My week in Parliament

WEEKLY PARLIAMENTARY BULLETIN
(20th – 21st MAY 2013)

Summary of this week in Parliament:
• Marriage (Same-Sex Couples) Bill, Report and Third Reading
• Motion and Government Statement on Syria and the EU arms embargo
• Urgent Question on A&E departments


Marriage (Same-Sex Couples) Bill, Report and Third Reading
On Monday and Tuesday MPs debated the Marriage (Same-Sex Couples) Bill, which will equalise the marriage laws so that same-sex couples can have their relationship celebrated in the same way as everyone else.

I know there has been real interest in this issue in our constituency and across country and that there are strong and sincerely held opinions on both sides. It was important, therefore, that MPs had the opportunity to debate this Bill at length this week and to consider a number of amendments.

I supported same-sex marriage after listening to all the points raised prior to the bills passage. In the end I believe that couples who want to get married, want to love each other should be allowed to do so.

I welcome that the Bill allows those churches that want to hold same sex marriages to do so but I am also aware that some religious groups do not support same-sex marriage and it is important that there are strong protections in the Bill for freedom of religion including safeguards so that no church, faith group or individual minister can be required to conduct a same sex marriage.

There were a number of amendments debated this week in Parliament that sought to add additional, explicit safeguards for religious organisations, teachers and public servants as well as an amendment to allow a public referendum on same-sex marriage and to make important changes to the Public Sector Equality Duty.

I did not support these amendments as I believe that clear protections are already built into the legislation and I did not support introducing exemptions in the delivery of public services as I fear this could have led to discrimination in the implementation of the law. I also did not support the call for a referendum on same-sex marriage as there has already been a public consultation and detailed Parliamentary scrutiny of the Bill.

The Marriage (Same-Sex Couples) Bill has now completed its passage through the House of Commons and will be considered further by the House of Lords. I know that some constituents continue to have reservations about this Bill but I think it is important to remember that the Bill does not compel people to conduct or support same-sex marriages, rather it enables those same-sex couples who want to get married to do so and those religious groups that want to perform these marriaegs to do so.

Motion and Government Statement on Syria and the EU arms embargo

Next week the EU Foreign Affairs Council will meet to discuss whether to extend or amend the current arms embargo on Syria and there were two opportunities to debate this in the House of Commons this week.

The death and destruction that we have seen in Syria over the last two years has been truly appalling, with an estimated 80,000 people killed, 4 million Syrians internally displaced and 6.8 million people including 3 million children in urgent humanitarian need. The Assad regime also continues to show complete disregard for civilian life as their latest military offensive intensifies.

It is vital that the UK does everything possible to bring about a sustainable, peaceful transition in Syria and a halt to the bloodshed. There needs to be greater emphasis on effective enforcement of sanctions and practical steps taken to choke off Assad's finances and the country's energy supplies. The UK must also continue to help unite the fragmented Syrian opposition, to work with the UN to achieve a diplomatic solution and to seize the opportunity of the US-Russian proposal for an international conference on ending the violence.

Above all, the UK's actions should be based on our capacity to contribute to a peaceful outcome in Syria. I am concerned therefore that any decision to arm the Syrian rebels could increase the risk of a prolonged sectarian civil war and of weapons ending up in the hands of the numerous al-Qaeda linked groups that are now well embedded in Syria.

That is why I believe the UK Government should support the current EU arms embargo when it is discussed next week rather than pushing for it to be amended to allow arms to be sent to the Syrian opposition. I also believe the Government should come back to the House of Commons before any decision to arm the Syrian opposition is taken.

Urgent Question on A&E departments

It has become increasingly clear in recent weeks that A&E departments across the country are under severe pressure and on Tuesday there was an Urgent Question in the House of Commons to ask the Health Secretary what evidence there is to show how his plans for GP services will solve the current crisis in A&E departments.

A&E at Blackburn is always crowded whenever I go. It's the same experience for constituents who share my frustration. The urgent care unit at Accy Vic is also busy nearly all the time and people have no faith in the new but shambolic NHS telephone service 111.

A&E is the barometer of our health and social care system and the most immediate experience of the NHS for many people. So it is very concerning that last week a third of major A&E departments missed the Government's lowered waiting time targets, that people are now waiting hours on trolleys in corridors or in the back of ambulances to be seen and that 20 senior A&E doctors are reported to have said that they are unable to guarantee patient safety.

The Health Secretary admitted on Tuesday that the growth in the number of people visiting A&E departments is "unsustainable" but he has still not addressed the real causes of this growing crisis or provided any convincing answers. The reality is that almost 5,000 nursing posts have been lost from the NHS since the 2010 General Election, that deep cuts to council care budgets have meant that patients cannot be discharged from hospital beds and that the Government's top-down reorganisation of the NHS has distracted attention from the immediate challenges facing the NHS.

It is now vital that the Government get a grip on the crisis in A&E and look again at planned closures to NHS walk in centres and review all planned A&E department closures.
These materials have been produced by the Parliamentary Research Service (PRS) and are intended for use solely by PRS Members in support of their Parliamentary duties.


Sent from my iPhone

Funding advice for 3rd sector. 12 June. Funders in attendance.

	Graham Jones MP (@GrahamJones_MP)
23/05/2013 18:59 Big Lottery Fund @ East Lancashire Funding Fair 12th June. Burnley Youth Theatre. Funding advice for 3rd sector. pic.twitter.com/0oNH1hqxw7

Big Lottery Fund - East Lancashire Funding Fair

From: "Ford, Antonia" <antonia.ford@biglotteryfund.org.uk>

To: "JONES, Graham" <graham.jones.mp@parliament.uk>
Subject: Big Lottery Fund - East Lancashire Funding Fair

Dear Mr Jones

I am writing to let you know that Big Lottery Fund are attending the East Lancashire Funding Fair taking place on the 12th June.  Attached is a poster for the event which includes all the details.

The event has been organised by the NW Funders Forum and is in partnership with Burnley Pendle and Rossendale CVS.

If possible could you please cascade details of this event to your constituents.

Many Thanks
Regards
Antonia Ford
Communications Officer
England Directorate
10th Floor
York House
York Street
Manchester
M2 3BB
Direct Line: 0161 261 4616
Fax: 0161 261 4646
email: antonia.ford@biglotteryfund.org.uk<blocked::mailto:antonia.ford@biglotteryfund.org.uk>

Did you know that Awards for All offers grants of between £300 and £10,000 for projects that improve communities, and the lives of people within them. It's for voluntary and community groups, schools and health organisations, parish and town councils and is open for applications now. For more information call 0845 4 10 20 30 or go to http://www.awardsforall.org.uk/england/<blocked::http://www.awardsforall.org.uk/england/>



[cid:image581081.PNG@7baaf1b5.4c90bc50]<http://www.thebiglunch.com>


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Britons slip down world ready-cash table as Tory-led Government create a cost of living crisis

The Tory-led Government has squeezed households budgets in what has become a cost of living crisis. Last week OECD figures revealed that Britons have become poorer than their counterparts in a host of other rich economies, sliding from fifth to 12th on an OECD list of wealth based on disposable incomes.

There was a stark that the young and poor are being hit hardest as UK cuts widen inequality, says OECD.

Disposable incomes in countries such as France and Australia rose at a faster rate than the UK, as price pressures weighed on the average Briton’s disposable income. The average per head disposable income in the UK was $27,927 in 2011, compared with $26,050 in 2005. (FT)

Michael Forster in Guardian made the point that; "The argument that austerity will see more people will get jobs eventually has only worked in one country in recent years – Germany – and that was unique. ‘Germany had the benefit of a weak euro and high exports and also a model of social partnership where trade unions were always at the table, asking for very modest wage increases. But both these elements are not there in Britain"

Thousands of hard-working families in Haslingden & Hyndburn are under enormous pressure from rising prices, a flatlining economy and sky-high utility bills with many of them struggling to make ends meet.

Since the Government came to power in 2010 energy bills have soared by over £300, rail tickets for commuters have gone up by as much as 9.2 per cent and housebuilding is now at the lowest since the 1920s.

In a debate on the Queen’s Speech in the House of Commons on Tuesday, I voted against the Government, to change course and help hard-pressed families struggling with the rising cost of living. The Government need to introduce measures and policies that will make a real difference to the lives of people in Haslingden & Hyndburn who are struggling to make ends meet at the moment.

The economy has flatlined for two and a half years, real wages are down £1,700 since 2010 and energy bills have risen by over £300.

But in David Cameron’s Britain millions are forced to pay more for this government’s economic failure through cuts to tax credits, child benefit, maternity pay and the bedroom tax, while 13,000 millionaires get an average £100,000 tax cut.

We need real action to get people back into work, to get more affordable homes built, to tackle rising energy bills and to tackle the growing cost of getting to work.

People in Haslingden & Hyndburn, who get up early, work hard and do the right thing, are feeling the squeeze like never before - it’s time the Government took real action to stop their living standards falling any further.

The Conservative Party are obsessing about Europe – and the British people are paying the price

In opposition, David Cameron promised to change his party and to halt its tradition of obsessively ‘banging on about Europe’.

But this week we’ve seen that David Cameron is failing to lead his party, at the expense of doing what is best for the country.

He’s spending his time worrying about how to get the Conservative Party in line, instead of how to get the
country back on track.

Instead of standing up for British interests he finds himself being pushed around by his backbenchers, conceding more and more to the Eurosceptics in his party. His inability to stand up to his party is forcing David Cameron to allow Britain to sleepwalk towards exit.

What people increasingly see is a weak Prime Minister who is unable to lead his divided Government, obsessing over Europe when he should be sorting out the economic mess his Government has made.

David Cameron has turned a Europe issue into a leadership issue.

Accrington Pals finally signposted by Commonwealth War Graves Commission

I am very pleased to have been informed that there has finally been a sign erected by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission in the Sheffield Woodlands area of Serre in France, which points visitors towards the Accrington Pals Memorial.

It may only seem a small thing, but it means a lot that visitors to the Commonwealth War Graves in Serre will pointed towards the memorial to a group of young people who died in such tragic circumstances, and who mean so much to the community in and around Accrington.

Everyone in the area knows about the Accrington Pals, and hopefully now visitors to the Commonwealth War Graves in Serre will be inspired to read or learn about them.

True thanks for the fact the sign is there must go to Cath Holmes of Accrington, who has been trying for some time to get this sign erected. After a slightly frustrating breakdown in communication between Cath and the CWGC in France, and an intervention by my office, I am pleased that the Commonwealth War Graves Commission have put up, and paid for the sign.

A need to help those leaving foster care.

Last week week I backed I backed the Foster Care Fortnight 2013 which runs from the13-26 May). One huge issue which has been raised by the Fostering Network about children in care is that they are not supported past the age of 21. I recorded my own experiences on video for the Fostering Network of a young girl badly affected by this policy in Hyndburn some years ago which had a profound impact.

That young female had been abandoned by her parents at a young age with no siblings; had had a succession of foster parents; could not read or write; had no one who loved her or cared for her and no prospects of a job. She lived in mouldy damp terraced property which she could not afford to heat and was for the most part of the week hungry with no where to turn - all due to a greedy landlord who would not do repairs and whose only interest was receiving his sky high rent. It was fair to say I was both delighted when she found a genuine boyfriend who showed her love and scarred by the fact the fact that her life - in Hyndburn - when I was asked to intervene as a councillor was shocking. She had been let down by her parents; the state; and society and I think we all have to accept some responsibility.

The average age for leaving home is 24, yet only one in twenty young people in foster care stay with their foster carers beyond their 18th birthday.

The Fostering Network recently provided MPs with an opportunity to voice our concerns as part of their Don't Move Me campaign.

I have raised this issue within the Labour Party. My video about fostered children staying longer with their foster carers is at this link http://youtu.be/0Qgvx0euGKI , and in time will be launched on a website along with the other MPs.

Woolwich attack - a letter

Hi Graham,

I hope my email finds you in good health, I write to you today with very much sadness after a soldier was killed in a barbaric attack by some cowards claiming to be Muslims this afternoon.

I on behalf of all Muslims of Hyndburn condemn this coward ness in the strongest possible terms, no Muslim can kill anyone especially an innocent one, it is not the teachings of Islam these are sick people they have their own agendas they need to be caught and brought to justice. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, we are one and must remain united in order to defeat these terrorists.

Regards Abdul.

Supporting deaf children

The National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS) invited MPs from across England to show their support for its Stolen Futures campaign, aimed at ensuring every deaf child gets the support they need. There are more than 45,000 deaf children and young people in the UK, and their future can depend on specialist services such as Teachers of the Deaf.

As part of their campaign I boarded the NDCS Listening Bus, which travels around the country to provide support to deaf children, to learn more about support in their area, and also talk to a group of deaf children about their hopes for the future and the help they need in school.

Volunteer Meeting Thursday 23rd May

Just a reminder that our next volunteer meeting will be held this Thursday 7pm at St Mary's Primary School, Haslingden Old Road, Rawtenstall. It has been another busy month which has seen referrals and evidence of levels of needs in our community increasing, but also some fantastic support of Raft from individuals, partner organisations and businesses alike.

I have attached a copy of the minutes of Aprils meeting. f you are able to download and bring a copy that will be appreciated. Agenda's will be available on the day. If you have any items in advance for Any other Business please let me know in advance if possible and I will add those to the agenda.

As part of our commitment to supporting volunteers we have reserved some places on the attached customer services course which is available free of charge to Raft volunteers. This not only reflects our commitment to volunteers themselves, and their personal development, but also a commitment to working toward respecting dignity of clients who access all our developing services, including the foodbank. If you are interested and available to attend this course please confirm by email or on Thursday. Please note however the course times are 9.30am – 2.30pm (not 10-2)

I look forward to meeting you all again on Thursday,

Kind Regards,

Caroline



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Use the summer for a warmer winter

Dear Mr Jones, We now have the statistics for the Home Heat Helpline (0800 33 66 99) for last winter which shows that more than 44,000 people called for assistance. As you may know, the Home Heat Helpline is a free, not-for-profit phone line set up to help energy customers who are having difficulties with their fuel bills or problems keeping warm.

But recent research shows that nearly half of all those who are eligible for some help with their energy, whether it’s for changing their boiler, insulating their homes or getting a discount, do not apply. This is because they did not know that the help was available or thought that it did not apply to them. In addition, people mostly think about getting work done when it’s cold. Taking action now will help them keep warmer and save money when winter comes.

We think there are two areas where you could really help make a difference. The first is that, as you are in contact with a wide range of households, individuals and groups, we would ask you to help us in getting the message out to the 50% of people who are eligible and not applying. And the second is to make people aware that taking action this spring and summer (e.g. sorting out the boiler and the insulation) will make their homes warmer next winter and would be a really good step to take.

Back Britain’s Charities campaign

Dear Member of Parliament, The Back Britain's Charities campaign (run by the Charities Aid Foundation and NCVO) would like to invite you to a Parliamentary event entitled "Cuts in the Community: Can councils justify disproportionate reductions in charity funding?".

Our bees are in decline - Bee Cause campaign

Dear Mr Jones, Our bees are in decline. On top of the significant loss of habitat, disease and the impact of chemicals, bees have just suffered a year of record rainfall and a long, cold winter. We urgently need a UK-wide Bee Action Plan to ensure that this trend is unequivocally reversed as without bees food prices will rise and many of the beautiful places and spaces we value will be harmed.

Hacked Off: Briefing on the PressBoF Charter and latest Public Opinion Poll

Briefing on the PressBoF Charter and latest Public Opinion Poll

Download Document(s): JDL.MP.17052013FINAL.pdf, Briefing.PressBoFvsVXPRCFINAL.pdf, 01052013.Pollresults.pdf

Dear Mr Jones,

I have attached a 3 documents to this email for your information including:

• A letter outlining the current position relating to the PressBoF draft Charter and the Victim's and Cross-Party Royal Charter agreed by Parliament
• 12 key problems with the PressBoF Charter
• A new opinion poll commissioned by the Media Standards Trust showing a significnat lack of  public trust and confidence in the PressBoF Charter and the regulatory system it seeks to introduce

If you require any further information from Hacked Off or would to arrange a meeting please get in touch.
With best wishes for the weekend,
John
John Dickinson-Lilley
Head of Government & Parliamentary Relations
Hacked Off

Supporting Carers Week

To celebrate the launch of Carers Week, 10-16 June 2013, I met with actress Lynda Bellingham who is also promoting Carers Week, to recognise the contribution that carers in Haslingden and Hyndburn make on a daily basis.

I wish to support carers across Haslingden and Hyndburn as part of the national awareness campaign, Carers Week. The week is an opportunity to celebrate the 6.5 million carers across the UK and raise awareness of the impact that caring has on people’s lives. A few weeks ago I met with Liz Hamilton, Manager of Carer's Link in Hyndburn to discuss the issues of caring and carer's support in the constituency. As a former carer myself, I
cared for my grandmother who had dementia for several yearsI know the strain it places on those trying to look after others.

In 2013 Carers Week will be focusing on whether the nation is Prepared to Care? The campaign will highlight how the UK’s current carer population is coping, how effectively government is supporting the growing numbers of carers, and whether the wider population is prepared for future caring responsibilities.

As part of Carers Week, a number of events will be held in and around Haslingden and Hyndburn, to help carers access support and advice. Carers can find out what’s going on at www.carersweek.org.

Every day across 1 in 8 people will care for a loved one in some form. This hidden group of people give up their time, sometimes their jobs and often make life changing sacrifices to care for someone. Carers save this country an incredible £119 billion1 every year. That’s why I believe as a society we must be Prepared to Care for our carers.

Actress and former carer, Lynda Bellingham, said: “My sister and I cared for our mother when she had Alzheimer’s and so I know first-hand the impact that caring can have on someone’s life. That’s why I’m supporting Carers Week because I believe it’s vital that help is made available, especially when you consider that every day 6,000 new people will take on a caring role for a loved one. Carers in this country do a fantastic job and we must come together to support them.”

“It’s fantastic to see MPs pledge their support for Carers Week and carers in the UK. Events like this ensure that carers stay at the top of the political agenda and it’s also an opportunity to remind MPs and decision makers of the overwhelming contribution that carers make.”

Helen Clarke, Carers Week Manager, commented: “It’s fantastic to see MPs taking a stand for carers. Carers form the backbone of our society and that’s why Carers Week is so incredibly important to not only recognise their contribution, but ensure they get the help and support they need.”

Carers Week is delivered by a partnership of national charities – Age UK, Carers Trust, Carers UK, Independent Age, Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie Cancer Care, MS Society, Parkinson’s UK and supported by the Stroke Association and Bupa’s Carewell. In 2013 it is sponsored by Sainsbury’s Plc and the sector skills council in England Skills for Care.

Keep up to date with Carers Week and events happening in INSERT AREA at
www.carersweek.org www.facebook.com/carersweek Twitter @carersweek

- ENDS -

1 Carers UK and the University of Leeds (2011) Valuing Carers 2011: Calculating the value of carers’ support.

Notes for editors:

1. Carers Week is delivered by a partnership of national charities – Age UK, Carers Trust, Carers UK, Independent Age, Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie Cancer Care, MS Society, Parkinson’s UK and supported by the Stroke Association and Bupa’s Carewell. In 2013 it is sponsored by Sainsbury’s Plc and the sector skills council in England Skills for Care.

2. Carers Week takes place to recognise and celebrate the UK’s carers and encourage them to access the support, advice and information they need that can help improve their lives and the people they care for.

3. At least 2,000 organisations take part in Carers Week, including local charities and voluntary organisations, hospitals, hospices and care homes and a growing number of employers.

First World War: then and now – a Centenary grants programme launched

Dear Parliamentarian
 

Today the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) is launching First World War: then and now, a £6 million small grants programme to help communities across the UK mark the Centenary of the First World War. http://www.hlf.org.uk

HLF is making at least £1 million available per year until 2019 and will provide grants between £3,000 and £10,000 enabling communities and groups to explore, conserve and share their First World War heritage and deepen their understanding of the impact of the conflict.

HLF has already invested £10 million in projects – large and small – that will help communities mark the Centenary of First World War and we are pleased that we can now ensure at least £6 million for communities to mark the Centenary over the next six years.

We will outline the programme so that you can encourage your constituents to apply for this Lottery funding. We would be grateful if you could tweet about the new programme using the hashtag #understandingww1 so that as many communities as possible are able to discover and understand more about how the First World War shaped the modern world.

Yours sincerely,

Dame Jenny Abramsky
Chair
http://www.hlf.org.uk

I am backing the Foster Care Fortnight

The Foster Care Fortnight, the annual awareness campaign run by the largest UK fostering charity the Fostering Network, is aiming to support fostering services across the UK in recruiting 9,000 new foster families to provide homes the rising number of children coming into care. 

This year the campaign runs from 13 to 26 May. encourage constituents across the region to consider becoming foster carers to some of the area’s most vulnerable children.

Robert Tapsfield, chief executive of the Fostering Network, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that Graham has put himself in the frame for Foster Care Fortnight. It shows that they recognise the need to make sure that the children and young people of Hyndburn who most need support, love and care have it.”

Backing Labour's call in the Commons for 5% VAT on repairs & refurbishments

Yesterday during Treasury Questions I raised the issue of this Government’s record on the construction industry, particularly in the North West. Newly published research by R3, the insolvency industry association found that nearly one in three construction companies in the North West of England were ‘at risk’ of going under.

I also raised concerns about the inequity of VAT where new build is VAT exempt but repairs and refurbishments are not. With around 1 in 13 homes empty in Haslingden and Hyndburn zero VAT on new build has less of an impact in the north than reduced VAT on repairs and refurbishments.

Labour has called for a one year reduction in VAT rates for repairs and maintenance down to 5%. Perhaps if the Government had any interest in the North of England when it comes to housing, the construction industry would not be in this potentially difficult situation.

Building firms and employees in the building industry have repeatedly rasied with  me the unfairness of VAT in areas like Hyndburn. The unfair VAT rates are doing nothing to rebalance Britains economy and may be concentratuing growth in the south east.


Fast forward to 12:24:12am and  11:47:42am.

Enough Food for Everyone IF...towards the G8

From: Francesca.Fryer@concern.net
Sent: 09 May 2013 11:34
To: JONES, Graham
Subject: Enough Food for Everyone IF...towards the G8

Dear Mr Jones,, The Enough Food for Everyone IF campaign is now in its 15th week and gearing up for more action in the lead up to the G8.

Since its launch in January, 73,130 supporters have signed up to the campaign using their voice to fight the silent scandal and injustice of hunger. In February and March 40,000 constituents wrote to their MPs, 300 met their MPs, and 17,000 people wrote to the Chancellor directly to express their support for spending 0.7% GNI on overseas aid and encourage him to tackle tax dodging in the Finance Bill.

From 8 to 17 June, the 10 days leading up to the G8 Summit, campaigners will be calling for world leaders to tackle hunger, including tens of thousands of people gathering in Hyde Park on 8 June. To help end hunger we are calling on the G8 to:

·         Clamp down on tax havens and launch a Convention on Tax Transparency to stop the billions of pounds that flow out of developing countries and could be used to help end hunger.

Help poor countries make sure that people have enough food and nutrition by supporting poor families to grow their own food and by investing in nutrition.

·         Give people in developing countries more control over their land by protecting poor farmers from land grabs and using land to grow food not biofuels.

As part of the activities in the lead up to the G8 Summit, this and next month the IF campaign will be holding a number of events in Parliament:

Labour outlines an alternative Queen’s Speech

Britain faces some big challenges after three wasted years of Government under the Tories and their Lib Dem allies.

The Government promised change but things have got worse not better: more people are out of work than when David Cameron became Prime Minister, families are paying the price for a flatlining economy with real wages down £1,700 since the general election and energy bills have risen by more than £300.

Britain needs change but we won’t get it from an out-of-touch Tory-led Government whose only idea is to carry on with a failed economic plan that offers more of the same.

We need new ideas and a renewed focus on how to make our economy deliver for everyone and not just a few at the top.

Labour has outlined an alternative Queen’s Speech with economic plans that include putting people back to work through a Compulsory Jobs Guarantee paid for by a tax on bankers’ bonuses, making work pay by introducing a new 10p tax rate paid for by taxing property worth more than £2 million and strengthening laws to stop people having their wages undercut illegally by employers exploiting foreign workers.

We would also reform the energy market to break the stranglehold of the big six energy companies and cap train fares to stop the price of the daily commute going up and up.

These measures could make a real difference to people in Haslingden and Hyndburn but we can only turn Britain around by working together as One Nation.

International Day Against Homophobia - May 17th

This May 17th I am supporting the International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO). Across the world and the UK, gay and lesbian people still face persecution, discrimination and abuse on an all-too-frequent basis. No one should be maltreated as a result of their sexuality in 2013. There cannot be differeing degrees of equality.

We rebuild Britain by standing up for the many but this Tory-led Government only stands up for the few

But we won’t get it from this Tory-led Government.

The Tories and their Lib Dem allies were given the opportunity to set out a positive agenda for the year ahead when the Queen opened Parliament and delivered a speech outlining the Government’s priorities on Wednesday.

But all we got was a no-answers Queen’s Speech from a tired and failing Government that is out of touch, out of ideas and unable to bring about the change we desperately need.

Their record is one of economic failure and it’s hard-working people who do the right thing who are footing the bill. With prices rising faster than wages, the economy flatling and one million young people out of work the Tory-led Government’s priority this April was to cut taxes by an average of £100,000 for 13,000 people earning over £1 million.

Policies like this aren’t going to help hard-working families in Haslingden and Hyndburn trying to make ends meet.

Wednesday’s Queen’s Speech was a chance to rebuild our economy and get people back into work but instead it offered no change and no hope. Energy bills, water bills, paying the mortgage, the cost of getting to work – these are the issues that are worrying families in Haslingden and Hyndburn but the Government has absolutely nothing to say about it. In its deafening silence the Government demonstrated how utterly out of touch it is with the real needs of hard-working people in Haslingden and Hyndburn.

This was an opportunity missed. We rebuild Britain by standing up for the many but this Tory-led Government only stands up for the few while living standards fall for everyone else.

Britain is heading in the wrong direction under the Tories. What we need is a change of direction but it’s only by working together as One Nation that this will happen.

RNIB's new report "Don't lose sight"! Don't delay!" - Help for Constituents

From: Clarke, Katherine [mailto:Katherine.Clarke@rnib.org.uk]
Sent: 09 May 2013 11:45
To: JONES, Graham
Subject: Help for your Constituents

Dear Mr Jones, RNIB's new report "Don't lose sight"! Don't delay!" http://bit.ly/X96uxp reveals that your constituents' lack of knowledge about the early signs of wet age related macular degeneration (AMD) is leading to unnecessary sight loss. Wet AMD is an eye condition that affects 40,000 over 50s every year. Sight loss from Wet AMD can be prevented if people get treatment when they notice the early signs: a sudden change in vision such as faces become blurry or that straight lines appear wavy. Our report reveals that far too many people are unaware of the signs of wet AMD and do not seek immediate treatment. Your constituents can find out more by calling RNIB's helpline on 0303 123 9999 or googling ‘Spot the Signs’.

Should burning Britain’s forests to create electricity be stopped? - Norbord

I have raised the issue of government subsidies to energy from biomass producers which has forced up wood prices for other industries. Notably furniture manufacturers in the North West. Our wood consumption rate far exceeds our wood production rate and there are questions about the environmental benefits requiring decades to payback.

I believe electricity from biomass is important - and the government have just paid a grant to switch the huge Drax facility from coal to biomass – and setting aside the unclear debate about the envronmental impact, the answer to price inflation is to increase forestry production. Currently production is way below future anticipated demand. I raised this point during the passage of the energy bill in committee around the contracts for difference which is a contract stating the subsidy that will be given to renewable energy producers based on the source and energy output.

Labour's Alternative Queen's Speech - Angela Eagle

On Wednesday the Queen will open the next session of parliament and announce the government's legislative plans for the next year. While the government scrabble around for a coherent agenda, Labour has set out what would be in our Queen's Speech: six bills with a relentless focus on the economy.

Over the last session of parliament we have seen a remarkably thin legislative agenda from the government. Swathes of parliamentary time have been left unfilled and the bills that they did produce have been chaotic, badly drafted and badly managed. I have calculated that since the last Queen's speech, the government have u-turned on average once every seven sitting days. If No10 briefing is accurate, they are u-turning on this Queen's Speech before it's even been delivered by dropping minimum alcohol pricing, plain cigarette packaging and their register of lobbying interests.

Aerospace Technology Institute.

Below is the latest correspondence on the location of the new Aerospace Technology Institute.

It is important that East Lancashire rebuilds its manufacturing base around industries like aerospace which employs many thousands already in the region.

Local schools and My Money Week

The first week in June is My Money Week (3 to 9 June), when local schools have the chance to help pupils  learn more about money and personal finance. Every primary and secondary school in Hyndburn is being given the opportunity to take part for free in My Money Week, which has returned for its fifth year thanks to a new partnership between national charity pfeg (Personal Finance Education Group) and Barclays.

My Money Week will improve young people’s financial skills, knowledge and confidence through special lessons, activities and debates in schools and other settings across the UK. Teachers in Hyndburn can order a free Activity Pack, developed by pfeg, full of creative and engaging financial resources and ideas for how to deliver financial education to young people, from the age of four up to 19. Young people in Hyndburn can also take part in the ‘A-Z of Money’, a national competition challenging them to learn more about money through creative writing.

Tracey Bleakley, chief executive of pfeg (Personal Finance Education Group), said: “We are absolutely delighted to have the support of Graham Jones MP in promoting My Money Week this year, and I hope all schools in Hyndburn will seize the opportunity to take part through our free activity pack, advice and support.”

Hyndburn Savings & Loan Company - an impossible idea?

Since Labour came to power in Hyndburn in 2011 we have been looking at ways to assist businesses. It is important the Labour Party and your Labour Council helps small businesses. Recently we have been looking at a Hyndburn Savings and Loan Company similar to 'Bank on Dave' which has featured on Channel 4.

Providing access to funds for local businesses to invest and use to expand as well as providing suitable loans to local people at affordable interest rates would clearly be of financial benefit to the local economy. It should also reduce some of the worst aspects of lending practice centred around other non-traditional lenders and therefore has potential other socio-economic benefits.

The programme makes light of the simplicity of such a 'bank' and the difficulties entailed in setting one up, notably that all the problems encountered are surmounted by the 'Bank on Dave' by Dave Fishwick's personal guarantee's backed by his personal wealth.

Following a discussion between the Council leader and myself, the Council has undertaken some initial research into setting up a similar bank to “Bank on Dave” which is officially known as Burnley, Savings and Loans Ltd.

As you can see with various options there are real difficulties and at this stage the barriers to Council are involvement are considerable.

Direct Council Funding

The Council would be prohibited from depositing funds with Hyndburn, Savings and Loans Ltd (or any other Savings and Loans Company) as they are only allowed to lend money to organisations with appropriate credit ratings. Savings and Loans Companies have no prospects of achieving such a rating.

People’s Millions deadline for entries - 13 May 2013

Mr Graham Jones MP
House of Commons
London SW1A 0AA
graham.jones.mp@parliament.uk
1 May 2013

People's Millions deadline for entries - 13 May 2013

Dear Mr Jones

As you may be aware, the Big Lottery Fund and ITV are giving the public a chance to vote for the community projects they want to receive good cause funding. We will be awarding up to £50,000 to 76 projects across every region of the UK to charitable projects which inspire, involve and improve their local community.

Each night for a week in November, those who make the best applications will battle it out on prime time ITV regional news for the public vote. Whether or not they succeed, the competition represents a great opportunity to mobilise support and publicity behind a local cause.

The deadline for applications is 13 May 2013 and I encourage you to get groups in your constituency to fill out the simple entry form online at www.peoplesmillions.org.uk or contact the Big Advice Line on 0845 0 10 11 12. In the past, approximately half of all groups entering the competition have not been funded by us before. For further information please visit www.peoplesmillions.org.uk

Yours sincerely,

PETER WANLESS

Chief Executive

Breast Cancer Matters

From: Mia Rosenblatt
To: JONES, Graham
Subject: Breast Cancer Matters

Dear Mr Jones, Breast Cancer Campaign is committed to maintaining breast cancer research and charity-funded medical research and we know that medical research is an issue that people across the country care deeply about.

We are keen to ensure that the importance of charity funded medical research is not forgotten in the lead-up to the Comprehensive Spending Review 2015-16. We would therefore be delighted if you would support this aim by writing to the Chancellor to ask him to continue to support the Charity Research Support Fund (CRSF) for the Spending Review period 2015-16 and also to improve access to the Gift Aid scheme, to enable charities to more easily access Gift Aid from small donations made in the workplace.

Below is information on the two specific schemes as well as an overview of the importance of research.

Why breast cancer research is so important
Breast cancer remains the UK’s most common cancer and one of the most difficult health issues affecting women, with over 50,000 people diagnosed with breast cancer and 12,000 people dying of the disease every year in the UK. Millions more live with the impact of the condition. It is through research that we will find the treatments of the future.

Why the Charity Research Support Fund is so important
There are many charities in the UK which, like Breast Cancer Campaign, are committed to funding medical research. Charities fund the direct costs of research, such as the scientists and laboratory supplies while the Government supports the indirect costs – the infrastructure costs like heating and lighting – through a fund known as the Charity Research Support Fund (CRSF). Losing this Fund could be the equivalent of Breast Cancer Campaign cutting around a quarter of our annual research spend overnight. This partnership working between the Government and charities leverages additional funding for research and universities which means that considerably more investment in research is able to take place than would otherwise be the case and also brings major health and economic benefits. The CRSF also means that charities are able to fulfil their duty to their supporters to ensure that the funds they donate are spent directly on medical research and not university infrastructure.

Labour Councillors hard work pays off with £1.5m lottery success

The Pals marching outside Accrington Town Hall.

Labour are determined to revive Hyndburn's market towns in the hostile climate of austerity, economic downturn, out of town retail and the Internet. It is important our local heritage is a focal point of the drive towards town centre living and a more leisurely retail experience.

The Labour Council had already had a previous application for funding declined which was very disappointing at the time and since then much effort has gone in by Labour Councillors and myself to ensure that we wouldn't be disappointed a second time.

I am delighted that this time it has been successful. It isn't just about improving the public realm. We must use the funding to take the look of Accrington back in time, matching the period features with period street furniture and signage. Visitors must want to come to Accrington because it is a market town, because it has that charm from a century past and if it is to be successful it must look like that in all aspects. I just hope with the funding and the vision, Accrington's shop keepers will swing fully behind the ideas.

Accrington Town Centre and the Pals Centenary Townscape Heritage Initiative secures Heritage Lottery Fund support

Hyndburn Borough Council has received initial support¹ for a £1.5m Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI)² bid from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for the Accrington Town Centre and Pals Centenary project, it was announced today. The project aims to transform the declining historic retail and commercial gateway into the town centre, along Blackburn Road, culminating in a public realm scheme outside Accrington Town Hall and Market Hall to commemorate the Accrington Pals and the Battle of the Somme. The scheme will last for 5 years from 2014 and over the next 12 months the Council will be working with property owners along Blackburn Road to identify the improvements that will be undertaken and will be commissioning architects to design the public realm scheme. The Council is investing an additional £500,000 into the scheme.

Development funding of £25,000 has also been awarded to help the Council progress their plans and over the next 12 months the Council will be fine-tuning the proposals and undertaking initial surveys and estimates.

Britain's renting families urgently need help

Dear Mr Jones, A new report by Shelter today reveals that a generation of families are living in unstable, unaffordable and poor quality private homes – and it is children that are bearing the brunt.

1 in 5 families in Britain now rent their home, as the shortage of affordable housing and high cost of home ownership take their toll. These days, just 6% of renters are students.

But our rental market was not set up to provide permanent housing. As a result, it is not always suitable for families.

The result is that many families are struggling to cope with the volatility and unpredictability which characterises much of the sector.

Growing up renting finds 1 in 10 renting families have had to change their children's school due to moving house. This can prove stressful and upsetting for many. With these families nine times more likely to have moved house in the last year than homeowners, 44% of renting parents feel their children would have a better childhood if they had more stability in their home.

What to expect from your doctor: a guide for patients

From: lwright@gmc-uk.org
Subject: What to expect from your doctor: a guide for patients

Good Morning, I am writing to let you know about the GMC's new guide to what patients can expect from their doctor.

Patients deserve the highest standards of care and we are committed to ensuring that they understand what these are. We have therefore produced this guide which underlines the importance of dignity, mutual respect and partnership between patients and their doctor. It also sets out the duties of the doctor and that all doctors need to be honest and open if things go wrong, and to make the care of patients their first concern.

This guide complements Good medical practice, our core guidance for all doctors.

East Lancashire Power Loom Riots 1826

This week is the 187th anniversary of the East Lancashire loom riots that led eventually to changes in factory conditions for working people which began by starving workers marching from Enfield to Grange Mill at the bottom of Manchester Road in Accrington where the first power looms were destroyed.

The power-loom riots of 1826 took place in Lancashire, England, in protest against the economic hardship suffered by traditional handloom weavers caused by the widespread introduction of the much more efficient power loom [4] set against a cost of living crisis following the Napoleonic Wars. Rioting broke out on 24 April and continued for three days, widely supported by the local population, who were sympathetic to the weavers' plight.

Sykes’s Mill at Higher Grange Lane
Courtesy of the Lancashire County Library Service - Accrington Library.

After a period of prosperity in the 1810s the textile industry suffered a serious slump in 1825.

After a period of relative prosperity in the early 1820’s, the winter of 1825-26 was to produce nothing but hardship for the cotton workers of East Lancashire. Some of the banks had not the silver or gold to back up the paper notes they had issued. These were recalled; loans were also revoked causing many bankruptcies. The earlier affluence had increased the number of handloom weavers so much so that it was possible for the manufacturers to reduce the wages of those employed at weaving. The handloom weaver at the end of the cotton manufacturing chain, and unorganised was easy prey to the manufacturers. In the good years, 1802-1806, the handloom weavers were earning up to 23s a week [5] ,by 1826 this had been reduced to less than 8s per week [6].

The good times had brough in 000’s of employed weavers who had been employed to supplement production at local factories were the first to be hit, and by the spring of 1826 there was, once again, real hardship in the county. Pleas to the government for a minimum wage had fallen on deaf ears (In May, 1808, the Weavers' Minimum Wage Bill was rejected by the House of Commons), and attempts by the workers to better their own lot had been met with repression and even, as witnessed in Manchester in 1819, with appalling violence (the so-called “Peterloo Massacre”) The average earnings for weavers had nearly halved, and unemployment was running, in some areas, at a staggering 60%. [3]

A letter to the Blackburn Mail of the 15th February 1826 tells of receiving 1s-9d a piece, considering that in 1814 he would have received 6s-9d- one can see the grounds he has for complaint. He tells of having four children and a wife to keep, and that he works from four in the morning to twelve at night. This family, like many others would be surviving, if that is the word , off one meal of oatmeal porridge a day. [7] That food prices had doubled in a few short years.

On April 12th, Blackburn Weavers' Union secretary John Lancaster wrote to the Home Secretary, Robert Peel, pointing out that wages had been cut repeatedly for 11 years, and now, even those workers in employment could afford no more than one or two meals a day. [8]

"Our dwellings are totally destitute of every necessary comfort," he complained. "Every article of value has disappeared either to satisfy the cravings of hunger or to appease the clamour of relentless creditors: our homes, where plenty and contentment once resided, are now become the abodes of penury and wretchedness." [8]

William Turner’s book ‘Riot’ details the absolute depths of poverty of those in work, the staggering number of those reliant on poor law relief whilst working 78 hours a week or more and the escalating numbers of destitute condemned to the workhouse as unemployment rose. [7] There was simply no way of escaping the starvation. That appeals for a minimun wage or greater relief had fallen on deaf ears. Turner’s book refers to commentary of the time, that such destitution the like had never been seen before.

On Monday the 24th April 1826 a mass meeting of over a 1000 weavers, some armed was held on Enfield Moor, Whinney Hill in Clayton-le-Moors near to Accrington [5]. Speeches were made and then the crowd marched on Sykes’s Mill at Higher Grange Lane, near the site of the modern police station and Magistrate’s Courts, where at 60 looms where smashed. These riots spread from Accrington through Oswaldtwistle, Blackburn, Darwen, Rossendale, Bury and Chorley. In the end after three days of riots 1,139 looms were destroyed, 4 rioters and 2 bystanders shot dead by the authorities in Rossendale and 41 rioters sentenced to death (all of whose sentences were commuted).[1][2]

Hyndburn Superloo - well done to the Daily Star for reporting the story accurately

SPENDING a penny costs £18 a time in a town’s “superloo”.

(Tory) Councillors signed a £28,245-a-year deal to rent it until 2023, thinking they would get their money back by charging people 20p a visit.

But town hall twits positioned it less than 4ft from a free public toilet.

In a whole year only 1,520 people used the facilities – earning the council just £304.

Just to break even, the toilet would have to be used 386 times a day – roughly once every four minutes right round the clock.

And to make matters worse, the loo’s water supply was accidentally turned off – but nobody noticed for weeks.

Read more at
http://www.dailystar.co.uk/posts/view/311541

Hacked Off: Briefing on the Press Charter

From: john@hackinginquiry.org [mailto:john@hackinginquiry.org]
Sent: 26 April 2013 14:48
To: JONES, Graham
Subject: Hacked Off: Briefing on the Press Charter

Download Document(s): PressRoyalCharter.FINAL.pdf 

Dear Mr Jones, Please find attached a briefing setting out the key failings of the press charter published yesterday and supported by some sections of the press.

The press charter has many weaknesses which the briefing explains in more detail however key issues include:

The press charter fails to implement Lord Justice Leveson's proposals for the processes required to establish both an independent Recognition Panel and an independent press self-regulator

The press continue to act in their own interests and have ignored numerous independent polls conducted over the last year which demonstrate 75% of the public support an independent press regulator

The press has ignored the democratic will of both Houses of Parliament which has been expressed supporting a Leveson-compliant Royal Charter. The Leveson Charter was delivered through cross-party consensus and implements Lord Justice Leveson's recommendations

I hope you find this briefing helpful. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me.

Best wishes,
John Dickinson-Lilley
Head of Government and Parliamentary Relations
Hacked Off

Remembering Workers Memorial Day & 68 lives lost at Moorfield Colliery in 1883

Workers Memorial Day at the pit head of Moorfield Colliery where 68 men and boys lost their lives in a terrible pit disaster.





ON THE morning of 7 November 1883 a terrible explosion ripped through the underground workings at the Moorfield Colliery, Altham.

The explosion resulted in the death of 68 men and boys, with numerous more receiving serious injuries. Over the following years many of them died prematurely as a direct result of their injuries.

Moorfield Colliery, locally known as Dickie Brig Pit, Altham, near Accrington. Sixty-eight men and lads lost their lives, fifty three were injured, and ninety-five children were left fatherless. It remains as the biggest and worst disaster ever to have hit North-East Lancashire.

Improving rolling stock in East Lancashire

I intend to raise the issues in this letter in the coming days with LCC and Northern witrh regard to the East Lancashire line, the franchise renogotiation and the new upcoming Accringtion to Manchester direct communter line.

Stroke Association Action on Stroke Month, May 2013 - Pledge your support today

Dear Mr Jones, May 2013 will be the second Action on Stroke Month, and we invite you to pledge your support here: http://www.stroke.org.uk/strokemonth/pledge

Every year an estimated 150,000 people in the UK have a stroke. That's one person every five minutes. Around a third of strokes will prove fatal and around half of all stroke survivors are left with a long-term disability including physical, communication, emotional and psychological issues.

Progress has been made in stroke research, prevention and care but there is still so much more that can be done to help prevent strokes and improve the quality of life for stroke survivors and their families after stroke. Action on Stroke Month is about raising awareness of stroke and the impact on stroke survivors, their carers and families. It’s also about standing together for life after stroke, and ensuring that every stroke survivor gets the support they need to make their best possible recovery from stroke.

Across the country, many community events and activities are being planned for Action on Stroke Month, to reach out to stroke survivors and demonstrate the services and support that is available to them. Your pledge will help raise awareness of stroke and let supporters in your own constituency and across the UK know that you are fully behind the great work that is being done for stroke survivors, their families and carers.

Acre in Rossendale - a village seeking recognition

I have been sent correspondence regarding the post codes for the village of Acre in Rossendale. A concern about the loss of the identity of the village. I thought such a historical correspondence was worth publishing.

Thanks for your letter of support - I have now sent them off to Royal Mail's Major Address change department and shall keep you updated as to the outcome of the consultation.

Non UK nationals claiming benefits

Last week I received a response to a Parliamentary Question from the Department of Work and Pensions regarding the numbers of non-UK Nationals who claim various benefits, and the answer should concern everyone, regardless of what you think about the rights of foreign nationals to claim benefits here.

Unemployment up - Cameron and Osborne’s economic policies are failing us all

Here in the Hyndburn long term unemployment is still up 63% over the last year, and long-term youth unemployment is up 107% - more than double over just 12 months.

In Rossendale and Darwen including Haslingden, long term unemployment is still up 29% over the last year, and long-term youth unemployment is up 64%.

It is getting clearer by the day that David Cameron and George Osborne’s economic policies are failing our area.

Families are £891 worse off because of tax and benefit changes and pay packets are now on average a whopping £1,700 smaller than at the last election.

People have to work almost an extra month and a half to make what they did in 2010. Working people feel they’re going backwards because they are going  backwards.

A flat-lining economy and rising long-term unemployment has put up the welfare bill by over £21 billion more than planned and this Government is asking hard-working families to pay the price whilst they hand an average £100,000 tax cut to the richest people in the country. Unemployment is not only higher than at the election, it’s soaring.

We need urgent action now to bring down the benefits bill, but we shouldn’t be cutting working tax credits for striving families – we should be getting people into jobs. That’s why Labour is calling for a tough but fair Compulsory Jobs Guarantee.

Labour’s Compulsory Jobs Guarantee would offer anyone who has been out of work for more than two years, or one year if they are under 25, a real job – one that they would be required to take, no ifs and no buts.

Britain needs real welfare reform that is tough, fair and that works – not divisive and misleading claims from an out of touch Government.

David Cameron is dividing Britain with his millionaire’s tax cut

Families are now losing £891 a year while David Cameron gives an average tax cut of £100,000 to millionaires.

This is the wrong choice, it is unfair and is totally out of touch with people on modest incomes who are struggling with the rising cost of living.

Cameron had a chance to make amends this week, when Labour proposed measures to make taxes fairer and to ease the squeeze on living
standards.

But instead, the Tories voted against:

• cancelling the millionaire’s tax cut and the raid on family tax credits
• a temporary VAT cut bringing back the 10p tax rate, paid
• for by a tax on properties worth over £2million
• cracking down on tax avoidance by companies who earn from us but don’t pay their way

This sends a clear signal to the whole country about whose side David Cameron is on and who he expects to pay for his Government’s failure to get the economy back on track.

A One Nation Labour Government would make different choices from the Tory-led Government, with different priorities about who we stand up for, and different ideas about who to stand up to.

One Nation Labour’s policies are about ensuring everyone plays their part in rebuilding Britain.

The Tory-led Government has taken Britain backwards.

It’s only with everyone pulling together that we’re going turn things around.

ASBO's; Tories are soft on crime, and soft on the causes of crime

Figures released today have revealed that Hyndburn has the 13th highest rate of anti social behaviour in the country. A shameful statistic given the sterling work done by the Police in teh face of collasall budget cuts and huge reductions in numbers of police officers.

A detailed breakdown obtained by Freedom of Information Requests from Shadow Home Office Minister Gloria De Piero and research by statisticians from the House of Commons Library has revealed new figures, which show in Hyndburn local authority there were 6,170 anti-social behaviour incidents recorded by the police in 2012 – that is a rate of 76.4 for every 100 residents.

This once again highlights the reason that the Government is completely wrong to scrap the ASBO. The Police don’t want it scrapped, and the public don’t it scrapped. Too often the media focused on the 50% who breached their ASBO not going to prison but with the ending of the ASBO the 50% who previously did go to prison will now not do so. We've gone form a 50/50 chance of going to prison to no chance.

The figures also paint a revealing picture of the scale of the anti-social behaviour problem at a police force wide area, with Lancashire police force recording 91,053 incidents of anti-social behaviour in 2012 – the fourth highest in the country, and an average 62.3 for every 1000 residents.

I believe the ASBO worked, and so do the police. But this Government does not listen to the police, the victims or anyone who has experience of tackling crime.

Critics who thought the ASBO was soft on crime have got the worst of all outcomes, they have had it replaced by something which is weak, and which carries no criminal sanction for a breach. The Government’s new so-called ‘community trigger’ only requires a police response when someone has complained 3 times. This is not good enough – people have the right to have their complaints about anti-social behaviour dealt with right away.

This Government is effectively abolishing anti-social behaviour enforcement. The Tories are soft on crime, and soft on the causes of crime.