Proud of our achievements: but a big job still to do

It is easy to forget what Britain was like in 1997 - the NHS on its knees, schools crumbling, crime doubled and millions of families still scarred by unemployment over three million and interest rates still recovering from hitting 15 per cent on Black Wednesday. Britain is, without doubt, a better, more prosperous, fairer place; and I will always work hard to make sure that the priorities of Gordon Brown’s Government reflect what people in Hazel Grove want.

My concerns will always be the concerns, struggles and aspirations of hard working families and those that need us most. 

Thanks Richard

My priority: A strong economy

Since 1997 we have had the longest period of sustained low inflation since the 60s, a national minimum wage, tax credits and the new deal has got over 1 million people back into work. Labour has lifted 800 000 children out of poverty and employment is at its highest level. We really can be proud but globalisation is putting new competition on our jobs, which is why we must invest in skills and training and why I stand by Gordon Brown's pledge to ensure a British job for every British worker who needs one.

My priority: fighting crime

Unlike the liberal democrats, I will always be on the side of the victims of crime and never the criminal. Since 1997, crime has fallen by 35% and police numbers are at record levels. The liberal democrats dangerous attitude on crime has seen them vote to legalise all drugs including heroin, oppose ASBOs and never send young criminals to court. The message is clear; lib dems are weak on crime, whereas Labour will always stand up for the interests of ordinary law abiding citizens.

My priority: investment in public services

From personal experience of my family using our state schools and the NHS, I know that hard working families are better off because there is a Labour Government. Since 1997, there are 85 000 more nurses, 30 000 more teachers and waiting times for operations have halved. I will work hard to ensure the future of the NHS as a universal service free at the point of need. As well as fighting to ensure that the Government delivers the policies and investment needed to produce an excellent education for ALL.

My priority: a cleaner greener enviroment

This Labour Government is the only Government in history to have put climate change on the political agenda. We are on course to meet kyoto targets to reduce greenhouse gases and your beaches, rivers and air are at their cleanest since the industrial revolution. Labour will and must lead in changing attitudes and finding solutions. Whether on climate change, recycling or the state of your road, I will work hard to ensure that the planet we live on now will be around for a long time to come!

My priority: better public transport

Though there are areas we can be porud of such as free bus travel for the over 60s my priority is for a truly integrated public transport system. Since deregulation this country has had to put up with 2nd best and its simply not good enough. To ease congestion, to protect against climate change and protect jobs, change is needed and I will fight for the investment we need to make our public transport system fit for purpose.