Have your Say!

Building a stronger community

I recently received great news- my name was drawn in Parliament's version of the lottery for the first time in my 15 years as MP for South West Devon. And the prize? The opportunity to put forward a Private Member's Bill, a way of introducing legislation about any issue I feel is important.

The timing couldn't have been more perfect. I have always believed that the best way of tackling many of the issues we are facing as a society is to build a stronger community- nurturing our youngsters and helping those around us, whether it be the elderly, ill or mistreated.

Recently I have met with charities seeking to help parents of seriously ill or disabled children and have learnt more about just how tough life can be for these families, with little support and recognition. I have met many such parents myself and never fail to be amazed by their love, determination and strength. They do an amazing job, providing 24-7 care for their children with no time off whatsoever.

My Bill will seek to make Local Authorities provide a set amount of respite care for these special children so that their families have a chance to rest, relax and recharge, knowing their loved ones are being well cared for while they do so.

Community is so important and I hope this Bill will make a small but significant difference to those who need it most. I'd love to hear what you think.

Yours,

Gary

posted by Gary Streeter M.P. on Thursday, November 30, 2006

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Tackling Terrorism

Since the 7/7 tube and bus attacks in London, national security has been under the spotlight. There is now a real urgency for us to find ways to minimise the threat of terrorism. Lots of measures have been proposed- unfortunately many of them result in the loss of certain freedoms for some if not all of the general public.

New laws have already prevented the "glorification" of terrorism and added to police powers against those found to be distributing material about terrorism, or providing training to aid those intent on violence. There have been concerns over the impact this legislation may have on freedom of speech and the law has come in for much criticism.

ID card have been suggested as a way to have greater control, but many are opposed to the idea and dispute how much difference it would actually make. Laws have been changed so that suspected terrorists can be locked up for longer and Tony Blair announced just yesterday that this is going to be further reviewed before Christmas.

The main issue is reaching a balance- keeping the nation safe, while not allowing the terrorists to destroy our day to day lives through fear and intimidation.

So how should we best achieve this? By working with young Muslims to prevent the build up of resentment and isolation that seems to be increasing with some Asian communities? Or by introducing hard-hitting legislation to take potential or suspect terrorists off the streets, even if there is little or no evidence against them?

It's not an easy subject but I'd really like to hear your views. I'm aware that this is the most important issue to many of my constituents and it's certainly something that is a central part of my work in Westminster.

Yours,

Gary

posted by Gary Streeter M.P. on Friday, November 17, 2006

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What should Parliament be focusing on?

It's been a busy week in and around the constituency- meetings with the Chief Executives of Deriford Hospital and Plymouth Primary Care Trust and a discussion with the Council about the future of the Naval Base. I've made various trips to local schools and had appointments with constituents, trying to address their problems and concerns about all kinds of issues.

Things have been equally hectic in Westminster, but it was a shorter working week in preparation for the State Opening of Parliament. The Queen is due to make her annual speech outlining what the Government has in store for the next 12 months. There are sure to be a range of views about the new laws they plan to introduce.

I'm interested to hear opinions about what YOU think the Government should be concentrating on. What is the most important issue facing the country over the coming year? Have you got any burning questions for me to put to the Prime Minister? Or another cabinet minister perhaps? Sometimes people tell me politicians are out of touch with how the general public feel- I'm keen to hear what's important to those I represent so I can push for Westminster to tackle the most important issues.

The response to my last post was fantastic- many thanks to those who contributed and I look forward to hearing from even more of you this week.

Best Wishes,

Gary

posted by Gary Streeter M.P. on Thursday, November 09, 2006

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ASBO- triumph or disaster?

Welcome to my first Blog Topic! This is a chance for you to comment on things impacting on your day to day life. Healthy debate is an essential part of democracy. It's also vital for me to hear your views so that I can represent you in Parliament to the best of my abilities. I launched my Blog this week at Ridgeway School and hope it will be very successful.

One of the most common issues I hear about from constituents is problems with anti-social neighbours and concerns over crowds of young people hanging around in the street. Elderly and other vulnerable groups often feel frightened when walking around after dark and feel like prisoners in their own homes.

The government has taken measures over recent years to try and tackle these concerns- but many feel they are ineffective and misguided.

141 ASBO (anti-social behaviour orders) were issued in Devon and Cornwall between 1999 and 2005. Just this summer local police officers obtained a Dispersal Order to move on young people who had started to gather on the Ridgeway, creating a nuisance to other local people.
Opinions on such measures are varied. Some people defend the rights of youngsters to move around the city freely and believe such actions alienate youths and fail to tackle the root causes of antisocial behaviour.

Others think the steps taken aren't tough enough and question the parenting of those with teenagers who roam the streets late at night.

What do you think? Should we be more focused on channeling our young people into more constructive activities? Or is it time to get tough on those who make walking down the road intimidating and unpleasant? Should we be challenging the parents of these teens? Or are you a teenager who has had enough of the bad press and wants to speak up for your generation?

Whatever your views, I'd love to hear them.
Yours,
Gary
1st November 2006

posted by Gary Streeter M.P. on Wednesday, November 01, 2006

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