Diary 28 September
2009
This week is
the Labour Party Conference and it is a tough one. Tough economic times and tough
political challenges. We are underdogs in
the polls, but the Prime Minister made clear that
we will continue to do the right things in the long term
interests of the Country and to help people through the
recession.
I am
delighted that the car scrappage scheme is to be
extended.
Many Redditch
companies have an interest
in the automotive industries so this will help Redditch jobs. This measure
on its own has helped boost the market
for new cars during a time of crisis but other measures have
been announced to help the economy too.
Plans have
been outlined to control spending and halve the Country’s deficit
in four years, there will be restrictions on bank bonuses.
Last week I
met with Scout groups to hear of their concerns about
potential new
water charges. I
fought against these charges in 1998 and we won a
reprieve but now the issue is back. Scout groups and churches faced
water bills of hundreds of pounds. I supported the latest campaign
and I am delighted that the government announced yesterday that it
would now take action to prevent big hikes in water bills.
Scouting groups in Redditch have always
impressed me with their organisation skills coupled with a sense of
fun, adventure and learning for young people. It is vital that the local
scouts have volunteers to help them and I would urge anyone looking
for an active, worthwhile volunteering opportunity to look at
scouting. I know that
the Birchensale Group are looking for volunteers and more are
needed all the time.
If anyone is interested please contact my office on 01527
523355.
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