Steve Beasant, Liberal Democrat Councillor for East Marsh: "a Community Politician"

HARBOUR PLACE WAS “IN IT TO WIN IT”, THEY WERE VICTORIOUS; AND NOW THEY JUST WANT TO SAY THANKS

2009-10-28T20:47:00.002Z

On September 5, this year Harbour Place Day centre won the National Lottery Award for Best/Charity project 2009 in Association with Woman magazine an as an East Marsh Ward Councillor I was literally “over the moon”.

There are many worthwhile organisations within the East Marsh, but Harbour Place work with some of most vulnerable individuals within our society – they are a great credit to East Marsh and the whole Borough.

Today, along with Councillor Jon-Paul Howarth we called in to see Allen Young and Dave Carlisle who work tirelessly on behalf of East Marsh and the individuals who attend the Day Centre – they both deserve a great deal of credit for their hard work.

Accepting the award on September 5, at a star studded show which was broadcast live to millions of people, Project Director, Allen Young said: “It is an absolute honour to have won this ward. Our Lottery funding has enabled us to make a real difference to the lives of the most disadvantaged people in North East Lincolnshire, and being part of this year’s Awards has enabled our centre to be recognised on the national platform.”

In his acceptance on the show Allen also thanked the people of Grimsby, Cleethorpes and across Lincolnshire for their votes and support.

The competition began early in the year when all entries/case studies were reviewed independently by the Christian Aid Foundation. The entries were then assessed by an independent judging panel, which selected 10 semi-finalists in each category.

Allen also said: “We have received tremendous support throughout all stages of the competition from our local staff and volunteers, and on behalf of everyone involved in Harbour Place Day Centre we wish to say a very big thank you”.

COMMUNITY TIP-OFFS LEAD TO SUCCESSFUL RAIDS ON FAKE ALCOHOL AND CIGARETTES

2009-10-28T20:43:00.002Z

TIP-OFFS from the public have helped a multi-agency operation seize nearly 2,000 fake cigarettes and more than 30 litres of vodka from the streets of North East Lincolnshire.

The operation saw trading standards officers and licensing teams from North East Lincolnshire Council team up with Humberside Police and HM Revenue & Customs in two successful raids across the borough.

The operation took place this October and is the first of many planned over the coming months. It is hoped that its success will send a clear message to those involved in the supply of counterfeit goods: those found guilty of selling fakes could be liable to an unlimited fine or up to 10 years’ imprisonment.

Fake cigarettes and alcohol often contain very low-grade materials which have a detrimental affect on one’s health. Fake cigarettes have in the past been found to contain high levels of heavy metals including cadmium, lead and arsenic, which can cause kidney and lung damage, heart problems, fertility problems, dementia and a much greater risk of cancers.

Councillor Steve Beasant, portfolio holder for community safety and public protection, said: "I hope this shows that community tip-offs will be followed through by the council and I hope it encourages others to come forward with more information. Anyone who suspects someone to be selling fake cigarettes or alcohol should report the matter to the council’s trading standards officers, and it is important to realise that all matters will be dealt with in the strictest confidence."

Cllr Steve Hocknell, portfolio holder for health, said: "We know young people can become addicted to nicotine after just two or three cigarettes, which can lead them to becoming life-long smokers of a product that could cause the death of half the people who use it.

"By removing cheap and illicit cigarettes from the marketplace we can maybe ensure that fewer young people take up this habit."

Detective Chief Inspector Bob Clark, of Humberside Police, said: "It is vital that members of public report any suspicious activity in order for us to take relevant action against those who may be committing crime or be involved in the distribution of counterfeit items.

"In this instance, a number of counterfeit cigarettes as well as alcohol was removed from our streets following information received from the public which led to the successful multi agency operation which just goes to show that we will take positive action when the information comes our way."

Steve Hazell, spokesman for HM Revenue & Customs, said: "Cigarette and alcohol smuggling is not an innocent or victimless crime but one that encourages otherwise honest people to trade with criminals. The illicit trade has a devastating impact on legitimate traders who have to compete against these cheap and unregulated goods. People need to be aware that the majority of smuggled cigarettes are usually counterfeit and because they are unregulated you have no idea what they contain. Smugglers are criminals and they will sell cigarettes and alcohol to anyone, including children."

Anybody who knows of anyone selling counterfeit tobacco or alcohol should report the matter to the HMRC Customs Hotline on 0800 59 5000 or Consumer Direct on 0845 4040506

SUPPORT WORLD DIABETES DAY; AND LEAVE A MESSAGE FOR GORDON

2009-10-28T20:40:00.003Z

A Message from Steve Hitchins

It’s all about finding a cure for type 1 diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is contracted early in life and is an auto-immune disease which means your body’s own immune system attacks the pancreas and destroys the insulin producing cells. It has nothing to do with lifestyle or diet unlike the more common type 2 diabetes.

As many of you know, I have had type 1 diabetes for 40 years. Because it doesn’t kill you when you contract it, many people seem to think that the discovery of insulin injections in 1922 was a cure. It isn’t. It’s a treatment for a lifelong chronic disease which reduces life expectancy (now by 12-15 years on average) and produces serious and damaging complications later in life including blindness, kidney disease and significantly increased threat of coronary heart disease. In addition living with four or more injections a day and half a dozen blood sugar tests is a challenge for any adult let alone very young children. This treatment is a life sentence as well as a life saver! It's a lifestyle I've endured personally for those 40 years.

For three years now I have been involved in raising money to research a cure, chairing the UK branch of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. I sit on the International Board also. This year JDRF intends to raise and spend over $170 million on medical research around the world to find a cure. We are also increasingly successful in persuading governments to contribute from their own medical research budgets. The financial case is unchallengeable. Finding a cure to diabetes will have a dramatic and permanent reduction for NHS budgets. Type 1 with its length of sentence and its difficult complications is an expensive disease for the NHS. We believe more cash is pent on type 1 than on the more common type 2. Now many respected and senior scientists believe a cure is a very realisable ambition.

World Diabetes Day is November 14th which this year is a Saturday and for much of the week before there will be events around the country marking the day. You may see a number of prominent public buildings (including the European Parliament, the UN building and the London Eye) highlighted with blue lights – our colour!

And this is where I want your help! On Monday November 9th with around twenty young children all with type 1 diabetes I shall be delivering a giant syringe filled with e-mail messages addressed to the Prime Minister asking the government to increase research to find a cure for type 1 diabetes. We are aiming to collect at least 10,000 messages. Will you click on this link and spend ten seconds doing your bit? I need these all soon so please respond as soon as possible!!

http://www.jdrfaware.com/remindGordon.aspx?dm_i=4UH,22S4,AW9UO,6N6X,1

Thank you very much and, if you have another 30 seconds, please consider forwarding this message to your e-mail address book so that they can contribute too. It will make a tremendous difference.

Steve Hitchins, Former Leader of Islington Council

LABOUR HAS FAILED YET AGAIN TO MATCH CLIMATE RHETORIC WITH REAL ACTION - HUGHES

2009-10-22T20:11:00.002+01:00

“Britain needs a Government which sets an example and delivers immediate and ambitious carbon reductions in the UK,” said the Liberal Democrat Shadow Energy and Climate Change Secretary, Simon Hughes.

Commenting after the defeat of a Liberal Democrat Opposition day motion calling for Government, Parliament, and all public sector bodies to cut their carbon pollution by 10% by the end of 2010, Simon Hughes said: “This is a bad day for Parliament, Labour and the planet.

“The Government has failed to understand the level of public support for the 10:10 campaign or to get the message that people want real political action now to tackle dangerous climate change.

“Britain needs a Government which sets an example and delivers immediate and ambitious carbon reductions in the UK. Today the Government has stopped a clear message from going to the rest of the world that Britain will take action on climate change now.

“Last year Liberal Democrats successfully added an 80% emission reduction target to the Climate Change Act.

“We will continue to show political leadership in dealing with the climate crisis and we will continue to give the strongest backing to the 10:10 campaign.”

RISE IN 24 HOUR ALCOHOL LICENCES FUELLING BINGE DRINKING - FOSTER

2009-10-22T20:07:00.003+01:00

“Pocket money priced alcohol in supermarkets is a key factor in making many town centres ‘no go’ areas," said the Liberal Democrat Shadow Culture, Media and Sport Secretary, Don Foster.

Licensing statistics released today by the Government reveal:

There are now more than 170,000 alcohol licences in England and Wales
14% increase in 24 hour alcohol licences since last year
17% increase in supermarkets with 24 hour licences and a 19% increase in pubs bars and nightclubs with 24 hour licences
A decline in the number of pubs and bars and an increase in off-licences
Only 150 licences were revoked last year - less than 0.1% of the total

Commenting on the figures, Don Foster said: “While the Government fails to get to grips with the problems caused by binge drinking, the number of licensed premises is soaring.

“Pocket money priced alcohol in supermarkets is a key factor in making many town centres ‘no go’ areas. It is therefore worrying to see a rise in off licences and in supermarkets licensed to sell alcohol 24 hours a day.

“Allowing round-the-clock sales of cheap alcohol will only make the situation worse.

“We urgently need to bring in a minimum price for alcohol and crack down on irresponsible retailers to tackle Britain’s binge drinking culture.”

TORIES OUTRAGEOUS PLAN WOULD INCREASE STUDENT DEBT SAY LIB DEM MPs

2009-10-22T20:02:00.005+01:00

Two Liberal Democrat MPs have claimed that students risk huge increases in university tuition fees in eight months time if the Conservatives regain power.

Sandra Gidley, MP for Romsey & Southampton North, and Tom Brake, MP for Carshalton and Wallington have warned that young people will face a rise in tuition fees after the Conservatives suggested they will increase tuition fees to £7,000 if they take power at the next general election, which has to be held by next June.

That would see tuition fees for undergraduates more than double. Currently there is a cap of £3,300 in England and Wales.

Sandra Gidley says such a rise would leave Southampton's youngsters graduating with more than £30,000 worth of debt, over a third higher than current levels.

Labour also plans to allow universities to charge more than at present if re-elected, according to Peter Mandelson, leaving students and their families with the Liberal Democrats as the only party who have made a commitment to scrapping tuition fees.

Commenting yesterday in Westminster, Sandra said: "I look around Southampton, and more and more I see young people returning from university with no job and a bank balance tens of thousands of pounds in the red. What sort of future is that?

"Labour and the Tories are showing their true colours. They don't care about young people - they just want to saddle them with staggering amounts of debt.

"University education should be free and everyone who has the ability should be able to go - and not put off by the cost.

"The Tories plan is deeply irresponsible in this current recession, when money is tight and jobs are scarce. We need to be getting more young people in to university, apprenticeships and training not fewer, which is exactly what will happen with the Conservatives' outrageous plan."

Tom Brake said: after this announcement “Currently in Carshalton and Wallington just over 20% of adults have a degree, that’s nearly half the London average. I want to see more local people able to attend university if they want to, but an increase in tuition fees is likely to deter many.”

Tom continued: “I believe that University education should be free. Labour and Conservative plans will burden a generation of young people with an enormous debt. The Liberal Democrats are the only party committed to giving young people the best start by freeing them from beginning their working life thousands of pounds in debt.”

ACT NOW FOR THE ENVIRONMENT SAYS SIMON HUGHES

2009-10-19T21:07:00.012+01:00

The Liberal Democrat Shadow Energy and Climate Change Secretary, Simon Hughes calls upon the public to help to support the Liberal Democrat motion on 10:10 this Wednesday.

This Wednesday, the Liberal Democrats have secured a debate in the House of Commons on climate change. The motion calls for Parliament and the Government to sign up to the 10:10 campaign and commit to achieving a 10% reduction in emissions by the end of 2010.

You can get involved by asking your MP to vote in favour of this motion, if enough MPs join us then we can make a huge change to Britain's future. Political activism organisation 38 Degrees is working hard to make sure that MPs sign up to the 1010 campaign and if you don't know your MP's contact details, you can quickly email them through their website - here.

We endorsed the 10:10 campaign at our recent federal conference and many Liberal Democrat run councils have shown the way. Now we are calling for the whole public sector to sign up. Once again, the Liberal Democrats are demonstrating leadership on the environment.

Commenting on Gordon Brown’s warning of climate catastrophe if there is no agreement at UN talks in Copenhagen in 50 days time, Simon Hughes said: “Gordon Brown’s warning today to the most heavily polluting nations would be more credible if Labour’s policies were consistent with the Prime Minister’s words.

“Expansion of the UK’s largest airport and continued plans for dirty coal power stations are not the policies of a government with the authority to lecture the world on averting the climate crisis.

“A vote in Parliament this Wednesday to back Liberal Democrat proposals to make 10% cuts in public sector emissions by 2010 will be a much stronger sign that Labour understands the urgency of the climate crisis.”

This is a big opportunity for Liberal Democrats and for the environment. Under this government there has been a shameful lack of action on climate change.

Liberal Democrats have the power to make a real change. Leadership now is what Britain needs. So please take a moment to email your MP and call on them to support the environment this Wednesday.

WHERE ARE YOUR KIDS TONIGHT? KEEP THEM SAFE, AND OUT OF TROUBLE

2009-10-13T21:30:00.006+01:00

On June 4, this year Humberside Fire and Rescue Service wrote an article for this website, titled: ‘Where are Your Kids Tonight?’

The article had the desired outcome, because arson attacks in the Guildford Street area decreased dramatically; unfortunately there was an unfortunate incidence last Friday night which engulfed five derelict properties. The consequences could have been tragic, if anyone had been living next door.

It is important that you know where your children are playing tonight, tomorrow, and everyday. Guildford Street is not area for young people and children to be playing – it will soon be a demolition site.

Please take time to read the article below which was written by Humberside Fire Service on June 4, and look at the photograph to see the damage caused to the properties concerned.

In the past weeks (late May) there has been a massive increase in the number of fire calls to properties in and around the East Marsh area, which not only pose a danger to local residents and attending fire crews, but also to the perpetrators of this anti – social behaviour. Humberside Fire & Rescue Service are working with agencies throughout North East Lincolnshire in an effort to reduce the number of calls to arson attacks on derelict properties within East Marsh by engaging with youth groups, youth offending teams, police, Shoreline Housing and local ward councillors to reduce this anti social behaviour.

We need to do this before somebody is killed in an arson attack.

This area is without doubt one of the worse areas in the town.

The question I am asking you is:

Where are your kids tonight?

Are they out playing with matches and lighters? Having a laugh with their mates?

The question we need to ask is when does having a laugh with your mates become anti-social behaviour?

When your children arrive home in the evening do they smell of petrol, or do they have scorch marks on their clothes, do they smell of smoke? These are tell tale signs that you can spot. You can help us to bring down these figures and help make your community safer for all.

Your local fire station is on call 24 hours a day 365 days a year, they are ready to respond to any emergency call, and will arrive within minutes ready to put their lives in danger to save others. You can save a life quite easily by being aware of what your children are doing, and putting a stop to this.

You can contact us confidentially by calling or texting 07940 737141 and leaving us information relating to deliberately lit fires in your area.

COUNCILLOR URGES BARS TO BAN GLASS BOTTLES AND GLASSES, AND SUPPORT POLYCARBONATES THIS COULD SAVE THE NHS £1.7 BILLION A YEAR

2009-10-08T20:36:00.002+01:00

Following my fact finding visit, out on patrol with Inspector Tom Shaw and Grimsby Telegraph to the nightclubs and bars in Cleethorpes Town Centre I have now completed some research into injuries caused glass and bottle attacks and the effects are staggering.

According to the website, www.pop-campaign.co.uk/ they claim that:

There are 1.2 million incidents of alcohol-related violence per year.
40% of A&E admissions are alcohol-related.
Rising to 70% between the hours of midnight and 5AM.
This costs the NHS £1.7 billion per year.

These are not just statistics; these figures potentially affect us all through higher taxes, and if we are victim or family member imagine the emotional stress and wellbeing – it is now time to act!

Yesterday, the Grimsby Telegraph reported on my visit to the Cleethorpes to see how alcohol affects the behaviour of the local public.

According to the newspaper, Councillor Steve Beasant was pleased he discovered Amishi only served alcohol in plastic bottles and “glasses”.

He said: “I wanted to find out first-hand in my role as portfolio holder; if people are safe when they are drinking in the area.

“I was really pleased with what I saw at Amishi. In there they are thinking about things seriously with polycarbonate bottles and ‘glasses’.

“Hopefully, this will cut down on some serious injuries involving glass that we have seen in the past.

“There is an enormous cost to the NHS, as well as the police who have to take numerous witness statements and collate evidence, and don’t forget the premises themselves who can potentially loss trade if they get a bad name because of any bad publicity.

“I will be taking this to the full council to see if can be implemented in all of the bars.”

Insp Shaw, Humberside Police’s alcohol violence reduction officer would also like to see plastic bottles used in all of the bars of Cleethorpes.

“We are trying to get all of the bars to purchase these polycarbonate bottles to make it safer for the public.

“People are not tempted to use them as weapons and there will be no glass about for people who take their shoes off and cut their feet.

“I hope all of the bars take on polycarbonate bottles and ‘glasses’ as we have had, in the past, a couple of incidents where people have used glasses as weapons.”

COCAINE TREATMENT DOUBLING SHOWS LABOUR’S DRUG APPROACH NOT WORKING - LAMB

2009-10-08T20:33:00.004+01:00

“We need to target resources into cracking down on dealers while making sure treatment and rehabilitation facilities are available to those who need them," said the Liberal Democrat Shadow Health Secretary, Norman Lamb.

Commenting on today’s statistics from the National Treatment Agency for Substance Misuse that reveal the number of 18-24 year olds seeking help for cocaine abuse has doubled in the last year, Norman Lamb said: “It is welcome news that more and more people are getting access to treatment for their drug problems but the sharp increase in the number of young people taking cocaine is a serious cause for concern.

“This Government has been obsessed with trying to look tough on drugs while failing to deal effectively with the drug-taking culture in this country.

“We need to target resources into cracking down on dealers while making sure treatment and rehabilitation facilities are available to those who need them.

“Ministers must do a lot more to make people aware of the serious damage that drug use can do to your long-term health.”

NORMAN BAKER BACKS PLANS POWER BACK TO THE COMNSUMER

2009-10-08T20:29:00.004+01:00

Liberal Democrat MP for Lewes, Norman Baker has backed the Liberal Democrat proposals which were approved at the recent party conference; he says they will help to give power back to the consumers.

The plans include a 'universal service code' for organisations which provide a service to the public.

This will commit them to, among other things, making one of the first options in a telephone response system to speak to a human being.

It will also require firms to make their customer service phone number free to call from both mobiles and landlines, train staff to deal quickly and effectively with customer enquiries and make and keep appointments for visits, installations and phone calls within a one-hour timeframe.

Other proposals include the immediate clearing of bank payments and fees, a duty on energy companies to publish information on all available tariffs on their bills, measures to prevent supermarkets building up local monopolies and a beefed-up consumer watchdog to name and shame companies involved in bad practice.

Norman Baker said, "I am pleased to back these proposals, which stand to help many of my constituents.

"In the past, I have received many complaints from people who feel that their relationships with companies and public bodies are skewed against them.

"When they have a problem or an enquiry about a service they have paid for, people deserve to be treated fairly, and it is reasonable that they should be able to talk to a person and not a machine.

"Customers must have the power to make fair and informed choices without the fear of being taken for a ride and bewildered by mindless bureaucracy."

KINGSNORTH DECISION A VICTORY FOR CAMPAIGNERS - HUGHES

2009-10-08T20:25:00.004+01:00

“Liberal Democrats will only support new coal if carbon capture and storage technology is ready from day one," said the Liberal Democrat Shadow Energy and Climate Change Secretary, Simon Hughes.

Commenting on E.On’s decision to delay plans for a new dirty coal power station at Kingsnorth in Kent, Simon Hughes said: “This is a deserved victory for environmental campaigners across the UK.

“We are facing the very real threat of catastrophic climate change that will impact all of our lives. If the Government takes this seriously it cannot build new dirty coal power stations.

“E.On’s decision exposes the Tories’ irresponsible scaremongering about the lights going out.
“There are solutions other than dirty coal and nuclear power which can maintain energy security, make bills fairer and protect the environment.

“Liberal Democrats will only support new coal if carbon capture and storage technology is ready from day one. Funding for CCS demonstration must be focussed on retrofitting existing power stations.”

EUROPHOBES WHO SECURED CAMERON’S JOB WILL NOT BE HAPPY WITH LISBON SHIFT - DAVEY

2009-09-30T21:10:00.002+01:00

“David Cameron sold out to hardline Europhobic Tories in order to secure his leadership," said the Liberal Democrat Shadow Foreign Secretary, Edward Davey.

Commenting on David Cameron’s hint that the Tories would not hold a referendum on the Lisbon Treaty were it to be ratified, Edward Davey said: “David Cameron sold out to hardline Europhobic Tories in order to secure his leadership.

“He is now struggling to square this with his own guiding principle of political expediency.

“If this is the start of a gradual realisation by Cameron that his position on the Lisbon Treaty is not only hopelessly unrealistic, but also dangerous for Britain, then we can expect the knives to be out at Tory Conference next week.

“Europhobic Tories secured Cameron’s job for him - they will not be happy if he lets them down now.”

BURNHAM MAKING VAGUE COMMITMENTS ON HOSPITAL PARKING - LAMB

2009-09-30T21:08:00.001+01:00

"Andy Burnham would be better off making sure that all hospitals actually comply with the current rules," said the Liberal Democrat Shadow Health Secretary, Norman Lamb.

Commenting on Andy Burnham’s announcement of free car parking for in-patients at NHS hospitals, Norman Lamb said: “The amount of money the NHS is making from car-parking charges is staggering. Many hospitals are essentially operating a tax on the sick.

“But it’s difficult to take Andy Burnham’s pledge seriously when he has completely failed to say where any of the money needed to pay for this would come from.

“This announcement hasn’t been thought through. The sad reality is that many Trusts will simply increase car parking charges for outpatients and hard-working doctors and nurses to cover their shortfalls.

“Rather than making vague unfunded commitments, Andy Burnham would be better off making sure that all hospitals actually comply with the current rules by offering discounts to staff and free parking to patients with chronic illnesses.”

LABOUR PROMISED SO MUCH BUT, 12 YEARS ON, THEIR LEGACY LIES IN TATTERS AND THE PEOPLE WHO VOTED LABOUR IN 1997 HAVE BEEN BETRAYED - TEATHER

2009-09-30T21:05:00.002+01:00

Liberal Democrat Shadow Housing Minister, Sarah Teather has visited Labour party conference to tell Labour supporters that the Liberal Democrats are now the true party of fairness and social justice.

Sarah along with the Liberal Democrat Shadow Chancellor, Vince Cable were invited to speak at an event in Brighton organised by the Fabian Society. Sarah told the audience of Labour delegates that the party had failed in their duty to take care of the poorest and most vulnerable in society.

For the first time in over thirty years, yesterday an opinion poll placed Labour third behind the Liberal Democrats in a national poll. Meanwhile, in Brent this Summer, the Liberal Democrats were the only party to increase their share of the vote at the European elections.

The Liberal Democrat MP for Brent East Sarah Teather said: “Time and time again, the Labour party have let down the people of Brent. Over the past few years we have seen local services such as post offices or health centres axed, police stations under threat, and local people losing their jobs or even their home.

“Tony Blair and Gordon Brown promised so much but, twelve years on, the Labour legacy lies in tatters and the people who voted Labour in 1997 have been betrayed. On fair taxes, housing, civil liberties or education, it is always the poorest, the vulnerable and the marginalised who have suffered most under Labour.

“Many traditional Labour supporters can see that it is now the Liberal Democrats who represent their hopes for the future and are taking a stand on the issues that matter most to them. Everyone knows that the Conservatives can’t win in Brent. Former Labour members will find a natural home in the Liberal Democrats.”

SEIZE THE MOMENT

2009-09-29T21:42:00.006+01:00

Over the last few days there been a number of remarkable opinion polls culminating in an extremely good poll for the Lib Dems, today. Things are beginning to go well for the party; they are beginning to come up with some policies that will move this country out of recession and beyond; they are now winning the ‘battle of the ideas’; Labour have failed, and the Tories have lost the plot.

Today, I received this email from the Leader of the liberal Democrats, Nick Clegg which I though you might want to read – ‘Seize the Moment’.

______________________________________________________

Dear Steve,

Today, a MORI poll puts us ahead of the Labour Government. Yesterday, a ComRes poll in the Independent put us neck and neck. Our internal polling in our key marginals backs this up. The coming months are a golden opportunity for us against a Government that is on the rocks and a Conservative Party bereft of ideas and principles.

Please help us seize the moment by making a donation of £20, or whatever you can afford.

Our General Election campaign will be our best ever - we are ready whenever Gordon Brown calls it with a fantastic team of candidates and staff. We will be seriously contesting more seats than ever before. The only thing that is holding our campaign back is a lack of resources.

I am determined that we succeed in places which have never had a Liberal Democrat MP before. The work we do in those seats this Autumn will make the difference to our chances.

Please make a donation of £20, or whatever you can afford, so that we can win more seats from Labour at the coming General Election. You can make your donation securely, online, here.

This week, Gordon Brown will be passing the government's begging bowl round the trade unions at the Labour conference. Next week, David Cameron will be glad-handing big businessmen and tax exiles with champagne and canapes at the Conservative conference.

We rely on you. So thank you more than ever for your support.

Best wishes,

Nick Clegg MP
Leader of the Liberal Democrats

LIB DEMS - USE VACANT FARM BUILDINGS AS HOMES

2009-09-29T21:35:00.001+01:00

Disused farm buildings across the country should be converted into affordable homes in a bid to revitalise rural communities, the Liberal Democrats have said.

Speaking at the annual conference last week, the Liberal Democrat Shadow Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Secretary, Tim Farron said: that government funding and council grants should be used to support schemes to convert disused and underused farm buildings into affordable homes for local people.

Tim Farron said: that such a policy could create more than 50,000 homes in rural communities, which would help reduce the increasing number of families on council housing waiting lists in these areas.

He added that too many local services in rural areas were closing down and that, despite the public spending squeeze, his party would "invest hundreds of millions of pounds" into opening rural post offices and supporting other services that would help "kick-start the rural economy".

Tim Farron said: the party planned to devolve more powers to local authority level to "put rural communities back in charge of their own destinies".

He criticised the Government for carrying out extensive public consultations, but failing to respond to feedback. "Never have we been more consulted on and never have we been less listened to," he said.

Liberal Democrat Communities and Local Government Secretary, Julia Goldsworthy said: the Government had failed to take on board recommendations from a 2008 government-commissioned report by Liberal Democrat MP, Matthew Taylor on affordable housing and the rural economy that highlighted the importance of community-led development.

BURN CALORIES, HELP THE PLANET AND BE ENTERTAINED - WALK TO YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY!

2009-09-29T21:30:00.003+01:00

Burn calories, save money and help the planet by walking to your local library during North East Lincolnshire Council’s Walk to Libraries Week.

More than 88 per cent of residents in the borough live within one mile of a library and from Monday, September 28 to Sunday, October 4, the library service will be encouraging people to walk to their local library.

Councillor Steve Hocknell, portfolio holder for culture, leisure and healthier communities, said: “Everybody who walks to their library during the week will be entered into a free prize draw to be in with the chance of winning prizes including walking books and free tickets to North East Lincolnshire literature and comedy festival events.

“We would like to get as many of our customers as possible walking to the library this week and welcome new members too. Walking to Library signs have been placed in Grimsby and Cleethorpes indicating the length of time it will take to walk to the nearest library.

“Anyone can enjoy the library for free and members can use the internet, choose from thousands of books, join a readers’ group and discover their family history.”

Shirley Allen, aged 74, walks to Waltham Library about three times a week and feels so much healthier for it. She said: “I was advised by my doctor to walk everyday and it has certainly helped with my back problems.

“I am a long term member of the library and look forward to my regular visits. I help run the library’s reading group and always encourage other members to walk instead of ride to the library.
“It is also so much better for the environment and saves money on fuel.”

The initiative is a partnership project between the council’s library service and the transportation service. Councillor Burgess, portfolio for environment and the green agenda is urging people to stop and think before they get into their car. He said: “This project is about encouraging people to think about how they travel to public services.

“You don’t have to rely on the fact that you have to drive everywhere. People always overestimate walking distances. In North East Lincolnshire over 64,000 households live within one mile of a library.”

For further information about Walk to Libraries Week, including events and activities available in all libraries throughout the week, ring (01472) 323600 or visit www.nelincs.gov.uk/leisure/libraries

GOVERNMENT HAS MISMANAGED OLYMPIC ATHLETES’ FUNDING - FOSTER

2009-09-29T21:26:00.002+01:00

"Our athletes’ Olympic dreams have been jeopardised by ministers’ disappointing inability to attract private investment," said the Liberal Democrat Shadow Sport Secretary, Don Foster.

Commenting on today’s announcement of a sponsorship deal by Visa for Britain’s Olympic and Paralympic athletes, Don Foster said: “Funding for Britain’s top athletes has been in doubt for over a year due to the Government’s mismanagement. Our athletes’ Olympic dreams have been jeopardised by ministers’ disappointing inability to attract private investment.

“It is welcome that Visa has stepped in to plug the gap, but things could easily have been very different. Our goal of coming fourth in the medal table is still alive, but Labour’s mismanagement means we could have been left in the starting blocks.”

LIBERAL DEMOCRATS ARE NOW THE “PROGRESSIVE FORCE” AND ABOUT TO REPLACE LABOUR

2009-09-29T21:12:00.003+01:00

I know before anyone says anything but there is only one opinion that really matters and that is the one when we all place our cross on the ballot paper. However, sometimes politicians do happen to get excited when things are going there way; and when you are a member of the third party in British politics you’ve got to take every opportunity going.

Over the last few days there have been some remarkable opinion polls; however, today the BBC published a remarkable poll conducted by Ipsos Mori which suggests the Conservatives are on 36% (down 7), Labour on 24% (down 2) and the Liberal Democrats on 25% (up 8) - the first time since 1982 that this polling firm has recorded Labour in third place.

Perhaps Nick Clegg is right and the Liberal Democrats are now the “progressive force” and about to replace Labour.

NORTH EAST LINCOLNSHIRE IS A ‘GOOD PLACE TO GROW OLDER’

2009-09-29T21:08:00.003+01:00

North East Lincolnshire Care Trust Plus, the Council and Northern Lincolnshire and Goole Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust are proud to announce the launch of a new Strategy for Later Life. This strategy sets out an exciting agenda for action over the next three years that will help transform services to people over 50 year of age. It was developed with older people and local organisations including the voluntary and community sectors.

The strategy challenges the myths and negative attitudes about older people. It recognises that they make a positive contribution to community life and should be valued, respected and free from discrimination. It seeks to ensure that older people are well informed and have choice and control over the services they need to maintain their health, well being and lifestyle. The priority actions are wide ranging covering advice/information, community involvement, health and social care, transport, leisure, work, finances and safer communities.

Councillor Malcolm Morland, Older People’s Champion, said “So often older people are talked about in negative ways – we hear for example about demographic time bombs and drains on the economy. Nothing could be further from the truth. They are vital to our families and communities and enrich society with their knowledge, skills and expertise. The new strategy harnesses this and will, through all the local agencies working well together, improve the quality of life and opportunities for all older people across North East Lincolnshire”.

The strategy will be launched at the Advice Day for Older People held annually for the National Older People’s Day at the Memorial Hall IN Cleethorpes on Wednesday September 30 from 10am to 3pm.

If you want to know more about the strategy then contact David Cook, Interim Deputy Director Business and Performance Management on (01472) 325460 or e mail dave.cook@nelincs.gov.uk

Read the Strategy Documentation
A Good Place to Grow Older - Executive Summary (PDF document)
A Good Place to Grow Older – Full Strategy (PDF document)

LATEST CRIME FIGURES FOR THE EAST MARSH WARD SHOW MASSIVE REDUCTION IN REPORTED CRIME

2009-09-08T20:32:00.002+01:00

The latest reported crime figures for the East Marsh Ward where released today by Humberside Police, and were posted on their website. The figures show that the average number of crimes in the ward has decreased (note: the figure are taken over a 3 month period and compared with the same 3 months last year).

It is worth noting that the figures over the last year have consistently improved, but this month they have showed a massive improvement on the previous period – this show that our partnership working is beginning to pay dividends. Well done everyone!

Overall level of crime in the ward has decreased by 22.2% (Over the last 12 months)
Burglary has decreased by 7.6%
Robbery has decreased by 16.7%
Vehicle crime has decreased by 20%
Violence has decreased by 6%
Anti-social behaviour has decreased by 22.2%

To view latest crime statistics for the North East Lincolnshire area >>>>CLICK HERE (as well as finding details of overall crime you can find crime level per ward, i.e.: East Marsh, Heneage, Yarborough, Croft Baker, etc.)

GIVEN THAT GARY MCKINNON HAS ALREADY CONFESSED, HE COULD BE TRIED FOR HIS CRIME IN BRITAIN - HUHNE

2009-09-08T20:26:00.003+01:00

A cross party delegation of MPs including Labour, Conservative and Liberal Democrat members is attempting to apply fresh political pressure on Alan Johnson the Home Secretary; they intend to tell him in a meeting at the Home Office that he has the “power and the duty” to step in to prevent Mr McKinnon being sent for trial in the United States.

David Davis, the former Shadow Home Secretary, the Liberal Democrat Shadow Home Secretary, Chris Huhne and Michael Meacher, the former Labour minister, are joining forces to urge a rethink.

They will present Mr Johnson with a detailed legal opinion challenging the Government’s claim that it has no power to intervene in the extradition which has already been agreed by the courts.

Gary McKinnon is wanted for trial in the United States accused of breaking into sensitive military computer networks from his bedroom in north London eight years ago.

What was described as the “biggest military computer hack of all time” disrupted important US defence IT systems in the days after the September 11 terrorist attacks of 2001.

But Gary McKinnon is described as a vulnerable person who was hunting for UFOs – a really gentle guy who would never hurt anyone. He is 43-year-old and suffers from Asperger’s syndrome, a form of autism, and admits he broke into the systems. However, he was unaware of his consequences.

He says that he is prepared to stand trial for the offences in this country rather than the US.

In July he lost an eleventh hour High Court challenge to the move claiming that it would worsen his condition and this represent “inhuman” treatment breaching his human rights.

His legal team is now hoping challenge the decision at the new Supreme Court, meaning that he is unlikely to be extradited before next spring at the earliest if he loses there.

Mr Johnson claims that it would be “illegal” for him to intervene in the legal process to stop the extradition.

But the three MPs will present him with rival legal opinion drawn up by Tim Owen QC, a barrister in Cherie Blair’s Matrix Chambers, arguing that legislation gives the courts primary but not exclusive responsibility in extradition cases.

Mr Meacher, who requested the meeting with Mr Johnson, said: “Not only has the Home Secretary got the power but he has the duty to intervene in an extradition case, even after the court process has ended, if there is a real risk of a human rights breach should extradition proceed.

“Gary’s medical condition is such that medical experts have concluded there is a grave risk to Mr McKinnon’s health if he is extradited to the US.

“There is no reason why he cannot face charges in the UK for an act which took place in the UK.”
Chris Huhne added: “We want to appeal to his better judgment and better nature about the vulnerable position of a British citizen with Asperger’s who needs the support and help of the Government.

“He must not allow the Home Office lawyers to get on top; they should be on tap but not on top.”
“A key point is that there is now a clear legal view from leading advocates that contradicts the advice from the Home Office lawyers, and says that the Home Secretary can intervene.

“Given that Gary McKinnon has already confessed, he could be tried for his crime in Britain, which is where it was committed.”

More than 40 MPs signed a letter to the US President Barack Obama in July, urging him to stop the extradition.

A host of Hollywood celebrities have also joined the campaign on Mr McKinnon’s behalf.

WHO’S GOING OUT TONIGHT? WARNING TO BANK HOLIDAY DRINKERS TO STAY SAFE!

2009-08-29T15:40:00.006+01:00

Revellers are being urged to enjoy themselves, BUT stay safe this weekend.

Humberside Police has launched a campaign reminding partygoers of drinking too much.

Adverts will be run on screens in pubs and clubs across North East Lincolnshire as a warning about not overindulging during the Bank Holiday weekend.

Police say that there has been an increase in alcohol-related incidents during August over the past two years.

North East Lincolnshire’s licensing officer, Ken Stone, said: “Most people plan to go out and have good time with friends. However, drinking irresponsibly can result in you getting into any number of situations, some of which may leave you injured, facing a criminal offence, or even worse.

“I work very closely with both licencees at local venues and the door staff operators to make North East Lincolnshire a safe and enjoyable area to enjoy a drink.

“This is not something we can do on our own, however, and I would ask those going out in the area – particularly over the bank holiday weekend – to take some responsibility for their own safety.

“I want people to know their own limits when drinking alcohol on an empty stomach, as this greatly reduces your tolerance to alcohol. Please take note of some of the suggestions and enjoy your nights out.”

As well as adverts in pubs and clubs, images from the campaign – which is titled Who’s Going Out Tonight? - will be featured on posters, beer mats and smoking bins.

The film advert – which will also be shown on television – shows two drinkers who are enjoying some drinks but become volatile and violent when they have had too much alcohol.

Police have also launched a website, www.onetoomany.org.uk, which shows the advert and offers advice.

Councillor Steve Beasant, portfolio holder for community safety and public protection, said: “This campaign shows in stark and convincing terms just what dangers can arise from excessive drinking.

“By working in conjunction with the police’s licensing team and the council’s trading standards and licensing team, the partnership will be educating people that, with care, they can enjoy a bank holiday to remember for all the right reasons.”

SUPPORT THE ‘FAST TRACK TO YORKSHIRE’ CAMPAIGN – A HIGH SPEED RAIL LINK TO YORKSHIRE WOULD BENEFIT NORTH EAST LINCOLNSHIRE

2009-08-29T15:35:00.003+01:00

Yesterday, I received a letter from Liberal Democrat MP for Leeds North West, Greg Mulholland MP and Liberal Democrat Councillor and Chairman of the West Yorkshire Integrated Passenger Authority, Ryk Downes asking me for support for the ‘Fast Track to Yorkshire Campaign’ – a campaign I’m pleased say I fully support.

I personally welcome the to introduce a high speed rail network as an environmentally alternative to domestic air travel and car journeys like Greg and Ryk – I would much rather travel on rail, it’s by far safer, and more comfortable.

However, I believe the decision is biased and flawed and as pointed out in the letter that I received: “It is unacceptable that there is no place for Yorkshire in the Government’s planes, the introduction of a high speed rail line on the east of the country would bring huge economic benefits to the whole region.” And, don’t forget North East Lincolnshire would gain massively from those benefits; if the West Coast option went ahead we would lose out.

On 25 April this year Greg Mulholland wrote in the Yorkshire Post: “High-speed rail delivers a benefit to cost ratio of around 2:1 and the potential benefits to Yorkshire will total billions of pounds.”That equates to the combined economies of Leeds and Sheffield, the two economic "drivers" of the region, which in itself surely justifies a direct link to London.

”But the cost of missing out would also be huge. A high-speed line on the other side of the country, without one to Yorkshire, would take away huge amounts of investment as people and companies relocated close to the new express route. We cannot let this happen.

”We have long had a sense of not getting a fair deal for transport spending in Yorkshire. Figures for 2007-8 show that transport spending was a lowly £234 per head in Yorkshire compared with a UK average of £326 and a whopping £641 in London.

”Furthermore, vast amounts of taxpayers' money continue to be ploughed into the West Coast main line. In 2007-8, Virgin received a subsidy of £162m, or 3.8p per passenger kilometre. By contrast, National Express East Coast paid £32m in net terms as part of its franchise agreement, in effect a negative subsidy, equivalent to 2.4p per passenger kilometre.

”No one is saying that people and businesses in the North-West don't deserve good transport links, but so do people in this region.The simple fact is that we are not getting a fair deal in Yorkshire and that must not be extended to high-speed rail.”

I urge everyone to support Greg Mulholland in his campaign.