Re-elect Jacqui Smith

Diary 9 November 2009

I have been attending the Remembrance Day ceremony in Redditch for many years, but I was struck on Sunday by how many local people turned out to honour and remember.  For many years, the conflicts we were remembering seemed a long way away, but this year many people were thinking about friends and families serving now in Afghanistan.  And sadly, some were thinking about brave young men who had made the ultimate sacrifice for their country and their colleagues.

I know from my time as Home Secretary that defeating the Taliban and the shelter they gave to Al-Quaeda in Afghanistan will make British streets safer from terrorism.  Despite the tragedy of brave British soldiers being killed by people disguised as genuine Afghan police officers, the training must continue.  It is only by ensuring that the Afghan army and police can keep their own country safe, that we will be able to bring our soldiers home to their loved ones.

We were also able to congratulate Peter Styler during the ceremony.  He has been raising money through the Poppy Appeal in Redditch for longer than many there had been alive!  He has been the Redditch organiser for 50 years raising tens of thousands of pounds for the Royal British Legion and the people they care for.  Well done Peter! 

To contact Jacqui about this article, please email her at smithjj@parliament.uk