economic growth and Britain's export trade."
Therese Welcomes Capped benefits for Families who Don’t Work
Therese has today welcomed the passing of the Welfare Reform Bill, ensuring that no family can get more in benefits thanthe average working family earns.
Under the reforms, the benefit payments that a household on out of work benefits receives will be capped at £26,000 per year so that work always pays.
Therese said "Implementing a benefit cap is a policy of fairness, standing up for hard working taxpayers. Past governments have talked about reform, while watching the benefits bill sky rocket and generations languish on the dole and dependency."
She added "today marks an historic step in the biggest welfare revolution in over 60 years. This government has taken bold action to make work pay, while protecting the vulnerable. Our new law will mark the end of the culture that said a life on benefits was an acceptable alternative to work."
Government Summit to Reduce Insurance Costs
Therese Coffey has today welcomed the recent Insurance Summit hosted by the Government with the insurance industryand consumer groups.
They discussed the rising premiums that many drivers and businesses are facing and the action that the Government is taking to help bring these down.
Therese said "There was a commitment from the Government to take action to tackle the compensation culture, reduce legal costs and cut health and safety red tape. I am pleased the insurance industry has committed to pass savings made on to consumers"
Measures agreed include:
Industry commitment to pass savings onto customers resulting from a Government commitment to reduce the current £1,200 fee that lawyers can earn from small value personal injury claims.
Industry commitment to adjust premiums to reflect any reductions in legal costs created through reforms of 'no win, no fee'.
The Government and insurance industry committed to work together to identify effective ways to reduce the number and cost of whiplash claims. Options include improved medical evidence, technological breakthroughs, the threshold for claims or the speed of accidents.
Progress on this will be made in the coming months;To tackle the issue identified by the Red Tape Challenge of health and safety 'myths', insurers will provide short guidance to all clients at the point of purchasing insurance setting out clearly what SMEs need to do, and critically what they don't need to do, to comply with health and safety law and get insurance cover, to ensure that businesses are not asked to go beyond what is actually required by law.
Insurers committed to challenge more vexatious health and safety civil claims in order to tackle the compensation culture.
The Government and insurance industry agreed to work together to look at what more can be done regarding young drivers' risk and safety. This includes the wider use of telematics or 'smartbox' technology. This monitors driving behaviour, giving young drivers the chance of affordable car insurance by adopting safer driving.
East Anglian Air Ambulance to Operate in the Hours of Darkness
Last week local MP, Therese Coffey joined her Parliamentary colleagues Chloe Smith and Brandon Lewis to meet with representatives from the East Anglian Air Ambulance at a meeting in the House of Commons. They gave an update on plans to become the first Air Ambulance charity in England to operate during the hours of darkness.
The Charity's aircraft and their crews provide Helicopter Emergency Medical Services for the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust across the four counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.
The Charity's aircraft currently operate during daylight hours but it has recently signed a contract with aviation company Bond Air Services for two new aircraft which will come into service between July 2012 and December 2013. Among the most advanced air ambulances in the UK, they will be 'night capable' meaning they can be used for missions after dark. It aims to offer a service during the hours of darkness once compliance with the necessary Civil Aviation Authority protocols has been secured.
Therese said "Every day the Air Ambulance's highly skilled paramedic crews help to save the lives of people across the region and I welcome the important work that they do. It is great news that they will now be capable to operate at night".
"It is also important to recognise that although most of the emergencies in Suffolk are dealt with by the helicopters run by the East Anglian Air Ambulance Trust, there is a significant amount of partnership work. Last year the Essex and Hertfordshire Air Ambulances were called out to Suffolk on 79 occasions"
MP’s to Vote on Pension Increase
Tomorrow, MPs will vote on a Parliamentary motion from the Government to up-rate the state pension.
Therese said, "I am proud it is my Government that has reinstated the link to earnings for pensions with the extra security of a triple lock, ensuring that annual rises are the greatest of the average earnings increase, inflation or 2.5%.
As a result of the triple lock commitment the Basic State Pension will increase by £5.30, the largest ever increase in cash terms, and will see pensioners entitled to a Basic State Pension worth £107.45 a week from April 2012.
"Constituents will also welcome the changes to simplify the pension and the relaxation of rules on annuities."
On the change of indexation for annual rises, Therese added, "It is important that we have sustainable pensions that are sufficiently generous to pensioners and affordable for the working population."
Therese has her say on Plans for Simplifying the Energy Market
Therese has had her say on plans to make it easier for consumers to seek out the best energy deal at an event organised by the regulator Ofgem.
Under proposals from Ofgem, each energy supplier will have to offer a no frills tariff with a simple unit price and a fixed standing charge.
Approximately 75 per cent of consumers are on these standard tariffs and will have the opportunity to benefit from these changes.
Therese said "I welcome the simplification of tariffs, standardised price information would allow people to compare standard tariffs with other more innovative tariffs. This will help them to get the best deal for them."
The energy companies would also be required to make their bills, annual statements and other communications to their customers clearer and easier to understand.
They would also be bound by new enforceable standards of conduct.
After hearing more about the plans which could be introduced later this year, Therese signed a poster in support of the reforms.
Fair Funding for Rural Schools
This week in Parliament, Therese spoke up for fair funding of Suffolk education in a debate on the future of rural schools.
Speaking in Westminster Hall, Therese outlined how she was impressed at the amount of small rural schools that are able to survive in Suffolk and praised the County Council for trying to keep as many schools open as possible.
She said that it was important to support schools with low roll numbers and one way schools have been able to remain viable is by sharing head teachers, which Peasenhall and Middleton schools have done so well.
Therese pressed the Minister for a fair funding formula and the implication rural transport has on this.
She said "I hope that the Minister recognizes the challenges of sparse population, which include the costs of school transport. There definitely seems to be a bias towards urban schools, which is perhaps tradition given the more conventional aspects of social deprivation and the indices."
She added "People in urban places are often surprised at how many of our small rural schools have upwards of 40% of pupils receiving free school meals, which reflects the fact that poverty is spread throughout the country and not concentrated in urban areas. Rural schools should get a fair share of the funding."
Communities Fund to Boost Economy of Coastal Towns
Therese Coffey has today welcomed the launch of the Coastal Communities Fund and encouraged projectsin Suffolk Coastal to bid.
The Government has announced that it is launching a new multi-million pound fund to support the economic development of coastal communities. This will support a wide range of projects, including those that support charities, the environment, education and health – examples of projects could include support for developing renewable energy, improving skills or environmental safeguarding or improvement.
Therese said "I am delighted that the Coastal Communities Fund has been launched, this is great news for Suffolk Coastal. However "I encourage quality bids from many different organisations that support economic development including charities, social enterprises as well as local authorities. This has the potential to have a real and lasting impact on our local economy."
The money will be allocated using half of the revenue raised by the Crown Estate's marine activities, and is estimated to be £23.7 million in its first year. I am concerned that there is no indication that the amount of money allocated will be proportionate to the amount of money generated from Crown Estate activities in each area. Ministers previously promised this and I will be taking this up with the Secretary of State."
The big lottery fund will distribute the money and the deadline for applications in 2012 will be September, with winners announced in December. Guidance on how to apply can be found at http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/regeneration/coastalfundprospectus
Network Rail Chief Executive Declines Bonus
Therese Coffey has today welcomed the decision by bosses of Network Rail to forgo their bonuses.
Network Rail had come under pressure from the Government for planning to give a 6 figure bonus to its Chief Executive despite the Office of Rail Regulation recently declared that the rail company had breached its licence because of poor performance.
Instead of accepting the bonus payments the money will go towards the level crossing safety fund.
Therese said "I welcome this news, it is essential that any rewards are performance related and this proposal clearly wasn't the case. It is important to highlight the safety at our level crossings as I did in Parliament last week and I am pleased that the money will instead go to improving level crossings on our railway lines".
Reform Required to Boost Rail Performance
Therese called for the reform of network rail yesterday, as she spoke in a debate in Parliament that she helped to secure.
MP's outlined their concerns over the performance of Network Rail after the Office of Rail Regulation recently declared that the rail company had breached its licence.
Dr Coffey said "shortly after the debate was called, Network Rail were very quick to get in contact with me. I met with a manager of the East Anglia region and talked about some of the changes and what he plans to do. I want to encourage him and the Chief Executive to get on with the reforms proposed. I also hope that Network Rail will develop a sensible collaboration with Abellio Greater Anglia the new rail franchisee."
"It is important to businesses and the public that they are able to rely on punctual trains as they go about their daily lives. Problems with Network Rail contribute to many of the delays on our lines in East Anglia and these need to be put right".
Therese raised the safety of level crossings in Suffolk and is pleased Network Rail will put a gated level crossing in at Melton, she stated it is also about getting value for money to improve them.
"Everything from Network Rail seems to be costed in units of £1 million: do we want a level crossing? "Yeah, that will be £1 million. The opening of the Felixstowe Academy will mean more children will use a particular route on the way to school. A bridge is required on Runnacles Way which might cost £1 million, or it might cost £2 million. Meanwhile, someone who has been doing some contracting work for the Environment Agency—which used to have the same problem reckons that he can build the bridge for approximately £150,000."
She added "we should not accept that everything just costs £1 million or more. That is why I was encouraged by the changes, the devolution principle, that allow directors to take control of their regions and get proper value for money".
Therese Welcomes Upgrade to the Police.uk Website
Therese has today welcomed the upgrade to the website police.uk which gives the public an even more detailed picture of crime and anti-social behaviour in their area.
The website now includes incidents of crime and antisocial behaviour recorded at all train stations and railway networks. Soon incidents occurring at or near significant local sites like shopping areas, parks, car parks and hospitals will be added too.
In addition, the website now has more specific detail on the precise location of incidents – while still protecting anonymity.
Therese said "Police.uk gives everyone in Suffolk Coastal information on just what crime and anti-social behaviour is happening right on their street. In the year since its launch the website has received an astonishing 453 million hits and this upgrade will make even more detail available.
"I'm pleased the Home Office is listening to the public's demand for even more information on crime in their neighbourhood"'
Therese backs the Government’s tough penalties for metal theft
The Home Secretary announced this week that cash payments for scrap metal will be banned and penalties increased, asthe Government steps up action against metal theft.
In a statement to Parliament Theresa May said the Government would create a new criminal offence to prohibit cash payments when purchasing scrap metal and introduce unlimited penalties on those who break the law.
These changes come as metal thefts from war memorials and railway lines become more prevalent and are part of a wider plan to tackle all stages in the illegal trading of stolen scrap metal.
Commenting on the announcement Therese said: 'People across Suffolk are disgusted by metal thieves and the criminals who deal in stolen metal. Last year I tabled an Early Day Motion deploring the desecration of memorials to the fallen and called on councils and the police to prosecute vandals who carry out this damage. That is why I'm pleased to back the Government's action. It is right that the Government is stopping cash payments and introducing tough penalties to clamp down on the illegal metal trade".
Therese Welcomes Reverse on Cuts to BBC Local Radio
Therese has welcomed the announced made by the BBC this week that they will think again about the planned cuts tolocal radio, following consultation as part of their Delivering Quality First review.
In a speech made by the Chairman of the BBC, Lord Patten said "some aspects of the plans as they stand would have a disproportionate impact on local and regional output. We have asked the management to see if they can find more money to protect the local identity of services".
Therese previously tabled an Early Day Motion in Parliament calling for the BBC to dismiss the idea of centralising its programming.
She said "local radio is important to license fee payers and celebrating community moments is where local radio truly excels".
"I am pleased that the BBC have recognised the importance of local radio and have pledged to make the maximum possible savings through off-air efficiencies"
Government Announcement on Training Funding Welcomed
Therese has today welcomed the announcement from the Department for Transport that it will continue the 'Support forMaritime Training' (SMarT) scheme for the lifetime of the present Parliament.
The funding, which contributes approximately 40% to the cost of training cadets, is of vital importance in maintaining the 59,000 jobs British jobs in the shipping sector.
Therese said "the Government scheme is well received by shipping company employers and other training providers, who have delivered excellent value for the Government's investment to date."
She added "the retention of SMarT funding is of crucial importance in underpinning the future training of British seafarers. Given our UK maritime services sector is worth £26.5bn to our economy, the reaffirmation of Government support for seafarer training will enhance the status of the UK as a global maritime power"
Securing the future of our Post Offices in Suffolk Coastal
Therese has today welcomed the news of a 10-year deal between Royal Mail and the Post Office, securing the future ofservices without resorting to the failed closures programme of the previous government.
The deal follows the Government's other measures to protect Post Office services including additional funding, new local and national contracts, a successful piloting scheme to transform many local post offices and improvements in the services offered.
Therese said "The Post Office service is so important to residents especially in rural areas. In the last decade we saw over 6,500 close. The Government's announcement means the future of the Post Office is secured guaranteeing this valuable service for millions of people."
"This government have been clear that there will be no programme of post office closures, and is providing £1.34 billion of funding over the spending review period to 2015 to modernise the Post Office network. As part of this I am pushing for the services in Walberswick and Wangford to be restored".
Therese Chairs All Party Group to Keep Fuel Costs on Parliamentary Agenda
The first meeting of the All Party Parliamentary Group on off-gas grid takes place today. The group set up and co-chaired by Therese Coffey will ensure that the issues experienced by households that are off the main gas supply are firmly on the Parliamentary agenda.
Therese said "I am acutely aware of the issues faced by those who are off the gas grid. I have significant concern about the domestic oil market and many people have experienced difficulties with rising prices and supply problems."
She added "prompted by my questions in Parliament the Office of Fair Trading have recently conducted a study into the competition of the heating oil market. Even though they have brought in some positive proposals for increased transparency there are still many people that are experiencing weaknesses in the market and its ability to drive down price".
"The group will follow up on these issues to ensure there are truly independent suppliers in the market and will discuss the possibilities of a greater role for OFGEM in the regulation of this sector."
Therese calls for nominations for Rock the House
Therese is taking part in the second annual Parliamentary live music competition, Rock the House, and invites under-18s,solo artists, bands and live music venues in Suffolk Coastal to write in and nominate themselves.
The competition was founded to support the UK live music sector to raise the profile of intellectual property rights issues and counts rock legends Alice Cooper and Deep Purple's Ian Gillan as Patrons.
Therese said "there is a wealth of live music talent in Suffolk and I would urge all musicians and live music venues to fill in an application and send it to me. I am pleased that Nic Pandolfi from Town 102 has agreed to be part of the judging panel".
She added "the recognition and contacts entrants can get from taking part is priceless and it would be great to put the constituency on the map for its artistic talent."
Musicians and live music venues within Suffolk Coastal can find all forms and information on the competition at www.rockthehouse2012.com and can send in their nominations to Therese at therese.coffey.mp@parliament.uk.
Prizes include music equipment; a chance to play at high profile festivals; and mingle with the great and the good of the music industry. Successful nominees will go forward to the national competition which will be judged by a panel of international music industry experts and musicians and the finalists will be announced on Friday 18th May. The finalists will take part in a battle of the bands to determine the winner on Wednesday 30th May and the winner in each category will perform live at a final competition reception on the Terrace at the House of Commons in the evening.
Action to Deal with Foreign Benefit Fraud
Therese has today welcomed to Government efforts to make sure benefits are only paid to foreign nationals in correct, highly defined, circumstances.
She said "this Government is determined to get to grips with false benefit claimants from foreign nationals. For the first time Government have undertaken complex data-matching checks between the Department of Work & Pensions, the Treasury and the UK Border Agency. 2% of the matched cases did not appear to have lawful immigration status. Where this is shown to be the case, benefit will be stopped and further enforcement action taken."
She added "around a quarter of the data identified could not be matched between records from the DWP and the UKBA. Further work on these cases are being undertaken by the Government and where there is evidence of wrongdoing – action will be taken"
I take it that 98% of the foreign nationals who qualify for benefits are doing so quite legally. If so this would probably make the group more honest than our home grown claimants. It needs to be remembered that many claimants, both UK citizens and foreign nationals, are only claiming benefits because of the dreadful unemployment situation we now have. As you are well aware, much of the tabloid press uses this data to further their anti foreigner agenda.
As an MP you could equally well have phrased this article to say how honest the vast majority of foreign workers are.
- Anthony Robinson
Parliamentary Debate on Network Rail Granted
Suffolk MP's have been successful in raising the performance of Network Rail in Parliament as the Backbench BusinessCommittee granted their request for a debate yesterday. The 3 hour debate will take place on Thursday the 2nd February.
Back in December, the Office of Rail Regulation declared that Network Rail had breached its licence on performance. The punctuality of its trains fell well short of the regulatory target with the real probability that they will miss the target again this year.
Therese Coffey and Ipswich MP, Ben Gummer made the case for a debate, backed by many of their colleagues, and were pleased when their request was granted.
The Suffolk Coastal MP said "It is important to businesses and the public that they are able to rely on punctual trains as they go about their daily lives. Problems with Network Rail contribute to many of the delays on our lines in East Anglia."
Therese added, "I think it is right for Parliament to debate this failure in performance and to keep both the Government and Network Rail focused on delivering a better service."
Therese Calls for Fair Play for Felixstowe
Therese stood up for the Port of Felixstowe in Parliament today by advocating that all ports should be treated fairly and consistently when dealing with Government agencies.
The debate was brought by a Southampton MP who complained of bureaucratic delay but also challenged the legal intervention by Felixstowe Port operator Hutchison Ports.
When the Southampton Port owner submitted its original planning application to increase container capacity, the Marine Management Organisation did not insist on the same stringent Environmental Impact Assessment that had been asked of Hutchison's application at Felixstowe. The High Court agreed that due process had not been followed.
Speaking in the debate, Therese Coffey said that businesses should be able to expect a level playing field and consistency from Government officials. She added, "I am not opposed to an increase in capacity at Southampton but the delay in the decision is the result of the failure by the applicant to follow the correct procedure and the regulator to insist upon it. Hutchison's objections are entirely valid." She was supported at the debate by Harwich and North Essex MP Bernard Jenkin.
Paul Davey, Head of Corporate Affairs at Hutchison Ports (UK) said "I would like to thank Therese and Bernard for their support for fair play for the Port of Felixstowe. The UK port industry is dependent upon private sector funding and the principles of free and fair competition. It is essential for the creation of an efficient network of ports that a single set of rules are applied consistently to all port developments. Failure to do so distorts competition, discourages investment and works against the national interest. If the rules change then the conditions imposed on other projects that have been granted permission, but not started, should also be reconsidered."
MP takes Network Rail Failures to Parliament
Suffolk Coastal MP, Therese Coffey will next week go to the House of Commons Backbench Business Committee to request a Parliamentary debate on Network Rail.
Therese said "It is important to businesses and the public that they are able to rely on punctual trains as they go about their daily lives. I am pushing for this debate as the problems that Network Rail handle contribute to many of the delays on our lines in East Anglia."
"Back in December, the Office of Rail Regulation declared that Network Rail had breached its licence on performance. The punctuality of its trains fell well short of the regulatory target with the real probability that they will miss the target again this year."
She went on to say "I think it is right for Parliament to debate this failure in performance and to keep both the Government and Network Rail focused on delivering a better service."
Prime Minister Congratulates Suffolk Subpostmaster as he is Pressed on Rural Post Office Services
Westhall resident Tony Whatling won the adulation of the Prime Minister today as he was congratulated in Parliament for serving as Subpostmaster for over 60 years. The Prime Minister said he was the type of person 'that keeps this Country running'.
Therese mentioned the fantastic service of Mr Whatling in Prime Ministers Questions where she also probed David Cameron on rural Post Office Services.
She asked the PM, to press the Post Office to use their "generous network subsidy to re-open services in Walberswick and Wangford".
Mr Cameron said "the government has committed £1.3bn to the Post Office in return for a commitment to protect rural services."
He went on to say "a condition of this money is not just to provide the 11,500 branches nationwide but to fund outreach services and mobile branches."
Therese is in regular contact with the Post Office to try and ensure they restore the service to Walberswick and Wangford in the near future.
Deregulation the key to Sustained Growth
Therese today spoke up about the need for increased deregulation in a debate she secured in Parliament.
Therese said "reducing the burden on business is a low cost way of getting the economy on a path to sustained growth".
"Deregulation is happening, the famous red tape is being cut back but we need to go faster and further. Less cost on business can lead to cheaper goods, make it simpler to employ someone and will make it easier to make or sell products. Not only is it free but can save us all money, it is a necessary stimulus for growth."
She went on to say "of course some regulation is required. There was controversy recently when the Chancellor called for a review of the Habitats Directive. I support that as I do the Water Directive. The key is to strike a balance but we must ensure businesses such as farming are free to get on with the job."
"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 produces so much of the crops for the rest of the country. If this wasn't the case we would have to import more".
"It is important that we not only get out the scissors but we also get out the shears and really hack back"
Responding to the debate, the Minister responsible for deregulation, Mark Prisk MP outlined that the Government is taking action but that it can and will do more. He said it was important to prevent the 'gold plated' implementation of directives from Brussels.
The red tape challenge is already helping to cut back a substantial amount of regulation and the Minister invited Therese to help look over the Environmental regulation that his department are focussing on at present.
Improving Quality in the Health Service
Therese Coffey has today welcomed the Prime Ministers drive to ensure that every patient in hospital is cared for with compassion and dignity.
Therese said "many incredible people work in our NHS in which caring for others is their top priority, they go beyond the call of duty to ensure great care. However we know that the Care Quality Commission have also found deficiencies in some of our hospitals – which the Government are committed to putting right. It is fundamental that patients get the food and drink they need to recover."
She went on to say "The Governments reforms plan to make sure paperwork acts as a tool to help patients and not as a barrier."
"We are also committed to regular nursing rounds to systematically and routinely check that patients are comfortable, are properly fed and hydrated, and are treated with dignity and respect"
"Alongside this local people will take part in new patient-led inspections of hospital wards assessing cleanliness, dignity and nutrition and their findings will be published."
Progress Towards Developing Future Flood Risk Management Arrangements
Yesterday in Parliament the Environment Minister, Richard Benyon MP, published a statement on flood risk management and insurance.
The report reaffirms the Governments commitment to making sure flood insurance remains widely available. They are working together with the insurance industry to forge a new shared understanding which sets out more clearly what customers can expect from their insurer and from Government.
Welcoming the statement Local MP, Therese Coffey said "up and down the coast people want to be able to insure their houses. The existing Statement of Principles currently enables insurers to price according to risk. Risk based pricing has not been commonly applied in the past because of a range of factors including commercial decisions by individual insurers and historic limitations in the availability of flood risk information. However, the market is evolving with the development of more sophisticated tools for assessing a customer's flood risk with the reality being a continuing trend towards more risk based pricing."
She went on to say "the Government is taking steps to reduce flood risk occurring in the first place and thereby plays a vital role in bearing down on insurance costs. In accordance with this Government's determination to deliver solutions which offer taxpayers greatest value for money and which will endure over the long-term, the priority will continue to be to invest in reducing the risk of people and properties being flooded in the first place, rather than re-directing funds into subsidising insurance premiums"
That said being said the Government will continue to work with insurance companies to consider what additional measures might help safeguard the affordability of flood insurance for households. As part of this they will be considering the feasibility, value for money and deliverability of targeting funds to help those most in need.
Therese makes the case for local businesses with Tourism Minister
Last week Therese met with the Tourism Minister John Penrose MP to discuss the Government's support for tourism businesses in Suffolk Coastal.
The Government has introduced a series of measures to boost the hospitality and tourism industries and the Minister explained how these would impact directly on jobs in Suffolk.
John Penrose MP said: 'From abolishing red tape through to support for seaside arcades the Government is determined to do what we can to help this incredibly important sector. And with London 2012, the Cultural Olympiad and Her Majesty's Diamond Jubilee all happening next year we have a once in a lifetime opportunity that I hope tourism businesses and their staff across the country will make the most of.'
Therese said: "'I'm glad that the Government is prioritising the tourism industry as it plays such a vital part in our local economy. 2.9% of local residents are employed in this sector so it was good to have the opportunity to make their case directly to the Minister."
"The Tourism Regulatory Task Force Report identified more than 60 out of the 102 Government regulations affecting the hospitality sector which will be abolished including the placing of no smoking signs. The Government have also announced plans to get rid of some of the much hated bureaucracy that discourages people from organising concerts, plays and other live entertainment."
She went on to say "We have also delivered on our manifesto pledge to reduce to regulatory burden on slot machines – which been killing jobs and driving seaside arcades out of business. All of these measures coupled with a £150 million advertising campaign to market Great Britain at home and abroad will boost growth and jobs in the tourism sector".
Therese urges calls to Home Heat Helpline
New figures reveal that in Suffolk Coastal 13% of homes are entitled to some form of assistance with their fuel bills. Thathelp is worth an average of £250 per household and a free helpline is available for more information.
Lending her support to the campaign, Therese said: "around 5,300 homes in Suffolk Coastal are entitled to some form of support. Anyone who is concerned about staying warm should call the Home Heat Helpline and seek advice. I would also ask people to look out for neighbours, friends or relatives who may be in difficulty and make sure that they are aware of the Home Heat Helpline."
The number for the Home Heat Helpline is 0800 33 66 99 or you can visit www.homeheathelpline.org.uk. It is a free service that provides independent advice to people on low incomes on how to get help with their gas and electricity bills as well as other help such as grants for insulation or a new boiler.
As well as supporting the campaign locally, Therese met with Hilary Devey from Dragons Den, who is backing the campaign to raise awareness of the Helpline and spoke of her experience of struggling to keep her home warm before she became a successful businesswoman.
Therese went on to say as well as calling the Home Heat Helpline to find out what financial assistance is available there are some other simple steps people can take. For example:
- turn radiators down in rooms which you only use occasionally
- switch your lights off when you're not using them
- turn appliances like TVs and phone chargers off at the wall rather than leaving them on standby when they're not being used
- replace normal light bulbs with energy efficient ones
- regularly defrost your freezer to make sure it's operating at full efficiency
- draw curtains over windows at night to provide insulation for the room
- move furniture away from radiators and heaters to allow heat to circulate around the room
- open internal doors of any rooms which get more sun than others and let the warm air travel around your home"
Home Heat Helpline: 0800 33 66 99 or www.homeheathelpline.org.uk
Concern over Threat to Water Abstraction
Yesterday in Parliament, Therese secured a meeting with the Minister to talk through the Government proposals for water abstraction.
The Department for the Environment, Food & Rural Affairs published a White Paper yesterday entitled Water for Life which makes various proposals about the sustainability of water resources as well as regulations to control water abstraction.
Reacting to the report Therese said "I welcome large parts of the document but I am concerned by some of the recommendations which potentially could stop some farmers farming."
"The microclimate in Suffolk Coastal is quite similar to that of North Africa and farmers are used to using irrigation in producing crops. They are also big abstractors of both river and ground water."
She went on to say "I am pleased that the Minister, Richard Benyon, has agreed to meet with me and local farmers to discuss the details. He has assured me that putting food production at risk is not his intention and I am sure we can work together to ensure farmers' businesses are secure for the future.
Therese Hopes new Deal for Cities can also come to Suffolk
The Department for Communities and Local Government have today announced that UK cities will be given transformativenew powers in dramatic shift. Under the scheme cities will have a greater freedom to invest in growth.
Reacting to the news Therese said "I am keen that cities will be able to act for themselves to attract big business and I welcome the move away from Whitehall. However I have concerns on the impact this could have on Suffolk Coastal. We need to make sure counties like Suffolk will also be able to benefit from these reforms and we are not left behind."
Under the plans cities will be able to reduce their business rates for particular industries – which could drive business away from rural counties. They will also have access to a £1bn pot as part of the Regional Growth Fund.
Dr Coffey went on to say "businesses such as Adastral Park and the Port of Felixstowe are shining examples of industry in our County and we need to make sure that Suffolk has a level playing field to attract more innovation"
Therese questioned the Minister, Greg Clarke in House of Commons today and will pursue the matter with him.
Therese Pledges Support for Local Shops
Last week, Therese Coffey MP met with the Chief Executive of the Association of Convenience Stores to celebrate the important role that local shops play in the local community.
Heart of the Community is an annual event which brings retailers from across the country face to face with MPs to air their concerns about the future of the sector. They raised issues from planned increases in business rates and tackling under age sales.
There are dozens of convenience stores in Suffolk Coastal constituency and the small business community is crying out for reassurance that Government will do all it can to help them.
Therese said "It's essential that in my capacity as Member of Parliament I support the causes of local shops in Westminster – they really are at the heart of communities and Government must to everything they can to ensure that they succeed. That is why I have been meeting with Ministers on the issue of business rates and standing up for our retailers across Suffolk Coastal"
Therese welcomes Chancellor’s Autumn Statement
Therese has today welcomed, The Chancellor's Autumn Statement to do whatever it takes to protect Britain from the debtstorm whilst building the foundation for future growth.
Therese said "the statement had some tough messages but protects confidence in our economy. We have today shown the world we're serious about keeping our finances in order".
She went on to say "there was some good news for the East as the Chancellor set out plans to invest in our infrastructure including the A14. An upgraded A14 is fantastic news for our local economy including the Port of Felixstowe".
The Chancellor also pledged that the Government will help families with the cost of living and the proposed 3p rise in fuel duty due to come into effect in January will be cancelled.
A statement that was forced on the chancellor, he had very little choice over many decisions. The question that the Great British public should be asking is if governments really are in control then how come boom and busts occur - if we are to believe governments then it's time for them to step up to the plate and prove themselves.
No government has ever been able to achieve it in the past.
Surely it's no governments interest to see and let it's citizens suffer?
Rather than prevent distress to it's citizens (which would be the preferred option I'm sure), all governments can do is react to events as they occur, thereby allowing citizens to take some flak and usually this comes as financial.
That's really all it is "Showing the world" The fact is if unemployment keeps rising, the housing market falls further and the economy falls deeper into recession, then you'll have a depression at your door. Most depressions have been deflationary and if that occurs, it won't be very pleasant for us all.
Now I believe that in 2000 we started a deflationary depression, much of what has happened post 2007 - was actually forecast and predicted pre 2000! It didn't get rolling until 2007 though.
The thing is that as of now the current government are claiming responsibility for controlling the economy post 2010, when elected. The depression I'm expecting hasn't officially been acknowledge as it does not meet the technical definition of a depression - If we by some stroke of luck manage to duck it, your party will take credit for avoiding a depression, the problem with that is if we do enter into a depression, you'll not accept responsibility - but if the government really can steer the economy we should not be anywhere near entering a depression - if it does actually occur then we just have to conclude that governments (in any country) are ineffective in stopping severe economic trouble from happening.
- Andrew
It would be nice to think that our MP, on a salary of over £65000, could give a better analysis of the issues the country faces than start every other post with "Therese welcomes.......". She might also consider the following before getting too enthusiastic about the Chancellor's Autumn Statement.
Reacting to the Autumn Statement, the chief executive of the Child Poverty Action Group says "Britain's poor families have been abandoned today and left to face the worst".
The Treasury concedes that the number of children in poverty will rise by 100,000.
Nevertheless again we are told "Therese welcomes........"
- Anthony Robinson
Minister agrees to meeting on Post Office Subsidy
Following her request in the House of Commons last week for an urgent debate on the Post Office Network Subsidy, the Minister has changed his mind and agreed to meet Therese on this important matter.
Therese said "I am glad Ed Davey has finally agreed to meet with me. The Post Office service is of fundamental importance residents of Suffolk Coastal.
She went on to say "we are spending up to £500 million in subsidy to the Post Office network but there seems to be limited accountability. If the money was used more effectively we may be able to open the Post Offices in Wangford, Walberswick and Blythburgh"
Post Office Subsidy needs more Scrutiny
This week in Parliament, Therese requested an urgent debate on how the subsidy to the Post OfficeNetwork is spent. Last year the House of Commons voted to raise the subsidy for Post Offices up to £500 million but Dr Coffey is concerned that the money isn't being spent effectively.
She said "there is no accountability to Parliament and what criteria are used. I believe the Post Office is failing in its delivery of services and if the money was used more effectively we may be able to open the Post Offices in Wangford, Walberswick and Blythburgh"
She went on to say "so far the Minister has turned down a meeting with me to discuss this issue but I will keep up the pressure. The Post Office service is of fundamental importance residents of Suffolk Coastal and I have written to the Controller General of the National Audit Office to ask them to investigate"
"I have also secured a meeting with the Post Office and Royal Mail in December to talk about the restoration of the Wangford Service".
Solutions sought to improve Freeview Reception
Therese today met with Culture, Media and Sport Minister Ed Vaizey to highlight the poor freeview reception experienced by residents in some parts of Suffolk Coastal.
she said "For those of us not on the main transmitter we have been unable to access the full freeview service. The digital switchover has provided extra channels but some residents will be left disappointed that they are unable to access services such as ITV3 or Sky News."
She went on to say "All of us who cannot get the full service still have to pay the full license fee so I have been pushing the Minister to rectify the situation. He was sympathetic and will look into options to resolve it."
Ed Vaizey said "this is a scarce time for public resources but we have to come up with some innovative solutions".
Early Education gets a Boost
Therese has today welcomed the recent announcement by the Government that they are expanding free early year'seducation.
She said "Last year, the Government took the decision to extend the entitlement to free early education for three and four year olds from twelve and half hours per week to fifteen hours per week. Now we are legislating through the Education Bill for that entitlement to be extended to two-year olds from the poorest families".
She went on to say "getting children's education right early sets them more surely on the path to future success".
Suffolk will see an extra 1,600 two-year olds become eligible for free nursery school places.. All two-year olds in families meeting the criteria used for free school meals and all looked after children.
Post Office Deliver to your Neighbour
Therese has today welcomed the 'delivery to a neighbour' trial which is being undertaken by the Post Office. Items which are too big for the letterbox or require a signature will be delivered to a neighbour if no one is at home.
The trial, which takes place in Suffolk Coastal as well as other selected areas of the country will be for a three month period from 28th November 2011 through to February 2012.
Therese said "I welcome this trial which will make deliveries more convenient for customers it will then be easier to assess whether it would be desirable to use this approach across the UK".
If items are delivered to a neighbour, customers will receive a card through the door letting them know. If the neighbour is also out customers will also receive a card saying it will be returned to the delivery office.
Customers can chose to opt out of the trial by registering their details online or by calling 08456 113 420.
Bringing London 2012 Closer to Suffolk Coastal
Following the recent news that the Olympic Torch will visit ten communities in Suffolk Coastal next year there is an opportunity for schools to join the Relay as Flame Followers courtesy of Lloyds TSB. The deadline to apply is the 18th November.
Local MP, Therese Coffey said "This is fantastic news. As part of the National School Sport Week Lloyds are inviting schools to join in the Olympic Torch Relay, giving pupils a chance to carry the Olympic Flame. Although the deadline is close there is a relatively easy registration process" Schools should sign up at www.schoolsportweek.org.
Therese is also encouraging schools to sign up for the Get Set Network: "I welcome those schools in Suffolk that have already registered for Get Set. As of today though less than 25% of schools are part of the network and could miss out on the opportunity for tickets for schoolchildren. The deadline for this is December 16th and the website is http://getset.london2012.com. So log on and sign up".
Heritage Lottery Fund Back WW1 2014 Centenary
Following Remembrance services this weekend the Heritage Lottery Fund have announced that they are to make fundsavailable to be used to help mark the centenaries of the First World War.
In an Early Day Motion tabled in Parliament, Local MP, Therese Coffey had recently called for money to be allocated from the heritage lottery to restore war memorials to their former glory in time for 2014.
Therese said "this is great news, whilst much of the funding will be used for other important initiatives the HLF have committed to the restoration and conservation of War Memorials if the project also helps people learn about heritage. What could tell you more about the heritage of the First World War than the monument to the fallen".
The heritage lottery fund are working with the Imperial War Museums and other partners to ensure that every community has access to funding to mark the First World War centenaries as they wish.
A web feature promoting the availability of the funding can be found at www.hlf.org.uk/FirstWorldWar.
Winter-proof your Home and cut Energy Costs
With the costs of food, clothing, and energy all on the increase, local MP Therese Coffey, is calling on constituents to winter-proof their homes and their finances 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, huge amounts of money is being wasted.
Therese said "Residents in Suffolk Coastal can take action to get the free energy efficiency that they are entitled to, by doing this they can save themselves hundreds of pounds every year. If they act now they can be ready long before winter."
Customers of British Gas can take advantage of the company's offer to insulate their homes 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 on 0800 980 8177).
Therese backs Government plans to support female entrepreneurs
Therese has today welcomed the Government's plans to support women's enterprise.
Last week the Home Secretary and Minister for Women, Theresa May, announced that funding will be provided for 5,000 mentors to support new and existing female entrepreneurs. Currently women are only half as likely as men to become entrepreneurs. Specifically trained mentors will be able to address particular concerns of female entrepreneurs such as access to finance, building confidence, achieving a work life balance and working from home.
Therese said "We already have many successful businesswomen in Suffolk Coastal like Rachel Ducker from Apparition Marketing & Design, Erika Clegg from Spring and Julia Ewart from the Cotton Tree. Unleashing women's entrepreneurial abilities could add billions of pounds to our economy every year."
She went on to say "We just can't afford to overlook the talents, skills and experience of women across Suffolk Coastal that's why it's important that the Government takes action like this".
Therese Supports 2012 Local Leaders Scheme
This week the London organising committee for the Olympic Games launched a new public participation programme. The 'Local Leaders' initiative is an invitation to people across the East of England to take the 2012 Games into their community and create their own celebrations next year.
People are encouraged to sign up to the Local Leader programme at www.london2012.com/localleaders to receive further information on a range of themed celebration ideas focusing on the Opening Ceremony evening, gardening, quizzes and barbecues and be in the front row to receive free London 2012 event materials.
Therese said "I was pleased to promote the recent Get Set programme amongst local school and I am also pleased to lend my support to this scheme. The summer of 2012 will be extraordinary. Across the whole of the Suffolk thousands of people will be part of the celebrations and at the heart of every celebration will be the person who makes it happen. If that's you, then sign up and become a London 2012 Local Leader. "
"Being a Local Leader is pretty simple you just need to have an idea of how you want to celebrate the Games and then get organising. You can create your own events or get involved with the some of the ideas communities across the UK have already suggested: check them out on the website. There are also handy tips on how to plan your event. Get ready to celebrate in 2012 and help make the Games local"
Have a Banger with your Bangers
As bonfire night approaches, Local MP, Therese Coffey is urging residents to have a Suffolk sausage whilst watching thefireworks this weekend.
This week is British sausage week and to celebrate the occasion Therese joined Jimmy Butler the proprietor of Blythburgh Free Range Pork at the launch of the Pork Promise in Houses of Parliament.
The pork promise is about promoting free range products and giving more thought to the pork on your fork.
When eating pork Therese has promised to think twice about whether its a quality pork produced by farmers who prioritise the welfare of their pigs before she tucks in and is encouraging everyone to do the same.
Therese said "the pigs that produce Blythburgh Free Range Pork are born outside and spend their entire lives outdoors in the fresh air. These are the standards I am proud to promote".
High welfare pork always carries the red tractor logo on its packaging.
Early Day Motion Calls for Restoration of War Memorials
Therese Shows her Support for Grassroots Sport
New data released by the Sport and Recreation Alliance at the reception shows that a quarter of all sports clubs are currently operating at a loss,with half just managing to break even. It also revealed that those clubs makinga surplus have seen it almost halve over the last two years.
Therese used the event to commit herself to doing all she can to helping sport and recreation in Suffolk Coastal.
Therese said "I am opening the door to sports clubs in Suffolk Coastalto contact me with any issues they may have. I have already been able to help one sports club in Felixstowe and will do what I can for others to help them thrive".
Therese Welcomes New Community Business Loan Scheme
A new Community Business Loan Scheme has been launched this week by NatWest and RBS. The new £5m fund will supportcommunity businesses, charities, social enterprises and community development finance institutions that often struggle to qualify for mainstream bank lending.
Loans will be available on favourable terms for businesses located and trading in the UK with social or environmental aims and who reinvest their profits for a social purpose. All applicants must be investment ready in terms of management, governance and financial position. Start-ups as well as established businesses can apply.
Therese said "this is the first time that funds of this scale have been made available for these businesses by a UK bank. Supporting the social enterprise sector is an integral part of our strategy to support businesses".
She went on to say "It is vital to improve the flow of finance from banks to all sectors of the economy. The Government supports any initiative that could help make this happen and I hope this fund will create new opportunities for community businesses to get access to mainstream finance. These enterprises play a key part in the Big Society and the links forged by initiatives like this will help them move forward and grow."
Businesses can find out more information and make applications via the following links:
www.natwest.com/communitybusinessloan
www.rbs.co.uk/communitybusinessloan
Therese Supports Diabetes Testing at Launch of the Silver Star
Therese joined other Members of Parliament, at the launch of the Silver Star Diabetes Challenge at the House of Commons this week. At the special MPs testing event, Therese took the quick and simple Type 2 diabetes test to help raise awareness of the need for public testing for the disease.
Therese was also issued with a Silver Star Pedometer to measure the amount of steps taken during a Parliamentary Week as part of the 50 day challenge. The public can keep track of their MP on the Silver Star website and the winner of the 50 day challenge will be announced in February 2012. The key to preventing diabetes is physical activity and a healthy diet.uses of Commonsthis week. At the special MPs testing event, Therese took the quick and simple Type 2 diabetes test to help raise awareness of the need for public testing for the disease.
The NHS spends £1 million per hour on diabetes related illnesses and it is estimated that more than one million people in the UK are unaware that they have the condition. Therese said "The diabetes test was so easy. It only takes two minutes and can save lives. I hope my constituents will also take the test and I am looking forward to finding out the results of the pedometer challenge in February".
Special Guest Hari Dhillon, Dr. Michael Spence on BBC's Holby City, joined in the effort to highlight the problem of diabetes worldwide, and said "the evening was a triumph and I was delighted to contribute to such a worthwhile cause".
Office of Fair Trading Publishes Report on Heating Oil
The enquiry was prompted by questions Therese asked in Parliament last December at the height of the heating oil price rise.
The OFT has concerns that some heating oil suppliers may not be treating their customers fairly and is currently examining practices further. These include
complaints that some suppliers were charging a different price on delivery from that quoted when the order was taken. complaints that people may be locked into expensive LPG contracts following an initial introductory rate, and it is working with the industry to resolve this matter.
Reacting to the report Therese said "I welcome the steps the OFT has taken to improve the transparency in the market, the action it has taken against certain heating oil companies and price comparison websites to make sure this happens. Which is why households are better informed about prices and which company owns which heating oil supplier."
She went on to say "the report suggests 97% of off-gas customers have access to 4 different suppliers. I will be following up to ensure these are truly independent suppliers and will be calling on the Government to allow Ofgem to look at this."
Therese Records Books for the Blind as part of Social Action
Therese said "I was delighted to be able to take part in this year's Social Action project at the Conservative Party Conference. Calibre Audio Library is an admirable organisation and an indispensable service for those who are visually impaired. I really enjoyed recording a story at the Social Action Zone and I hope it will be listened to again and again!"
Therese gets Hands on with Green Hydrogen Technology
Earlier this month Therese got the chance to experience hydrogen transport technology, which could be on our roads by2015.
Demonstrating that hydrogen fuelling technology is ready and waiting to be deployed across the UK, Air Products showed Therese their hydrogen fuelling station for her to test out. Therese also got the opportunity to see firsthand Riversimple's Mk1 local car and the Intelligent Energy zero emission ENV hydrogen fuel cell motorcycle.
Hydrogen vehicles emit no harmful emissions, and can compete with conventional petrol and diesel vehicles in terms of speed, range and fuelling times. Riversimple's Mk1 car has a range of 240 miles per tank of hydrogen and a refuelling time of only three minutes, while Suzuki's hydrogen powered Burgman motorscooter using Intelligent Energy's next generation fuel cell powertrain is expected to retail for less than €8,000 when released in 2015.
Learning and Training Vital for Rural Economy
Yesterday in Parliament, Therese raised the issue of learning and training in the rural economy by asking the Secretary ofState what her department is doing to encourage young people to take up opportunities in the countryside and farming sector.
She also praised the work of the Suffolk Agricultural Association, who hold annual school days for children, to ensure that they are involved in encouraging the take-up of apprenticeships when people leave school.
The Secretary of State, Caroline Spellman responded by saying that "improving skills and creating learning opportunities is an essential part of delivering growth in farming, rural areas and food businesses. To that end, the Government has announced 50,000 new apprenticeships, mainly associated with agriculture and the food industry." She went on to say that she had "absolutely no hesitation in endorsing the scheme in Suffolk" and would like to see that example of best practice replicated elsewhere.
DEFRA are also working closely with colleagues at the Departments for Education and for Business, Innovation and Skills to make sure that rural areas benefit from the additional £250 million that the Government are investing in adult apprenticeships.
Government listens to Women over Pension Concerns
Reacting to the announcement of government changes to women's pensions, local MP Therese Coffey said, "I am really delighted that the Government has listened to the concerns of many women approaching their retirement as today Ministers have tabled a series of amendments to the pensions bill including one that caps the maximum increase in the women's state pension age to 18 months.
Under the previous proposals women born in 1953 or 1954 would have seen the date at which they reach State Pension Age increased by up to two years.
Pensions Minister, Steve Webb stated that "this change will ameliorate the increase in state pension age for about 245,000 women.
"These changes maintain the Governments overall policy to equalise the pension ages of both men and women by 2018 -but we have developed a fairer way of getting there".
Rizzo stands out at Westminster Dog Show
Neil Parish – Conservative MP for Tiverton & Honiton won the overall crown with his dog Wilberforce.
The Westminster Dog of the Year competition is organised by Dogs Trust and the Kennel Club, and seeks to crown a canine worthy of all-party respect. The competition is open to all pooches belonging to parliamentarians of both houses and was judged by last years winner Helen Grant MP.
The Westminster Dog of the Year competition is all about celebrating the unique bond between person and dog.
Therese said "showing Rizzo off to the judges was a lot of fun and was a great way of raising awareness of the great work of the Dogs Trust. No dog in good health should ever be put down."
Weightman Report Presented to Parliament
The report was commissioned in the wake of the incident at Fukushima in Japan.
Reacting to the report, Therese said "I welcome the findings and the decision not to require significant changes to current procedures. This reflects the current safety standards that are rigorously enforced."
Therese welcomes Crackdown on Immigration
Therese has today welcomed the Prime Ministers announcement urging Britons to report illegal immigrants to the
authorities. The speech outlined the importance of reporting illegal immigrants to the Border Agency through Crimestoppers or the website.
Therese said "Immigration is an extremely important issue that this country needs to deal with. We need robust plans to crack down on illegal immigration and we need a cap on economic migrants. I am pleased the Prime Minister is focussing on this"
She went on to say "It is also important for migrants to be tested on their competence of the English language which should include British citizenship tests on history and culture."
David Cameron also outlined plans to consult on making it a criminal offience to force a person to marry against their will.
What do they look like?
- Anthony Robinson
Therese Welcomes Transparency in Heating Oil Pricing
Therese has welcomed the Office of Fair Tradings (OFT) recent intervention to prevent consumers being misled when searching online for heating oil supplies.
The OFT found that some websites offering to find consumers the best price for heating oil were not clear about whether they were price comparison sites or sites for ordering heating oil directly from a single supplier.
As a heating oil customer herself, Therese said "it is important that customers are not misled. Relationships between suppliers and the company publishing the website should be transparent so it is easier to tell if it is a bonafide price comparison website or not"
The OFT has secured undertakings under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations from two companies which prevent them from engaging in business practices that could be misleading.
The investigation was carried out in connection with a market study into the supply of heating oil for households who are not connected to the mains gas grid. The enquiry was prompted by questions Therese asked in Parliament earlier this year at the height of the heating oil price rise. The outcome of this study will be published in October 2011.
Therese Contributes to Major Conservative Publication
Local MP, Therese Coffey for has contributed to the 'Conservative publication of the year', "The Future of Conservatism: - Restating Values," a book designed to provoke and facilitate debate within the Conservative Party on the best future for our Country.
As a member of the Select Committee Therese authored a chapter on Culture, Art and the Media entitled the 'The Future's Bright, The Future's Digital, The Future's The People' – where she talks about Britian's broadband networks, the future of BBC governance and investment in the Arts.
Therese said "the book is to be launched at an event at this year's Conservative Party Conference and speakers will include David Davis MP, former Shadow Home Secretary and Party Leadership contender in 2005, and John Redwood MP, followed by a panel discussion chaired by Graham Brady MP, Chairman of the 1922 Committee.
The launch will take place at 2pm in the Main Hall, Friends Meeting House, 6 Mount Street, Manchester, M2 5NS on Monday 3rd October 2011.
The book published by Conservative Home will be available on general sale at Party Conference for £9.99 plus postage and packaging. Copies can also be ordered from Biteback Publishing, Westminster Tower, 3 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SP, Phone: 020 7091 1260 e-mail: info@bitebackpublishing.com .
Other contributors to the book include Ruth Lea, Non-Executive Director and Economic Adviser to Arbuthnot Banking Group, David Green, Founder of Independent Think Tank Civitas, Bernard Jenkin MP for Harwich and North Essex, John Baron MP for Basildon and Billericay, Patrick Mercer MP for Newark, Edward Leigh MP for Gainsborough and Bill Cash MP for Stone.
Therese Welcomes Ban on Rollover Contracts
Therese has today welcomed Ofcom's announcement to ban rollover contracts, which tie landline and broadband customers into repeated minimum contract periods unless they opt out.
At the moment rollover contracts automatically renew after the customer's initial contract period has ended and roll forward to a new minimum term – with penalties for leaving – unless the customer actively opts out of the renewal at the right moment.
Therese said "many customers are being locked into long term deals, often without their knowledge – which means that they cannot switch providers without a hefty bill. In essence competition is being removed from the market".
She added "I am please Ofcom has made a move to ban this practice - all landline and broadband providers will have to stop selling automatically renewable contracts from December 2011 onwards".
Therese Introduces Bill to Protect Hydration and Nutrition for the Terminally Ill
Today in the Commons, Therese presented a Ten Minute Rule Bill on the Provision of Hydration and Nutrition for theTerminally Ill. The Bill guarantees the terminally ill access to hydration and nutrition.
In her speech she acknowledged that "decisions taken to remove nutrition and hydration are not easy. However end of life palliative care is about allowing people to die as painlessly as possible, withdrawing hydration and nutrition in some cases, without the family knowing does not do this".
Therese said "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 as I think it is terribly cruel for someone to starve to death or die through lack of water".
The Bill went through to Second Reading unopposed and although it may not make it onto the statute book – it gives the House of Commons the opportunity to discuss this important matter.
Therese Questions Minister on Gang Culture in Prisons
Today in Parliament Therese questioned the Prisons Minister, Crispin Blunt on ways to eradicate gang culture within prisons.
When she visited Warren Hill young offenders institution last year, one of the reasons cited for the riot that took place was the growing emergence of gang culture. Therese said "when people are placed in young offenders institutions, proximity seems to take priority over gang dispersal". She urged the Minister to take a look at this policy again.
In his response, Mr Blunt gave assurances that there was "no absolute, rigid rule that proximity should take precedence". He went on to say "When placing young people and adults into custodial establishments, both the Youth Justice Board and National Offender Management Service take proper account of all the factors required and there is emerging good practice around identifying gang affiliations".
The Government is developing a cross-departmental programme of action to tackle gangs and gang violence. An inter-ministerial group will report to Parliament in October.
Order! Order! Archery comes to Speakers Green
Indeed, Therese was part of Parliamentary history, as the event was the first ever sporting contest to be held on Speaker's Green. Although she thoroughly enjoyed her experience of using a bow and arrow, the archers preparing for next year's London Olympic Games need not worry about a potential new threat to their places on the squad!
Therese said "It's great fun, and very addictive - once you start you keep wanting to go back and improve your score."
The event was organised to celebrate Archery GB's 150th anniversary and to promote the sport ahead of next year's Olympics.
Therese said: "Archery has many virtues, and I am not surprised it is one of the fastest growing sports in the country. Anyone can do it which makes it a genuine sport for all, and a fantastic family sport."
Only recently archery came out on top in an opinion poll of young people throughout the country when asked about the Olympic sport they would most like to take up if given the chance.
The archery tournament at the London 2012 Olympic Games takes place at Lords, between July 27 and August 3.
For further information visit: www.archerygb.org
Follow them on Twitter @archerygb
Trouble for Television Channels When TV Transmitter Switches Over
She raised her concerns with the Minister Ed Vaizey that "ITV3 will not be available on the relay transmitter from Aldeburgh and that license fee payers should be the ones who choose the channels they receive if they are not to have the full range of services."
Therese is keen to see customers asked what channels they want instead of this being left solely to broadcasters.
In his response Ed Vaizey said "I am afraid that about 10% of the population does not get the full range of services, but the core 15 channels". He went to invite Therese to a meeting to discuss the issue.
Broadband Boost for Suffolk
Therese has today welcomed the announcement by the Department of Culture, Olympics, Media & Sport that Suffolk is to receive £11.68m as part of the Government's £530 million investment in the UK's broadband network.
Therese said "fast broadband is absolutely vital to our economic growth, to delivering public services effectively, and to conducting our everyday lives. However some areas of Suffolk are missing out, with many communities suffering painfully slow internet connections or no coverage at all."
She went on to say "I am not prepared to let some parts of our community get left behind in the digital age – so welcome this investment wholeheartedly".
This investment will ensure that the UK has the best superfast broadband network in Europe by 2015, with 90 per cent of homes and businesses having access to superfast broadband and for everyone in the UK to have access to at least 2Mbps.
Select Committee Looks into New Twist in the Phone Hacking Scandal
The Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport Select Committee met today to discuss the ongoing phone hacking scandal. There have been some shocking twists to this saga one of which appeared as the letter written by Clive Goodman to his former News of the World Employers was published. The letter alleges that senior NOTW executives knew what was going on and it transpires that Clive Goodman was paid money from the NOTW in relation to his claim for unfair dismissal.
Therese said "as a former accountant and finance director I think you should always follow the cash, the cash often leads to the truth. Whether that is to try and track down payments that were made to police or indeed payments to former employees that have been dismissed. I think a lot of these things do need to be answered, within 6 months of that letter being written by Clive Goodman he received over £200,000 in payments from the news group and we need to try and understand why that is. If you don't believe a word he says then why would you then go and pay all that kind of money"
She went on to say "We haven't recalled James Murdoch yet - but we may need to recall him and a host of others as we proceed with our investigation."
Reduction in Red Tape Benefits Felixstowe’s Seaside Amusements
Therese has today welcomed the reduction in red tape for the seaside amusement industry.
New legislation has now been introduced that sees a return in the maximum stake for Gambling (Category B3) machines from £1 to £2.
Therese said "this small change introduced last month will help seaside industries remain competitive with other comparable types of gambling premises on the high street"
Amusement arcades such as Mannings in Felixstowe, which benefit from these changes, employ between them employ some 37,000 people across the country and are important elements of many local economies, particularly here on the Suffolk Coast.
Therese went on to say "the change, which the industry has been asking for provides long overdue help to amusement premises. This is good news for Felixstowe arcades especially in light of Felixstowe Carnival this weekend".
Need Help with HMRC?
In a report published last week by the Treasury Select Committee the service provided by Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has been described as 'inept'
The report exposed the poor management culture which has led to only 48% of phone calls being responded to and 'endemic' delays in replying to correspondence.
Therese said "this is not an acceptable state of affairs and I congratulate my colleagues on the Treasury Select Committee for investigating this. Clearly reforms are needed"
She added "if anyone is having a problem with HMRC then please get in touch with me. I can't provide a tax advice service or help with form filling but if you are struggling eliciting a response from HMRC, then I can help".
London 2012: One Year to Go
Today marks 'One Year to Go' until the London 2012 Olympics. On the 27th July 2012 our Capital City will play host to the greatest sporting event on the planet. To celebrate this occasion, Local MP, Therese Coffey joined her London 2012 All Party Parliamentary Group colleagues with the Olympic Torch.
Therese said "As a Member of the Culture, Olympics, Media & Sport Select Committee this is an important part of our brief; scrutinising on behalf of Parliament our preparations for a successful Olympics and the legacy" "Wednesday 27th July, it is a landmark moment on our journey to the Games. We are committed to making London 2012 'Everyone's Games'. Thousands of organisations and individuals are involved in inspiring and engaging people, especially young people, across the UK".
She added "to date 18,500 schools are engaged in our education programme Get Set, 10 million people have taken part in the Cultural Olympiad and Inspire programme, and right around the country we are hosting events including ones in Suffolk to find our 70,000 Games Maker volunteers. In the next year we look forward to welcoming over 80 international teams who will be hosted in our local communities as they prepare for the Games."
National Planning Policy Framework Opens for Consultation
Yesterday the Government published the draft National Planning Policy Framework which is now open for consultation. The Planning Policy Framework is a new strategic document which will define how we do planning in this country. The Framework will replace the current complicated system of National Planning Policy Statements, Planning Policy Guidance notes and some circulars with a single streamlined document.
Local MP, Therese Coffey said "While this is a key part of our reforms to make the planning system less complex and to promote sustainable growth, it also raises the bar on protecting wildlife and green spaces. I encourage residents concerned about inappropriate development to put in their views on this consultation."
Business rates boost to local jobs and firms in Suffolk Coastal
Therese has welcomed the Government's plan to localise business rates. Councils will get to keep their own business rates under new local government financing proposals that will be fair and benefit those that grow financially.
Local Government Secretary Eric Pickles has presented the findings of a six-month review into council finance that sought to repatriate rates; create a financial incentive for councils to promote local growth; reduce dependency upon central Government grant; and maintain protections for business and vulnerable areas.
The National Audit Office has criticised the current system as 'highly complex and not transparent'. A new system is needed to end a long-standing problem where councils have no direct growth incentive, to build stronger relationships with business and to put councils in charge of their own financial circumstances.
Importantly, there will be no change to the way business pays the tax, who is eligible for discount, or the way it is set nationally. National discounts and rate relief will also continue to be supported, meaning no change to such groups as charities, amateur sports clubs, voluntary groups, those in hardship, and eligible rural or small firms. By contrast, Labour increased rates by stealth via cutting rate relief.
The Government has doubled small business rate relief, to help half a million small firms, funding the extra scheme for two years from 2010 to 2012, and is making it easier for small firms to get small business rate relief automatically, through changes in the Localism Bill.
Therese said "the current system of local government funding is broken. It is confusing, arbitrary, complex and widely seen as unfair. Our plans to allow councils to retain their locally-raised business rates, will free councils from dependence upon central Government grant and give them a strong financial incentive to drive local economic growth".
She added "No longer will local money be snatched away by Whitehall. This is localism in action"
Therese Welcomes PFI Savings of £1.5 Billion
Therese has today welcomed tough action announced by the Government to save more than £1.5 billion from the Private Finance Initiative.
In a Written Ministerial Statement delivered to Parliament, Treasury Minister Lord Sassoon laid out Government plans to save more than £1.5 billion on existing PFI deals, and to plough much of that money straight back into frontline public services.
The announcement comes after a series of forensic investigations by Treasury experts into PFI contracts including at the Queens Hospital in Romford.
Therese is part of the PFI Rebate campaign of more than 80 MPs, from all three major parties, who have been calling for savings on the PFI.
Speaking after the announcement Therese said: "I am delighted by this news. Our target of £1 billion has been significantly exceeded. The government has listened and taken our campaign very seriously. This announcement will mean real savings right here in Suffolk Coastal and a real improvement in our local public services"
She added "The actions announced by the Government are deliberately cautious; they are a long-term solution to a long-term problem. This kind of detailed forensic work may not be glamorous, but it is vital."
Therese asks Murdoch to ‘Restore’ Reputation to the Hillsborough 96
Today, in the House of Commons, Therese called on the Sun to make a "restoration of reputation" to the Hillsborough 96.
This follows on from her question about headlines and targets to Rupert Murdoch yesterday in the Culture, Media and Sport select Committee. Therese said "I quizzed Rupert Murdoch about his negative experience of being in the headlines this week and whether this would influence him when he is writing headlines about others. His sombre reaction said it all - and he said it was a matter of taste. The headlines written in the Sun about the Hillsborough 96 certainly weren't tasteful".
She went on to say "Steve Rotheram MP has raised this regularly in Parliament and I was pleased to raise this in the debate on Public Confidence in the Media and Police". Therese has also pledged to write to Mr Rupert Murdoch to on this issue.
RAF Marham becomes the Home of the RAF’s Tornado Force
Today in Parliament, Defence Secretary Liam Fox made a statement to the House of Commons about the longer-term vision for the make up of our military. He announced a 1% year-on-year increase to the defence equipment programme which will will ensure our Armed Forces remain a formidable fighting force on the world stage.
Today's funding announcement is part of a broader body of work to implement the Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR), including the publication of the Basing and Reserves Reviews. The good news from the statement today is that RAF Marham in Norfolk will still continue its important role as a British Military Base; Marham will now become the main home of the RAF's Tornado force.
In hearing the Statement Therese Coffey said "this is great news for the East of England and demonstrates the success of the local community coming together in the 'Make it Marham' campaign. I am pleased that our region continues to be a strong Military power house and I'm proud that we contribute so much to the defence of this nation
Prime Minister Congratulates Suffolk on ‘Green Coast’ Investment
Today at Prime Ministers Questions, Therese asked the Prime Minister whether he would give his backing to new skills and training opportunities that would come about as a result of new jobs created in the green initiatives.
Therese stood up in the Commons Chamber and praised Suffolk for its ambition of being the greenest county. She said "Suffolk is already committed to a low-carbon world with offshore wind farms, anaerobic digestion, nuclear power and a recycling rate of more than 60%"
She applauded the local enterprise partnership's ambition to enhance skills training to fill the new job opportunities that will be created locally.
The Prime Minister congratulated Therese on branding Suffolk as "the green coast". He said "There is a big opportunity in green jobs, renewable energy and new nuclear. Vitally to encourage the inward investment that we want, we have to demonstrate that we will build up our skills base. That is where local enterprise partnerships can play such a valuable role".
Therese keeps up the Pressure for more Quota
Yesterday in Parliament Therese pressed the Minister further on the inshore fishing consultation. She asked him for assurances that all the responses will be carefully considered, including concerns about the suggested structure and the fact that there will still be people with quotas who no longer fish and have not done so for many years.
In his response, the Minister Richard Benyon MP, said that "he can give that assurance that we will look at every response very carefully. We have had about 20 meetings around the coast, which were very well attended, and many of the areas of consultation were explained to the audience in such a way as to allay their fears. As I said we want to make life better for the under-10s and give them a more sustainable future".
New Rules Make it Easier to Take Pets Abroad
Dog owner and local MP Therese Coffey has welcomed the new rules which will allow the easier movement of pets throughout Europe. As of the 1st January 2012 the UK's Pet Travel Scheme will be brought into line with the most recent science.
Forcing pets to spend six months in quarantine, a practice dating from the 1800s, is no longer necessary because of vastly improved rabies vaccines and treatments.
Commenting on the relaxing of the regulations Therese Coffey said "This island has long been free of rabies and it needs to stay that way. However, given the science I welcome the new rules. It will now be easier for pets to travel with their owners at reduced cost and with more flexible timing".
The changes will ensure the risk of rabies coming to the UK remains extremely low.
Health Minister accepts Therese’s Invitation to Visit the East of England
This week in Parliament Therese Coffey MP was successful in persuading the Health Minister Anne Milton to visit the East of England.
Speaking in a debate on end of life care in Great Yarmouth and Waveney called by Brandon Lewis and supported by Peter Aldous, which set out to secure more hospice provision in East Anglia, Local MP Therese Coffey congratulated Patrick Stead Hospital in Halesworth. She said "although we do not have the range of choice, we ought to pay tribute to places such as Patrick Stead Hospital in HThis week in Parliament Therese Coffey MP was successful in persuading the Health Minister Anne Milton to visit the East of Engalesworth, which manages to provide some respite care but could easily provide more if the funding were available"
She went on to ask the minister to come to the area to hear about other aspects such as the community nursing care fund, which, may provide a good role model for elsewhere in the country.
Anne Milton accepted Therese's invitation and added "it is important to spread good practice. For anybody who is in need of NHS services or care, nothing but the best will do".
Therese Calls for PFI Rebate
Therese Coffey has joined Parliamentary colleagues to call for a better deal on the Private Finance Initiative (PFI). So far 70 MPs have backed the cross-party PFI Rebate campaign to renegotiate £500 million savings in existing PFI contracts.
In a debate in Parliament the Suffolk Coastal MP called the legacy of the PFIs arranged under the last Labour Government a disaster. She said "I am not fundamentally opposed to PFI in principle but the legacy has been a disaster and has tarnished the name of PFI, which could have been a force for good. It is a classic case of off-balance sheet financing. Not only will our generation pay for it, but future generations will continue to pay for that, as well as all the other debt accumulated by the previous, profligate Government".
She pointed out that Suffolk and Norfolk Police have built six new detention and investigation centres. The capital cost is £61.3 million for the six centres but the cost over 30 years for the contract, including the servicing, is £294 million. Therese commented "I am sure many people in Suffolk will be disappointed to hear that an increasing amount of money is being spent on potentially gold-plated buildings for detaining prisoners which could lead to less funds for front-line police officers. I hope that these new buildings see such an increase in detection and conviction rates to justify this large sum of money on an ongoing basis."
Alongside the rebate campaign, Therese is calling on the Treasury to undertake a full evaluation of all PFI projects. She ended her contribution in the debate by expressing her delight that PFI is no longer the default place in which the Government looks for capital; there are other sources available. Unlike under the previous Administration, PFI is not the only game in town for capital projects.
Jobs Boost as Apprenticeships Rise
Therese has today welcomed the new apprenticeship figures that have recently been released that show the Government has exceeded the target by more than double to create new apprenticeships.
When the Coalition Government was formed one of the first announcements made to create jobs was that £150 m of the Train to Gain funding be diverted to deliver an additional 50,000 adult apprenticeships. A year on and the provisional data shows that the Government has delivered 326,700 apprenticeship starts in the first 9 months of the 2010/11 academic year – more than 114,000 more than the previous year.
Therese said "this is an historic achievement not just for Government but for employers, training providers and learners too. This growth proves that employers recognise apprenticeships to be a sound platform for long term economic prosperity."
She went on to say "to build on this work we are now focusing on encouraging firms who haven't taken on an apprentice before to do so and helping those who have to expand their programmes".
Therese Welcomes Armed Forces Day 25 June 2011
In advance of Armed Forces Day 2011 Therese is taking the opportunity to say thank you to all those that are serving in the Armed Forces, their families, veterans and cadets and encourages all to show their support on the day.
Commenting on this week's Armed Forces Day Therese said: 'Armed Forces Day is a great opportunity for us to show our appreciation for all those who wear the uniform, their families, veterans and cadets. We all owe a huge debt to our brave service personnel who work tirelessly keeping this country safe. I was part of the Parliamentary Group welcoming home 120 service men and women this week, who have recently returned from Afghanistan including our Woodridge-based 23 Engineers who served as part of 16 Air Assault. We don't have an event locally this year but perhaps we can organise one for 2012.
The Government and the Conservative party are both committed to providing for our troops. In the past year we have already doubled the operational allowance and introduced a pupil premium to help with the education of our forces children. It is with these practical policies that we show our commitment and gratitude to our brave forces.
Benefits Cap ensures Welfare returns to First Principles
Therese has today spoken out in support the Benefits Cap as part the Welfare Reform Bill that Parliament passed last week.
Under the Government's proposals which will be introduced by 2013 the maximum amount of benefits received by a family will be capped at £26,000 net. To earn the equivalent you would be earning a salary of over £35,000.
Therese said "before the election and since I know that this has been a very popular policy. People feel that you should get on by your own hard work and I understand the frustration that is sometimes felt about 'subsiding others', our Welfare Reforms address this".
Talking more widely about the Bill, Therese said "these reforms make a fundamental statement that you will be better off if you work, unless you cannot work. I think it is really important that that principle is at the heart of our Welfare State. The Welfare State is something that distinguishes our country from others and I am glad to see it return to its proper principles where it is there to help people at their most difficult time but shouldn't become a way of life, living off the hard work of others."
The benefits cap will save hundreds of millions of pounds and in the first instance will be delivered by Local Authorities through Housing Benefit payments. In the future, it will be administered as part of the new Universal Credit system.
There are exemptions, such as for those who are making the right efforts to get back to work – those on Working Tax Credit – and those who are disabled, as well as for widows and war widows.
Therese Welcomes Sentencing Decision
Therese has today welcomed the Government decision on sentencing guidelines. The consultation on the Green Paper has now closed and the Government has listened to people's concerns.
Therese said "I am pleased that we continue to send a strong message to potential criminals that they will face a substantial prison sentence if they commit a serious crime. Prison works as a deterrent, and we should not be cutting the amount of time convicted criminals spend in prison".
She went on to say "it is a long established British tradition that those who lie about their guilt should be punished more than those who take responsibility and own up early to what they have done wrong. However we already have a maximum plea bargain 'discount' of one third and this should not be increased".
Therese Launches Seafarer Apprenticeship Scheme
Yesterday in Parliament Therese Coffey MP chaired the launch of two Seafarer training programmes, where young people will get paid to train for a career at sea.
At a time when 20% of young people are out of work or training, the shipping industry is creating jobs and training opportunities for those seeking a career at sea. The programme led by the Merchant Navy Training Board is a collaborative project with several major shipping companies, seafarer unions RMT and Nautilus, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and nautical colleges across the country to provide a series of rigorous training programmes for new recruits.
Therese said "I was delighted to host the launch of this new initiative, a life at sea can be a very rewarding career and this accelerated training programme providing apprenticeships for young people is a fantastic project"
She went on to say "I am also pleased to learn of a similar scheme for tugboats, a familiar site in the Felixstowe area. I will be encouraging companies and colleges to take full advantage".
For further information please log on to www.careersatsea.org or www.maritimeskills.org
Therese helps support Abbeyfield Week 2011
Therese has lent her support to Abbeyfield Week 2011 by taking part in a generational skills swap in Parliament. Therese was joined by the actor and Abbeyfield patron Geoffrey Palmer in Parliament to raise awareness of this innovative scheme, which brings together older and younger people to encourage them to swap invaluable skills.
The events spearheaded by Abbeyfield, a not-for-profit organisation which has over 700 houses and 80 care homes across the UK, as part of their annual Abbeyfield week. This year's theme is AGEnda – a generational skills swap which will see events hosted at a number of their local residential homes to encourage and improve greater understanding between generations. It will also enable residents to have a fun day interacting with young people to swap skills which are currently unknown to each other.
The parliamentary event was held ahead of Abbeyfield Week (10th-19th June).
Therese said "I am pleased to be able to support this innovative scheme to help raise awareness of the importance of skills swaps. Too often we overlook the need for different generations to get together and learn new skills such as IT, cooking, and reading. It also provides an excellent opportunity for generations to discuss the differences in their lifestyles to encourage better understanding."
Paul Allen, Chief Executive of Abbeyfield said "We are delighted that Therese Coffey is supporting this year's Abbeyfield Week – AGEnda: A generational skills swap. We would like to see more of these generational skills swaps in areas across the country to enable better understanding between different generations. Schemes such as this not only help alleviate loneliness amongst older people, but also teach younger generations skills that they might otherwise have missed."
Therese welcomes the Government's actions to help women and families.
One year into Government, Therese Coffey has welcomed the actions already taken to support women and families. Looking back on what has been achieved and what is being done, it is clear that right across Government action is being taken to improve the lives of women and families.
Therese Coffey said "over the past year Government action in so many areas has done so much for women and families right across Suffolk Coastal. An extra 4,200 health visitors will help ensure every family has the support and advice they need. Our new cross-government strategy to tackle violence against women is being matched by stable funding to protect existing rape crisis centres and to fund new centres".
She went on to say "despite the tough decisions the Government has had to make on the economy we are helping the most disadvantaged families and the lowest paid workers, many of whom are women. Universal Credit will lift nearly one million people, including 350,000 children out of poverty. Raising the minimum wage and increasing child tax credits will help more".
Ten things the Government is doing to help women and families:
1. Increasing health visitors to ensure every family has the support and advice they need to give their children a good start in life.
2. Supporting families through the Universal Credit which will lift nearly one million people - including 350,000 children - out of poverty.
3. Pushing for equal pay for equal work by working with employers to encourage voluntary, non-legislative action to improve transparency on pay
4. Tackling violence against women and girls by introducing a new cross-Government strategy.
5. Funding rape crisis centres to reverse the decline in such centres by protecting existing centres and funding new ones.
6. Encouraging flexible parental leave by giving parents the choice of how they take leave for child care.
7. Tackling the glass ceiling through an all-age careers service to ensure young women make broader and more ambitious career decisions.
8. Increased Child Tax Credit to support 4 million lower income families.
9. Extending early years support for education and childcare to the 130,000 poorest 2 year-olds.
10. Supporting 890,000 of the lowest paid workers, many of whom are women, by raising the minimum wage.
Therese welcomes the Obama's visit
Therese has today welcomed President Obama's State Visit to the United Kingdom. She hailed the 'Special' relationship between our two nations and the joint foreign policy aims of the US and the UK. She was also pleased to see Michelle Obama visit Oxford University – where she led a group of students from the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Girls School. The school takes its name from Elizabeth Garrett Anderson, who was the first woman to gain a medical qualification in Britain and whose Father was born and owned a coal warehouse in Aldeburgh. The trip to Oxford was designed to inspire the students to consider further education – and build aspirations. Therese Coffey said "Michelle Obama, who grew up on the South side of Chicago knows more than anyone how to get on and do well through adversity. Michelle Obama has built up a close relationship with this school – and I hope the next time she visits, they may come back to the homeland of Garrett Anderson Family and visit Aldeburgh".
What do you want the Police to do?
The Home Affairs Select Committee is currently conducting an inquiry into the Government's plans for policing reform, 'Policing in the 21st Century' to scrutinise and add value to the proposals.
As part of the inquiry the Select Committee are launching an online consultation on frontline policing and police priorities. The Governments plans for policing reform include the creation of a new National Crime Agency, a reduction in bureaucracy and more effective procurement.
Therese Coffey said "I welcome this inquiry and consultation, it is a chance for people to have their say in the shaping of the reform, alongside this the Governments plans for elected Police Commissioners will mean that Police priorities will always be determined by the public"
The consultation is available at www.parliament.uk/policing-priorities until the 17th June.
Forestry Panel Calls for Evidence
An Independent Panel to advise the Secretary of State on the future direction of forestry and woodland policy was set upin March, and is chaired by the Bishop of Liverpool, the Rt Rev. James Jones.
It has today called for evidence and has stated, "The Independent Panel on Forestry is inviting everyone interested in forests and woods to come forward, share their views and join in a public conversation".
Therese Coffey said "the Panel wants to understand the widest range of views, interests and expertise. So whatever your connection; whether you are a dog walker, environmentalist, forestry worker, wood processor, commercial forest owner, cyclist or family who love weekends at the forest - now is your first opportunity to get involved, share your views and make your voice heard to the panel".
You can find out more about the questions the Panel is posing and how to feed in
your views at www.defra.gov.uk/rural/forestry/panel.
Therese Welcomes Nuclear Safety Review
Therese Coffey today welcomed the Weightman Review, which is looking at the safety of nuclear power stations and lessons to be learned following the tsunami in Japan.
Therese said "I was delighted to read in the Wightman Review that "The UK's only water cooled nuclear power reactor is at Sizewell B, which is one of the most modern PWRs operating worldwide. The heat sink for the post-trip cooling systems at Sizewell B is provided by the Essential Service Water system or the Reserve Ultimate Heat Sink (air cooled). This provides one of the world's most robust PWR cooling systems. "
Also detailed in the report was the assessment of the flood defences. Sizewell B has defences of 10m high and the review felt the worst threat was of tidal surges of under 8m, giving significant clearance. Therese spoke in the House today on this matter and asked that the new Office of Nuclear Regulation be transferred to the Department for Engery and Climate Change rather than sit with the Department of Work and Pensions as a branch of the Health & Safety Executive. She added, "I see the dome of Sizewell B whenever I head home to Westleton and am confident that EDF takes safety very seriously and is not at all complacent. I do think though that the regulator should move to DECC so that all nuclear issues can be considered in one Government department."
Therese Calls Drought Debate
Yesterday in Parliament Therese spoke in an adjournment debate that she secured about the threat of a drought due to the current dry conditions and the impact this is having on local farmers. Due to the conditions spray irrigation has started much earlier than usual. The worry is that as a result of the dry weather access to aquifers could be limited and Therese is calling on Government agencies to be flexible.
In last night's debate she said "One of the challenges that our farmers face is that irrigation is needed to meet the quality standards that our supermarkets demand for what they will sell on their shelves. This is also about the price that we are prepared to pay for our food. There is an impact not just on the price of a potato or an onion, but on the feed for our livestock because of a lack of forage and hay, which will have repercussions next winter. We will all pay a heavy price for that and need to act now"
Therese said "Most farmers have a quota for the year. Some people have taken a gamble by starting to spray early compared with previous seasons. They are concerned that they might be restricted later in the season. Thus far, the Environment Agency has not shown the flexibility that it did in 2009, when it allowed people to abstract later."
She went on to say "I recognise that the Environment Agency has been proactive on this front and is working with farmers and other people to manage the situation. I pay tribute to it, because it is difficult to strike the right balance. However, there is no question that people in my constituency are worried about the potential lack of water for their crops".
In his response the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food, Jim Paice MP, who was born and grew up in Suffolk said that he recognised the problems that farmers face.
He said "it is clear that the main problem is for farmers who do not have reservoirs, who do not abstract from groundwater and who abstract from our rivers. Farmers have to compete for those abstraction rights with water companies, which abstract for human consumption, and with other industries. Overall, therefore, there are diminishing supplies."
He went on to say "we felt this was an issue of great importance, and I can tell the House that we will be arranging a further meeting shortly specifically to consider the competing priorities for abstraction. I emphasise that all Ministers in the Department recognise that, as my hon. Friend has said, both yield and quality of produce are affected by water supply. We do not wish to see farmers restricted unnecessarily, but obviously none of us can guarantee that those restrictions will not be required. The Environment Agency assured us today that it is trying to work with farmers to minimise the consequences."
Therese takes up Fish Fight
Yesterday in Parliament, Therese Coffey MP spoke in the debate about reform to the Common Fisheries Policy and fish discards.
Therese said "In the last few weeks, I have received a great many e-mails from constituents on this matter and public awareness of this senseless waste of food has been boosted by Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall's Fish Fight campaign".
She raised the plight of Suffolk Coastal fisherman in the House of Commons Chamber saying: "Fishermen in my part of the world often catch far more than the quota they are allowed but will land only what they are legally allowed to land. Sadly, the discards—the smaller fish—end up going back into the sea. Fishermen need to secure the maximum price for their fish, so they pick only the best and the rest sadly go to waste. We need to get around that problem."
"Discards are a disgrace but I do not blame the fisherman for doing that because that is their business and that is all they are allowed to do."
Therese criticised the Common Fisheries Policy and said that the CFP does not work at all and that we need to start again. She went on to suggest that instead of having a Fisheries Council including countries that have no fishing fleets, who essentially use their vote on fishing to negotiate other European matters, that a new regime with countries inside and outside the European Union should work together but involving fishermen as well.
Therese Welcomes Just Giving Text Service
Therese has today welcomed a new initiative launched by Vodafone, which allows registered charities in Suffolk Coastal the opportunity to take full advantage of JustTextGiving. For the first time ever, charities and individuals can raise money using text messages with a service that is free to set up and run, with every penny donated going to charity.
Therese said: "with charities facing a tougher environment for fundraising, I hope this launch will motivate a new digital generation of givers. Eighty-nine percent of adults carry a mobile, so there is a great opportunity to open up a new era of charitable giving using text donations."
JustTextGiving enables charities to personalise their own unique 6-digit text code - called a VIC or Vodafone Individual Code - and receive donations of up to £10 per message by text. There are no set-up or running costs for the charity and no network charge for supporters. Gift Aid can also be claimed on each donation. Registered charities can set up their codes from 9 May and individual fundraisers from 20 June. Vodafone is also offering a free marketing support pack for charities to help them to promote their new code.
Until now, mobile fundraising has been only used by large charities for occasional campaigns due to the substantial set-up costs involved but now registered charities can use a simple text message to fundraise - it takes just three steps to get going. Full details are available at www.justtextgiving.co.uk or by calling 0800 0521 081.
Therese Raises Drought Fears with Prime Minister
Last week in Parliament, Therese Coffey MP asked the Prime Minister about the real threat of a drought due to the current dry conditions and the impact this will have on local farmers. Farmers are genuinely concerned about the lack of rain, as their ability to abstract water may become limited.
Therese said "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"
The Prime Minister has agreed to meet Therese to talk about this serious issue and said "farmers face real issues because, at a time of year when they expect a lot of rain, they have had virtually none".
Therese has also secured a debate in Parliament next Monday to raise the issue further and hopes to get a response from the Environment Agency soon.
Renewables Initiative Launched
Therese Coffey has today welcomed a new initiative launched by NatWest and RBS to make £50m of funding available to farmers who want to invest in renewable energy.
The dedicated fund will provide the capital to cover up to 100% of the investment value of a project with typical repayment periods over 8-10 years.
As well as reducing energy bills, the scheme could also become a revenue source for farmers in its own right.
To support the fund RBS and Natwest have a team of almost 200 renewable energy specialists located across the UK, who have all been independently accredited by the Chartered Institute of Banking.
They are able to meet face to face with customers to assess the potential of each project and to provide support on key issues such as sitting, size, equipment, costs and revenues.
Therese Coffey said "this project is a good idea and may be helpful for are local farmers however I would not encourage them to stop farming and have solar fields instead"
She went on to say "the Government's feed-in tariffs are also generous for small-scale developments (about the size of two tennis courts) and they are designed not to create incentives to stop "business as usual", which is important"
The RBS/Natwest fund is targeted at projects with a maximum size of 1500kW for wind and 50kW for solar and any businesses wishing to contact the renewable energy team can call: 0800 092 9116 (NatWest) or 0800 073 0264 (RBS).
Therese and Brian Moore Support Sport and Recreation Alliance's Drive to Cut Red Tape for Sports Clubs
Therese recently attended an event at Westminster to throw her weight behind the Sport and Recreation Alliance's Red Card to Red Tape campaign, which aims to help sports clubs in Suffolk Coastal.
Commentator and former England rugby union international Brian Moore joined Therese at the event, which highlighted the Alliance's campaign to reduce the regulatory burden on sports clubs.
Therese Coffey MP said: "Sport and recreation clubs are a vital part of our social fabric. There are dozens of clubs in Suffolk Coastal that do a fantastic job providing sports facilities for their members, as well as providing valuable social work within the community. Most of them are run by volunteers who put in a lot of time and effort to give their membership the chance to take part in sport.
They deserve more support, and cutting bureaucracy for clubs would provide tangible benefits for all involved. I am asking the Government to examine the Alliance's report and cut red tape for grassroots sport. If implemented, the Review's recommendations will strengthen grassroots sport and have the potential to boost sports participation in the run up to, and beyond, the London 2012 Olympic Games."
The Sport and Recreation Alliance is calling on the Government to enhance the benefits of the Community Amateur Sports Club (CASC) scheme and make it easier for clubs to enrol, reduce red tape designed to regulate profit-making businesses, but which hamper voluntary clubs and ensure communities protect and empower sport, in spite of the difficult economic climate.
Help for the poorest children through the Pupil Premium
Therese has welcomed new figures which show that disadvantaged children in Suffolk Coastal are set to receive £434,085 this year under the Coalition government's new 'pupil premium'.
The pupil premium is a new policy promised by both the Coalition Parties before the general election last year. It is an extra lump sum of cash which follows every disadvantaged child and is received by schools, allowing them to provide additional support such as one-to-one tuition and extra pastoral care.
The Government has announced that in the year from April 2011, the pupil premium will be worth £430 for every pupil on Free School Meals, £430 for every looked-after child, and £200 for every child who has a parent in the armed services. This means that in Suffolk Coastal this year:
1,150 children overall will benefit from an extra £462,000.142 children of members of the armed services will benefit from an extra £28,400.
Therese said: "This is fantastic news for children in Suffolk. The gap between the academic performance of children from deprived backgrounds and their peers is far too big and has been ignored for too long"
She went on to say 'The pupil premium will tackle this disparity head on, providing targeted funding for those who need it most. This could mean extra one-to-one tuition or more pastoral support.
'The Coalition government didn't create these problems but, even in these tough times, it is delivering a massive boost to the education of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable children.
Therese backs BBC Local Radio
Today in Parliament, Therese Coffey spoke in a debate that she secured about the future of BBC local radio to try and stop the recently floated idea to centralise the local radio operation.
During the debate Therese extolled the virtues of BBC Local Radio – saying that they support "community moments, where local radio truly excels, such as the Proms at the Albert hall being taken to the local celebration party, or the royal wedding coming up on 29 April."
She went on to say that "Leiston FC probably would not get commentary on Radio 5 Live, even though they are about to win their championship and get promoted into the Ryman league premier division, but somehow I think that matters to the people of Suffolk" Local radio is so distinctive and valued so much by the listeners in Suffolk Coastal.
Therese has support from 66 of her Parliamentary Colleagues from all political parties for her campaign all of which have signed her Early Day Motion to save local radio.
She said "Many good examples of BBC local radio will be given today, but the reason I wanted the debate was to stand up for the licence fee payer. One of the things that worries me about the BBC's review process is that the licence fee payers have not been asked for their opinions or thoughts".
Therese went on to point out that the BBC could make savings in its bureaucracy and make efficiencies so it could continue to fund local radio – in which local people value. She ended by saying "one of the BBC's core values is to reflect what its audiences want. I call on it to look hard, think hard, and speak to licence fee payers".
Consultation Launched on the Reform of Fisheries Management
Proposals to simplify the way fishing quotas are managed have been announced today by the Minister for the Natural Environment and Fisheries, Richard Benyon MP. The new plans will let the industry plan better for the future, putting more control in the hands of small-scale fishing fleets and fishing communities.
Therese Coffey said "Suffolk Coastal has such a strong link with its fishing fleets and under these new proposals fishermen will have more control over how they operate and better opportunities to profit under plans to overhaul the way fishing quotas are managed".
She went on to say "We need a simple, straightforward system that gives fishermen more say. Importantly these proposals for community quota schemes focus on safeguarding small-scale fleets including for the under 10m fleet, enabling fishermen to work together to manage their overall quotas flexibly."
The plans also include:
The allocation of more stable and predictable entitlements to fish across the whole English fleet, using Fixed Quota Allocations (FQA);safeguards to protect small-scale fishing rights and prevent concentration of rights in the large-scale fleet; andrealigning fishing opportunities, moving some FQAs (including those associated with consistently unfished quota) to provide incentives for community quota schemes.
A consultation has launched today to seek views on the proposals for fisheries management reform and it runs until the 30th June.
If you would like to contribute to the process please go to www.defra.co.uk to view the documents and contact: Access to Fisheries Team, Area 2C Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London. SW1P 3JR or Email: fisheriesreform@defra.gsi.gov.uk.
New Warm Home Discount Implemented
This week in Parliament Therese Coffey MP formed part of the Delegated Legislation Committee that agreed the future Warm Home Discount to take effect.
The scheme is designed to provide financial assistance to more of the most low-income energy customers. A voluntary agreement has been in place for the past 3 years between the Government and the Energy Companies to provide financial assistance to vulnerable customers – this legislation regularises this agreement.
The new Warm Home Discount Scheme builds on the success of the Voluntary agreement and will allow the Government to provide stronger direction on targeting support to the people that need it most.
Dr Coffey did raise the question about whether this scheme will provide help for customers who primarily rely on domestic heating oil but the Governments reply was that the core group rebates will be paid on electricity accounts.
However Therese went on to say "this scheme will ensure that participating energy suppliers will provide support worth up to 1.1bn over the next four years – which will be a great help for those affected by fuel poverty".
Suffolk Arts Funding Announced
Funding levels for local Arts in Suffolk have been revealed today as the New National portfolio of funded organisations released the figures. At a national level 110 new organisations have been brought into the mix but due to financial pressures it is regretful that some good applications were turned down. Locally it is a mixed bag for Suffolk.
Suffolk Coastal MP Therese Coffey said "It was disappointing that there has been a cut in the funding for Aldeburgh Music, which does so much, but I believe in the leadership of Jonathan Reekie and Lord Stevenson and I am sure they will be able to bridge that gap".
She went on to say "the more pleasing news is that the future of Eastern Angles and Dance East are secure as well as the new funding for the High Tide Festival. I recognise how important the Arts are in the Community and am confident that they will continue to flourish".
Skipton Fund Deadline Fast Approaching
In January the Government announced a range of additional support for those infected with HIV and Hepatitis C from NHS supplied Blood.
The Skipton Fund is the body that processes claims for those infected with Hepatitis and one of the measures announced was to remove the previous exclision from the scheme of claims in respect of people that died before the Skipton Fund was set up in August 2003.
It is imperative that representatives of those who died before 2003 conatct the Skipton Fund before the end of this month (March 31st) to register an interest in making a posthumous claim.
Therese Coffey said " we are fast approaching the March 31st deadline and it is imperative that those entittled to claim do so. People only need to register their intention with the Skipton Fund by 31st March- the Department of Health understands that it may take longer to compile the necessary medical evidence required to support the claim – but this can be done afterwards".
If you beleieve you are entittled to make a claim then do it online at: www.skiptonfund.org, by e-mail: apply@skiptonfund.org or by phone 0207 8081160.
Therese fights for Suffolk Pig Industry
Yesterday in Parliament Therese Coffey took part in a debate she helped to secure on Pig Farming. It is an industry that Suffolk is famous for but with Pig farmers losing approximately £20 per Pig - it is clear that it needs support.
Soaring feed prices causing a rise in production costs accompanied by strict animal welfare regulations compared to another nations - means that supermarkets are increasingly buying up cheaper foreign imports.
In her speech Therese said "in 1998, this country was 80% self-sufficient in producing enough pigmeat for our needs. This year we are at 48%". She went on to praise Jimmy Butler of Blythburgh Pork who has 18,000 pigs at any one time. He has previously pointed out that the farming industry loses £4 million per week, while processors make £8 million, and retailers make £16 million of profit per week. It is important that the Government can do all it can to redress this balance and support the UK Pig industry.
She said "We should be proud of the welfare standards that we enjoy in this country but we need to make sure that task of bringing welfare standards up to those enjoyed in the United Kingdom from other nations that have committed to this is completed by the promised date of 2013".
Therese was clear to say that the she or indeed the industry was not calling for a subsidy but she called on the Government to do what ever it can to promote the UK Pig industry. She pointed out that "The industry is good at talking about consumer choice and education, and we need to continue to advertise the fact that 45% of pig herds in this country are reared outdoors, whereas in the rest of Europe it barely reaches 5%. Such things are important, and they are one reason why British pork is rightly a premium product." A good way of doing this is through clearer food labelling She said "that would not cost money, it is free to do, and it would have a dramatic effect on consumer education, as the consumer would know that the products that they buy that sport the British flag were raised and reared here and conform to UK welfare standards".
The Government Minister James Paice was sympathetic with these points and said that consumers should always be better informed and that it is in the interests of the consumer to ensure a supply of British pigmeat for the future.
A Budget for Growth, Jobs and Families
Therese Coffey has welcomed the Government's Budget with its plan to reform the economy to support jobs and growth, and to take steps to help families with the cost of living – including an immediate cut in fuel duty. The Chancellor also announced that 21 new Enterprise Zones will be created in areas of greatest social need. Ten more than expected. Therese will work with other MPs and the LEP to press for an Enterprise Zone.
Key measures in the Budget to boost growth include:
Tax cuts for businesses and entrepreneurs, scrapping burdensome regulations, radical reform of the planning system, new investment in science and innovation; and more support for young people with additional apprenticeships and work experience places.
To help families facing the rising cost of living, the Budget also will:
Immediately cut fuel duty by 1 pence per litre and delay April's inflation rise in duty to next January. This means fuel duty is 6 pence lower than it would be under Labour. Introduce a Fair Fuel Stabiliser to tax oil companies more to stop above inflation rises in fuel duty. Increase the Personal Allowance from by a further £630 from April 2012. That's another real increase of £48 extra per year, or £126 in cash terms. Together with this year's rise, that means a total of £326 extra each year for those working hard to support their families. And it means, just ten months into office, this coalition Government has taken 1.1 million low paid people out of tax altogether.
Welcoming the Budget, Therese said:
"Last year's Budget brought Britain back from the brink of bankruptcy. The Government is right to stick to the plan to get Britain living within her means and I am delighted that the Chancellor didn't have to come back for more. Instead this year's Budget sets out plans to back enterprise and get Britain making things again. By cutting fuel duty immediately and cutting income tax for millions the Chancellor has done what he can to help families now. This Budget has put fuel into the tank of our economy."
Therese walks for clean water
Therese Coffey walked for water at Westminster today as part of a global campaign to raise awareness for the world water and sanitation crisis.
Marking the United Nations World Water Day, Dr Therese Coffey joined hundreds of thousands of people across the globe who walked in solidarity with the almost 900 million people worldwide who still have no access to safe drinking water, and the 2.6 billion people without a toilet. The event, called World Walks for Water, was organised by global campaign group End Water Poverty.
International development organisations WaterAid and Tearfund hosted today's event in London which saw Dr Coffey and over 40 MPs, including Secretary of State Andrew Mitchell and Shadow Secretary of State Harriet Harman, get a taste for the daily reality for millions of people by carrying water containers on a short walk near the Houses of Parliament.
"Lack of water and sanitation traps some of the world's poorest people in a vicious circle of disease, lost life chances and poverty," said Dr Coffey "The burden of this crisis largely falls on women and children, and so today I wanted to highlight the critical need for these basic services in the developing world."
Globally, campaigners walked for water in over 50 countries from Nigeria to Nepal, London to Las Vegas. In many countries, people walked for six kilometres to demand an end to the global water and sanitation crisis, representing the average distance women and children walk to collect their water for their basic needs.
Highlights included: a walk which took place at Everest Base camp; a circus-themed extraordinaire featuring Cirque du Soleil in Las Vegas, USA; 15,000 children from 75 schools in Belgium who walked to meet politicians; and over 30,000 campaigners talking part in both Nepal and Nigeria.
It is estimated that in the world's poorest countries, women and girls spend a staggering 40 billion hours every year fetching and carrying water. Households in rural Africa spend an average of 26% of their time fetching water, carrying water containers weighing as much as 20kg, the same as the average baggage allowance on most airlines. The lack of safe water and toilets has a huge impact on a woman's ability to earn a living, get an education and spend time with her family.
"Water and sanitation are essential for improving health, education, gender equality and economic growth," said Margaret Batty, WaterAid Policy and Campaigns Director. "While the world waits to take action on the global water and sanitation crisis, 4,000 children die every single day from related illnesses. Today hundreds of thousands of people around the globe have demanded that the world wakes up to this deadly emergency. The billions without these basic services can't wait any longer."
Safeguarding the future of our forests: Independent Panel to help develop Forestry Policy
Therese has today welcomed the announcement made by the Secretary of State for the Environment on the future of forestry policy. Caroline Spellman has set up an Independent Panel to advise her on the future direction of forestry and woodland policy in England and on the role of the Forestry Commission in implementing policy.
The panel, to be chaired by the Right Reverend James Jones, Bishop of Liverpool, brings together a wide range of interests and expertise covering the environmental, social and economic aspects of forestry. They will advise government on a new approach to forestry policy in England, including looking at how woodland cover can be increased and at options for enhancing public benefits from all woodlands and forests.
Therese said "Our forests are a great part of our heritage and essential for our way of life, But they also offer economic benefits through tourism, recreation and providing timber for fuel and buildings. This independent panel of experts will advise us on what we need to do to give forests the right protection so they continue to be a place that people can enjoy for the future".
Therese backs Action in Libya Crisis
Today in Parliament the Prime Minister made a statement to the house about last night's United Nations Security Council vote and the preparations that are underway for a joint operation to enforce a UN-backed no-fly zone over Libya to stop Colonel Gaddafi killing his own people.
In her support of the Prime Minister leadership on this issue Therese congratulated the PM saying "Just yesterday, I voiced my concern that inertia could lead to our generation's Rwanda. I am glad that he, along with others, has secured agreement to this resolution. I am sure that that was helped by the chilling words that Colonel Gaddafi issued in his radio interview".
She went on to ask the Prime Minister about Gaddafi's threats to attack civil aircraft – and asked him if the Security Council has "been able to assess that threat? Is it just the empty hot air of a tyrant who knows that his days in power are numbered?"
In his response the Prime Minister said "The hon. Lady is right to draw the House's attention to what Gaddafi has said. He has said chilling words about what he plans to do to his own country and people, and he must be stopped. I too heard the reported remarks about civilian aircraft. Be in no doubt that, even aside from a UN Security Council resolution, every country has the right under international law to self-defence—a right that could be exercised in full".
Therese Backs Peter Jones' Tenner Tycoon Challenge
Therese has announced her support for a scheme that sees school kids encouraged to start a business with just £10 each, in the biggest ever Tenner Tycoon challenge.
The Suffolk Coastal MP is backing the landmark scheme, called Tenner Tycoon, which will see the campaigning charity Enterprise UK loan hundreds of thousands of pounds to young people across the UK to encourage them to start up their own businesses.
Participants in Tenner Tycoon will receive £10 and be challenged to make as much profit and social good as they can in a month.
Therese said "Tenner Tycoon is an innovative scheme that gives young people in Suffolk and all over the UK the chance to showcase their skills and ingenuity whilst gaining practical business experience. The programme's relevance and importance has never been as great as it is this year – the year that aims to kick-start the 'entrepreneurial decade'.
She went on to say "We need to support initiatives like Tenner Tycoon that aim to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs and therefore ensure the future prosperity of the UK."
This year, the challenge is to also 'give something back' and participants are encouraged to donate some of their profits to charity. The scheme, supported by the Peter Jones Foundation, has been a huge success since it launched in 2007. Previous winners have made their money in diverse ways such as fashion shows, cookery books and concerts.
Therese steers Private Members Bill through Parliament
Tomorrow, Therese has the 3rd reading of her Private Members' Bill on Wreck Removal Convention. The essence of the Bill is to transfer liability away for the removal of shipwrecks from the taxpayer to ship-owners. For larger vessels, insurance will be compulsory.
The Bill will implement into UK law of the 2007 Nairobi International Convention on Shipwreck Removal and is considered uncontroversial – which is why it has progressed so smoothly.
Therese added, "I secured this opportunity to introduce a Bill when I was successful in the Private Members' Ballot. In my first year as an MP, I am on the edge of implementing a new piece of legislation. I chose this particular Bill because of the importance of clear shipping lanes in Suffolk Coastal. Imagine if a cargo boat was wrecked just outside Felixstowe. It would be devastating for the port. This legislation puts the onus on the ship-owner to remove the wreck and if they do not or are slow, it gives powers to the UK government to remove the wreck and charge the ship-owner for it".
She went on to say "this bill is Common sense really but I know it has taken years to negotiate with other nations. Tomorrow, the Bill receives its Third Reading and moves to the Lords. This is something I can genuinely claim that my predecessor John Gummer never achieved, as in all his years of trying, he was never drawn in the Ballot."
Therese Coffey speaks out about changes to the Coastguard
The Government has today announced that UK's 18 Coastguard stations are going to be cut to just 8. Shipping Minister Mike Penning said that the changes will improve the present levels of service whilst reducing costs. However local MP Therese Coffey is concerned about the impact this will have on Suffolk. She has written to the Minister recognising that there are some technical enhancements in the new policy that will lead to efficient and effective working arrangements but she has stated that Suffolk is in a unique position.
Therese is seeking reassurances that there is effective cover for the coastline off East Suffolk. There is congested seas and larger ships off of Felixstowe in addition though there should be increased activity in this area by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency as a result of the Ship to Ship transfer regulation which specifies that offshore transfers can only take place in the area off Southwold as enhanced monitoring should be undertaken. Therese went on to say "I am seeking assurances from the Minister on this and will be submitting a full response to the consultation standing up for Suffolk."
Therese Coffey wants to encourage you to have your say. There is a consultation period that began today and will run until the 24th March 2011. You can comment by going to www.mcga.gov.uk and return by e-mail or send written responses to;
HM Coastguard Modernisation Consultation
Maritime and Coastguard Agency
Spring Place
Bay 2/13
105 Commercial Road
Southampton
SO15 1EG
Tea with Therese for Twit Relief
Twit Relief is a Twitter related way of raising money for Comic Relief. Many national celebrities such as Lilly Allen, Richard Curtis & James Corden are also taking part in this innovative event. The winning bidder is then followed on Twitter by that celebrity. They will re-tweet one of your tweets and encourage their followers to follow you.
Therese Coffey – who got involved through constituent Emma Freud, has already attracted a bid of over £220 on her Twit Relief profile, is also offering tea for four at the House of Commons.
Therese Coffey said "this is a great way to raise money for such a worthy cause, that helps families in poverty both in this country and abroad. I look forward to welcoming the winning bidder to Westminster and interacting with them on Twitter."
If you would like to bid in this auction please go to - http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/THERESE-COFFEY-TWITRELIEF-SUPERFOLLOW-PLUS-/250785951533?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item3a6401ef2d. The Auction ends on the 20th March.
Ticket Priority Should be given to Britons
Tickets have gone on sale today for the 2012 Olympic Games and will be live for 6 weeks until the 26th of April. There are over £6 Million tickets available for the games but Therese is investigating why Britons are not being given priority when applying for tickets for the London Games. Under EU law anyone in the European Union can apply for tickets. Therese said "I would like to see priority given to residents in the United Kingdom, after all it is the British people that are paying for the games to be hosted here".
She has raised this issue with the Chairman of the Culture, Olympics, Media & Sport Select Committee, John Whittingdale – and will raise the issue with the London Organising Comittee (LOCOG) and Europe Minister, David Liddington.
Therese Coffey Campaigns to save Local Radio
Local MP Therese Coffey has this week tabled an Early Day Motion in Westminster calling on the BBC to stop the proposals for the centralisation of radio.
In a letter to the Chairman of the BBC Trust, Therese expressed her concern about the recently floated idea concerning BBC Local radio.
She said "Every day that I am in Suffolk, I listen to my local radio station BBC Suffolk. I think that the BBC Executive perhaps underestimates the power, the value and the respect given to BBC Suffolk by many listeners across the county.
BBC Suffolk has led the way with various campaigns including the Treehouse Appeal, supporting the efforts of the East Anglia Children's Hospice in raising over £3 million in under a year, as I mentioned in Prime Ministers Questions last week."
She went on to say "I recognise that the BBC has to make some tough decisions in order to meet its budget with the frozen licence fee. However, I do not believe it is beyond the BBC to think how it can deliver radio locally".
She is calling upon the BBC to put an immediate halt to this idea.
London 2012 Ticket Application Process Open for 6 Weeks
Applications for tickets for the Olympic Games open next week on the 15th March and will be live for 6 weeks until the 26th of April. The process is not 'first come first served' and applications made on the 26th April will have the same chance of success as those submitting on the 15th March.
Therese Coffey said "With over 2.5 million signed up for ticket information – this is an exciting time to be applying for tickets. This application process is an innovative way of ensuring that everyone has a chance to get a ticket, not just those who can be sitting on a phone or computer on the first day of sale"
The full Olympic Competition Schedule has been published with details of every sporting session, in every venue, on every day, and at every price. It's your guide to your Games and is available here: http://www.tickets.london2012.com/olyschedule_p1.html
Local MP calls on Supermarkets to Support the Suffolk Pig Industry
Therese Coffey yesterday signed an Early Day Motion (EDM) which raises the growing crisis that is developing in the UK Pig Industry. In her maiden speech the Suffolk Coastal MP mentioned pig farming as one of the industries that Suffolk was famous for and she is trying to make sure it has a sustainable future.
The EDM notes the soaring feed prices which have caused a significant rise in production costs and recognises that UK producers are now losing a crippling average of £21 on every pig produced.
Therese said "UK Pig farmers such as those in Suffolk observe some of the highest standards of animal welfare in the world. The cost of production is therefore higher – and supermarkets buy up cheaper foreign imports".
She went on to say "This motion calls on calls on the supermarkets and processors to support high levels of animal welfare and pay UK farmers a fair price for their pigs".
Therese Coffey has applied for a debate about this issue in the house.
Prime Minister Praises the people of Suffolk over Treehouse Appeal
Today in Parliament Therese Coffey asked the Prime Minister in Prime Ministerial Question Time to join with her in congratulating the people of Suffolk who have raised £3 million for the Treehouse appeal.
Therese praised the East Anglia's Children's Hospices for raising the money in less than a year since the campaign was launched. She also highlighted the good work of BBC Suffolk, the Evening Star and the East Anglian Daily Times for promoting the cause. She said "this is an example of the community coming together to support a local project that will really make a difference".
In his response David Cameron said "My hon. friend is absolutely right. I know that Members right across the House back the hospice movement, with its hospices for adults and for children. The Government have put extra money into hospices. He went on to say the the Treehouse appeal "is a great example of the big society, where people come together and make sure that there is real provision to look after those who need it most."
Fuel Poverty Adviceline
Local MP Therese Coffey has welcomed the new partnership that is due to be launched in Parliament next week between EDF Energy and the Citizens Advice Bureau. The partnership is focused on helping customers who are experiencing difficulties paying energy bills and debts.
Therese Coffey said "EDF have promised to fund a dedicated a freephone number and a dedicated team within the CAB national adviceline to provide customers with independent advice on fuel poverty".
She went on to say: "This is excellent news, not only is this something that will be beneficial to my constituents in Suffolk Coastal, it is a prime example of business working with the voluntary sector for the good of the community".
Therese Welcomes Consultation on BSkyB
Local MP Therese Coffey has today welcomed the consultation that has been launched about News Corporation's proposed takeover of BSkyB, in lieu of a referral to the Competition Commission.
Jeremy Hunt, the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport has announced that, following advice from Ofcom and the Office of Fair Trading (OFT), he intends to accept undertakings from News Corporation on their proposed merger with BskyB that involves Sky News being separated as an independent public limited company that would have to adhere to strict guidelines to ensure editorial independence and integrity
Therese Coffey said "Jeremy Hunt has been clear that he would not accept proposals from News Corporation that Ofcom were not happy with. Ofcom's advice is clear that the revised undertakings address media plurality concerns, will work in practice and will be sustainable. He has sought the independent advice of the regulators at every step of the way to ensure a fair and transparent process."
She went on to say "I have been contacted by many constituents about this and am pleased that they are now able to have their say as part of the consultation".
The consultation which runs until midday on 21st March 2011, is to assess whether the undertaking suggested by BSkyB is sufficient to remedy, mitigate or prevent the public interest concerns in relation to media plurality raised by the merger.
If you would like to submit a response to the consultation please visit the Department of Culture, Olympics, Media & Sport website at www.culture.gov.uk and send your responses via bskyb-newscorp.consultation@culture.gsi.gov.uk or post your submission to BSkyB-News Corporation Consultation, Media Department for Culture, Media and Sport, 2-4 Cockspur Street, London, SW1Y 5DH."
Therese meets Senior Officials to talk through Ship to Ship Concerns
Today in Parliament, Therese Coffey met senior officials from the Department of Transport along with Mr Dachang Du of the International Maritime Organisation to talk through with them the concerns people have about Ship to Ship Transfers.
Therese Coffey said "The meeting proved very fruitful and I was able to talk through the detailed points of concern with them which will form part of my consultation submission – which I will be submitting next week".
Therese Welcomes Money for Pothole Repair
Therese Coffey has welcomed the Government's announcement that it will give over £100 million to councils for pothole repair. This is especially valuable after the terrible weather this winter caused terrible damage to a lot of our roads.
The Government's move has been welcomed by the AA who estimate that, if the £100 million is used entirely for roads, it will repair 1.5 million potholes.
The money is in addition to the £831 million already provided to councils for road maintenance this year and the £30 billion of transport infrastructure spending the Government has committed to over the next four years.
Therese Coffey said 'This money should make a real difference in Suffolk Coastal and to the huge number of drivers and cyclists who are fed up with having to continually battle against dangerous potholes, giving them safer and smoother journeys.'
Rock the House
Therese Coffey MP is supporting 'Rock The House', a national music competition in search of talented new artists and venues from across the UK. It has been set up by Mike Weatherley MP who is champion for the music industry.
Therese Coffey said 'Rock The House' is a music competition with a political twist; supporting unsigned bands and artists, it will raise political awareness of the importance of music and other creative businesses to the UK."
Both culturally and economically, music is hugely important to this country. The purpose of developing 'Rock The House' is to put the spotlight on some very important issues within the music industry and increase political support to ensure that the UK's composers, artists and musicians can continue to dominate the world stage.
Rock The House offers entry categories covering both Live Bands and Live Music Venues - and is open for entries now.
Bands and venues are invited to enter themselves, via their local MP Therese Coffey, who will make nominations to a judging panel of music industry heavyweights.
Entries can be submitted until the closing date of 31st March 2011. Further details and the official application forms are available online at: www.rockthehouse.me.uk and winners will be announced by the end of May and all competition finalists will be invited to attend an exclusive star-studded event on the Terrace of the House of Commons on 30th June.
Ship to Ship Consultation Open Until March 10th
Following Therese's meeting with Mike Penning, the Under Secretary of State for Transport earlier this month, it was decided that the consultation would re-open until the 10th March so people had a chance to comment further on the Ship to Ship Transfer Regulations.
This is a fresh opportunity for people, especially those residents from the Southwold area who felt they were not heard last summer to put forward their views on the matter. If you would like to comment please write to Mike Penning at the Department for Transport, Great Minster House, 76 Marsham Street, London, SW1P 4DR or e-mail Godfrey.Suiter@DFT.gsi.gov.uk
All of those who wrote to the Minister after the original consultation closed on the 30th September will have their comments treated as if they had been received during the period of review and they will be taken into account in deciding the final form of the regulations.
Government Listens to Public Concern over Forestry
Therese Coffey has welcomed the statement made this afternoon made by Caroline Spelman advising that the consultation on the sale of forestry has been ended. The Secretary of State has done so because the Government has listened to the reaction of the public and has decided to halt the discussion leading to the possible sell off of forestry land. Caroline Spelman has also advised that she is removing the forestry clauses from the public bodies bill.
Therese Coffey said "I think that this decision has shown that this Government does believe in consultation and it is a refreshing change from the fingers in the ears, tick the box processes that we had become used to under the last Government. I was pleased to hold the public meeting last week and have passed on those concerns expressed to Caroline Spelman, which I reinforced in the Chamber earlier today. I look forward to positive action on the future of our forests, including protecting access rights that are currently enjoyed, and am also encouraging all users of the forest to join groups like Friends of the Sandlings Forest and Suffolk Wildlife Trust."
Further Consultation on Ship to Ship Transfers
Therese Coffey MP had a short meeting with the Minister, Mike Penning, this week continuing their discussion on proposed Ship to Ship transfers. The new SI is due to be published soon. Therese is pleased to report that the Minister has offered to put the SI directly to public consultation, an unusual move, given the level of interest.
Therese said "I have been pressing the Minister on this and while it is unusual for a Minister to open up consultation on a Statutory Instrument he has recognised the strength of public feeling on this". She went on to say, "This is a fresh opportunity for people who felt they were not heard last summer to put forward their views on the matter".
As soon as the public consultation on this issue goes live I will provide a link to it on my website.
Therese Welcomes Plans to Tackle Anti-Social Behaviour
Therese Coffey has welcomed the Home Office consultation that opens today about future plans to tackle anti-social behaviour.
She said "it is clear that Labour's antisocial behaviour orders haven't worked, with the risk that they are seen as a badge of honour amongst young people, rather than a credible way to tackle anti-social behaviour." She went on to say "this consultation is about moving beyond ASBO's to establish a workable policy that will help deal with the problem."
The Government are proposing new Criminal Behaviour Orders, which would involve a sliding scale of punishment.
Therese Coffey said "we are also outlining plans to compel police to probe incidents that are reported by at least five people".
The Consultation opens today and you can make a submission online at http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/consultations/cons-2010-antisocial-behaviour/ or by writing to the Anti-social behaviour unit, Home Office 4th floor Fry building, 2 Marsham Street, London,SW1P 4DF. The consultation closes on the 3rd May 2011
Therese meets Jude Law to promote Peace One Day
Therese Coffey met actor Jude Law and Peace One Day founder Jeremy Gilley in Parliament, to discuss their campaign for a Global Truce and a significant reduction in global violence.Peace One Day aims to advance active learning in the areas of conflict resolution, global citizenship, human rights and the link between sustainability and peace, using Global Peace Day of the 21st September as a focus
.
Therese said, "I was delighted to meet Jude and Jeremy to hear of their efforts thus far, including a remarkable day of truce in Afghanistan and used the day to immunise many children instead. Everlasting peace is surely one of the aspirations that all humankind shares and I think it is valuable to have the focus of this one day a year when we can all choose to make a difference."
Oil Investigation Hots Up
After pressure from Therese Coffey MP and the Government, the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has announced that they will be investigating the recent increases in the cost of domestic heating oil. The study will look at whether the market is working for 'off-grid' energy consumers. Therese said "For those who are reliant on oil or LPG, the cost of heating your home is no joke especially when the price per litre shot up from about 40p to over 70p in just four weeks. I am delighted that the minister Charles Hendry who recently made a visit to Suffolk asked the OFT to investigate". The OFT has brought forward its study into this market with a view to take action prior to next winter. It is now consulting on the scope of the study which it proposes should cover themes such as how well competition provides choice for consumers at a local and regional level and as well as planning to survey the views of off-grid energy users around the UK. If you would like to make a submission about the scope of the enquiry, you should contact the OFT by the 28 February at: Off-grid Energy Market Study, Office of Fair Trading, Level 2, Fleetbank House, 2-6 Salisbury Square, London EC4Y 8JX or email offgrid@oft.gsi.gov.uk.
Office of Fair trading to look at Domestic Oil Price
Following representations Therese and other members of Parliament made to the Minister for Energy about the recent domestic oil price spike, Charles Hendry MP has written to the Office of Fair Trading to try and alleviate the problem for the future.
The recent severe weather has caused significant concern about the domestic oil market and many people have experienced difficulties with rising prices and supply problems. Therese said "this problem is particularly prevalent in Suffolk Coastal where many people are off the energy grid and I have been making this known in Parliament".
The Office of Fair Trading is currently consulting on its annual plan to help determine its work programme for 2011/12. This includes proposals to prioritise markets impacted by high, rising and volatile commodity prices. The off-gas grid energy market is clearly one such affected market.
The Minister has now written to the Office of Fair Trading asking it to bring forward its competition and consumer study into off-grid energy. Charles Hendry said "in addition, I have asked the Office of Fair Trading if the study could explore the longer term consumer issues such as lifetime payback, consumer standards and labelling for alternative energy sources or supplies. Such a study would provide an independent assessment of the off-grid market and establish what further action may be necessary to ensure it works properly".
He went on to say "I welcome the Office of Fair Trading's support for this area, and look forward to seeing its conclusions in advance of next winter so the lessons from this winter can be learned and any necessary changes made."
Consulation on Enery Infrastructure to end on Monday
Therese is reminding people that the consultation on the national policy statement for energy infrastructure is to close this coming Monday. The consultation is designed to inform a policy framework on planning decisions for energy infrastructure. This will have implications on Sizewell. If you would like to make a contribution to this consultation please click on this link - https://www.energynpsconsultation.decc.gov.uk/docs/ConsultationDocument.pdf and follow the guidance.
Therese presses Ken Clarke on Drugs Policy In Prisions
As promised last year Therese has recently followed up the issue of drugs policy in prisons. She has been in contact with the Secretary of State for Justice Ken Clarke, pressing him on drugs in prisons. In his response the Minister said "getting prisoners off drugs is what matters" and he is looking at how the drugs policy can change to reflect this. Therese will keep up the pressure to try and achieve better results.
Therese continues the Campaign to fight the Heating oil price hike
This morning Therese Coffey spoke in Parliament in the debate on Fuel Poverty. She re-iterated the point that anyone who does not have access to mains gas is allowed to claim for a dual fuel discount on their electricity bills and said, "if any constituent of mine, or indeed of anybody else, is not taking advantage of that scheme at the moment, they should contact their electricity supplier."
Therese then moved on to press the Government on the heating oil price spike. Therese said, "There is no question that the spike has plunged more people into fuel poverty. We are talking about a significant differential of hundreds of pounds between the cost of heating our homes with gas and the cost of heating them with oil or LPG."
Therese went on to encourage Charles Hendry, the Minister, to think more closely on regulation of the area, social tariffs for oil users and the role of the Office of Fair Trading and OFGEM. Therese also pressed the need for a flexible Green Deal, where it may require more than £6,000 to replace an oil heating system. Therese added, "I was pleased with the response of the Minister who does understand the needs of constituents in Suffolk Coastal. I will continue to press for the needs of the vulnerable in keeping warm this winter."
Therese Wants More Financing Options for Small Businesses
Yesterday Therese Coffey met the Minister for Business Innovation & Skills, Mark Prisk MP to discuss financing of small businesses.
Therese Coffey noted that one of the recent practices highlighted with her as a result of discussions with local businesses is the immediate referral by banks to factoring of debt. Therese added "this may not be the sexiest subjects but it is an important one. Small businesses are the bedrock of our communities. When it comes to financing a company factoring seems to be a route that is used, but may not be appropriate for every business. Indeed in some cases it is an expensive way of financing a company".
She went on to say "I was pleased to have the time with the Minister to raise this issue on behalf of some of the businesses in my constituency. If there are any businesses that are struggling with securing financing I would be grateful if they would let me know".
Therese Coffey speaks out about changes to the Coastguard
The Government has today announced that UK's 18 Coastguard stations are going to be cut to just 8. Shipping Minister Mike Penning said that the changes will improve the present levels of service whilst reducing costs. However local MP Therese Coffey is concerned about the impact this will have on Suffolk. She has written to the Minister recognising that there are some technical enhancements in the new policy that will lead to efficient and effective working arrangements but she has stated that Suffolk is in a unique position.
Therese is seeking reassurances that there is effective cover for the coastline off East Suffolk. There is congested seas and larger ships off of Felixstowe in addition though there should be increased activity in this area by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency as a result of the Ship to Ship transfer regulation which specifies that offshore transfers can only take place in the area off Southwold as enhanced monitoring should be undertaken. Therese went on to say "I am seeking assurances from the Minister on this and will be submitting a full response to the consultation standing up for Suffolk."
Therese Coffey wants to encourage you to have your say. There is a consultation period that began today and will run until the 24th March 2011. You can comment by going to www.mcga.gov.uk and return by e-mail or send written responses to;
HM Coastguard Modernisation Consultation
Maritime and Coastguard Agency
Spring Place
Bay 2/13
105 Commercial Road
Southampton
SO15 1EG
Therese presses Minister on Coastguard Cuts
Therese Coffey MP for Suffolk Coastal has received a letter from the Minister, Mike Penning responding to her initial concerns on the impact to East Suffolk of the proposed changes in coastguard provision. In his response he acknowledged her concerns that the coastguard provision is planned to be reduced and is looking at them in more detail.
Therese said "I am glad the Minister is listening to my concerns and those of my constituents, I have since written to the Minister asking for a personal meeting to press him further. She went on to say "The Maritime and Coastguard Agency is planning public meetings on this issue and one of these is due to take place in Great Yarmouth. I will keep you informed of the date when it has been confirmed. Meanwhile the consultation is open till 24th March 2011 and submissions can be sent to Maritime and Coastguard Agency, Spring Place, Bay 2/13, 105 Commercial Road, Southampton, SO15 1EG".
Don’t buy Puppies for Christmas
Therese Coffey is reminding people of the Dog Trust's famous slogan "A Dog is for Life, Not just for Christmas" this festive season. Therese, who herself has a rescue dog called Rizzo has signed an Early Day Motion in Parliament recognising that despite many years of campaigning by the Dogs Trust, there still exists a problem of dogs being given as Christmas presents; resulting in puppies being abandoned in the New Year.
Therese said "there were over 121,000 stray and abandoned dogs taken in by local authorities last year, over 6,000 of which were put to sleep. I whole heartedly support the Dogs Trust in its campaign to ensure that one day all dogs are cared for responsible owners, and have a home for life".
Therese raises the Issue of the Price of Domestic Oil
Today in Parliament, Suffolk Coastal MP, Therese Coffey raised the issue of the price of domestic heating oil. A month ago the heating oil was just under 40p per litre it is now over 70p per litre. During Energy Questions Therese said "several constituents have contacted me about the price of oil". She asked the minister if "he would take up this issue through Government to ensure that people are not frozen out of their homes this winter."
In his reply the Minister, Charles Hendry MP said that he has "spoken to the Office of Fair Trading about the price of heating oil, as the enforcement of competition and consumer law is a matter for the OFT, and it assures me that it is keeping a very close eye on the situation." He went on to say that the OFT were keen to receive submissions from MP's about this issue. Therese is putting such a submission together and will make representations to the Office of Fair Trading about this issue.
Therese went on to say "this is a matter of huge importance to many people and I would urge anyone who has suffered because of this massive increase in the price of oil to get in contact with me so I can also include that in my submission."
Under-10’s to get a bigger slice of the action
The Minister for Fisheries, Richard Benyon MP has given some welcome news to local fisherman in a debate Suffolk Coastal MP Therese Coffey help to secure. Two weeks Therese joined a delegation of fellow MP's who pressed the Backbench Business Committee for a debate on fisheries. Their request was granted and it took place last week.
During the debate Richard Benyon MP said that he is determined to take forward a reform to allow the under-10's (under 10 metre boats) a bigger slice of the action. He said "in the near future, I will announce some ideas that will be taken to consultation".
The Minister also stated that he wanted to get every vessel possible into a catch quota system. He wants to find a solution where fisherman are incentivised to do something that gives them more fish, ends discards and is a bottom up approach. It allows fisherman to be part of the solution, and instead of being the battered person at the end of the line being hit by a stick, they are given a carrot to find a solution.
Therese Coffey welcomed the announcement that the Minister wanted to concentrate on the Under-10's saying "it is hugely important we try to reform the CFP which gives a larger slice of the action to the under 10's, bring an end to discards and movement towards more catch quotas.
Therese Secures debate on Fishing Quotas and help for Rural Pubs
This week in Parliament MP for Suffolk Coastal Therese Coffey went along to the Backbench Business Committee and joined a delegation of fellow MP's asking for two debates in Parliament.
She was successful in lobbying the Backbench Business Committee and secured a debated on Fisheries and Pubs. The Fisheries debate has been granted to take place on 2nd December and will focus on the issue of fishing quotas. The debate on Pubs which is on 9th December will look at keeping rural pubs open. Therese welcomed the success of obtaining both debates saying: "these subjects are both really important to residents in Suffolk Coastal and the issues will be put to the relevant Ministers". Therese plans to go along and make a contribution in both debates if she is successful in getting called by the Chairman.
Therese Welcomes Governments new Immigration Cap
Therese Coffey has this week welcomed Theresa May's statement on capping immigration. Therese said "The Home Secretary's statement has set out a clear, rational approach to which workers we will allow into the UK job market. The new approach will not only get immigration down to sustainable levels but at the same time, protects those businesses and institutions which are vital to our economy". She went on to say "this should give some comfort to people who are rightly concerned about the numbers people moving here permanently as opposed to short term business placements".
Rizzo narrowly misses out on Westminister Triumph
With power-sharing a big no-no among dogs, Rizzo Therese's 11 year old Collie cross narrowly missed out on the prestigious Westminster Dog of the Year 2010 title. Charlie, a five year old Border Terrier belonging to Helen Grant MP (Conservative, Maidstone and the Weald), was this year's absolute winner of the title.The Westminster Dog of the Year competition is organised by Dogs Trust and the Kennel Club, and seeks to crown a canine worthy of all-party respect. The competition is open to all pooches belonging to parliamentarians of both houses, and this year's prize was presented by TV presenter Jilly Goolden.
The judging panel included Clarissa Baldwin, CEO of Dogs Trust, Caroline Kisko, secretary of the Kennel Club and TV vet Marc Abraham - were faced with an array of 11 dogs, ranging in size from a Miniature Dachshund (Harriett Baldwin MP, Cons, West Worcestershire) to Lolita the Newfoundland (Roger Gale MP, Cons, North Thanet.)
Clarissa Baldwin of Dogs Trust said; "Our Westminster Dog of the Year competition is all about celebrating the unique bond between person and dog".
Therese Speaks out in Missing Persons Debate
Yesterday in Parliament MP for Suffolk Coastal, Therese Coffey, highlighted the plight of Luke Durbin who has been missing since May 2006 in a debate about the future of provision to help missing persons and their families. The debate centred on the good work of two UK organisations the UK Missing Persons Bureau and the charity Missing People. The UK charity Missing People provides a lifeline when someone disappears, by providing support to those affected by missing persons around the clock. The impact of the spending cuts could also affect the future of the UK Missing Persons Bureau.
Therese supported the work of these two organisations and said "A lady called Mrs Nicki Durbin, of Hollesley in my constituency, wrote to me about the importance of the issue, in connection with her son, Luke Durbin, who disappeared four years ago. I hear what the Minister says but how, in the present stricken times, will he prioritise ensuring that the issue of missing persons does not drop off our police forces' priority list?"
The Minister was positive in his response saying that the issue is an important one for Government and "Work has already started, for example, to develop the role of the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre in relation to missing and abducted children". He went on to say that he "notes the understandable concern and anxiety among some hon. Members about the future of the National Policing Improvement Agency Missing Persons Bureau". However, he also pointed out that no decision future of the bureau, either about funding or where functions may sit in the future had yet been taken. Therese Continues to press the case.
Therese backs Will Aid Campaign
Therese Coffey, today called on constituents who haven't yet made a Will to make an appointment with a Will Aid solicitor. Will Aid solicitors will draw up a basic Will free of charge during November. In return for this service, the solicitors hope clients will choose to donate to the Will Aid charities the fee they would normally charge. The suggested donation level is: £75 for a single Will, £110 for a pair of matching or 'mirror' Wills, or £40 for a codicil or change to an existing will.
It is very important to have a professionally drawn up Will. Without one, hard-earned assets will be distributed according to the laws of intestacy. This may mean that loved ones are not automatically provided for and face a great deal of stress and uncertainty. Yet Will Aid's own research shows that nearly 50% of people mistakenly believe that their estate will automatically pass to their partner when they die.
Even if you already have a Will, experts recommend it is reviewed every 3 to 5 years and update it as your circumstances change.
Will Aid has also teamed up with Certainty, the National Will Register, to offer Will Aid clients the opportunity to register the location of their Will - for free (usual cost is £28.75). When a Will is needed, the register enables loved ones to quickly and easily locate it.
Therese said, "This is a great chance for people to obtain an affordable Will, drawn up by a qualified solicitor. It's an opportunity for people to help their own loved ones and, at the same time, to help people in need around the world."
The money raised is shared between the participating charities (ActionAid, Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, NSPCC, Save the Children UK, Sightsavers, SCIAF and Trocaire) and provides vital funds to help people build their communities and improve their future in the UK and around the world. Last November, seventeen thousand clients, made their Will with Will Aid, raising over £1.3 million, for the Will Aid charities.
Will Aid solicitors are taking appointments now and are likely to book up very quickly. So find a convenient participating solicitor today at www.willaid.org.uk/find or by calling the hotline 0300 0300 013.
Extra Fishing Quota Available
I am delighted to say that after much pressing by the Minister, Richard Benyon MP, some extra fishing quota has become available.A swap has been concluded with the Netherlands that gives the UK an extra 60 tonnes of North Sea sole for under 10 metre boats.
The Marine Management Organisation has also scaled back its estimate of the size of the projected overfish by the under 10 metre boats to not more than 25 tonnes and possibly as little as 15 tonnes. This would provide approximately 85-95 tonnes of sole.
Fishing can start again from the 1st September, however I am pressing for this to start earlier and the paperwork done at a later date. It is so important we support small businesses and continue to enable them to fish, they are the lifeblood of our coastal communities.
I recognise that this is only a short term solution and I have already asked for a review of how we manage our fisheries in the UK.
Therese Welcomes Announcement on Benefit Fraud
Therese Coffey has today strongly backed the Prime Ministers crackdown on benefit fraud. The total amount lost to fraud and error in the benefit system was estimated at over £3 billion in 2009 to 2010. She said "it is so important this Government takes steps to reduce this excessive waste and credit rating firms have a part to play in that". Dr Coffey is also encouraging members of the public to take an active role in reporting suspected benefit fraud. She believes we all need to work together to clamp down on the cheats. Therese said "this is not a snoopers charter, it is important that benefits goes directly to the people that need it. That is why I encourage my constituents to help. I have already had three people contact my office reporting instances of suspected benefit fraud". Benefit Fraud can be reported by calling the National Benefit Fraud helpline on 0800 854 440 or by reporting it online here.
No to Pylons in our Beautiful Countryside
Yesterday in Parliament during the annual energy policy statement in the House of Commons, local MP Therese Coffey pressed the Minister for assurances that the beautiful Suffolk countryside wouldn't be blighted by unnecessary pylons. Dr Coffey raised the point in respect to the considerable subsidy being proposed for offshore energy and suggested that some of it be used to subsidise the transmission. "One of the great ironies would be the production of all this very environmentally friendly energy but then blight the outstanding natural beauty and beautiful countryside with pylons". Therese added, "I welcomed the statement and invited the Minister to come to the 'Green Coast' of Suffolk to see many renewable sources of energy. I strongly believe we should use some of the subsidy to have marine cabling and underground cabling." The Energy Secretary Chris Huhne agreed with Therese when it came to the transmission of power from offshore sources and said "We are indeed considering the transmission regime to ensure that we get the appropriate type, my hon. friend's point is a significant one for us in the Department, and we are addressing it."
Therese Coffey Calls for Action on Equitable Life
In Parliament Therese Coffey, MP for Suffolk Coastal, raised the plight of Equitable Life pensioners during Treasury Questions and pressed for action. Dr Coffey has received many representations from Equitable Life policyholders who felt shabbily treated by the last Government. She asked "Can the Minister give me some assurance that under the new coalition Government, they will be treated a little more equitably?" The Minister responded by saying that he was "committed to setting up an independent, fair and transparent payments scheme, further information on which will be presented to the House later this month."
The new Government has acted quickly on equitable life by announcing in the Queen's Speech that it will introduce a Bill to enable payments to be made to Equitable Life policyholders. It will shortly publish Sir John Chadwick's report, along with a detailed update, including next steps towards implementing an independently designed payment scheme. The Minister has confirmed that payments to the estates of deceased policy holders will be included and that no means testing will apply to the payment scheme. Therese added "I appreciate that there is substantial concern in relation to Equitable Life and can assure you that, in contrast to the last administration, the new Government is working hard to address the situation as quickly as possible"
Youth Parliamentarians come to Westminster
This week Therese Coffey MP welcomed members of the Youth Parliament to Westminster for a tour of the Palace. The visit not only let them discover the history of the World's finest Parliament but it enabled them to get a deeper understanding about the workings of the Parliamentary system. Therese Coffey said "it is so important that we encourage young people to participate and become active in politics. I hope this visit encourages them to take their interest further." Therese conducted the visit with fellow Suffolk MP's Peter Aldous, Ben Gummer, Tim Yeo, Matthew Hancock & Dan Poulter. One of the MYP's said "I would like to thank you all and everyone else involved, for an excellent day at Parliament". The visit ended with a trip to Downing Street and a group photo outside the most famous address in the UK.
Therese Coffey Initiates Debate on Rural Fuel Poverty
Recently in Parliament local MP for Suffolk Coastal, Dr Therese Coffey secured a debate on rural fuel poverty. Fuel poverty is defined as when someone spends more than 10% of their net income on fuel. Therese raised the plight of residents in Suffolk Coastal, 17% of whom are in fuel poverty. She focused on people who live in Suffolk with no access to the gas mains, even though 20% of them live within a mile and a half of national gas connections, who rely on oil, LPG and solid fuel for their heating needs at a considerably higher price than mains gas customers.
Dr Coffey expressed her concerns about the previous government's centralised energy schemes and suggested that more locally based schemes be available which would suit Suffolk and other rural areas more appropriately, probably at a better cost. She said "The issue is particularly prevalent in rural areas, where prices have meant that less work can be done with the available grant". The Minister Greg Barker said during the debate that "He was particularly interested in the ideas about supporting and enhancing local group purchasing schemes". He promised to ask his officials to consider what can be done in relation to that, because the measure does not necessarily involve a lot of spending and empowering communities is an aspiration that is shared right across the coalition.
Therese added, "This is a hidden issue for many people, especially in Whitehall. I felt it was important to raise it again at the start of this Parliament and in advance of the spending review, so that Ministers understand the concerns of my constituents.
"I also want to publicise that EDF offers dual fuel discounts to people who have access only to electricity rather than electricity and gas and I will encourage other suppliers to do the same."
Westminster update
Well, quite a lot of excitement on the IT front coping with the hacking, which did make me reconsider if I should still do this online stuff. Another attempt was made to get into my systems this week and it is a lot of time trying to fix it. However, I have decided to continue as it is an important element to communicate to my constituents and others about my activities as MP for Suffolk Coastal.
The most important Parliamentary activity of the week was the Budget on Tuesday afternoon. I had been expecting a tough budget - the country was left in such an economic mess by Labour that difficult choices had to be made. Of course, I am not thrilled about voting for any tax rises but I will be doing so next week as part of the package to pay for Labour's profligacy and to plan for the future. I was pleased that the Government is committed to capital spending, though reviewing projects to ensure that they are good value for money. Tackling welfare reform is also key for our Government and I think the country fully understands the need to get those people can work to get into work and off benefits. Too many people are caught in the benefit trap and we need to change the incentives.
I managed to get 3 oral questions this week - asking about efforts to bring the World Cup to England and praising the Felixstowe Evening Star for renaming itself to England Star; on rural broadband and accessing existing infrastructure already paid for by the State and then asking about fishing. The Minister agreed to come and have fish and chips while meeting local fishermen. I am due to meet local fishermen soon so I will let them know of the impending visit.
Unfortunately, I didn't get to speak in the Nuclear Energy debate but I was able to intervene on another member who was disputing whether or not public subsidy was required. Other meetings were held about Suffolk issues on transport, our monthly MPs' meeting and various APPGs, afternoon tea with the Speaker and the Royal Society of Chemistry Science/Parliamentary Links Days.
Another highlight of the week was being elected onto the select committee for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport. More about that when the committee starts.
There were some sociable opportunities this week, including the World Cup match. A number of organisations offered hospitality and I chose to go to a reception sponsored by HP in conjunction with Skillforce - an organisation that provides programmes for schools delivered by former military personnel. Skillforce is keen to get involved in Suffolk and I was happy to buy some raffle tickets in return to help them. I popped into a reception with RSPCA and was able to discuss with them the changes in the law relating to dogs. I have concerns on over-zealous interpretation of the new proposals. I also attended dinner with the Chinese ambassador. I had thought we would be eating Chinese food but nevertheless, an interesting evening. I popped into a BT reception - a significant employer locally and the planning application came up. I am not getting involved in individual planning applications so was able to steer away from that, except to add one of the reasons why local residents were against it. Finally, I went to the CLA reception which was useful to meet a wide variety of rural organisations and the Deputy Permanent Secretary of DEFRA, talking about coastal erosion.
All in all, it was a very busy week in Westminster amidst the casework and pushing on with the significant issues facing our country and my constituency.
Urgent Action Required on Fishing Quotas
Therese Coffey has been seeking urgent action to protect the fishing industry in her constituency. Therese said "it is so important we support small businesses and continue to enable them to fish, they are the lifeblood of our coastal communities". She is pressing, along with other Suffolk MP's the Under-Secretary of State for DEFRA, Mr Richard Benyon, to increase the quota with the main focus on under 10 metre small boats. It is these small businesses that need to continue to fish to retain their livelihood.
The MP for Suffolk Coastal is pushing for delegated fisheries management in which local fisherman have an input. Yesterday during business questions in Parliament Therese, asked the Leader of the House about the prospect for a debate about this very issue. She said "May I press for an urgent debate on fisheries management in our country, and perhaps the repatriation of powers from the common fisheries policy?"
Oral Answers to Questions — Northern Ireland: Creative Industries (16 May 2012)
Therese Coffey: After the Oscar win for the excellent Northern Irish film “The Shore” and the financial boost given to the film industry by the Chancellor, does my right hon. Friend agree that Northern Ireland has a creative industry to be proud of, bringing in investment in skills and jobs?
Oral Answers to Questions — Northern Ireland: Creative Industries (16 May 2012)
Therese Coffey: What assessment he has made of future opportunities for creative industries in Northern Ireland.
Business of the House: Health Transition Risk Register (10 May 2012)
Therese Coffey: Will my right hon. Friend confirm that he has followed the policy laid down by the previous Government on the application of the Act and that nothing has changed in that respect in policy terms?
Outlawries Bill: Debate on the Address — [1st Day] (9 May 2012)
Therese Coffey: Does my hon. Friend agree that cross-party consensus on the draft social care Bill is critical? That is why a draft Bill is appropriate. Does he agree also that, as long as somebody is in hospital the NHS pays for them, the draft Bill needs to tackle the key issue whereby local authorities sometimes delay a person’s exit from hospital so that they do not have to pick up the bill in the...
Outlawries Bill: Debate on the Address — [1st Day] (9 May 2012)
Therese Coffey: My hon. Friend makes a really important point, but is he concerned that the Dilnot commission and the risk of open liabilities could make the process unaffordable, or are Members being misinformed on that?
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
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Call: 0207 219 7164
E-mail: therese.coffey.mp@parliament.uk
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It all seems quite reasonable, but remember that not everyone affected by this measure is deliberately out of work. It is insulting to suggest as much. I'm sure that a large majority of the unemployed are desperate to find work and are not in any way part of a 'culture that said life on benefits was an acceptable alternative to work'. As the first families lose their homes, I trust Dr Coffey will be in the street applauding. As she does so she might also reflect on how the total cost of her London accommodation allowance, subsidised travel and food compares with the new capped benefit figure.
- Anthony Robinson