Update from Linda Gilroy MP Week ending Friday 5 June 2009
Posted by Linda Gilroy, MP for Plymouth, Sutton, at 09:17, Fri 5 June 2009:
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. Thought for the Week
Right in the middle of the expenses scandal (on which you can read my position at www.lindagilroy.org.uk/expenses) yesterday's European elections are an important reminder that democracy is a two way process. As justified as the public are in their anger towards politicians of all parties, at the end of the day our democracy doesn't happen by chance. Too many people are content to leave politics to just a few people – and then knock them down when they disagree. Democratic government relies on the proactive efforts of individuals who stuff envelopes and knock on doors, who raise money and help formulate policy, who put themselves forward as candidates - and, most importantly of all, who vote. The challenge for politicians now is to reform a dated, rotten system and reconnect in a way that makes people want to get involved - and to give them something worth voting for. As always, I would welcome any ideas, observations or opinions you may have.
Those of us who did get involved in polling day activities yesterday had a great team spirit. Whatever the result, at the end of the day, we had a strong sense of being part of keeping a very important flame alight. And yes - even in these iddifcult times it was enjoyable - even though there are a thousand and one other things on this week's to do list! Do talk to me if you think this might be for you - there is lots more ahead to do!
My week at a glance -
Continuing Committees
I've spent a large amount of time this week sitting in parliamentary committees. In the Defence Select Committee we continue are investigation into the helicopter capability of the UK armed forces. I've also been busy on the Draft Bribery Bill Committee studying the text of the legislation line-by-line and consulting a range of experts for their opinion.
Ligter Body Armour
Monday was Defence questions and an opportunity to ask the Minister about the weight of body armour worn by British service personnel in Afghanistan, something I picked up on my recent visit to Plymouth-based 3 Commando Brigade in Helmand Province.
Devonport Guildhall
Today I am touring the new Devonport Guildhall to see the ongoing transformation of this building for the use of local social enterprises. This has been overseen by the Real Ideas Organisation and was made possible thanks to a £1m grant from the Cabinet Office and £500,000 of match funding from the Devonport Regeneration Community Partnership (DRCP). When it opens in 2010 the building will include flexible and hot-desking office space for up to 32 people, a hireable large hall space for music and theatre production, conferences and community events, and a café and restaurant area. I'm so pleased this building hasn't been left to deteriorate and instead marks another step in the regeneration of Devonport.
Polar Explorer
Later today I'm meeting with Anthony Jinman, a Plymouth based Polar Explorer. Anthony is busy working towards launching a charity called "Education through Expedition", which will focus on promoting educational expeditions for the classroom. I'm looking forward to hearing his experiences - and learning about his ideas
Looking ahead -
Next Wednesday I have secured adjournment debate at 4pm in which I plan to use to mark the 20th Anniversary of the RAF & Allied Memorial which stands in Plymouth Hoe. You can watch it through the Parliament website - www.parliament.uk
With best wishes
Linda Gilroy MP
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