Gary's views

Gary's weekly views

Each week an article by Gary has appeared in the Plympton Plymstock and Ivybridge News in South West Devon. The articles are published here

SURVEY RESULTS

A few weeks ago I invited you all to join in my survey of the most important political issues to the people of South-West Devon. The response was excellent, for which I am most grateful, and there was a great deal of agreement between you about the things that really mattered to you. Here is what you said.

It will surprise nobody to know that the subject of Europe is on many people’s minds. Whilst there is not much desire to leave the European Union outright, people certainly want to see a great deal of reform. Too many decisions are being made by Brussels and too many bureaucrats are deciding things about our part of the country when they have never even been here.

The state of the NHS is also highlighted as a problem. Waiting lists don’t seem to be falling and the hygiene of our hospitals does not impress many of you. Having said that, a lot of you have highlighted that the fault does not lie with the NHS staff, who you feel do an amazing job in less than desirable circumstances.

Concern was also expressed about pensions. Some of you highlight that a society that does not look after the elderly can not be called civilised. I quite agree.

Every child wants their parent to be looked after in their old age, and every parent wants their child to have the best possible start to life. Naturally education was a big issue on the survey. Parents are still very concerned about the increased tuition fees and very anxious about disruptive pupils in the class room.

But still the biggest issue of concern is that of law and order. Nearly everyone has been a victim of crime in some way. Those who haven’t, have a relative or close friend who has. It does seem sometimes that the victim gets less support from the state than the criminal and that the pendulum has swung too far in the wrong direction.

I am grateful to those of you who took time to respond so helpfully to this survey. You’ve done your bit, now all I’ve got to do is come up with some solutions!

posted by Nigel on Thursday, August 05, 2004