Update from Linda Gilroy MP Week ending 1 May 2009
Posted by Linda Gilroy, MP for Plymouth, Sutton, at 14:37, Fri 1 May 2009:
Update from Linda Gilroy MP
Week ending 1 May 2009 You have received this email either because you have asked to or because you have contacted me by email. If you wish to be removed from the list, then please let me know. I am always keen to hear what you think on issues and policies - or to try and help you with any problems you may have. Please visit www.lindagilroy.org.uk/contact to find out more.
My week at a glance
Fairer Water Bills
On Monday I met with Anna Walker who is leading the Government's Review into Water Metering and Charging. It was a chance to hear some of her interim findings and to impress on her the importance of finding a solution to the South West's particularly high bills in advance of her final recommendations. You can keep up to date with my fairer water charges campaign at www.lindagilroy.org.uk/water
Armed Forces Recuperation
On Tuesday the Defence Select Committee quizzed Defence Secretary John Hutton on how well placed the armed forces are to recover and recuperate from current operations. It was also a chance for me to raise again the issue of Devonport dockyard and are need for clarity in the future. You can read my latest position on the dockyard in detail at www.lindagilroy.org.uk/defence
Equality
This week saw the publication of the Equality Bill which I hope will go some way to addressing the fact that women are paid on average 23% less than men and one in five older people are refused quotes for car or travel insurance. There is no reason as to why a woman should be paid less than a man or an older person should not be treated in a way that reflects the fact he or she is entitled to lead an active life . The Bill will also entrench support for disadvantaged communities, not least because it will seek to narrow the gap between rich and poor.
A Busy Time In Plymouth
Today started early with the unveiling of a portrait of Navy Astor at the University. Lady Astor was MP for Plymouth and the first women to take her seat in the House of Commons. By all accounts she was a great Parliamentarian and a great Plymouthian! I also met with the Regional Development Agency to catch up with their activities and plans. Later tonight I will be familiarising myself with Plymouth's plans to mark National Armed Forces and Veterans Weekend later in the Summer.
Looking ahead
Next week I will be sitting on a Parliamentary Committee that will be examining the proposed Bribery Bill. This legislation aims, among other things, to bring more transparency and accountability to international business transactions and provide a more effective legal framework to combat foreign bribery and clearer compliance with our international obligations. I will also be meeting with the President of Ghana. I hope to talk with him about fair trade, international development and combating Aids.
You can keep up with news during the week at www.lindagilroy.org.uk/news
With best wishes
Linda Gilroy MP
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