Yvonne Fovargue - A Strong Voice for Makerfield

Tax Credits Bombshell for families in Wigan

2012-02-27T12:10:00.001Z

Over 650 couples with children in part-time work in the Wigan Borough could lose around £4,000 a year from this April, following a change to tax credit rules being introduced by the government.

I am urging the Conservative-led government to reconsider a little-noticed change to tax credit rules which means thousands of families will lose all of their working tax credits unless they can significantly increase their working hours.

The change means that couples with children earning less than around £17,700 will need to increase the number of hours they work from a minimum of 16 to 24 hours per week or they will lose all their working tax credit of £3,870 per year.

Government figures revealed in parliamentary answers show 655 households in the Borough and 212,000 households across the country households could lose out. The cut will hit over 1550 children in the Borough.
A recent survey by the Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development found that one in five organisations have cut back on the number of hours that people work as a result of the economic downturn, with just 6 per cent increasing them.

This is a deeply unfair change from a government that is increasingly out of touch with parents feeling the squeeze and struggling to juggle work and family life.

Raising taxes and cutting spending too far and too fast has seen unemployment rise and the economy go into reverse, and many employers are cutting people’s hours. In this climate, very few people in part-time work will find be able to increase their hours by up to 50 per cent at the moment. And for a couple with children losing around £4,000 a year, or £75 a week, from this change could mean going out to work makes no sense.

It tells you everything you need to know about David Cameron and George Osborne that while the banks are getting a tax cut this year they are making life harder for parents in the squeezed middle who are working and trying to do the right thing.

This tax credits bombshell is now just a few weeks away. For many families here in Wigan it means going out to work won’t pay and they’ll be better off on benefits. That makes no economic sense at all. The government urgently needs to think again.

At the moment, if you're responsible for at least one child and working at least 16 hours a week, you can get Working Tax Credit. From 6 April 2012, the rules for couples with at least one child are changing. In most cases, to qualify for Working Tax Credit your joint working hours will need to be at least 24 a week.

This will mean:
• if you both work your joint weekly hours must be at least 24, with one of you working at least 16 hours a week
• if only one of you works, that person must be working at least 24 hours a week

If neither of these applies, your Working Tax Credit will stop from 6 April 2012.

FASawareUK Twilight Workshop

2012-02-20T10:35:00.000Z

Alcohol in pregnancy can cause a lifetime of problems for mums and their child. No matter how small the amount of alcohol consumed, there is a great risk of harming the unborn baby. Stay aware. Stay away from alcohol is the message of FASawareUK.

FASawareUK will be holding a Twilight Workshop on Thursday, 21st June at Platt Bridge Community Zone.

Founder and full time volunteer of FASawareUK, Gloria Armistead will facilitate the workshop which will provide awareness, information and education strategies. Download the flyer here.

Alternatively contact Gloria on 01942 223780 or by email.

'Drop the Bill Rally' Wigan Borough

2012-02-15T16:19:00.000Z

Andy Burnham MP today commented on the Drop the Health Bill e-petition as it passed 100,000 signatures.

“Tens of thousands of people have today sent a very clear message to the Prime Minister. They want him to listen and stop putting his political pride before the best interests of the NHS."

"Mr Cameron wants to legislate to turn our NHS into a free market. He is being reminded in no uncertain terms that he does not have the public's permission to do this. Nobody voted for this re-organisation and Mr Cameron promised it would not happen."

“Even though the petition has passed the 100,000 mark, I urge people to keep on signing. The greater the number of people who add their names, the more strength they will give us to speak out against it in the final Parliamentary battle."

"The 'Drop the Bill' call is turning into a deafening cry supported by patients, professions and even Members of Mr Cameron's Cabinet. It is a fight we can and must win!"

I will be joining Andy at a Wigan Borough Drop the Bill Rally on Friday, 2nd March at Ince Town Hall. Doors open 6.15pm. You can download the 'Drop the Bill' Flyer and distribute to friends, family and co-workers.

Coronary Care Unit Officially Opened!

2012-02-14T15:47:00.004Z

The Royal Albert Edward Infirmary's new state of the art Coronary Care Unit was officially opened today on Valentine’s Day, by Dr. Nayyar Naqvi, the man who has made his vision a reality. The £1.4m unit has been helped along by the public of Wigan and beyond, with donations to the Heart Beat Appeal being collected over the last two years. The new build has significantly improved patient facilities, with the ward being larger, roomier and much lighter than the old unit.

Guests included local MPs Lisa Nandy and Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Wigan Councillor Joy Birch, as well as members of the public who have all contributed to the Heart Beat Appeal.

The new Coronary Care Unit now provides much needed modernised facilities with increased bed capacity and the addition of a second Catheter Laboratory and associated Treatment Rooms, as well as support facilities for both staff and patients. The new reconfigured layout has significantly improved the work flow and overall environment previously experienced by patients and visitors to the unit. The financial investment into the refurbished and extended accommodation was completed in January 2011 at a cost of £1.4 million.

Hindley Veterans present 'The World Renowned'

2012-02-07T11:56:00.001Z

I hope the local community turn out to support local Veterans and serving HM Armed Forces personnel on Friday, 20th April at St Peter's Pavilion, Hurst St, Hindley commencing at 7.30pm.

Entertainment is provided by Wingates Brass Band and a buffet will be served. Tickets are available, priced at £8 per person and can be obtained from Cllr Jim Churton (01942 522734) and Cllr Jim Talbot (01942 736256).

Apprentices – Hired!

2012-02-06T16:06:00.001Z

It’s National Apprenticeship Week (6th-10th February) and Wigan is celebrating high levels of success helping young people boost their career prospects.

Local leaders met with apprentices past and present at the offices of Wigan and Leigh Housing this morning to review progress so far and ensure work can continue supporting the next generation.

They were told that Wigan Borough has one of the highest percentages of apprenticeships in the Greater Manchester area.

The breakfast meeting was attended by Deputy Leader of Wigan Council Cllr David Molyneux, and the chair of Wigan and Leigh Housing Neil Turner, as well as a number of business leaders.

It was great to meet with the young apprentices today showing firmly that apprenticeships are a real and viable option for young people today. Over one million young people are out of work so we must redouble our efforts as a nation to do more to help local firms create the apprenticeship opportunities young people across Wigan & Leigh need.

It is to our borough’s credit that Wigan & Leigh Housing and its partners, Tudor NW and Hughes Brothers recognise that building up our skills base has a major role to play in boosting growth and providing life changing opportunities for our young people.

Neil Turner, former MP and long-term supporter of the apprenticeship agenda, said, “Wigan and Leigh Housing are delighted to host an event as a local business alongside two other local businesses: Tudor North West Limited and Hughes Brothers. We’re using the occasion to highlights local businesses’ commitment to providing apprenticeships for local people.”

At the meeting, Arthur Naylor of Tudor North West said his firm would be looking for new people under the scheme. Mr Turner reaffirmed his commitment to the scheme by announcing that further apprentices would be taken on.

He added, “This compliments the work we are doing with Job Centre Plus in Wigan where their staff are now co-located with Wigan and Leigh Housing staff. The housing company’s board and its staff remain strongly committed to providing the best housing service possible, and helping create a better borough”.

Deputy leader Cllr David Molyneux acknowledged the difficult economic climate but added, “I am delighted to see local businesses continuing to commit themselves to provide apprenticeships for local people. These companies are clearly planning ahead to ensure that they have got a supply of new young talent to drive their businesses forward. It is companies like these who are more likely to survive in these difficult times.”

A Hindley Green success story!

2012-01-31T10:39:00.001Z

Pic Sean Moloney

Local constituency visits are one of the most useful ways to learn about the issues facing people and business. Last week, I visited Belmont Packaging Ltd to celebrate the continuing success of the company which was a finalist for the 2011 Wigan Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year Award.

Since its inception in 1978, Belmont have recognised that as the market place demands change then so must the company to meet and adapt to the needs of the market in which it trades.

Central to this understanding is the ethos that drives the company forward; It actively encourages the co-operation, involvement and participation of all staff, calling on everybody's abilities, skills and experience for the good of the company and for the wellbeing of all those involved and associated with the business.
Belmont draws on the strengths and knowledge of all its partners to ensure it is continually experimenting, innovating, evolving and developing to meet the increasing demands of the market place and expectations of its customers and the benefit of all stakeholders.

Operating to 'LEAN MANUFACTURING' principles and standards Belmont specialise in the printing and converting of corrugated fibreboard products with our ‘in house’ skill base and years of practical experience backed up by an extensive range of modern machines, technology, equipment and systems.

I spent time talking with Managing Director, Sean Moloney and was pleased to learn that Belmont has become the largest corrugated products producer on Ebay UK. A true diversification success.
Belmont’s customer base derives from all sectors of industry given the omnipresent and crucial nature of the cardboard box in today’s supply chain, both as a transit devise and point of sale tool.

Supplying the whole of the UK and Ireland Belmont makes full use of its reputation as a highly invested, modern and efficient manufacturing Plant, nowhere better is this demonstrated than in the fact that over 20% of its Sales are made to customers within its own industry, due to abilities Belmont have that others do not.

Sean Moloney said, “We pride ourselves on continual high investment in equipment and skills in the interests of efficiency, competitiveness and diversification, within an increasingly competitive market. Continual downward price pressure from the Retail sector makes this a prerequisite to success in the modern supply chain if done correctly. Belmont’s ability to ensure this in recent years has been second to none”.

“Unfortunately, as many manufacturing and agriculture companies are finding in the UK at present, imbalance in the allocation of “wealth” within the supply chain can put pressure on suppliers retaining and employing staff.”

“Once full efficiency has been installed the only costs that remain are those of labour. This imbalance must be changed if the economy in the UK is to recover via true wealth creation rather than continuous high retail sector profits, subsequent rising high unemployment and public sector cost cutting. Tax burdens increase if more of the population are unemployed and social provision demands increase. The problem of rising unemployment as a direct consequence of too much Retail power must be remedied if our economy is to become truly self-sustaining without the misguided solution of “over borrowing”, as has been the case over the last 40 years in the UK. Adding value to create wealth via Manufacturing must be a key part of the UK’s future.”

Customer Satisfaction fuels expansion as Handelsbanken opens for business in Wigan

2012-01-30T10:31:00.001Z

Pic with Alan Bowers and Miranda Barker

A strong local presence due to a nationwide network of 118 branches and a long-term approach to customer relations place Handelsbanken in an enviable position.

Founded in 1871 in Sweden, Handelsbanken specialise in providing highly personalised and competitive banking services to both corporate and individual customers.

Handelsbanken’s branch in Wigan, based at Pemberton Business Park, is now open for business with a motivated team of private and corporate bankers wishing to assist strong local businesses and professionals.

At a difficult time for the global banking sector, Handelsbanken continues to grow and customers are satisfied with their service; a recent survey of British bank customers rated Handelsbanken top for the third year running. Handelsbanken’s financial strength has also been noted with the bank recently rated the second strongest in the world by financial information provider Bloomberg.

I visited the Wigan Branch last Friday to meet with Branch Manager, Alan Bowers and staff, along with Wigan Chamber of Commerce President, Miranda Barker.

Alan Bowers said, “We are delighted to welcome Yvonne and Miranda to our new Wigan branch to meet staff and to learn about our ethos and values."

“We hope to become the bank of choice for the Wigan business and professional community. Our approach to banking is a return to traditional values, seeking to serve the needs of the customer rather than product push and an environment where the relationship is key. Our business model is based on simplicity and high levels of service where the customer always comes first.”

“Whilst we do not have targets or bonuses, our appetite for good quality business is strong and we are keen to develop long-term relationships. One of our key strengths, we believe, is that we employ local people with good market knowledge. All key business decisions are taken on a local level at the branch, which leads to good outcomes, both for the customer and the bank. I believe banking is a people business, run by people, for people and we are committed to providing a truly bespoke solution to both corporate and private customers.”

Handelsbanken’s presence in Wigan is good news for the local economy given their unique approach to banking.Despite the global economic crisis, Handelsbanken has increased its market presence by adopting a financially sound and cautious approach. It chooses to develop personal relationships with customers and its policy of not paying bonuses to staff and chasing targets allows it to have developed a long-term approach to banking that existing customers’ value and which is attractive to potential new customers.

For further information visit the Handelsbanken website.

YourBigYear Finalist hails from Orrell.

2012-01-27T16:47:00.000Z

I met with Orrell resident Sarah Davies today to wish her well as she represents the UK in the YourBigYear competition.

Over 60,000 (8,000 from the UK) applied to be a global ambassador with an all expenses paid trip around the world for 12 months, taking part in volunteer projects across 5 continents.

Applicants have been whittled down to a final 16 and Sarah will be asked to compete in an 'Apprentice' style challenge until a winner is announced.

Liverpool based Smaller Earth launched the competition. Sarah informed me that the company arranges work/travel and volunteering opportunities across the world.

I know that the whole community will get behind Sarah and we are all very proud of her achievements to date.

'Speak Out' against prejudice

2012-01-27T10:10:00.000Z

This week I signed a Book of Commitment in the House of Commons, in doing so pledging my commitment to Holocaust Memorial Day and honouring those who died during the Holocaust.

Today will mark the 67th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the Nazi concentration and extermination camp which is the site of the largest mass murder in history – and in the weeks running up to the day, the Holocaust Educational Trust placed a Book of Commitment in the House of Commons, giving MPs the chance to honour those who were persecuted and killed during their Holocaust and encouraging constituents to actively speak out against prejudice and bigotry today.

In signing the Book of Commitment I have paid tribute to the extraordinary men and women who having survived the Holocaust, work to educate young people about what they endured, through the Holocaust Educational Trust’s Outreach programme.

Tory-led Government should rethink its approach to Policing

2012-01-26T12:54:00.001Z

Today, I am calling on the Government to rethink its approach to policing after figures show that Police numbers have fallen to the lowest for a decade, including the loss of 492 in Greater Manchester since March 2010.

The figures show that there are now 8,000 fewer officers on the streets, at a time when personal crime, which includes theft and violence, has gone up by a startling 11 per cent - the biggest increase in a decade.

People across the Borough will have real concerns about the loss of 492 officers here in Greater Manchester. The deepest cuts to policing budgets will hit this year and HMIC estimate the loss of 16,000 officers through this Parliament.

Local communities value the work that police officers do and I will be voting against the Government’s police cuts next month.

Labour is calling for the Government to reopen the police funding settlement when it is debated in Parliament next month. Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper MP: said, "The scale of government cuts has led to the biggest fall in national police numbers in decades at the same time as we are seeing the biggest increase in personal crime."

“David Cameron and Theresa May are letting down communities and turning their backs on the police. They should be battling to cut crime, but they are just cutting the police instead."

“Police numbers have fallen to the lowest for a decade, with 8,000 fewer officers since the election and 6,000 since last year alone. At the same time personal crime including theft and violence has gone up by 11 per cent -- the biggest increase in a decade."

“The Home Secretary's 20 per cent cuts go much further than the 12 per cent recommended by the independent inspectorate and supported by Labour."

“The Prime Minister's decision to cut policing too far and too fast when many crimes are increasing is putting communities at risk. MPs of all parties should vote against the scale of Government’s cuts to their local police force in Parliament on February 8.”

When Labour left office there were record numbers of police on the street, over 16,500 more than in 1997 in addition to over 16,000 new PCSOs; helped by the record number of police officers, crime fell by 43 per cent under Labour and the chance of being a victim of crime was at the lowest since records began. Labour had a clear plan to find savings of around 12% over the course of this Parliament, which Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary said could be achieved without impacting on the frontline. The Conservative Government is implementing cuts of 20% which is too far, too fast.

Big Energy Week

2012-01-17T15:52:00.000Z

Rising fuel bills are stretching household finances and people are looking for ways to save money on their energy bills.

Help is at hand through Big Energy Week (16-21 January 2012) which is being run by Citizens Advice.

During Big Energy Week you can get practical advice on cutting your fuel bills and help to see if you are getting all of the financial support you are entitled to. You can pick up a leaflet with tips and advice on cutting your fuel bills at your local Citizens Advice Bureau.

A new website is full of tips on how to cut your energy bills. I joined Citizens Advice Teresa Perchard in Westminster who said, “We know hikes in prices have put extra pressure on people’s budgets at a time when money is already tight. Day in day out local Bureaux are helping people who can’t afford their fuel bills."

“We’re worried that some people are struggling unnecessarily because they’re not on the best deal; live in homes that haemorrhage heat or are not getting all of the financial help available to them.”

Age UK Winter Pledge

2012-01-16T11:44:00.000Z

I joined with Lisa Nandy MP in the fight to save lives this winter in the Borough by signing up to the Age UK Winter Pledge.

Last year nearly 22,000 people aged over 65 in England and Wales died unnecessarily during the winter and Lisa and Yvonne agree with Age UK that this figure is a disgraceful waste of life. In the North West there were 3920 excess winter deaths.

Lisa Nandy MP said, “We have one of the worst levels of unnecessary winter deaths in Europe – with each day on average over 200 succumbing to the effects of the cold weather. The number of older people who do not survive the winter here is far higher than in most European countries, including those where the weather is far colder.”

By both signing the Age UK pledge, we are committing to working with the charity to help ensure all our older constituents are prepared for winter by knowing the dangers of cold weather and how they can guard against them.

John McArdle, Chief Officer of Wigan Age UK said, “We are delighted that Lisa and Yvonne have joined our fight to reduce this shocking waste of life. We know that behind the excess winter deaths figures lie deep-seated social issues with over 5 million households living in fuel poverty and one in three older people living in housing that is poorly insulated.”

By signing up to the Age UK pledge Lisa and Yvonne are committing to:

• Raising awareness of the dangers to health of cold weather and cold homes
• Working with their local Age UK to tackle the local priorities for older people
• Challenging energy providers to produce simple tariffs to make it easier for people to lower their bills.
• Promoting preventative measures that older people can take before a cold spell
• Encouraging all sectors of the local community to make tackling excess winter deaths a priority
• Ensuring that all their constituents are prepared for winter

Age UK is working in partnership with the Met Office to alert vulnerable older people when a cold snap is expected, sending out key messages on how to keep warm and well.

The pledge is part of Age UK’s annual Spread the Warmth campaign. The Charity and its local and national partners are aiming to make winter warmer for 360,000 older people by providing information, advice and practical services to help keep warm and well in the colder winter months, preventing many thousands from being left isolated and alone. These include getting warm and nutritious meals to older people, helping to keep homes warm, and giving free information and advice 365 days a year.

There will be lots of ways to help Age UK Spread the Warmth this winter. People can make a donation simply by calling 0800 169 87 87 or via the web.

Financial education in schools should be compulsory

2012-01-09T12:49:00.000Z

I am backing better financial education in schools by putting my name to the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Financial Education for Young People report on Financial Education and the Curriculum launched last month. The report recommends the Government should promote the provision of high quality financial education in schools in England.

Around one in four economically active adults is functionally innumerate. A survey by the UK Payments Council has found a notable lack of knowledge around the meaning of some of the most common financial terms, for example, only 36% of people understand that the term APR relates to payments. Moreover, lack of financial education has cost Brits nearly £250 million in charges and penalties alone, with almost a quarter (24%) having been hit by charges because they don't understand the terms and conditions of financial products, according to research from uSwitch.com.

A survey carried out by the inquiry found that in schools across England the existing provision of personal finance education is ad hoc, with only 45% of teachers reporting that they have ever taught the subject.

The report recommends that:

• Financial education should be compulsory in every school’s curriculum and assessed.
• Every school should have a dedicated ‘champion’ to coordinate financial education drawn from the senior leadership team.
• Banks and businesses can play an important role, particularly the British Bankers Association.
• Primary schools should continue to teach financial education using a cross-curriculum approach, but teachers must be able teach basic maths and money skills.
• Secondary schools should use a cross-curriculum approach grounded in maths and personal social health and economic (PSHE) education.
• PSHE should cover finance education as one of four strands with clear outcomes, and improved training and assessment.
• All teaching materials should be quality marked by a trusted body.

In and ever increasingly complex financial world it is important that young people are fully equipped to make informed financial decisions. I support the improvement of the provision of personal finance in schools and call on the Government to include these recommendations as part of their review of the National Curriculum.

I also spoke on this subject in parliament as a result of an epetition by Martin Lewis.

Martin Lewis of MoneySavingExpert.com, whose e-petition has now had the magic 100,000 sign it said, "For once, thankfully, we have a bunch of politicians who aren't pussy-footing around. They're actually using the C word – compulsory. We need compulsory financial education in our schools. Our nation is financially illiterate, for over 20 years we've educated our youth into debt when they go to university, but never about debt. Breaking this cycle will mean less mis-selling, fewer bad debts, better consumers and could save the public coffers a fortune."

Makerfield Labour Party Christmas Dinner

2011-12-21T12:08:00.001Z

Lisa Nandy MP, Tony Lloyd MP & Sir Ian McCartney

A long-serving Labour Party stalwart was honoured at a function held in Wigan Town Hall on Friday, 16th December. Guest speaker was Tony Lloyd, MP for Manchester Central and Chair of the Parliamentary Labour Party.

Alderman Mrs Joan Hurst was the guest of honour at the Makerfield Labour Party dinner held in the Charter Suite.

Former Makerfield MP, Sir Ian McCartney and Cllr David Molyneux, Deputy Leader of Wigan Council were on hand to present Joan with a ‘Long Service’ certificate inscribed with the words;

Alderman Mrs Joan Hurst, Sir Ian McCartney & Cllr David Molyneux

‘To honour a lifetime’s commitment to the Labour Party and the people of Wigan.’

The certificate is signed by Leader of the Labour Party, Ed Miliband and General Secretary, Iain McNicol.

Joan Hurst represented the Ince Ward on Wigan Council 1997-2011. She was the first citizen of the Borough in 2000/01 in her Mayoral year. Her Grandfather, John Parkinson was the Labour Member of Parliament for Wigan from 1918 until his death in 1941. His tenure was the first of an unbroken chain of Labour MPs to the present day.

Sir Ian McCartney said, "Joan has been a community fighter and activist all of her life. She served with distinction as one of Wigan's few women mayors. She is a Labour stalwart who deserves this recognition.

Cllr David Molyneux added, “Joan has always give 100% to the Labour Party and the Community where she lived and worked. This award is in recognition of that dedication and is well deserved.”

Rugby League Group to challenge cuts to BBC Local Radio

2011-12-21T11:45:00.000Z

The Parliamentary Rugby League Group are to challenge the BBC’s proposed cuts to local sports coverage.

At a recent meeting in Westminster, the group heard from RFL Chairman Richard Lewis, veteran broadcaster Ray French, Head of BBC Sport for English Regions Charles Runcie and BBC London rugby league producer and commentator Ian Ramsdale.

This meeting brought home just how significant the proposed changes to BBC local radio are. There have been debates in Parliament on the cuts to local radio services, but for rugby league – which is recognised as one of the most community-focused sports in the UK – the consequences could be devastating.

If all the proposals made in the consultation are enacted, it will result in:

• The loss of local programmes on weekday afternoons, with programmes being shared with neighbouring stations;
• The loss of all local programming between 7pm and 10pm. This means the end of any sports magazine shows, in-depth discussion about sport and the opportunity to have options heard, engage with clubs, officials and others involved in the game;
• Significant loss of live commentary as there will be a massive reduction in the number of games covered and with the reduction in the number of commentators at games that are broadcast any local flavour disappears;
• The loss of all local programming between 1am until the start of the breakfast show. All stations would broadcast Radio 5 Live;
• The loss of a wide number of locally-split breakfast programmes; and
• Huge costs to any local station that wants to offer live coverage of more than one game matches of any sport as stations will be charged to use the medium wave band.

As Secretary of the Group, we are challenging the way the BBC has gone about consulting with the public on such an important issue as well as the proposals they are suggesting. We have written to Mark Thompson from the BBC and Chris Patten from the BBC Trust and have contacted other sports-related Parliamentary Groups asking to join us to raise these issues directly.

For more information, visit the Group’s website.

Unify Credit Union welcomes newest member

2011-12-16T11:55:00.000Z

Unify’s Angela Fishwick was on hand to welcome me as a new member of Wigan’s biggest credit union at the headquarters of the Higher Ince based Unify Credit Union Ltd.

Cllr Keir Stitt also joined us. Keir is the Chair of Wigan & Leigh Cooperative Party and a staunch supporter of credit unions. He is an existing member of Unify.

Angela Fishwick said, “We are really pleased that Yvonne recognises the good work that Unify Credit Union does within the borough and that she wants to be part of that success."

“As well as providing low cost loans, Unify members are encouraged to save and receive a good return on their savings (2.5% in 2010). All members’ savings and loans are also insured at no cost to the member, meaning that the loan dies with the member and savings could be worth twice as much. This service is not provided by any other financial organisation.”

Her membership comes in the month that a report from R3, a trade body for insolvency professionals, has found that 45% of the population struggle to make it to pay day each month before running out of cash and that 3.5 million adults are considering taking out a pay day loan in the next six months.

Pay day loans provide access to small sums of money until a person’s next pay day but are controversial because of the rate of interest that they charge which can, in some cases, be as much as 4,000% APR. Whilst such borrowing can be useful for immediate one-off emergencies, critics point out that when loans are rolled over – only the interest is paid and the capital left for repayment at a later date – interest costs can quickly spiral out of control.

The report also raises the spectre of ‘zombie debtors’ who can afford to only make interest payments on their borrowings and finds that one in six now finds themselves in this position.

As Secretary of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Credit Unions I know that Credit Unions offer a safe and reliable way to save and they play a vital role in helping people through difficult financial circumstances.

Too many low income borrowers face extortionate rates of interest, but credit unions provide loans at low cost and help to keep the loan sharks away from the doorstep.

Credit Unions also support the growing appetite amongst the public for mutual alternatives to banks.

Home Heat Helpline

2011-12-12T11:15:00.000Z

As we approach the coldest time of the year, the challenge that many households face in keeping their homes warm only becomes greater. Unfortunately, many people do not know where to turn for help.

I am therefore writing to urge anyone in Makerfield who is concerned about staying warm to call the Home Heat Helpline on 0800 33 66 99. It is a free, independent service which helps people to find out whether they are eligible for help.

Around 6,600 households in the Makerfield Constituency are entitled to some form of assistance with their fuel bills, which on average can be worth £250. People have nothing to lose from calling the helpline and potentially a lot to gain.

At this time of year, we must also think of others who may be struggling to keep warm. If you know anyone elderly or who you think may be having difficulties please urge them to call the Home Heat Helpline. Let's try to keep every home warm this winter.

Cameron's NHS plans will cost £22million across Wigan

2011-12-05T17:18:00.000Z

New figures obtained by Labour has revealed the hidden cost of the Government’s wasteful NHS reorganisation in Wigan. New guidelines will force the local NHS to put aside £22.1million from their budget this year and next to pay for a costly NHS restructure that David Cameron repeatedly ruled out.

These shocking new figures show the Government’s reorganisation is costing the NHS even more than we first feared. It is scandalous that they are telling our local NHS to hold back millions of pounds for their own reckless plans whilst thousands of nursing jobs are being axed.

Our local area has already seen a 40% increase in the number of patients waiting longer than 18 weeks for treatment since Cameron became Prime Minister. Before his plans are even fully through Parliament, David Cameron's reorganisation is hitting the NHS hard and costs are now topping £3.4bn across the country for the first time. Spending this amount on an unnecessary reorganisation is totally unjustifiable when every single penny should be focused on maintaining standards of care.

At the election Cameron ruled out top-down NHS reorganisations. But only weeks after entering Number 10, he ripped up his own words and ordered the biggest and most dangerous upheaval of the NHS since it began.

The financial request is buried in the Government’s new NHS 'Operating Framework' document and takes the nationwide cost of the NHS reorganisation above previous estimates of £2-3bn, with Primary Care Trusts now holding back £3.44bn over two years.

This month leading doctors from the British Medical Association voted to call for an immediate halt to the Government’s costly and controversial Health Bill.

The country did not vote for it and our doctors, nurses and patients have already expressed huge concerns at the plans. Yet Cameron is ploughing on with his Health Bill, ignoring public and professional opinion. The time has come for him to listen, put the NHS first and drop his dangerous Bill.

£22million should be focused on proving health care for patients not a needless reorganisation.

Christmas Card Design Competition

2011-12-02T13:37:00.000Z

Picture credit - John Rowbotham

Today I proudly announced the winner of my 2011 Christmas card competition today as Aleyna Adamson (aged 10), a pupil of St Wilfrid’s Catholic Primary School, Ashton in Makerfield.

I presented Aleyna with a framed copy of her winning picture and a set of books by famous childrens’ author Jacqueline Wilson during the school’s morning assembly.

The design competition attracted entries from across the constituency with all of the designs being carefully judged.

It was an absolute pleasure to present Aleyna with her prize. It’s a great design and she’s clearly hit the right note, so I’m sure people will enjoy receiving the card in the run up to Christmas.

I know everybody at St Wilfrid’s Catholic Primary School will be very proud of Aleyna and I am too.

We had a fantastic response from local schools. The children clearly put a lot of effort into their art-work so it made my job of picking the winner extremely difficult. But I’d like to thank all of the children and their teachers for taking part.

Aleyna's winning design

I also presented a prize to the runner up, Shanice Galloway (aged 10), a pupil attending St Paul’s CE Primary School, Goose Green. Shanice’s design features on the back of the card.

Aleyna’s winning design will be sent to a number of distinguished people in the political world, including both the Prime-Minister and the Leader of the Opposition, Ed Miliband. The card will also be sent to individuals across the public and private sector in the Wigan Borough including the Mayor of Wigan, Cllr Joy Birch.

Work Capability Test faces scrutiny

2011-12-01T14:03:00.000Z

Controversial medical tests by a private sector company at the centre of the government’s drive to cut the benefit rolls are failing genuine claimants.

In the week that it emerged that ministers have been forced to spend millions of pounds hiring more than 80 new judges to tackle a costly backlog of welfare claimants appeals (Salary £101,000 pro rata) against the loss of their benefit, I tabled a parliamentary question to the minister which confirmed that;

• Of 667 cases heard 218 or a third of Employment Support Allowance (ESA) appeals were decided in favour of the appellant on appeal (1st April-30th Sept 2011)
• Of 119 cases heard, 38 or a third were decided in favour of the appellant on appeal during September 2011
• 741 individual cases were not determined within the Dept Work & Pensions 35 day target (October 2011).

Across the UK welfare appeals are up a colossal 72% on 2008/09.

Charities and individuals have criticised the “work capability assessment”, which has determined entitlement to benefit.

I am not surprised by the figures as Charities, Law Centres and Citizens Advice have all criticised the Work Capability Assessment (WCA). My concern surrounds the poor decisions by those carrying out the WCA is fuelling appeals which are conducted by Atos Healthcare, a private company.

Some cases are taking up to a year to go from lodging an appeal to having the final tribunal hearing date according to Duncan Lewis Solicitors, the UK’s biggest benefits legal department.

I am calling for a regular audit to ensure that the decisions about eligibility “are consistent, robust and evidence-based”.

The Government are failing far too many genuine benefit recipients who are forced to appeal due to an unacceptable high degree of poor decision making. This is further compounded by the slow appeal process leaving people in limbo at a time of stress and anxiety.

At a time when funding to advice agencies is being cut the figures demonstrate that people need increased access to advice in order for them to claim the benefits to which they are entitled.

Borsdane Precinct Update

2011-11-28T15:12:00.000Z

I know that a lot of hard work has contributed to today's announcement that the council has entered into an agreement with a developer over the future of Borsdane Precinct, especially when many developers are not looking to commit to projects in the current economic uncertainty.

Wigan Council and the developer are to be congratulated on arriving at this agreement and I remain optimistic that this decision will lead to a brighter future for Borsdane and lift the blight that has been a feature of this area for far too long.

Deputy Leader of the Council, Cllr David Molyneux said, "I am delighted that we have progress on Borsdane Precinct. The condition of the site has long been an issue for the community as well as being a centre for anti-social behaviour. This opportunity for a fresh start is good news for everyone and although we are only at the very start of the scheme, things are now in progress and I feel confident that we can look forward to major improvements to the precinct in 2012.”

The Developer has six months from now to satisfy the conditions of the arrangement, after which the council will transfer title to the retail element of the scheme and grant the building licence of the residential site at the same time.

Hindley Green Community Primary School

2011-11-18T16:17:00.001Z

Today, I was delighted to open the new school building along with Leigh MP, Andy Burnham.

Cllr Sue Loudon informed guests that this has been an 8 year project leading up to today's official opening and parents and pupils were on hand to tour the new buildings.

Congratulations to staff, governors, pupils and parents for their hard work and patience during the planning and building works.

Tesco voucher scheme provides local schools with equipment worth £8,000

2011-11-18T11:44:00.000Z

Since 1992 Tesco, through the voucher collection promotions, has provided UK schools with access to around 4 million free pieces of equipment worth £170 million. Last year, 36 schools and clubs in Makerfield collected a total of 230,542 vouchers, with 31 of them ordering equipment worth £8420.

I enjoyed meeting staff and pupils from local schools and hearing what they have been able to do with the vouchers they have collected.

Staff at Tesco Hindley are to be commended for their support. It is a worthwhile scheme and it has been going a long time bringing significant benefits to many local schools.

Remembrance Sunday

2011-11-16T14:12:00.000Z

On Sunday, I attended the Remembrance Service at St Thomas & St Luke's Church in Ashton in Makerfield.

On behalf of the people of the Makerfield constituency, I laid a wreath at the cenotaph to mark the contribution of those service personnel who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Thank you to all those involved in the arrangements on the day and in particular to the members of Ashton Royal British Legion.

An essential service for Wigan and the nation.

2011-11-14T15:20:00.002Z

On Wednesday 9 November, I pledged support for the future of funding for the Citizens Advice service at a event held at Parliament to re-launch the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Citizens Advice, hosted by the Group's new Chair, Stephen Lloyd MP.

Citizens Advice Chair, John Gladwin, called on Parliamentarians to pledge the following: "I will do all I can to ensure that the Citizens Advice service has the funding it needs to continue providing vital and high quality advice and advocacy in my local community and across the country."

Every year Citizens Advice Bureaux help over two million clients with over seven million problems, providing support to people who often have nowhere else to turn, from over 3500 community locations across the UK.

Funding cuts pose a significant threat to the Citizens Advice service and bureaux capacity to provide help to those who need it. This financial year Citizens Advice Bureaux in England and Wales have already seen a seven per cent drop in the total number of people they were able to help as a direct result of cuts to funding.

Parliamentarians from across the political spectrum work closely with the Citizens Advice service both in their local communities and at a national level.

At a recent Prime Minister's Questions, David Cameron responding to my question said that the Citizens Advice service, 'is probably the finest organisation in our country for helping people' and is the charity he works with most closely in his constituency.

In my constituency, working with my local Citizens Advice Bureau, I see on a daily basis how advice really can change people’s lives. Even people at crisis point can find their situation swiftly improved if they seek advice. I’m delighted to be able to pledge support for the Citizens Advice service.

The advice provided by the Citizens Advice service is free, independent, confidential, and impartial, and available to everyone regardless of race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, age or nationality. For online advice and information click here.

Citizens Advice Bureaux in England and Wales advised 2.1 million clients on 7.1 million problems from April 2010 to March 2011. Out of 22 national charities, the Citizens Advice service is ranked by the general public as being the most helpful, approachable, professional, informative, effective / cost effective, reputable and accountable. (nfpSynergy’s Brand Attributes survey, May 2010).

Most Citizens Advice service staff are trained volunteers, working at around 3,300 service outlets across England and Wales.

Campaign Against Police Cuts

2011-11-10T16:52:00.002Z

Lisa Nandy MP and Paddy Lillis

The shopworkers' Union Usdaw has launched a campaign against the police cuts branding the Tory-led Coalition's attack on police budgets a threat to the safety of all shopworkers.

The Union has produced a leaflet and petition against the cuts and will use its annual Respect for Shopworkers Week, which takes place between this week, to urge shoppers and members of the public to back the campaign and sign Usdaw's petition.

I joined Usdaw Deputy General Secretary Paddy Lillis and Lisa Nandy MP at the launch in the House of Commons.

Paddy Lillis said, "Every minute of every day another shopworker is assaulted, threatened or abused. That is why one of Usdaw's major campaigns is called Freedom From Fear. Shopworkers should be free from the fear of violence, threats and verbal abuse and it should never be accepted as just a part of the job.”

"Under the Labour Government, violent incidents against shopworkers halved because Labour invested in 12,000 additional uniformed police officers. Does anyone really believe that by cutting frontline policing, crime will continue to fall - as it did with Labour? That is not the logical conclusion I draw. I fear that when these cuts bite we will be left with a much less effective police force that will be grossly under-staffed and terribly demoralised.”

The first duty of Government is to protect us all. That is where this Tory-led Coalition will fail us with their unprecedented cuts in funding that will affect frontline policing. Don't just take my word for it - the Police Federation are saying that '20% cuts to policing are criminal'. With a predicted loss of 2,944 frontline police officers in Greater Manchester, I am very concerned about the effect on local crime levels.

You can sign Usdaw’s petition against police cuts here.

Here's to Pubs!

2011-11-08T16:13:00.000Z

I joined with Wigan MP, Lisa Nandy and dropped in on Landlord Ian Thorpe at The Anvil on Dorning Street to celebrate British Pub Week.

Pubs inject an average of £80,000 into their local communities and pay over £100,000 in tax. The industry employs over 540,000 people directly and 380,000 in associated trades and account for 35% of the ‘eating out’ market (Source: The Publican).

Landlord Ian Thorpe welcomed us and spoke about the unique challenges facing the industry, including over regulation, alcohol tax hikes and the effect cheap booze sold by the off licence trade has on the pub.

Well-run pubs are the bedrock of community life – They deserve support and government needs to back pubs and reform the beer tie to deliver a fairer deal for consumers.

Lisa Nandy MP said, "Wigan boasts some top class pubs which provide a vital social and leisure service to the town. As a fan of real ale I was delighted to be able to sample some of the brews on offer at the Anvil.”

Unsung Heroes of our Emergency Services

2011-11-08T14:31:00.000Z

Photo courtesy of Chris Tennant of Bolton MRT

I recently visited Bolton Mountain Rescue Team (MRT), a group of 40 volunteers who for the past 40 years have been helping to rescue people in trouble.

Bolton MRT territorial area of operation includes the Wigan Borough I attended MRT’s operational HQ at Ladybridge Hall on Chorley New Rd, Bolton on Friday, 4th November.

The visit was arranged by Bolton MP, David Crausby for the following purposes:

• To introduce the work of the Bolton Mountain Rescue Team, and the liaison at a local level with the Statutory Emergency Services.
• To thank local Members of Parliament for the recent Government announcement of national financial support for civilian mountain rescue teams in the UK, via an equipment grant to be administered by Mountain Rescue England and Wales.
• To highlight the work of Mountain Rescue in assisting the Statutory Emergency Services via partnership multi agency responses to emergencies within our local communities.
• An opportunity to display the new emergency vehicle livery Bolton MRT have adopted for all five Emergency vehicles.
• To discuss with the Members of Parliament present the ongoing issue of gaining VAT exemption for all equipment purchases made by mountain rescue teams.

Photo courtesy of Chris Tennant of Bolton MRT

I learned that the modern day MRT was much more than just a mountain rescue operation. From looking for missing persons in urban areas to assisting the Police, Fire and Ambulance services during the bad winters of the last two years, Bolton MRT is on hand to support and assist the statutory agencies 365 days a year.

They have done this heroic work without statutory funding, relying on donations and grants for 40 years, so I was pleased that national funding for equipment will relieve some of the financial pressures that they face. We should all be proud of our MRT - they really are the unsung heroes of our emergency services.

Curry House 'Highly Commended' in Lyca Tiffin Cup

2011-11-07T15:08:00.000Z

Hindley’s Mahabharat on Market Street is celebrating after it was announced that it had been ‘highly commended’ in the Lyca Tiffin Cup 2011.

The Lyca Tiffin Cup is a competition to find the best south asian restaurant in Britain. MPs from across the country were asked to nominate a restaurant in their constituency.

The name ‘Tiffin’ is given to the containers that transported light meals. The tiffins, or tiffin boxes, are made up of three porcelain or metallic round trays with handles and lids in which lunches are delivered to workers.

A complex network of Dabbawallahs deliver the tiffins to workers. The practice is still in use in India today.

The judging panel included BBC Comedy Goodness Gracious Me star Nina Wadia.

I nominated Mahabharat earlier this year. The judging process included a mystery diner who sampled the cuisine, decor and ambience of Mahabharat.

Mahabharat received a certificate and embroidered Lyca Tiffin Cup 2011 chef jacket to mark their achievement in this year’s competition today.

This is a prestigious award and to be honoured in this way by the judging panel is testament to the fantastic efforts of all the staff. If curry is your favourite cuisine, then pop along to Mahabharat. You will be assured of a warm welcome.

St Leonards based Indian restaurant Taj Mahal finished as winners of the national Tiffin Cup competition. The Taj Mahal was nominated by Hastings MP, Amber Rudd.

Type 2 Diabetes Test is quick and simple!

2011-11-03T15:38:00.000Z

At a special MPs testing event held in Westminster, I took the quick and simple Type 2 diabetes test to help raise awareness of the need for public testing for the disease.

I 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 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.

Silver Star launched in January 2007 is a registered charity campaigning to raise diabetes awareness. The Charity runs Mobile Diabetes Units (MDU) that carry out important diabetes testing. They seek to promote culturally sensitive healthcare, with particular regard to the high prevalence of diabetes in the major towns and cities of Britain. The Units travel to local community centres, schools, work places and other organisations.

Winstanley Community Primary School

2011-10-25T09:17:00.000+01:00

I was very pleased to be asked by the Head Teacher, Mrs Jones and Governors to officially open Winstanley Community Primary School new build extension earlier this month.

Ex-Battery hens get the ‘Good life’ thanks to Lucky Hens Rescue

2011-10-21T11:52:00.000+01:00

The biggest revival in hen-keeping since the Second World War is under way in Britain and leading the ‘good life’ in Wigan is LuckyHens Rescue run by Alison Thorpe with the support of her husband Dane.

I visited the rescue centre today see for myself one of the fastest growing activities in the UK.
Around 700,000 of us now keep hens, saving money in tough times by having our own supply of eggs.

The boom in grow-your-own fruit and vegetables has spilled over to keeping hens, which was common in Britain during the war when eggs were rationed.With the credit crunch still biting, the fun of keeping hens and the prospect of having freshly laid eggs for breakfast by simply popping out to the garden has become more appealing.

Alison Thorpe told me that when LuckyHens Rescue receive the hens they are often in a terrible state caused by the stress of living in cramped cages, unable to walk, spread their wings, perch, scratch for food or even enjoy natural daylight, everything a normal hen should be able to do.

Once the hens have settled into their new surroundings at LuckyHens Rescue they start to lay again. Hens are flock animals and it is important that when they join a new home that they are kept together in small groups.

LuckyHens Rescue are also developing links with the local community and schools and are working with Greater Manchester Police and the Youth Offending Team to provide educational activities for young people.

Bill to promote free debt advice

2011-10-20T09:06:00.002+01:00

Yesterday, I introduced a 10 minute rule bill in Parliament to require fee charging debt management companies to inform potential clients of the availability of free advice.

The Press Association and my speech in Hansard provide more information on the Bill.

Wigan Business Expo Twenty11

2011-10-17T11:33:00.001+01:00

The FSB champions small business owners

Following a successful inaugural event at the DW Stadium last year, the Wigan Business Expo was held at Leigh Sports Village on Friday, 14th October.

Over 1,000 companies descended on Leigh Sports Village to network, sell, buy and promote business in the Wigan Borough.

Congratulations to Wigan Council and the local Chamber of Commerce for organising the event. In the current difficult economic climate it is the businesses present at the Expo that will be the engine for the recovery and job creation.

Setting up and running a business can be a daunting prospect. But the spirit of entrepreneurship can lift people out of poverty, create wealth and put our economy back on track. That's why I was pleased to support the Federation of Small Business (FSB) 'Real Life Entrepreneurs' Pledge at the Expo.

A day of Judgement for this Tory-led Government!

2011-10-13T13:07:00.000+01:00

In Makerfield there are nearly 11 people chasing every job. Across the Borough there are over 8,900 people claiming JSA. Our Borough now needs a change of direction from this Government.

Labour's 5 point plan for jobs and growth would get our area moving again. We need to get people back to work and off benefits, or the scar of unemployment will do long term damage. At the moment we are stuck in a vicious cycle, with more people on benefits and out of work the deficit is harder to get down.

Official figures reveal that 2,293 people are claiming JSA in Makerfield chasing just 219 vacancies across the constituency at Sept 2011.

Victims of Farepak collapse speak out

2011-10-11T17:12:00.000+01:00

This morning I took part in an interview with Victoria Derbyshire - Radio 5 Live and the victims of the Farepak collapse.

Scroll to the 7 minute mark to listen to the interview in full which is available for the next 7 days on BBC iplayer.

Labour's new Shadow Frontbench team

2011-10-10T14:31:00.000+01:00

Ed Miliband's new frontbench team has been announced in full today and I am delighted that Ed has asked me to join the frontbench team in Parliament.

My new role will be working in the Opposition Whip's Office with Chief Whip, Rosie Winterton MP.

Wear it Pink and let's tackle Breast Cancer

2011-10-06T16:52:00.001+01:00

This month I am joining forces with Breast Cancer Campaign to raise awareness of its biggest fundraising event, wear it pink day.

On Friday 28 October 2011 supporters in schools, colleges and businesses throughout the country are encouraged to don an item of pink in support of the campaign and each donate £2 to fund innovative world-class breast cancer research.

Last year hundreds of thousands of people took part to help improve survival rates for the one in eight women who experience breast cancer during their lifetime.

Every year in the UK, around 48,000 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women. Although it is rare, men can also suffer from breast cancer, with around 340 men diagnosed each year. I know people who have lost friends and family members to the disease and I would like to encourage everyone in Makerfield and throughout the country to support wear it pink on October 28, to raise valuable funds for breast cancer research.

To take part in the UK’s original and best pink day visit wear it pink and register to receive your free fundraising pack now.

Citizens Advice Annual Conference 2011

2011-09-30T15:50:00.000+01:00

Below is the text of my speech to the Citizens Advice Conference held in York earlier this month.

'Thank you for inviting me here today to speak at your annual conference. It’s lovely to see old friends again and to meet new people coming into the service still dedicated to the ideals of CAB.

I have to say if I could have seen into the future at my first conference in 1986, I would not have believed I’d be standing here today and a lot, if not all, is down to the experiences and lessons I have learnt through working 23 years as a CAB Manager/Chief Executive in St. Helens – I must be a slow learner to need such a long apprenticeship.

Although when I review the knowledge that CAB has brought to me it probably is not all that surprising and CAB work is an excellent foundation for political activity.

When I was asked to speak, I thought I would review some of the history of the CAB, looking back at our challenges as well as forward to the future and I re-read a lovely little book titled ‘The Story of the Citizens Advice Bureau’ published for the Silver Jubilee in 1964 – no I wasn’t actually there then.

And, I was struck by a comment made by the Home Secretary at the 1959 conference, 'Whilst all of us in public work are there because we are interested in the social improvement of our people, we differ from you in that we have so little intimate knowledge of these subjects'.

I don’t think you’d find a politician today who would admit that quite so frankly.

That is why the social policy role of the CAB is so important and I don’t mind admitting that, since my election, I have often felt very guilty and regretted not making a larger contribution to that work when I had the chance.

My predecessor as M.P. for Makerfield, Sir Ian McCartney, a previous recipient of CAB Parliamentarian of the Year and a man for whom I have huge respect, once said to me that the best legislation is founded in constituency casework citing the example of the legislation he introduced regarding the flammability of foam furniture that had resulted from a tragic death in the constituency.

However, this is not a view universally shared by MPs and, indeed, constituencies do vary dramatically, so the pivotal role of a national service giving actual examples of cases, snapshots of people’s lives, is vitally important – and very difficult to refute.

The parliamentary briefings prepared for debates and committees are well respected and immensely useful raising the profile of the service and also making legislators stop and think about the effect that the legislation has had and will have on the lives of people throughout the country. It can be a very strange and almost sheltered life in Parliament and I am always happy to return home and get back to helping people with their real lives but the CAB briefings take those real lives to all parliamentarians, and give examples from all types of areas, rural areas, urban areas, wealthy areas, areas of deprivation that we cannot possibly all experience.
I think that’s my plug for the social policy work over, so I would now like to turn to the future.

I think the word I hear most often is ‘challenging’ and I wouldn’t disagree with that but I also believe there are opportunities.

As I said, I have been re-reading our history and there have been major challenges in the past, in fact all government funding was removed for a short time but the service still survived and has grown in both scope and influence.

The CAB and local Bureaux are almost sacrosanct – everybody from David Cameron through to new backbench M.P.s praises the work of their local Bureau and relies upon their services.

However, whenever I hear this praise, I am reminded of one of my AGMs in the early 1990s when the local Mayor, who was also the member for funding the voluntary sector, was the keynote speaker. Naturally, he was fulsome in his praise of the service. The vote of thanks was given by one of the older volunteers, a wonderful feisty person who had been with the service a considerable time and she thanked him for his kind words, then saying, ‘But, in an old phrase, fine words butter no parsnips and what we need is the money to keep providing the service and not the grant freeze you have proposed’....... We did get the money.

It feels a bit like that now and part of the reason is the complex funding structure of most Bureaux and the interdependence of each strand. It is difficult because there is no one government department that provides all the funding and takes the responsibility and there is even some confusion about where the national grant is spent.

That’s why, besides contributing to social policy work, the other thing I would urge you to do is go back and talk to your politicians both local and national. Explain the effects of cuts – your Bureau may not receive legal aid funding directly but may have a specialist who comes to the Bureau from a central unit. Leave your M.P. in no doubt what would happen should that service be withdrawn.

The CAB service is talking the language politicians want to hear, in fact the minister in the Legal Aid bill committee stated that he wanted to ‘empower’ individuals to deal with their problems. Well local Bureaux have been doing that for years and doing it very efficiently and cost effectively.

No politician can imagine a world without their local CAB but they need to have demonstrated not only the cases that are helped but the efficiency and cost effectiveness of the service and the collaboration with other agencies so this myth of ‘duplication of services’, would that there were in my area, can be well and truly scotched.

You have a great brand –which everyone believes they understand. I remember someone saying to me – when I said I worked for CAB, “I know what you do – you tell people where to go” – Perhaps that’s why I went into politics, to actually do that!

But, actually they don’t understand. Inform them and keep informing them.

You have a great volunteer base who do incredible and professional working, supported by dedicated teams of paid staff – tell them how it works – explain the costs of volunteering as well as the benefits.

Keep your public profile high and keep inviting politicians to the Bureau and sending them short, sharp snappy profiles of your work.

Research them – what are their interests, what select committees are they on, how can you help them?
I can’t tell you how much the service is valued – it is a much loved institution – but equally it is not fully understood particularly on a local level. I’ll do my bit to keep the service in the spot light and correct any misconceptions.... but really it’s down to you. The door is open – keep pushing it!

I began with a quote from the fascinating and quaint 1964 history and I would like to end with one which I believe is still true today. It is from the 1963 Minister of Pensions and National Insurance, who said, 'Surely we have come to recognise that human needs can be met in full only by a partnership between the statutory and voluntary services. Each needs the other if the highest standards are to be achieved; they will not be achieved if we work in isolation. That’s as true now as it was then and the CAB service will continue to adapt and change but it will always be needed.'

Free Debt Advice Bill

2011-09-29T14:07:00.000+01:00

A leading North West forum held a one day conference at the Wigan Investment Centre, supported by the Money Advice Liaison Group (MALG). The conference brought together leading practitioners in the money advice, consumer credit and personal debt sector including advice agencies, banks, local authorities and charitable trusts.

Wigan Evening Post 26th Sept 2011

I was pleased to address the meeting and announce that I had secured parliamentary time to introduce a Bill to require fee charging debt management companies to inform potential clients of the availability of free advice on debt management.

In my speech, I also attacked the extortionate rates of interest that Pay Day Loan companies offer.

Whilst payday loans can offer a solution to people who need a short term fix, they often offer it at extortionate rates of over 2000% APR and this can lead to spiralling and unaffordable debt by allowing customers to keep borrowing to pay off the original loan.

There is another option available for people offering a pathway out of debt – the free advice sector with trusted organisations like Citizens Advice and Law Centres across the country offering impartial advice and a network of Credit Unions like Unify and Welcome, here in Wigan who provide secure savings and cheap loans to members.

Support for bereaved Armed Forces families

2011-09-19T12:47:00.000+01:00

David Murray is the RBL's County Manager

I recently attended an important event in Parliament to highlight the importance of supporting bereaved Armed Forces families.
At the event, I was told about the Royal British Legion’s work to improve the welfare of the Armed Forces family in the local area and the Legion’s concern that the Government should support bereaved Armed Forces families by appointing a Chief Coroner to improve investigations into deaths of Service personnel.

David Murray, the Legions County Manager for the Greater Manchester area told me the Legion spends nearly £1.4 million a week on helping both the serving and the ex-Service communities, including their families. The Legion is currently celebrating its 90th Anniversary Year, and this campaign is calling on the Government to do all they possibly can for bereaved Armed Forces families.

I was really pleased to meet David and tell him that just as the Legion supports bereaved Armed Forces families, so do I. The Legion does very important welfare work for some of my most vulnerable constituents in both the serving and ex-Service communities. It is vital that we, as a nation, are there for those serving in current conflicts, and especially for the families of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. I was grateful for the opportunity to learn more about how, in its 90th anniversary year, the Legion stands shoulder to shoulder with all who serve, including bereaved Armed Forces families. They deserve as much support as we can give them.

Question Time at Winstanley College

2011-09-14T14:49:00.002+01:00

Mark Hage is pictured with college students and myself.

I recently attended a question time session with Winstanley Sixth Form College students.

I talked about my role as a MP as well as answering some very good questions on a range of issues important to young people like tuition fees and the recent riots.

Tom Owen (16) said, “Watching the debate on current topical issues was fascinating. I learnt about labour’s position on tuition fees and student debt.”

Amy Nash (16) said, “It really brought home to me the complexity of issues MP’s have to consider and how relevant politics is for young people such as myself.”

The event was part of the current affairs enrichment program at Winstanley College, headed by Law teacher and Current Affairs Coordinator Mark Hage who said, “This debate is typical of the high quality events students at Winstanley participate in as they were able to talk authoritatively on a wide range of current issues affecting them and society. This was democracy at its best”.

C-TEC - A fine example of manufacturing excellence in Wigan

2011-09-12T11:54:00.001+01:00

Yvonne is pictured with Andrew Foster

I visited a world class manufacturer of life-safety products on Friday, 9th Sept.(Fri, 9th Sept) having nominated Goose Green’s C-TEC for the ‘Made by Britain’ initiative, as an example of manufacturing excellence in my constituency.

Made by Britain was launched this summer by Secretary of State, Vince Cable MP and the Associate Parliamentary Manufacturing Group (APMG), to showcase examples of manufacturing across the UK. Every MP has been asked to nominate a company or a product that is manufactured in their constituency today.

C-TEC manufacture an extensive range of fire alarm control panels, disabled persons toilet alarms, staff protection systems, third party approved EN-54 compliant power supplies, induction loops and nurse-call systems.

Based at two sites on Stephens Way, Goose Green, C-TEC are celebrating 30years of manufacturing, employing over 120 people and exporting to over 80 countries.

The company will relocate later this year following the purchase of a new factory on Wigan’s Challenge Way industrial estate. Measuring a massive 75,000ft (the size of 3 football pitches), the new facility will provide manufacturing, office and storage space to facilitate further expansion and the recruitment of staff.

Each MP’s nomination will feature in the APMG’s Made by Britain showcase to commemorate the 160th anniversary of the Great Exhibition. The project has been partially funded by the Royal Commission for the Exhibition of 1851.

I enjoyed the tour of the factory and meeting with senior management and chatting to shop floor employees.

Despite the current economic climate that faces UK PLC, it is still the case that we are a nation that has a proud manufacturing base and too often we forget just how many successful and innovative businesses we have around us.

C-TEC is one such company with ambitious plans for the future and a commitment to Wigan. They boast a range of innovative products including the new ‘Hush Button’ fire alarm system which will reduce the incidence of false alarms in flats and apartments, potentially saving thousands of lives and placing them as a world leader in the field.

Andrew Foster, C-TEC’s Managing Director said, “I am delighted that C-TEC has been nominated for such a prestigious and important initiative. 2011 marks our 30th year of manufacturing world-class life safety products and I can think of no better way to celebrate than by flying the flag for not only the UK but also Wigan as a centre of manufacturing excellence. I am incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication of everyone at C-TEC and hope the publicity generated by the initiative will attract yet more hard-working and talented people to join the team.”

C-TEC can be found on the web here.

Christmas Card 2011 Competition

2011-09-05T17:03:00.000+01:00

Today I have written to local primary school headteachers inviting them to submit pupils’ designs for my 2011 Christmas Greetings Card.

Following last year’s inaugural competition, I am calling on pupils to submit a traditional Christmas or New Year themed design that will grace the front of my 2011 card.

Last year over 250 entries were received from pupils across the constituency. The entry by Molly Fisher of RL Hughes Primary School, Ashton in Makerfield, was judged the winner and Molly’s winning card design was sent to a number of distinguished people in the worlds of politics, business, sport and charitable sectors, including both the Prime-Minister and the Leader of the Opposition, as well as many local people working in Wigan’s public services such as the NHS and Wigan Council.

In this year’s competition, I hope that my office receives a fantastic response from local schools. Judging by last year’s entries, the children clearly put a lot of effort into their art-work so it made my job of picking the winner extremely difficult. So, I hope that the standard is even higher this year.

Submissions from Makerfield’s primary school aged children are welcomed and should be forwarded no later than Friday, 28th October 2011 to:

Yvonne Fovargue MP
Elizabeth House
Pottery Rd
Wigan WN3 4EX

Designs should be submitted on plain paper no larger than A4 size.

Well done Wigan Warriors

2011-08-30T14:38:00.000+01:00

Thomas Leuluai

What a great weekend for Wigan!

I saw reports that over 30,000 Wigan Warrior fans attended the game and they made themselves heard turning Wembley into a home game for the day!

I stayed over in London on Saturday night before returning for the homecoming at the DW Stadium.

I was very lucky to be able to meet the players and congratulate them, but their focus was already turning to Sunday's game with Warrington. Sam Tomkins told me that they were reporting for training the following day. I have been fortunate to attend Challenge Cup finals but I have yet to see a finer try in the final than Joel Tomkin's length of the field effort on Saturday.

Anthony Nolan Stem Cell Register

2011-08-26T10:21:00.001+01:00

Today, I am calling for young men aged 18-30 in Makerfield to do something special by joining the Anthony Nolan stem cell register.

Anthony Nolan is a pioneering charity that saves the lives of people with blood cancer. Every day, they use their register to match remarkable donors willing to donate their blood stem cells to people who desperately need potentially lifesaving transplants.

However, there is a shortage of young male donors on the bone marrow register. Men aged 18-30 account for 80% of donations, but make up just 19% of the register. Presently, Anthony Nolan can only find a matching donor for half the people who come to them in desperate need of a lifesaving transplant so this summer they are aiming to recruit 10,000 more young men to the register.

Young men interested in the chance to save someone’s life should go to the Anthony Nolan website and enter the code CUU2.

There are 1600 people in the UK in need of a potentially lifesaving stem cell transplant. By joining the Anthony Nolan Register, these young men will be offering patients the chance of life and a new hope to their families.

I found the story of 15 year old Alice Pyne inspiring and felt that if she can dedicate her life to recruiting donors then I should take part in that.

The young people I have met in my constituency are often gushing with altruism. I know many of them will relish the chance to step forward and join the Anthony Nolan register.

If every MP recruited just ten young men to the Anthony Nolan register, that would make up 6,500 new recruits towards the charity’s ten thousand target. These new donors could be saving lives by Christmas.

Anthony Nolan provides two potentially lifesaving transplants every day, but for every patient they can help, there is another for whom, sadly, no match can be found. On average, 65 people a day in the UK are diagnosed with a blood cancer – that’s one person every 23 minutes.

There are nearly 1,600 people in the UK in need of a bone marrow transplant. This is usually their last chance of survival. 70% of patients will not find a matching donor from within their families.
80% of donations take place via PBSC (peripheral blood stem cell collection). This is an outpatient appointment and is similar to donating blood.

Most donors talk about how wonderful it is to have saved someone’s life.

Parkinson's UK

2011-08-25T12:10:00.000+01:00

Parkinson’s UK – the support and research charity - is committed to improving life for everyone affected by Parkinson’s.

Members of Parkinson’s UK in Makerfield met with me this week at the Wigan and Leigh Carers Centre in Hindley to talk about the issues that affect people with Parkinson’s and their carers.

Parkinson’s UK campaigns for people with Parkinson’s to have access to the health and social care they need, for scientific research into Parkinson’s to easily take place, and for people to have the financial support to stay independent and pay for their medication.

Katherine French, Influence and Service Development Officer of Parkinson’s UK said, “We invited Yvonne to visit the branch, so we could tell her what we wanted her to do for Parkinson’s in her capacity as MP."

“We were delighted that she took the time to meet with us and listen to our concerns about the changes to the benefits system, prescription charges and the replacement of the Parkinsons Nurse who is leaving her post shortly. People said after the meeting how important it was to be able to talk open and honestly and have their views listened to and thanked her for taking time out to meet with them.”

Meeting people with Parkinson’s face-to-face has been a real eye-opener. I can now see the problems faced by carers and people with the condition. I want to do everything in my power to make sure people affected by Parkinson’s have all the support they need.

In particular, many people present were very concerned about the impact of the provisions of the Welfare Reform Act and the effect it will have on both them and their carers as it may mean they will wait longer for benefits and have the additional stress of being retested every year despite knowing that their condition will not improve.

For information and support call the Parkinson’s UK free confidential helpline on 0808 800 0303 or visit Parkinson's on the web.

I'm backing the World Cup Bid

2011-07-15T15:11:00.001+01:00

East Lancs Rd, Golborne

Today, I was pleased to assist in raising awareness of Wigan's bid to be a host town for the 2013 Rugby League World Cup.

I joined Deputy Leader of Wigan Council, Cllr David Molyneux and Wigan Rugby League legend Kris Radlinski as new signs were erected at the entrances to the Borough, backing the World Cup bid.

Earlier this year, I intervened when the North West Development Agency (NWDA) were set to renege on contracts entered into with the Rugby Football League, casting doubt on the tournament's viability.

Alongside the All Party Group on Rugby League, we were successful in persuading the NWDA to honour its commitment.

For me, it is inconceivable, that Wigan should not play a significant role in the World Cup, but I know that all involved in the bid are not taking anything for granted and are working hard to ensure that international Rugby League will grace both the DW Stadium and Leigh Sports Village.

Self regulation is simply not working

2011-07-15T12:33:00.000+01:00

This week, I was called by the Speaker at Prime Minister's Questions and I used this opportunity to call on David Cameron to regulate the Debt Management sector and ‘beef up’ the powers of the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) to deal with rogue companies.

Debt management is a lucrative business. Over the past decade, countless firms have sprung up – many using dubious tactics to acquire customers. Misleading advertising and a procession of inflated claims about how easy it is to write off your debts are just a few tactics some companies have been caught resorting to – and almost all of them charge high fees.

There is growing support in the country and within parliament for change and I am spearheading the campaign as the new chair of the All Party Group on Debt & Personal Finance.

In his reply, David Cameron acknowledged Ms Fovargue’s experience in this area and undertook to consider the issue.

The OFT’s recent review of the market revealed shocking results. When it conducted 168 compliance visits and mystery shopped 172 providers, 129 firms were told to take immediate action or risk losing their credit licence.

It is little wonder that one in four UK adults, according to research organisation Mintel’s September 2010 debt management report, think that debt management companies (DMCs) ‘prey on the desperate’ and ‘are just rip-off merchants’.

DMCs must hold a consumer credit licence issued by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT). As an unregulated industry, two trade bodies DEMSA and the Debt Resolution Forum are aiming to raise industry standards.

Nonetheless I remain unconvinced. Self-regulation has failed tens of thousands of people in this country and in the absence of a regulatory framework, many people are receiving poor and inappropriate advice with front loading of fees from many DMCs they contact for help.

The OFT has no power to stop a company trading while they investigate, which is on average two years and, ideally, the best solution is to expand free debt provision from agencies like CABs so people aren’t paying to get out of debt.

National Transplant Week

2011-07-07T12:06:00.000+01:00

Join the Register

Over 7,500 people in the UK are currently waiting for an organ transplant and furthermore, on average, 3 people who need a transplant die every day whilst waiting.

Transplant Week, which takes places between 4th - 10th July, aims to increase awareness of organ donation and the issues that surround it by focusing on how long people are currently waiting to receive a transplant.

Last week, I met with The Kidney Alliance during National Transplant week to discuss the affect of the government’s Health Bill on patients suffering from kidney failure and requiring regular dialysis.

There is still much work to be done to encourage people to donate their organs.

At the moment only 29% of people have joined the Organ Donor Register, even though 96% would take an organ if they needed one.

The average person in the UK spends an hour waiting every day - whether it's in traffic, on public transport or in a queue. But for those waiting for a life-saving organ transplant, for which there is often no alternative, the wait is on average up to three years.

For Transplant Week this year, I want people to think about that wait and take action by signing up to the Organ Donor Register and join the 16 million citizens whose details are registered. If I could magically change one thing to help save more lives, it would be to make sure everyone took a few minutes to let their family know their wishes regarding organ donation

Citizens Advice Parliamentarian of the Year Award

2011-07-06T18:21:00.000+01:00

Yvonne is pictured with Jane Mordue of Citizens Advice

I was very surprised to learn this morning that I was to be this year's recipient of the Citizens Advice Parliamentarian of the Year.

Gillian Guy, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice, said: “Yvonne was selected for her tireless championing of the Citizens Advice service and our clients in Parliament, since being elected in 2010."

“While still a relatively new MP, the sheer amount of time and determination she has put into keeping the issues Citizens Advice work with high on the political agenda, and the effective way in which she has secured the support of so many colleagues, on both sides of the House has had a huge impact on the Service and on our clients."

“Yvonne’s successful leadership is evidenced in her work as Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Legal Aid and the new Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Debt and Personal Finance. In these latter roles she has secured several debates on the impact of legal aid reform and on the impact other public spending cuts will have on the future of funding for free debt and welfare benefits advice."

“As a member of the Welfare Reform Bill Committee Yvonne spoke in favour of several proposed amendments to the Bill to expose and try to mitigate the negative impact some of the proposed changes will have on CAB clients and other vulnerable members of society."

“Together with other members of the APPG on Debt and Personal Finance, she has
been campaigning for more effective regulation of fee-charging debt management plans – a huge issue for our clients, and one we fully support.”

These awards acknowledge either a Peer or an MP who we have worked closely with in Westminster – and in the case of MPs, their constituency – to deliver real change for our clients. Previous winners include Yvonne's predecessor Sir Ian McCartney in 2009 and Vince Cable, Liberal Democrat Business Secretary and MP for Twickenham in 2008.

For me, as a former Citizens Advice Bureau manager, receiving this award is extra special and I’m delighted to be recognised in this way by the service that I worked in for so long. My experience with St Helens CAB was the best possible grounding for my work as an MP, both in terms of dealing with constituency casework and as a legislator. I continue to meet regularly with my local Wigan & Leigh CAB. This contact, in addition to that which I have with Citizens Advice head office, is vital in helping me effectively represent my constituents, especially those struggling with debt, benefits and legal problems. The Citizens Advice service’s understanding of the issues facing individuals and communities across the country is second to none.

Fishy goings-on down at Spring View

2011-07-01T14:59:00.000+01:00

Today I visited an innovative project for young people not in education, employment or training in Spring View.

Cast North West runs accredited fishing-based training courses for young people in an effort to reduce offending and anti-social behaviour. In addition, the charity also runs various educational workshops on a range of subjects, including Maths, English and IT.

One of the UK’s leading grant makers, the Lloyds TSB Foundation for England and Wales funds small to medium sized local, regional and national charities working at the heart of communities to tackle disadvantage.

The two year £24,900 grant awarded to Cast NW will help the charity deliver its accredited ‘Introduction to Fishing Management’ course. I was given a tour of the facilities by Project Founder, Neil Farnworth and David Pye, Asst Co-ordinator and met with some of the young people benefitting from the course.

I was very impressed by Cast NW's plans for the future and I have pledged my support and assistance.

Neil and his team are to be applauded for their work with our young people providing them with important life skills and boosting their self-confidence. For many young people life can be a challenge. It’s easy to make the wrong choices but with projects like this they can realise their true potential and make a positive contribution to their community.

New National Report Reveals False Claims of Tobacco Companies.

2011-06-28T13:55:00.000+01:00

Wigan Evening Post 18th June 2011

A new report published this month reveals that UK based tobacco manufacturers knowingly misled stakeholders, highlighting the false claims and contradictions that underly the Tobacco Industry’s attempts to stop tobacco legislation, which is aimed at reducing the 80,000 deaths every year in the UK caused by smoking.

The report, entitled ‘Tobacconomics’, cites that tobacco manufacturers claimed that banning the display of cigarettes in Ireland led to half a billion pounds loss in government revenue, when in fact the Irish Government stated that it increased by £50m.

The report goes on to explain in detail how the tobacco industry uses pseudo economic arguments to divert attention away from the health consequences of smoking and protect its revenues, commonly repeating the same three themes: standing up for small businesses and defending workers jobs, raising the alarm about counterfeit and smuggled tobacco and denying the effectiveness of tobacco control measures.

We are constantly being told that display bans and plain packaging laws would be the end and cause small retailers to close. But although tobacco sales account for up to a third of a small retailer’s turnover, the profit a shopkeeper makes on a packet of cigarettes is very small – less than 5% on a packet of 20.

It is this kind of smokescreen from the Tobacco Industry that we have to see through to get to the truth.

This report clears up the myths that the Tobacco Industry so readily peddle in their attempts to prevent or water down important legislation designed to save lives. The economic arguments, especially around the impact of display and plain packaging, do not hold water yet the Industry are very slick at presenting these as fact.

I welcome this report and its expose of false claims by the Tobacco Industry and its front organisations – all of whom have a vested interest in keeping people smoking. The North West carries a considerable burden of ill health and death from tobacco use; the public in the North West need to know the truth.

Regulation required for companies making money out of people in debt.

2011-06-27T10:57:00.000+01:00

I have lent my support to a cross-party campaign calling for fee-charging debt management companies to face greater regulation after it was revealed that many are flouting rules meant to protect consumers.

The campaign for better regulation wants to stop consumers getting a bad deal from the private companies who charge those in debt to negotiate with and/or set-up payment plans with creditors.

The cross-party call for more effective regulation includes:

• an immediate ban on cold calling
• an immediate ban on the charging of upfront fees for debt management
• effective auditing of for-profit debt management companies

In March, a super-complaint to the Office of Fair Trading, made by Citizens Advice, highlighted the harm done to consumers by widespread misleading marketing and excessive charges. In some cases fees are not even passed on to creditors.

In May, the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Debt and Personal Finance submitted its call for more effective regulation to the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills’ Consumer Credit and Personal Insolvency Review. This followed the publication earlier this year of the Office of Fair Trading’s own investigation into compliance with existing rules. The review found that breaches of its guidance were widespread with misleading advertisements and poor levels of competence among their front line staff commonplace.

I’m calling on the Government to take urgent steps to introduce more effective regulation of the companies who make money out of people in debt. All too often these companies are not debt management companies but debt exploitation companies.

Of course, not all fee charging companies break the rules but the whole sector needs reform so that consumers know that they can trust those companies offering to help them with their debt.

If anybody is worried about their debt they should seek free advice from their local Citizens Advice Bureau. I know from working with my constituents that the Citizens Advice Bureau’s free debt management help can really change people’s lives: so if you need help, visit the CAB.”

The Early Day Motion on “Regulation of fee-charging debt management companies” is available here.

Legal Aid Bill cuts a further blow for the poorest

2011-06-24T11:34:00.000+01:00

Severe cuts to Legal Aid will go ahead virtually unchanged, as the Sentencing and Legal Aid Bill was published this week by Justice Secretary, Ken Clarke MP.

A coalition of groups joined forces today at Wigan & Leigh Magistrates Court including Wigan & Leigh Citizens Advice Bureau, Stephensons Solicitors and representatives from the local Law Society calling on the Government to ‘think again’.

Free legal advice helps families stay together in their homes, in work and education. Over 650 000 people will lose out on this vital help through reforms to legal aid alone, at a time where other funding streams for free advice are under threat.
Reforms to Legal Aid will decimate the capacity of CAB, Law Centres, legal aid practitioners and other community advice agencies to help the most vulnerable people with serious everyday problems with issues like debt, employment, housing, benefits, immigration, clinical negligence and family matters.

The Bill also has profound implications for litigation funding and costs with proposals to reform "no win no fee" Conditional Fee Agreements (CFAs).

Legal Aid was responsible for winning compensation for the miners in the 1960-70s, helped the Thalidomide children in the 1970s, and more recently, allowed the Gurkhas to win the right to live in the UK in 2008.
Over half a million people will lose out on advice, according to the Government's own figures, as the legal aid budget is cut by £350 million.

The proposals will very seriously restrict what advice legal aid funds, especially in social welfare, family and education law and who can get legal aid.

New figures demonstrate the impact on the Wigan Borough. Government proposals will see a 76% cut in the number of cases currently eligible for Legal Aid equating to over 2,300 fewer cases compared to 2010 with a total loss of funding of £428,000 to Legal Aid providers in the Borough.

The government should have listened to ‘thousands of dissenting voices’ and introduced reforms that would make the necessary savings without simply transferring costs to other parts of the public sector.

Legal Aid provision will be decimated in Wigan if Ken Clarke’s proposals remain unchanged. At some point in people’s lives they will need access to help currently funded by Legal Aid.

Legal Aid is a vital public service that we don’t often think about in the same way as the NHS or schools but it provides a lifeline for people who require professional advice on a wide range of issues from welfare benefits to clinical negligence.

The government's proposed cuts will make access to justice the preserve of the rich and powerful.

Ann Harrison, Chair of Stephensons Solicitors said, “Legal Aid is a fundamental right in any democratic society. It allows the poor, the vulnerable and the oppressed to have a voice and to be represented against large commercial organisations. We undermine our Legal Aid system at our peril.”

Chris Harris, Manager of Wigan Borough Citizens Advice Bureau said, “There is a powerful business case for Legal Aid funding for social welfare law advice, but, more importantly, the issue at stake is the access to justice for the most vulnerable."

“Effective face-to-face legal help, provided at the earliest opportunity, makes a vital contribution to preventing future problems such as homelessness, spiralling debt, family breakdown or stress, mental illness, as well as supporting people when they leave prison and helping refugees to settle more successfully into life in the UK."

“There are considerable needs for debt and welfare benefits advice, and we expect this to increase in the current economic situation, at a time when many people will be facing redundancy, and as the Government’s plans for radical changes to the welfare benefit system and the cuts to specific benefits are implemented.”

Visit here for full details of the Bill.

Act now and introduce a Financial Transaction Tax

2011-06-21T15:39:00.000+01:00

Some call it the Robin Hood Tax, others call it the Financial Transaction Tax (FTT) or Tobin Tax, I call it a really good idea. This tiny tax could take $400,000,000,000 out of the pockets of the bankers who got rich by crashing the economy and use that money to stop service cuts and help the people who are suffering the most from poverty and the effects of climate change, and who did the least to cause it.

This amazing 0.05% tax first proposed by James Tobin is gathering support right across the globe. It is an idea whose time has come.

Over the course of the past 18 months, the FTT has shifted from a radical idea to a realistic proposition considered by the International Monetary Fund, the European Commission and Parliament, the G20 and several national governments.

Ahead of the European Council on 23-24 June, this is our chance to demonstrate the strength, breadth and diversity of support for the international Financial Transaction Tax. Our government need to know that we are watching them, and that we expect them to deliver. It’s a big day for a tiny tax which has a huge potential to improve people’s lives all over the world and here in the UK.

As a parliamentary candidate, in the months before the 2010 general election, I pledged my support for a FTT and politicians are increasingly sitting up and taking notice. The European Parliament has repeatedly called for the implementation of an FTT, be it at global or EU-only level. At national level, French president Nicolas Sarkozy, who currently chairs the G20, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel have long been considered leading supporters.

You can pledge your support here.

Makerfield Labour Party Summer Dinner

2011-06-13T11:43:00.000+01:00

Makerfield Labour Party members welcomed Stretford & Urmston MP, Kate Green to their Summer Dinner at Gallimore’s Fine Restaurant, The Wiend, Wigan on Friday, 10th June 2011.

Members were in buoyant mood following the recent local election campaign that saw Cllr Stephen Murphy (Orrell) and Cllr Joel Haddley (Ashton) join Labour’s cohort of Makerfield Councillors at the Town Hall.

Elected to Parliament in May 2010, Kate Green MP is a passionate campaigner on child poverty and is an influential member of the Work & Pensions Select Committee. Tipped for Labour’s front bench, Kate was recently described as the most knowledgeable parliamentarian on poverty issues by the Daily Mirror columnist Kevin Maguire.

Cllr Jim Talbot, Chair of Makerfield Labour Party said, “We were delighted to welcome Kate to Makerfield and hear her thoughts on the big issues of the day. It was also an opportunity to celebrate our recent local election successes.”

As host for the event, I wanted to thank Howard Gallimore and his staff for contributing to the success of the evening. Gallimore’s picked up the Environmental Award, at the 2010 Wigan Chamber of Commerce Awards and 2011 is turning into another great year for the Winstanley Business man as Gallimore’s continues to receive plaudits for its fine food at great prices.

Gallimore's website can be accessed at the following link.

Pictured l-r: Kate Green MP, Yvonne Fovargue MP, Cllr David Molyneux (Dep Leader - Wigan Council), Cllr Jim Talbot and Howard Gallimore.

Knowing Your Pulse Could Save Your Life

2011-06-13T11:25:00.000+01:00

I joined Dr Adeniyi O Molajo of Ashton in Makerfield & Haydock Rotary Club on Saturday, 11th June, as part of World Heart Rhythm Week, to help raise awareness of the importance of pulse checks. Nurses from the Royal Albert Edward Infirmary were on hand to assist on the day.

The campaign, spearheaded by the charities, Arrhythmia Alliance (the Heart Rhythm Charity) and Atrial Fibrillation Association (AFA), aims to raise awareness of Atrial Fibrillation (AF), the most common heart rhythm disorder in the UK. Figures published by the Department of Health in 2007 suggested that AF affected in excess of 800,000 people in the UK. However, this is now considered to be an underestimate and that a more accurate figure may now be in excess of one million, with 200,000 patients being newly diagnosed each year. It is also responsible for 18%-20% of all strokes in the UK.

A simple pulse check is a quick and easy way of detecting AF and other heart rhythm disorders. It only takes four simple steps to learn how to take your pulse. By taking your pulse as various points throughout the day, you may be able to detect an unusual heart rate which you had not previously been aware of. In this instance it is advisable to seek advice from your local GP.

I fully support this campaign to encourage people to check their pulse. It is astonishing to think that such a simple test could help diagnose and treat a condition which can have such serious consequences. I urge everyone to check their pulse and to learn more about this condition.”

Dr Adeniyi O Molajo, Consultant Cardiologist said, “The pattern of the pulse can indicate a heart problem and can serve as a pointer to the need for further tests such as an ECG. A particularly important cause of irregular pulse is atrial fibrillation. This can lead to stroke and damaged bowel as a result of the blood supply to the organs being interrupted."

"Knowing your pulse is a major public health initiative and will improve a patient’s chance of finding a successful treatment and ultimately save lives."

For more information click here.

For a good curry, there's naan better!

2011-06-10T15:22:00.000+01:00

Hindley Curry House, Mahabharat has won a place in the regional final of the Lyca Tiffin Cup 2011 after being nominated by myself in the prestigious Lyca Tiffin Cup 2011 competition.

The national competition is held each year to find the best South Asian restaurant in the country. This year 60 restaurants were nominated. Mahabharat based on Market St, having won a place in the regional final will battle with other restaurants from the North West to become one of the national finalists in the Lyca Tiffin Cup 2011 Grand Final.

Within the next few weeks a mystery diner will visit the restaurant and judge whether the restaurant deserves to represent their region. For Mahabharat owner Mr G Haris, the nomination has been warmly welcomed. He said, “We are delighted that Mahabharat has been nominated. We pride ourselves on providing an excellent culinary experience in modern surroundings in the heart of Hindley.

I dined at Mahabharat during April and was impressed by the quality of food and decor, which led me to nominate Mahabharat. Having had an excellent meal at Mahabharat, I can personally recommend it. As a curry lover I am delighted to be able to support Mahabharat in the competition. Mahabharat’s staff are warm and friendly and the food is delicious. I hope they go far in the competition.

Carers Week 2011

2011-05-27T11:46:00.000+01:00

I have teamed up with TV presenter Angela Rippon to support this year’s Carers Week (13-19 June) to recognise the contribution made by those people in the Borough and throughout the UK who provide unpaid care for someone who is ill, frail or disabled.

The theme for Carers Week 2011 is ‘The True Face of Carers’. It calls for greater recognition for the diverse range of people who have caring responsibilities. The work they carry out is vital for their families and friends, and for their communities.

I met up with Angela at the House of Commons to pay tribute to carers, and to urge that they receive more support in their caring roles. Thousands of people in Makerfield sacrifice not only their time, but also their money and their health in order to care for a loved one. Together they save this country an astonishing £119 billion. They deserve to be recognised for their contribution to both our local community and to wider society.

I am taking part in Carers Week to show my respect and appreciation for our carers. I also want to let them know that there are services out there to help them. Caring can be so incredibly demanding. It’s important that carers know that they don’t have to struggle on alone.

Angela Rippon has personal experience of being a carer. Other celebrities supporting carers and Carers Week include Dame Judi Dench, Sir David Jason OBE, Jack Charlton OBE and Martin Lewis.

Carers Week is organised by a partnership of 9 national charities: Age UK, Carers UK, Counsel & Care, Crossroads Care, Dementia UK, Macmillan Cancer Support, MS Society, Parkinson’s UK, and The Princess Royal Trust for Carers.

For more information about local events and activities taking place as part of Carers Week click here.

Support for Regulation of Christmas Savings Schemes

2011-05-23T13:01:00.000+01:00

I led a delegation to meet with Ed Davey MP, Minister for Employment Relations, Consumer and Postal Affairs to press for government support to protect the savings of members in the lucrative Christmas Savings Schemes market following the collapse of Farepak in 2006.

I was joined by Sir Ian McCartney and Suzy Hall, an independent board member of the Christmas Pre-Payment Association (CPA) and a 'survivor' of the Farepak collapse. For Sir Ian McCartney the meeting was ‘unfinished business’, following the key role he played in fighting for justice for the 116,000 agents and customers of Farepak.

I have continued the campaign for justice and the meeting with the minister followed a personal committment from the Prime Minister at PMQs on 24th November 2011.

The Directors of Farepak reached agreement with the Liquidators and a payment of £4million has been received. However, the terms of the settlement are confidential and further action against the Directors lay in the hands of the Dept for Business, Innovation & Skills who have commenced proceedings against its former Directors. Legal proceedings to disqualify directors of the failed business began in the High Court in February.

The government's Insolvency Service had applied to the court to disqualify all nine former directors of Farepak and its parent company. The nine, including former CBI boss Sir Clive Thompson, are fighting the action. As a result creditors of Farepak are still waiting for compensation at a rate of 15p for every £1 nearly 5 years after the collapse.

In the wake of the collapse, businesses in the sector such as Park Christmas Savings Ltd joined the CPA whose members have accepted a code of practice offering greater protection to savers deposits.

In the meeting, Ed Davey was ‘appalled’ that several high profile Christmas Savings Schemes run by the major supermarket chains were not members of the Christmas Pre-payment Association.

I have tabled an Early Day Motion calling on the major supermarkets to set an example to smaller traders and take membership as soon as possible and have written to them asking them to join the CPA.

Farepak was marketed as a savings club and its customers regarded themselves as savers and not creditors at the bottom of the pile waiting for compensation. The Farepak collapse has cast a shadow over the Christmas Savings Industry and it is a scandal that nearly 5 years later, people across the country still await compensation.The minister was appalled to learn that even now with the formation of the Christmas Pre-payment Association that supermarket giants like Asda are not members of the industry self-regulator.

Early Day Motion 1794 – Christmas Savings Schemes

That this House notes with concern that the major supermarkets operating Christmas savings schemes are not members of the Christmas Pre-payment Association; and urges them to set an example to smaller traders and take up membership as soon as possible.

500,000 forced to wait more than a year for their pension

2011-05-19T15:48:00.001+01:00

The Government’s plans to accelerate the state pension age increases mean that 500,000 women will have to wait for more than a year longer before receiving the state pension, leaving many women aged 56 and 57 feeling robbed.

300,000 women born between 6 December 1953 and 5 October 1954, will have to wait an extra 18 months, and an unlucky 33,000 born between 6 March 1954 and 5 April 1954 will have to wait an extra 2 years, before being entitled to their state pension.

The majority of these women will already be well underway in their plans for retirement, with many already working reduced hours in order to care for grandchildren or elderly parents. Yet they are now being forced to make significant changes to their financial plans, with just 5 years notice before the changes kick in.
The unlucky 33,000 born between 6 March 1954 and 5 April 1954 are set to lose around £10,000 in lost state pension or more than £15,000 if they get the full pension credit, with less than 7 years to attempt to accommodate the change.

The Government’s plans to increase the state pension age disproportionately affects women and 3,500 women across the Wigan Borough are being made to wait up to two years longer for their state pension. Many of these are women who have juggled working lives with raising a family have very little retirement savings to fall back on. The lack of warning of these changes means they do not have enough time to adjust carefully thought-out retirement plans and leaves them feeling robbed of their pensions.

Smoke Alarms Save Lives

2011-05-17T13:36:00.000+01:00

Last Friday, I joined Wigan’s Firefighters at the home of Katie-Jo Finney, Sydney St, Platt Bridge (and her daughter Lacy) to support a vital free service offered by Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service.

Home Fire Risk Assessments (HFRA) are available to all households in Wigan and are free. Firefighters spent approximately 30-40 minutes with Katie-Jo discussing general fire safety issues, how to make a fire plan, and how to leave the property the safest way in the result of a fire.

The firefighters also went through a questionnaire regarding Kati-Jo’s lifestyle in relation to risk from fire and specific advice was provided, whilst the second crew member was fitting smoke detection where required and checked each room in the house for hazards and then discussing the hazard with the occupier to reduce the risk.

The Fire Service in Wigan aim to fit smoke detectors and carry out HFRA’s in all properties in the Wigan area and Wigan Station Commander, Steve Sheridan confirmed that his teams on average carry out over 40 HFRA’s a day. Agreements with partner agencies such as Wigan & Leigh Housing have seen HFRA’s carried out in all their properties over the recent past.

Wigan Station Commander Steve Sheridan said, "In Wigan we are committed to reducing fire deaths by ensuring that every home in the area has a working smoke alarm. We have already fitted over 100,000 free smoke alarms in our local communities across the Greater Manchester area. Along with fitting free smoke alarms, we also give occupiers a free fire safety check."

“Smoke alarms save lives and I would urge anyone without one to book a Home Fire Risk Assessment today by calling 0800 555 815."

Fire safety has progressed considerably since the 1980s when less than one in 10 homes had a smoke alarm. Due to the efforts of firefighters across the UK, the number of homes with a smoke alarm is over 80%, but this still leaves far too many unnecessarily in danger.

Smoke Alarms save lives and I know that Katie-Jo and Lacy will feel much safer for the advice received today.I would encourage every household without a smoke alarm to book a free appointment today.

Local Election Results

2011-05-09T16:34:00.000+01:00

People are turning towards Labour once again, to be their voice in tough times. As well as the biggest share of the vote, we have won back some of the great cities from the Liberal Democrats in the north, and won councils from the Conservatives in the south. But we have got further to go.

Across the Wigan Borough we gained seats including that of Michael Winstanley in Orrell, current Mayor and leading Conservative in the Borough. Congratulations to Stephen Murphy for his victory in Orrell and also Joel Haddley in Ashton.

These results reflect people’s deep unhappiness with what this Tory-led Government is doing. It was a very bad night for Nick Clegg. But also a bad night for David Cameron. He failed to win a mandate at the last general election and has only been able to force through his right-wing, badly thought through policies because of Liberal Democrat support.

David Cameron and Nick Clegg want to get back to business as usual. Instead they should listen, and change.

For full details of the results here in Wigan click here

Official Opening of Constituency Offices by Labour's Shadow Secretary of Health John Healey MP

2011-05-09T11:52:00.000+01:00

John Healey MP today officially opened the constituency office of Lisa Nandy MP and my office both based at Elizabeth House on Pottery Rd.

I was delighted that John was able to join us today and open the offices. Both Lisa and I are really pleased to be here at Elizabeth House and have secured a modern, fully accessible office with good transport links within walking distance of the town centre.

We both place a great deal of pride in the services the two constituency offices offer to constituents and today was an opportunity to showcase the facility as well as provide an opportunity for people to see for themselves the two offices and network with colleagues.

The Alternative Vote will be wrong for Britain

2011-04-27T17:31:00.000+01:00

I joined opponents of a change in the voting system last weekend who held a street stall in Ashton Town Centre.

The street stall was held as it emerged that leading Labour figures across the Borough are backing a No vote in the referendum on Thursday, 5th May.

Cabinet members Kevin Anderson, Fred Walker and Sue Loudon are joined by Cllrs Terry Halliwell, Myra Whiteside, Jim Talbot, Emma McGurrin, Jim Churton, Ann Rampling and Nigel Ash in supporting a No vote on Thursday, 5th May.

This is an important referendum – changing the voting system is not something we should do lightly. It could have all sorts of unintended consequences.

There is a very simple principle in politics and governments – whoever gets the most votes wins. It’s wrong that the person who came second or third can overtake the person with the most votes and be allowed to win because the second and third choices of the minor parties are counted again. Imagine applying the same principle at the Olympic Games and giving the gold medal to the person who came in third!

Ashton Ward Councillor, Nigel Ash said, “The Alternative Vote system is much more likely to produce
a hung parliament and the need for a coalition government. And coalition governments aren’t always the strongest. First of all it takes ages to do the deals between the parties, with politicians horse-trading behind closed doors – remember May last year.

“Because politicians make these secret deals after the election, it means that any promises they made during the campaign are thrown out of the window. Just look at what Nick Clegg and the Liberal Democrats have done on tuition fees to get a flavour. And we’re left with the crazy situation where it’s the politicians who choose who forms the government, and what policies they keep or ditch, not the voters, and that has to be wrong.”

Over 100 Labour MPs and Peers have pledged to vote No including John Prescott, Margaret Beckett MP, John Reid and Shadow Health Secretary John Healey MP.

For more info on the No2AV campaign click here.

NWDA should honour committment to Rugby League

2011-04-21T11:56:00.000+01:00

With the Olympics fast approaching, it’s easy to focus on what is taking place in London next year and how the North West will benefit from the legacy that it leaves. In what has been heralded as a golden decade of sport, there has been little attention paid to the first big international tournament taking place after the 2012 Games – the 2013 Rugby League World Cup.

With the majority of World Cup games taking place in the North of England, the tournament will give people from all over the world the opportunity to view top-flight sport outside London and the chance to experience the history and culture we have to offer. In doing so, it would provide much-needed income to the region.
But the North West might lose out on both games and funding; as the regional government agency that had agreed to provide funding to the tournament, the North West Regional Development Agency (NWDA), is being wound-down and it is looking to break agreements made with the tournament organiser the Rugby Football League (RFL). This has led to questions being asked in Parliament to ensure the agreed funding is in place and the UK and the North of England isn’t embarrassed by having to pull out of delivering the tournament.

I am backing Wigan’s bid to be a host town for the World Cup and have written to the NWDA this week calling on them to honour their committment to the RFL.

I don’t believe they’ve considered the wider impact this will have on the region. I know the Sports Industry Research Centre at Sheffield University calculated that the total economic activity that will be generated by the World Cup is in excess of £24m in the North West alone. When you think about how much rugby league means to Wigan and the the North West, it would be ridiculous if we were unable to have our fair share of games and lose out on that vital financial income.

The decision resides squarely with the NWDA and I am disappointed that they tried to renege on signed contracts. I appreciate that as the Regional Development Agencies are being wound up that there are hard choices to make. But I would stress to anyone involved in the decision at the NWDA on the World Cup, that this is one way they can leave a lasting legacy in the region they have been supporting for many years.

Referendum Broadcast - No2AV

2011-04-11T17:14:00.000+01:00

My visit to the Guide Dogs' Training Centre at Atherton

2011-04-11T16:43:00.001+01:00

Today, I visited the Guide Dogs' Training Centre at Atherton.

As well as a tour of the centre, I also took on the challenge of a blindfolded walk with Macca, a guide dog in training, to experience the difficulties blind and partially sighted people face in getting out and about and how a guide dog can help them.

My visit follows a reception at the House of Commons about Guide Dogs’ Talking Buses campaign, which is calling for audible and visual announcements to be installed on all new buses to help blind and partially sighted people, as well as those with a range of disabilities. I am supporting the campaign.

I met with Richard Woodcraft, District Team Manager and I was very impressed by the facilities and the professionalism of staff and volunteers. Undertaking the blindfolded walk with Macca brought home to me the vital role that guide dogs play in assisting people who are blind or suffer from partial sight loss.

A lack of information undermines the confidence and independence of vulnerable people who rely on buses to get around. Blind and partially sighted people, for example, cannot see where they are, and others including wheelchair users who face backwards on vehicles may not easily be able to identify their stop. These people risk ending up at the wrong stop. So I am backing the Guide Dogs Talking Buses Campaign.

There are around 4,500 guide dog partnerships in the UK. More information about the Guide Dogs' can be found here. Guide Dogs celebrates the 80th anniversary of the first guide dog partnerships this year, and a host of events are planned to mark the milestone.

International Womens Day (IWD) - Haigh Hall

2011-04-06T09:03:00.000+01:00

Wigan Council have kindly forwarded to me some photos from the IWD event at Haigh Hall last month.

More pics can be accessed on Facebook here.

Hundreds of young women came together to mark IWD in a unique celebrate event at Haigh Hall.

The Very Important Females event, celebrating years of youth work with young women, coincided with celebrations across the globe to mark 100 years of IWD.

The Wigan Borough event, organised by Wigan Council’s Positive Activities for Young People team, saw young women currently attending girls groups across the borough come together with other women who may have benefited from this work in the past.

I was asked to say a few words and told those attending the positive influence my Mum played in my life. My dad wanted a more traditional role for me - get married and have kids but my mum persuaded him to let me go to university and that was such a positive event in my life and opened up a world of possibilities. I did later get married and have one very special daughter!

This year’s celebration had an international feel with Alexia Papin, Wigan Council’s Ambassadress for Angers in France, also attending. Lowton Girls Group delivered workshops on sexual exploitation and urged other young women to be cautious of who they meet online and what information they share on sites like Facebook.

Jobcentres 'tricking' people out of benefits to cut costs, says whistleblower

2011-04-05T09:40:00.000+01:00

The Guardian (2nd April) featured a damning report on the increasing use of sanctions as a whistleblower blew the lid on this disturbing trend.

This follows my question to the Prime Minister on Wed, 30th March on the issue of the £50 civil penalty contained in the Welfare Reform Bill.

Completing complex benefit forms is a daunting task and many people make mistakes that are in no way an attempt to defraud the public purse.To then face a £50 penalty is disproportionate and unfair. If Government Departments faced a similar fine for official error, which happens on a daily basis across the country, the exchequer would benefit from millions each year.

Off course sanctions should be imposed on claimants who intentionally defraud the taxpayer but this latest proposal shows how out of touch David Cameron really is if he believes that a mistake on a claim form is intent to defraud.

Trained welfare advisers can guide applicants through completing often very complex forms, but under proposed Legal Aid reform, access to help and assistance will be ended, creating welfare advice deserts across the country.

To read the article in full click here.

Know Your Blood Pressure

2011-04-04T14:29:00.000+01:00

I am lending my support to The Stroke Association’s Know Your Blood Pressure campaign and am urging the people of Makerfield to get their blood pressure checked in a bid to raise awareness of the dangerous link between high blood pressure and stroke.

I had my blood pressure tested last week at a Parliamentary Know Your Blood Pressure event hosted by The Stroke Association. With annual Know Your Blood Pressure day fast approaching on the 9th April this was just one of hundreds of events which are taking place across the UK throughout the year to encourage the public to get their blood pressure checked in order to reduce their risk of stroke.

Every year 150,000 people will have a stroke in the UK, however it is estimated that 40% of these could be prevented by controlling high blood pressure.

Thousands of strokes could be prevented every year if more people took steps to control their blood pressure. Having your blood pressure taken is a quick and painless measure and it’s one that could save your life. I’d strongly urge everyone to visit The Stroke Association’s website to find out if there is an event in your local area or make an appointment with your GP to get tested.

Over the last year more than 20,500 people have had their blood pressures taken at Know Your Blood Pressure events throughout the UK. Over 40% of people were recorded as having high blood pressure.

For more information click here

Think Ahead Stroke Awareness

2011-04-01T16:50:00.000+01:00

Today, I visited Think Ahead Stroke Group to see for myself the work of the charity serving the Wigan Borough.

Stroke is caused by an interruption to the blood supply to the brain which can cause a variety of long term problems such as; Paralysis, Speech Impairment, Memory Problems and Depression.

I met with staff, volunteers and stroke survivors during my visit and was impressed by the range of services and support Think Ahead Stroke Group provide.

Think Ahead Community Stroke Group plays a very important local role in shaping stroke care and support through the NHS and Wigan Council. It is the voice of stroke survivors across the Borough and provides friendship, information, advice and education as well as respite breaks and social activities.

Their long term ‘Living with Stroke’ programme provides ongoing support to survivors to help regain confidence and abilities that have been lost through Stroke via a group of dedicated peer supporters, who themselves have experienced Stroke.

Mike Aspinall, Chairman of Think Ahead Stroke Group said, “We’re absolutely delighted and would like to thank Yvonne for taking time out of her busy schedule to visit us all here at Think Ahead."

“It means so much to the team and our members that high profile members of our community, such as Yvonne, offer their support to our charity and work with us to help raise Stroke awareness across Wigan and Leigh, we look forward to seeing her again very soon.”

For more information about Think Ahead Stroke Group click here.

Yes, there is an alternative

2011-03-30T18:18:00.000+01:00

On Saturday, I joined with hundreds of thousands of ordinary working people who peacefully marched through the streets of London to show that there is an alternative to the ideological driven cuts of David Cameron and Nick Clegg.

I joined members of Usdaw and can be seen pictured with Nic Dakin MP and Usdaw's National Political Officer, David Williams as we set out on the march nearby Parliament.

This coming Thursday, 5th May voters across the Wigan Borough go to the polls to elect local councillors - it will be an opportunity to send a message to this Tory-led Government who have inflicted £55 million cuts on our council, by electing local Labour candidates who will stand up and fight to protect our public services.

Wigan's Draft Core Strategy and my response to proposals to remove Green Belt status located near to Jnc 25 M6.

2011-03-21T15:27:00.000Z

My letter of objection to plans to remove Green Belt status from land located near Jnc 25, M6 is detailed below.

Ms. G. Bishop
Planning Policy,
Civic Buildings,
New Market Street,
Wigan,
WN1 1RP.

17th March 2011.

Dear Ms Bishop,

Wigan’s Draft Core Strategy (Proposed Submission version)

Further to my letter of the 3rd December 2010, I wish to object to that part of the Draft Core Strategy proposing to allow industrial and logistics development on land off junction 25 of the M6 motorway, South of Wigan.

I consider the Core Strategy is not legally compliant and is unsound because it is not justified or consistent with national policy. I set out below my views in this respect:

1 – Not legally Compliant:

My concern in this respect relates to the poor notification of residents of the Council’s intentions. The junction 25 proposal was introduced to the Strategy at a late stage. Those who became aware of it were given short notice to submit their observations. Indeed, following my objection in this respect, the period was extended a little from the 30th of November 2010 to the end of December 2010. Even so, of the considerable number of homes affected by these proposals estimated in the region of 9,000, only 500 homes received a consultation letter. This is my opinion falls short of what could reasonably be expected in these circumstances.

As the Member of Parliament for the area, I can confirm that the proposals only became apparent to a greater number of residents in November 2010.

This is when I was first contacted by constituents with their concerns. In addition to complaining about the proposals, constituents were and continue to feel strongly that the plan is being rushed and that they have not been given adequate time to organise their opposition to the plan.

2 - Not Sound:

a) Not Justified:

Proposals in the Core Strategy must be founded on a robust and credible evidence base. With this part of the Strategy, the Council appears to be placing much store by a commissioned report from GVA aspects of which I believe to be flawed. For example, I do not understand on what basis the ratings given to measure the adverse impact of the Green Belt status removal has been determined.

I am also concerned that there are no guarantees the schemes put forward will realise the development and achieve the objectives of the Local Authority. We could have a situation where the Green Belt Status is removed only to find the plans for development are not taken up as the Council would hope leaving the land vulnerable to alternative development. The credibility of the whole proposal is questionable.

In addition, there are other sites identified as suitable within the report. Indeed the junction 25 schemes are not the preferred option and therefore not the most appropriate strategy when considered against the reasonable alternatives.

b) Not Deliverable:

Within the proposal the Council assumes that traffic will follow a ‘route of choice’ that will mitigate, for the local area, the very obvious disadvantage with this site that junction 25 is not a two way junction. This is naive at best.

Whilst the Council would like to see the heavy northbound traffic that would be generated by this proposed development travelling southbound from junction 25 to junction 24 and turning round, there is absolutely no guarantee this will happen and indeed is often likely not to. The areas of Ashton, Bryn, Pemberton and Orrell will certainly be affected as northbound traffic seeks alternative (other than junction 25) access through the local community to the M6. Direct northbound access to the M6 via junction 24 will involve travel through Bryn/Ashton and direct northbound access to the M6 via junction 26 will involve travel through Pemberton and Orrell. I believe the traffic impact will be considerable and unacceptable.

The above argument is supported in the GVA document putting forward this site on the basis that ‘it is fairly close to rail links at Bryn Station’ Use of the A49 is therefore obviously envisaged .

I am also bemused to discover the Council advising on this issue that ‘the majority of commercial traffic is likely to travel southbound to access major commercial markets, including most of the north of England via the M62. The Midlands, the South East and east and south coast ports’. This is just an assumption with no credibility.

The Council advises that the traffic impacts arising will be given careful consideration at the planning application stage but we are being asked to approve the proposal on the basis of the traffic situation as it exists. Without the construction of a northbound access to the M6 at junction 25, which is cost prohibitive, this problem will not be resolved however much the Council may try by other means to reduce the impact.

The Council promotes this scheme and its plans to remove green belt protection on the basis of its attraction because of motorway access but that very argument is compromised because the convenient access is only for southbound vehicles and the local community will therefore suffer in traffic terms reducing the ‘benefits’ of this scheme.

In addition to the above points, residents have also raised with me their concerns about noise, air quality, visual impact and traffic congestion/nuisance the extent of which cannot be underestimated with a development of this size. Distribution centres usually operate 24 hours a day 7 days a week and safeguards can only reduce, not alleviate the adverse amenity impact and disturbance for nearby residents. The Council’s promises to protect the community from these effects are not achievable.

c) Inconsistent with National Policy:

The site currently has Green Belt status for a reason, to prevent urban sprawl by keeping the land permanently open. It is currently a necessary barrier between the areas of Bryn and Wigan and to approve its removal would be to accept unrestricted sprawl of large built up areas, neighbouring towns/areas merging into one another and encroachment into the community’s green space. Removal of the Green Belt status to provide a large new development area would not encourage the Council to recycle existing derelict and other urban land. These issues are of primary importance to the local community taking precedence over land use objectives.

This Green Belt status is valued by the community and they have demonstrated their total opposition to its removal. For the community, any benefits of the proposed development will certainly not outweigh the harm caused by the Green Bent status removal. The GVA document on the Green Belt issues acknowledges the damage that will occur as a result of the Green Belt status removal in this area. This, together with the traffic problems already identified plus the hostility of the community to this development means that the overall harm of the proposed development is not capable of being outweighed by other considerations. The ‘special circumstances’ criteria for the removal of Green Belt status is therefore not met.

I need also to raise the point of setting a precedent in relation to all Green Belt land adjoining/off the motorway network and devaluing Green Belt protection of such sites. If approval is given to remove the Green Belt status of this site, to allow employment opportunities, just because of its location then this puts all other similar sites at risk.

I do not believe changes can be made to make this aspect of the Core Strategy legally compliant or sound. I consider GVA’s documents and advice to be questionable and the only course of action available would be the removal of the sites off junction 25 of the M6 motorway, South of Wigan as an option for industrial and logistics development.

I do wish to participate at the oral examination to represent the views of hundreds of constituents who have contacted me with their objections to this proposal.

Yours sincerely,

Yvonne Fovargue M.P.
Labour Member for Makerfield.

250 Million reasons why the country cannot afford the Alternative Vote

2011-03-21T10:04:00.000Z

Students take up free 'proof of age card' thanks to CitizenCard

2011-03-18T14:40:00.001Z

Together with CitizenCard, the UK’s largest ID & proof of age card scheme I visited Winstanley College today to promote a free CitizenCard for every student.

CitizenCard contains the PASS (Proof of Age Standards Scheme) hologram and a customised holographic overlay. UV (ultraviolet) marks also appear on both sides of the card providing certainty to retailers about whether a cardholder is over 18 years of age.

The Pass hologram means that each CitizenCard is recognised as valid ID under the law. For providing proof of age, it’s as legitimate as a photo-driving licence and more convenient than a passport.

Cardholders benefit from access to CitizenCard’s new ‘Lealta’ discount programme offering discounts at over 200 national brands including Asda, Debenhams, HMV and Top Shop. A further 20,000 local cinema, fast food and retail outlets are also offering discounts.

I was joined by CitizenCard’s Nigel Catlow and Wigan Warrior's Sam Tomkins to raise awareness of the CitizenCard and to encourage students to take up the free offer.

Young people are rightly concerned about taking their passport with them on a night out, due to the risk of theft or loss, and they require a reliable document. Retailers, Pubs and Clubs can be confident that the CitizenCard with its unique PASS hologram is proof of the age of the card holder.

Nigel Catlow, CitizenCard’s Marketing Manager said, “CitizenCards contain UV and holographic security that gives doorstaff, licensees and shop staff in Makerfield the reassurance they need that the cardholder is an adult. Our collaboration with Yvonne Fovargue MP means that young adults in Makerfield can save £15 and apply for a card free of charge.”

Each CitizenCard is issued only after the applicant’s identity and age have been rigourously checked. 14% of CitizenCard applicants are never issued as they fail the rigorous application process and in 4% of cases either the applicant or verifier are threatened with prosecution for suspected fraud (2006 UK Fraud Act).

A Free CitizenCard application form is available by calling my constituency office on 01942 824029.

Since 1999 more than two million cards have been issued at no cost to the taxpayer. Further information about CitizenCard is available here.

Wigan Fire Station

2011-03-15T17:14:00.000Z

I recently visited the station on Robin Park Rd with Lisa Nandy MP to discuss the Fire Service Action Plan for the Borough for the next 3 years.

We met with Borough Commander, Steve Sheridan and his team and was struck by the professionalism and dedication to the safety of local communities and Business in the Borough.

The importance of prevention, can never be underestimated and the service provides a free home fire risk assessment. For further information call 0800 555 815.

Heroes Return Deadline Extended

2011-03-10T15:05:00.000Z

A scheme to provide assistance to WWII veterans to take part in commemorative visits to mark the anniversary of events that led to the end of WWII has been extended to 31st January 2012.

This extension to the scheme is to be welcomed. To date over 50,000 individuals have undertaken personal battlefront commemorative journeys to the places they saw action.

Grants of £150-£5,500 are available and both war widows and widowers of veterans are also eligible for funding with support also available for spouses and carers to fund travel with veterans.

The extended deadline will mean the Big Lottery Fund is committing over £1million in extra funding to assist UK WWII veterans.

Every veteran in the Borough has their own story to tell. The Heroes Return scheme is a unique opportunity for them to return to where they served and recall the memory of the sacrifice they and their fallen comrades made.

For more information click here.

VAT rise on Fuel should be reversed

2011-03-07T14:30:00.001Z

Today, I am calling on the Chancellor George Osborne to reverse the government’s VAT rise on fuel.

The hike in VAT to 20 per cent in January has added nearly 3p to the price of a litre of petrol and will raise £700m for the Treasury, according to figures from the independent House of Commons Library.

Labour's Shadow Chancellor, Ed Balls MP says the VAT rise should be reversed immediately on petrol using the £800m extra the government is now getting from the bank levy, compared to what it was expecting in the last Budget.

I’ve consistently opposed the Conservative-led government’s VAT rise which has hit families across the borough and helped to push up petrol prices to their current record levels. It’s time the Chancellor George Osborne took immediate action on fuel prices to ease the pressure on families who are already facing a tough year and their incomes squeezed. He should immediately reverse the VAT rise on fuel, which has added nearly 3p to the price of a litre of petrol, using the extra £800m the Treasury will be getting from the bank levy.

And in the Budget later this month George Osborne should look again at the annual fuel duty rise due in April. The last Labour government often postponed planned duty increases when world oil prices were on the up - as they are now. The Tories promised a ‘fuel duty stabiliser’ to win votes before the election, but if they don’t deliver one it will just be another broken promise from this government.

The AA’s latest fuel price report shows that across the North West the average cost of a litre of unleaded petrol in February was 128.4p – up 6.7p compared to December before the VAT rise. And the current instability in the Middle East and North Africa is driving up oil prices around the world which means the price of petrol at the pump is continuing to rise.

Now is the wrong time to be making things even worse for hard-pressed families in Wigan by hiking up VAT, as this government has done. George Osborne should admit he got it wrong and reverse the VAT rise on petrol now.

Shadow chancellor Ed Balls has said the VAT rise on fuel is the wrong tax at the wrong time and is hitting families and businesses hard and I agree.

A Labour online petition is up and running and you can sign it here.

All Aboard the Guide Dogs' Talking Buses campaign

2011-03-04T15:37:00.000Z

This week, I have called for buses and coaches to have audible and visual announcements about the next stop and final destination.

I have pledged my support for a campaign aimed at making bus travel easier and safer for blind and partially sighted passengers, and other sensory impaired people, at an event organised by the charity Guide Dogs’.

The Talking Buses campaign aims to get audible and visual (AV) information systems – which clearly tell passengers the next stop and final destination – installed on new buses across Britain.

Guide Dogs has found that many disabled and elderly people find it very difficult or impossible to use buses independently and with confidence for fear of being stranded at the wrong stop. They are often left feeling anxious and unsafe, and some give up using the bus altogether.

The charity is calling on the Government to make it a requirement for all new buses in the UK to have on board audible as well as visual information systems, as is already a requirement for trains and trams. It is also encouraging councils and bus operators to look at providing systems on existing vehicles to improve the accessibility and quality of service for local people.

In a YouGov survey, 66 per cent of respondents said they thought it would make bus travel easier if there were on-board announcements about where the bus is going and what stop is coming up.

A lack of information undermines the confidence and independence of vulnerable people who rely on buses to get around. Blind and partially sighted people, for example, cannot see where they are, and others including wheelchair users who face backwards on vehicles may not easily be able to identify their stop. These people risk ending up at the wrong stop.

As well as disabled people, Talking Buses would improve travel for all passengers – including visitors to an area.

Guide Dogs’ Talking Buses campaign has the support of 35 national disability organisations including Mencap, RNID, Campaign for Better Transport and Leonard Cheshire Disability. You can find out more about Guide Dogs’ Talking Buses campaign by clicking here.

I am pictured with Transport Policy Officer John Welsman with his guide dog Sorrel.

The Politics Show - BBC North West

2011-02-28T10:11:00.001Z

Yesterday, the BBC NW edition of the Politics Show featured two interviews with me. You can view the programme via the BBC iplayer here.

Scroll to approx 37mins 30secs to view the interview on the threat to local Citizens Advice Bureau followed by the cuts to local councils in the North West.

Please note that the programme is available for 7 days only.

The interview took place at the Three Sisters in Ashton in Makerfield with BBC Political Journalist Annabel Tiffin.

2011 Census

2011-02-21T12:58:00.000Z

Next month will mark Census Day (27th March) and from this week an advertising campaign will be launched in England & Wales to raise awareness amongst the local community.

Census questionnaires will be posted out to households from 7th March onwards. For the first time, questionnaires can be completed online and assistance can be obtained by calling 0300 0201 101.

To learn more about the census click here.

Rock The House

2011-02-18T14:25:00.001Z

I am proud to invite nominations from within the Makerfield constituency, to be considered for the best live band and best live music venue awards of the first ever parliamentary Rock the House competition.

Rock the House is an accessible vehicle through which to capture the imagination of the public and legislators in recognition of the need to support and promote the live music sector. It aims to promote the intellectual property rights of unsigned and up and coming musicians; and highlight the importance of live music venues to local communities.

Under the competition rules, I will nominate one band and one live music venue from Makerfield on 31 March 2011. Any band or live music venue can enter the competition by downloading and completing an application form and send fully completed submissions to my office at Elizabeth House, The Pier, Pottery Rd, Wigan WN3 4EX by 31st March.

Finalists and winners will be determined by an independent judging panel, which includes Chris Ingham, Group Publisher of Future Publishing, musicians and music professionals, Mike Weatherley MP and John Robertson MP (Chair of the APPG on Music).

The Panel will determine the five finalists in each category, and the shortlist will be announced by the end of May 2011. Each of the finalists will be invited to a star studded reception on the Terrace of the House of Commons, on 30th June 2011, where the winners will be announced.

The sponsors and supporters have pulled together an unbelievable array of prizes, many of which money can’t buy, including: the chance to perform live on the terrace at the House of Commons and at a top music venue or a music festival; a photo shoot with an internationally published music photographer; Yamaha gear and instruments; the chance to network and have consultancy sessions with top industry professionals; master classes from top sound and lighting engineers; the opportunity to record music; the chance to make a music video; invaluable PR exposure through coverage in Future Publishing’s catalogue of specialist music titles; and many more runners up prizes.

Rock the House is supported by a myriad of big names within the international and British music sector: Yamaha music; UK Music; Future Publishing; BPI; Live Nation; Consumer Focus; Music Managers Forum (MMF); Incorporated Society of Musicians; MVPA; the All Party Parliamentary Group on Music (APPG on Music); and the All Party Parliamentary Group on Pubs & Clubs (APPG on Pubs & Clubs).

Music is hugely important to this country. My hope in supporting ‘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."

Certainly, I believe it is vital that we recognise role of intellectual property in enabling artists to generate an income, the significant contribution that music sales make to the British economy, and our continued development of new talent.

The future of music is in the hands of the up and coming artists, and the live music venues which support them, that are finding it increasingly hard to break through in a sector where many consumers think it is their right to access content for free.

For further information click here.

More than just a Pharmacy

2011-02-17T13:07:00.001Z

I recently Rowlands Pharmacy in Ashton Medical Centre and was impressed to see all the services pharmacy teams provide and the big difference staff were making to people’s lives.

Pharmacists play a vital role for local communities. As a member of the Health Select Committee, I was particularly keen to see how the pharmacy provides help and advice to customers. Today I saw for myself the day-to-day work that takes place in the pharmacy and the facilities and services it provides for the public across Ashton. I'm keen to see their role maintained and enhanced in the government's plans for NHS reform.

I was joined by Ashton Ward Cllr Nigel Ash, who is Chair of the Wigan Health and Well Being Board – a new part of Wigan Council that will co-ordinate the development of local health and well being services.

The visit finished with a discussion with three regular customers who shared their stories of pharmacy care and how Rowlands helps them cope with all the medicines they take. Eileen Eccles and her husband Joseph and Frank Rigby, another regular who cares for his elderly father told me how they appreciate the help and advice they receive from the staff at the pharmacy.

I also met with Bruce Prentice who is the current secretary of the local pharmacy group covering the borough and pharmacist, Josie Walsh based at Rowlands.

Green Light for Ashton Clinic

2011-02-16T09:25:00.000Z

A campaign to bring a new primary care health facility to Ashton received a boost today as details emerged of the Board of Ashton, Leigh & Wigan Primary Care Trust (PCT) approving the development of a LIFT scheme for Ashton at its last meeting.

Ashton as long been identified as an area of the Borough requiring new health facilities and I pledged to continue the campaign started by my predecessor Sir Ian McCartney to bring new ‘state of the art’ medical facilities to the area.

I had been in dialogue with PCT Chief Peter Rowe since my election last May and this continued with the appointment of Joyce Redfearn as his successor.

The PCT have instructed Foundation for Life, its LIFT company, to move to the formal Business case process with a view to final approval by the end of this year. The PCT hope to have the new facility open in early 2013.

I very much welcome this decision – it’s a huge step forward for healthcare provision in Ashton.

This is exciting news for Ashton and marks a long campaign to bring a high quality health facility to the town. Ashton is the third largest town in the Borough and a new health facility would assist in improving the health and wellbeing of residents as well as acting as a catalyst for the further regeneration of the town.

As always with projects of this magnitude, there continues to be a huge amount of work to get right and it is important that the local community have an input – but this decision by the PCT is a great new year’s present for the people of Ashton.

Ashton Ward Councillor, Nigel Ash said, "We have waited a long time for this decision and it is great news that the campaign started by Ian (McCartney) and continued by Yvonne has moved one big step closer today."

"I am looking forward to learning more about the services that will be available and working with our dedicated health professionals to create a facility that Ashton can be proud of.”

My visit to the Royal Albert Edward Hospital

2011-02-15T11:15:00.000Z

I visited the the Royal Albert Edward Infirmary site on Friday 11 February 2011. I was given a guided tour of South Ward, housed in one of the Victorian parts of the hospital, and in contrast was shown the newer builds such as Radiology, Rainbow Ward, the Trust’s Children’s Ward and various departments on the Emergency Floor.

I was also shown around the Cardiology Department including the state-of-the-art Cardiac Catheter Laboratory and was given a special tour of the soon to be opened Coronary Care Department which is being partly funded by Dr Naqvi’s Heart Beat Appeal. The money raised through the appeal, in conjunction with a £1.5million investment by the Trust, aims to further improve and enhance cardiology services for the public of Wigan and beyond.

Dr Nayar Naqvi, Consultant Cardiologist, said, “It was a great pleasure and an honour for me to meet Yvonne. We are grateful to her for having taken the trouble to visit our Cardiology Department and the new Coronary Care Unit. All members of the Cardiology Department are absolutely delighted that she too is supporting our Heartbeat Appeal”.

Carolyn Deresckiewicz, Matron of Cardiology Services, said: “Today was a fantastic opportunity to meet Yvonne and introduce her to the current services that the Cardiology team provides to the patients of Wigan and Leigh, and also provide an opportunity to showcase the new CCU. And explaining how our Heart Beat Appeal has raised funds to equip the new building”.

The new facilities are really impressive and I was particularly struck by the very careful thought which has been given to the layout of the new ‘state of the art’ unit providing patient-centred, high quality care. Wigan is fortunate to have such a dedicated team of health professionals, headed by Dr Naqvi and I look forward to working with them in the future.

I was accompanied by Andrew Foster, Chief Executive and Gill Harris, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Nursing and Performance, and Les Higgins, Chairman.

Pictured from Left to Right: Rashid Sohail, (Consultant and Clinical Director of Emergency Medicine), Gill Harris, (Deputy Chief Executive, Director of Nursing and Performance), Carolyn Deresckiewicz (Matron of Cardiology Services), Yvonne Fovargue, MP, Dr Nayar Naqvi (Consultant Cardiologist), Margaret Elmer (Cardiology Manager), Les Higgins, (WWL Chairman) and Sheraz Valli, (Estates Officer).

Face to Face Debt Advice u-turn is welcome

2011-02-14T13:40:00.000Z

The Financial Inclusion Fund (FIF) introduced by the previous Labour Government supports over 500 specialist debt advice workers across the country.

The Government confirmed in January that it would end on 31st March 2011, even though a recent National Audit Office report into the project gave it a unique, ‘delivering good value for money’ plaudit.

The Tory-led government decision to axe the fund led to a wave of protest from politicians and advice agencies across the country and during a Westminster Hall Debate (Tues, 8th Feb) initiated by myself, I led a cross-party attack on the proposals.

Research from Money Advice Trust suggests that at any given time up to 5 million people report being in arrears with consumer credit and mortgage payments or find that their credit commitments are an unsustainable burden. However, the planned cuts to funding would significantly reduce the capacity of independent advice agencies (CABs and Law Centres) to assist such people, which could result in potentially serious consequences both to the individual and the state.

The number of debt clients seen by the CAB has risen by 23% in the past year, and a significant increase is expected in the next few years as well, so the loss of skilled advisers would have had a devastating impact on the sector.

I warmly welcome the Government's climb down and committment to provide an extra £27 million for face-to-face debt advice. This is excellent news for those seeking advice on debt issues and safeguards 500 jobs, for specialist debt advisers, many of whom had already been given notice of redundancy.

I have long been a supporter of a statutory duty to fund advice services, and I still believe that it is the only way in which the absolute importance of advice can be highlighted to local government and other funders. The cut to debt advice funding and the proposed cuts to local authorities and legal aid will be felt most significantly in areas, like Wigan which have significant numbers of clients.

Legal Aid Debate - Thursday, 3rd February.

2011-02-11T13:27:00.003Z

Westminster Hall Debate on future funding of Independent Debt Advice

2011-02-08T16:50:00.001Z

Today I attacked cuts to the independent debt advice sector in a Westminster Hall Debate (Tues, 8th Feb).

Over 500 specialist advisers in independent local advice agencies are funded by the Financial Inclusion Fund (FIF) and since 2006 over 380,000 people have been helped to manage more than £6billion of debt in an extensive network of outreach settings; community centres, GP practices, Sure Starts to people who would not normally feel comfortable about seeking formal debt advice.

Regulation will Improve patient safety

2011-02-07T11:38:00.001Z

Clinical physiologists perform a range of procedures including pacemaker reprogramming and non-invasive ventilation. Despite the sensitive and potentially high risk nature of their work, they are currently not regulated. This means that incompetent practitioners who potentially put the lives of patients at risk are able to move from job to job escaping detection.

Tabling an Early Day Motion in Parliament, I have called on the Government to introduce a statutory register at the earliest possible opportunity. The Early Day Motion also highlights the important role of clinical physiologists in diagnosis and argues that only a statutory register will provide the necessary protection for the patient. The Department of Health agreed to a statutory register for clinical physiologists in 2004, but are yet to deliver on their promise.

Clinical physiology is currently only covered by a voluntary register maintained by the Registration Council of Clinical Physiologists (RCCP). The lack of statutory regulation means that, while the RCCP operates a disciplinary code, it cannot be enforced to protect patients from clinical physiologists unfit to practice.

Clinical Physiologists deliver a wide range of diagnostic and often invasive procedures directly to patients and work closely with medical staff and other healthcare professionals to diagnose, treat, monitor and manage the care of patients.

Despite the recognition by the Health Secretary accepting the need to statutorily regulate clinical physiologists back in 2004, the fact that six years later statutory regulation is still not in place, has potentially huge implications for patients' safety.

Anne Burge, Chair of the RCCP, said, “The current system of voluntary registration is wholly inadequate and urgently needs reform to ensure patient safety. Many patients are horrified when they find out that clinical physiologists are currently not registered, despite their patient-facing role and the high-risk nature of the procedures they often undertake."

“We hope that this motion will encourage the Government to take statutory regulation forward as a priority.”

EDM 1352

That this House welcomes the valuable contribution that clinical physiologists make to patient care in the NHS; notes their importance in developing and delivering a wide range of sensitive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures directly to patients in the disciplines of audiology, cardiology, gastro-intestinal physiology, neurophysiology and respiratory physiology; further notes with concern that, despite the Health Professions Council's recommendation in 2004 that clinical physiologists should be statutorily regulated and this advice being accepted by the Department of Health in 2005, statutory regulation has not yet been put in place; recognises the value of the current voluntary register which has been compiled and administered by the Registration Council for Clinical Physiologists; understands the Government's direction of travel that voluntary regulation is the preferred way forward for most new healthcare professions, but believes that, because of the potentially highly invasive nature of clinical physiologists' activities, voluntary registration does not provide patients with enough protection against those who are unfit to practice; regrets that some of the delay appears to have been caused by the Department's otherwise worthwhile plans to better integrate the wider healthcare science workforce through Modernising Scientific Careers; and calls on the Government to publish a clear timetable for a draft Section 60 Order which will take forward statutory regulation as soon as possible to minimise the ongoing risks to patient safety.

Legal Aid debate

2011-02-04T10:49:00.001Z

Yesterday, I secured a debate in parliament on the Tory-led Government's proposal to cut £350 million from the Legal Aid Budget.

MPs from across all parties debated for the first time on the floor of the House the controversial proposals set out by Justice Secretary Ken Clarke MP.

The Government is consulting on reforms to the Legal Aid system in England and Wales, set out in a Ministry of Justice consultation which is open until 14th February 2011.

Over half a million people will lose out on advice, according to the Government's own figures, as the legal aid budget is cut by £350 million.

The proposals will very seriously restrict:

• What advice legal aid funds, especially in social welfare, family and education law.
• Who can get legal aid, by asking people on low incomes to pay more towards their legal advice.

The changes will also make it harder for not-for-profit advice agencies, such as Citizens Advice Bureau or Law Centres, to make ends meet. The lowest fees for civil and family law advice will all be cut by 10%.

You can read the full debate here.

No place for animals in circuses - self regulation is not the way forward!

2011-02-03T11:49:00.000Z

I joined Animal Defenders International (ADI) in stepping up the UK campaign to ban wild animals in circuses this week.

I pledged my support to secure a ban on the use of wild animals in UK circuses, and called on the Minister responsible Lord Henley to finally action what the UK is calling out for.

I am just one of over 160 MPs who have now signed a parliamentary Early Day Motion (EDM) 403 calling for the wild animal ban to be implemented.

I do not believe that it is appropriate for wild animals to be used to perform tricks in circuses and it is clear from the overwhelming public support for a ban that most people share that view. The only way we will see this welfare issue addressed is for the Government to implement a ban on the use of wild animals in this way. Self-regulation is not merely a poor substitute for a ban, but no substitute at all.

Jan Creamer, Chief Executive of Animal Defenders International said, “We have been encouraged by the results of our recent political opinion poll and by the results of government’s own public consultation last year that found nearly 100 per cent of the public were behind a total ban."

“It is now abundantly clear to us that public and political support for a ban on the use of wild animals in circuses has never been stronger. This process has been trundling along for over five years, and it is now time that government listened to the will of the UK people and enacted a ban.”

A recent parliamentary poll conducted by ADI found that 63% of MPs would like to see a ban on the use of wild animals in circuses and only 14% disagreed. The then Labour Government’s public consultation in March 2010 also found that 94.5% of respondents backed a ban on wild animal acts.

EDM 403 ‘Wild Animals In Circuses’, tabled by former Defra Minister Jim Fitzpatrick MP, states there is no obstacle to a ban on wild animals in circuses and a ban should be implemented. This shows strong cross-party support for a ban on animals in circuses in the UK Parliament, and demonstrates the depth of feeling as this is one of the top number of signatories to an animal welfare EDM.

All present on Wednesday agreed that the draconian use and abuse of animals in circuses is no longer acceptable, and that self regulation of the industry, which is being considered as a viable route by the Minister, is totally flawed, as effectively the abusers themselves are being asked to self regulate.

ADI has already provided government with a wealth of overwhelming evidence from undercover investigations that graphically shows that random violence and abuse is an unfortunate part of everyday life for animals currently languishing in circuses. Both evidence and opinion is now overwhelming, and government needs to act decisively and enact a total ban.

For more information on the work of ADI click here.

'Pass IT On!' Technology Challenge

2011-01-28T10:36:00.002Z

Working alongside e-skills UK, the fifth year of the Make IT Happy competition has been launched, a UK-wide technology challenge for primary school students aged 9 to 11. The competition is run by the Parliamentary Information Technology Committee (PITCOM) and e-skills UK, the Sector Skills Council for Business and Information Technology.

The competition recognises and rewards the excellent and inspirational work primary schools do with IT, particularly how they use it to reach out to their wider communities. This year’s Make IT Happy theme of “Pass IT On” calls for schools to use IT to connect with people to make a positive impact on their lives.

The judges will be looking for entries that demonstrate innovative ways in which pupils have used technology to forge links with others. Projects could be as simple and local as helping other members of the school community, such as younger children or support staff, to use IT. Equally, they could involve children linking up with schools or organisations in other parts of the country to share skills and experience. Projects could even be international, since many schools have close connections with British forces serving overseas, or with schools in the developing world.

£1,200 will be awarded to each of the regional competition finalists with the overall winning school taking home an additional cash prize of £4,000. Winners will also be invited to attend an awards ceremony to be held at the Houses of Parliament in London in June 2011.

This week I have written to local primary schools encouraging them to get involved.

The closing date for entries is April 10th, 2011.

For further information and details of how to enter, visit the website here.

About PITCOM

The Parliamentary Information Technology Committee (PITCOM) provides a forum for MPs, Peers, senior civil servants, academics and ICT professionals to exchange information and opinions. It has evening meetings in a Committee Room of the House of Commons on the policy implications of new technologies, and holds receptions and an annual dinner in the House of Lords. The Committee also provides in-depth briefing papers for Members of Parliament.

About e-skills UK

e-skills UK is the Sector Skills Council for Business and Information Technology, rated ‘outstanding’ in the relicensing of Sector Skills Councils in 2009. We work on behalf of employers to ensure the UK has the technology skills it needs to succeed in a global digital economy. Our work covers software, internet & web, IT services, telecommunications and business change.

Find out more here.

Holocaust Memorial Day

2011-01-27T11:47:00.000Z

Today I pledge my commitment to Holocaust Memorial Day by signing the Book of Commitment in the House of Commons to honour those who perished in the Holocaust.

With 27th January marking the 66th anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi concentration and extermination camp, Auschwitz-Birkenau, the Holocaust Educational Trust placed a Book of Commitment in the House of Commons to give MPs the opportunity to remember those who were persecuted and murdered during the Holocaust – and to support the sharing and safeguarding of ‘Untold Stories’, learning from survivors’ experiences to help create a future free from hatred and prejudice.

In doing so, I have paid tribute to those remarkable individuals who survived the appalling events of the Holocaust and have since dedicated their lives to educating younger generations about the dangers of allowing persecution and intolerance to take hold in society.

Thousands of events are being held across the country to commemorate all those who suffered at the hands of the Nazis during the Holocaust and in subsequent genocides. The aim of the day is to motivate people – individually and collectively, to ensure that the horrendous crimes, racism and victimisation committed during the Holocaust are neither forgotten nor repeated.

As antisemitism, racism and prejudice are still present in our society, learning from the extraordinary ‘Untold Stories’ of those who survived gives us the opportunity to reflect on the evil that was perpetrated during the Holocaust and other genocides and pledge to create a brighter future.

Warm Homes Campaign

2011-01-21T13:09:00.001Z

The National Energy Action’s Warm Homes Campaign is stressing that a national energy efficiency drive is vital in combating rising levels of fuel poverty.

My support for the campaign comes after recent Government statistics revealed that the numbers of households in fuel poverty is continuing to escalate, with NEA estimating that the figure in England and Wales has reached over 4.1 million.

The Warm Homes Campaign highlights that there are still millions of people who are simply struggling to keep their homes warm and protect their families from the ill effects of the cold. Fuel-poor households experience a number of detrimental health impacts and reductions in general well being as a result of cold, damp living conditions. Whilst this is unacceptable, the campaign also demonstrates how help is available. It also underlines how important it is that future government schemes are able to target support for the most vulnerable households effectively.

The most important message this year is that there is help out there for vulnerable households. I urge everyone to contact the Home Heat Helpline on 0800 33 66 99 to get help and advice on staying warm in their home this winter without the fear of fuel debt and ill health.

NEA is the UK’s leading fuel poverty charity campaigning for affordable warmth in the homes of vulnerable people. For further details, visit here.

Fuel poverty is defined as when a household is required to spend more than ten per cent of its income after housing costs on total fuel use.

Justice for All Campaign Launch

2011-01-12T10:13:00.002Z

Update - I have secured a parliamentary debate to discuss the government's proposals - date to be determined.

A coalition of groups opposed to proposed cuts to free legal advice will converge on Westminster today for the official launch of the Justice for all campaign.

Over 1000 legal and advice agencies, including Citizens Advice and the Law Centres Federation, charities including Kids Company and Scope, politicians, trade unions, community groups and members of the public have already signed up to the campaign.

They will be at Westminster today lobbying their local MPs and urging them to oppose the cuts and sign an Early Day Motion tabled by me calling on the Government to rethink the provision of legal services for the poorest in society.

Half a million fewer people will be helped through legal aid funded advice on social welfare law and family problems, according to Ministry of Justice figures, as part of a package to reduce the legal aid budget by £350 million.

Advice funded by legal aid will be cut entirely to welfare benefits and education law. It will be restricted to housing and debt cases with an ‘immediate risk’ of homelessness and employment cases involving discrimination. Much of legal aid on family law will be limited to cases of domestic violence.

Access to justice for all is one of the cornerstones of a free and civilised society, It is vital that everyone – particularly the most vulnerable - is treated fairly under the law, no matter who they are, how much money they have or where they live.

Visit the campaign website here.

EDM 1194

That this House welcomes the Justice for All campaign launched in the House of Commons on 12 January 2011; supports the aims of the campaign which are to raise awareness of the vital importance of advice and representation on legal matters for the most vulnerable in our society and to ensure that everyone is treated fairly under the law, no matter who they are, how much money they have or where they live; recognises that the strength of feeling is reflected in the fact that the campaign is a broad coalition of legal and advice agencies, trades unions, charities, community groups and members of the public; regrets that the reduction in spending on legal aid, through restrictions in scope and eligibility and the blanket 10 per cent. cut in the lower fee paid to providers of legal services, is having a detrimental effect on access to justice and on the well-being of the most vulnerable people; questions the real cost savings to the public purse that this budget reduction will achieve, given that early advice on legal matters saves money by keeping families together in their homes, and in work and education; believes that free, independent advice and representation on legal matters is essential to achieve justice for all; and calls on the Government to rethink the provision of legal services for the poorest in society.

To listen to a report of the launch of the campaign on Radio 4's Today in Parliament (scroll to 23min 20sec mark for start) click here.

The programme will be available on BBC iplayer until Saturday, 22nd January.

Rethink required on Woodland sell-off!

2011-01-10T16:54:00.000Z

I am calling on the coalition government to think again about controversial plans which could see local woodland sold off to the highest bidder.

Government proposals to sell off parts of the Public Forestry estate in England contain no assurances on who can own the land and how it will be managed once in private ownership.

Uncertainty remains about rights to public access and the maintenance of biodiversity in woodland once sales go ahead. Before any sales go ahead we need to know what these plans involve and what safeguards will be put in place so that local woodland is protected.

There are 28,000 hectares of Forestry Commission land in the North West and 153 hectares in the Wigan Borough. It would be a tragedy if the Government’s plans result in a forestry fire-sale.

Rather than putting a “for sale” sign over Wigan’s woodland the Government should be consulting local people about what their plans mean in practice.

Ministers should be talking about how we secure the future of our national forests for the next generation. Instead we have heard nothing so far. Until the Government comes clean over their plans the public will rightly remain sceptical.

A special school assembly for Christmas card competition winner!

2010-12-14T10:07:00.001Z

This week, I was proud to announce the winner of my inaugural Christmas card competition as 8 year-old Molly Fisher, a pupil of RL Hughes Primary School, Ashton in Makerfield.

I presented Molly with a set of Roald Dahl books and a framed copy of her winning picture during the school’s full assembly while the other pupils watched excitedly.

The competition attracted entries from across the constituency with all of the designs being carefully judged.

It was an absolute pleasure to present Molly with her prize. It’s a great design and she’s clearly hit the right note, so I’m sure people will enjoy receiving the card in the run up to Christmas.

I know everybody at RL Hughes Primary School will be very proud of Molly and I am too.

In this the competition’s first year, we had a fantastic response from local schools. The children clearly put a lot of effort into their art-work so it made my job of picking the winner extremely difficult. But I’d like to thank all of the children and their teachers for taking part.

I also handed out a prize to the runner up, Ellie Unsworth and Shona Greenhalgh who was awarded 3rd place. Both Ellie’s and Shona’s designs feature on the back of the card.

Molly’s winning design will be sent to a number of distinguished people in the political world, including both the Prime-Minister and the Leader of the Opposition - Ed Miliband. The card will also be sent to individuals across the Wigan Borough including the Mayor of Wigan, Cllr Michael Winstanley.

Christmas Card Competition Winners

1st Prize
Molly Fisher
Aged 8
RL Hughes Primary School
Ashton in Makerfield

Runner Up
Ellie Unsworth
St Wilfrid’s RC Primary
Ashton in Makerfield

3rd Place
Shona Greenhalgh
St William’s Catholic Primary School
Ince in Makerfield

Click here to view the Christmas card.