McCoy wins sports personality of the year

Have spent the weekend recovering from Man Flu but delighted that Tony McCoy - who I know a little - won the Sports Personality of the Year. It could not be better news!!

A packed weekend

A packed weekend started in Bywell Thursday night and followed up with the mega surgery day all day Friday; then off to a planning committee meeting in Tarset and up to Kielder for an amazing evening at the Pheasant; had to give a speech and home by 11.45
Then up and at them today - helped out in the market, then had an imnterview in the office and then went for a surgery and an afternoon with the Green Ovingham group.
Finished very tired but on good form

Aung San Suu Kyi released

amazing news
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-11749661

Halton Lea Gate Meeting on Tuesday

A return of the open cast mine debate that we have been fighting for years.
I cannot be there on Tuesday but will send along Jon from the office to help
http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/opencast-mine-looms-over-village-again-1.774989?referrerPath=
Please go there to the village hall to show your support

Christmas Social Action Project

Click here to watch the sneak peak of our 2010 Christmas Social Action Project which some of you may have read about in the Courant last week...

Egger visit

A good day at Egger - with coverage of the visit set out detail
http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/call-for-green-policy-reform-to-save-egger-1.777578?referrerPath=news/

By Election triumph in Ponteland

A memorable day ended at 11pm last night when Eileen Armstrong triumphed in the County Council by election.
Results were:
843 Conservative
401 Liberal
100 Labour

A triumph of fair play and proper politics.

Thank you to all the dozens of people who helped

Weekend update

A packed weekend featuring an evening do in Darlington and a really big day in the constituency, with a meeting in Egger, and a campaign stop in Ponteland.
Back in westminster a busy day ended with the former Prime Minister GB coming to westminster for only the third time since the election

Housing benefit reform

Two things to digest from the efforts to try and bring Housing Benefit under control
i). One Mp described how he had around 60 families claiming over £1000 a week net for housing benefit
ii). Labour’s demented attack on the Housing Benefit “final solution”
‘Housing Benefit will be reformed so we do not subsidise people to live in private sector accommodation on rents working families couldn’t afford’

Eminently reasonable in policy terms, £20,000 a year in rent is of course way beyond what the majority of us can afford. The quote is taken from the Labour Party manifesto, written by one Ed Miliband…

James Purnell when he was at the DWP said he wanted to ensure “people on benefits do not end up getting subsidies for rents that those who work could never afford”. Miliband claims, “That is not what they came into politics for. I hope they will vote with their consciences.”

The barefaced hypocrisy is breathtaking.

LEPS announcement

A big start to the LEP proposals
- A good day for business as they get what they want
- Longer term a LEP will come for the North East

More support for the court

The Sunday Sun writes a good article in support of the court
http://www.sundaysun.co.uk/news/north-east-news/2010/10/24/top-judge-slam-north-east-court-closures-79310-27533029/

Promising news on the economy

Good news on the economy this morning - for the second quarter running there is good signs of growth in the economy - 0.8% is positive stuff; that and the new jobs that have been created by the private sector are not talked up enough.

A busy weekend

Got home late Thursday night and then had a packed Friday - featuring a great session with A4E, in Newcastle exploring ways to get employment after New Deal: it is good that we are taking an innovative line to employment: the old system of New Deal was too inflexible, too rigid and there is good scope now for the future.
Then back to Hexham for a meeting with The Hexham Partnership - which is full of new ideas under its Chairman, Bob Hull.
Then off to Ponteland to help on the by election campaign; finally back to Hexham for the Hexham Abbey Dinner - a great evening where the abbey raised a lot of money

Saturday started with surgery visits in Hexham followed by a long day in Ponteland
campaigning

Key input to the CSR

A good article in the recent papers from 35 businessmen saying we are doing the right thing:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/comment/letters/8069609/Osbornes-cuts-will-strengthen-Britains-economy-by-allowing-the-private-sector-to-generate-more-jobs.html

and the CSR page for the North East makes good reading too
http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/spend_sr2010_north_east.htm

Defence review

A tough day but well done to Cameron - not an easy task - my favourite quote of the day is from Jon Snow's website

"I ran into a seasoned Defence Analyst last night. He told me two completely shocking things. Firstly that when it comes to military procurement, Israel spends £9 billion a year and administers its purchases with 400 people. Britain spends £10 billion annually on procurement and has a staff of 23,700 to do it.

The second thing my analyst told me was that for all significant procurement contracts no fewer that 66 different civil servants, generals, and the rest have to apply their signatures. Recently, he added, that number has gone up to 83."
Frankly you cannot make this up!

Housing - our next big problem

A good article in todays Telegraph on the housing crisis - click here
Housing is our big problem in Tynedale. Had a really good housing summit last week but more needs to be done

Social Action + Campaigning

A great day in Ponteland this Saturday - murky weather disappeared and the sun came out...

We started the morning at Ponteland Park - myself, Conservative Future and even the Conservative Mayor getting our hands dirty planting bulbs on behalf of Marie Curie. This kind of social action project is a great way to help the local community and remind everyone that politics isn't just about words but about everyone getting stuck in and making our communities a better place to live.

With numerous bulbs planted it was then off with our team of volunteers to carry on our by-election campaign in Ponteland East supporting our fantastic local candidate Eileen Armstrong. I spent most of the day with my team in Stannington, Whalton and Ogle but also did the smaller farms and houses near Saltwick. A really good response on the doorstep for Eileen's positive local campaign.

Weekend surgery

Home on the 7pm train Thursday night and then up and at them Friday morning to meet Nat West in Hexham as a follow up to several concerns regaridng bank lending from constituents and local businesses. We spent the morning together discussing how to get their personal and business lending moving and the help they are offering to local businesses. IT was also interesting as we took the opportunity to meet two of thier business clients - including the team at the Crown in Humshaugh, who are doing great work turning the pub into a success story.

Then off for a surgery session in the afternoon from 3 till 7.

Popped in to the Albert Edward Club for a pint in the evening...

Westminster week

A packed week that featured a meeting with Anchor Housing chief exec concerning Blackett Court, in Wylam, a good meeting with Northern Rock Foundation and a key day on wednesday that saw contributions to 3 different debates in the House of Commons, most notably over the local Wind Farm Debate. Also went to the Equitable Life meeting on Thursday at 3.30.

BBC Radio 4: Sneak Peek

Take a look at a sneak peek of my BBC Radio 4 Interview for Beyond Westminster on the impact of blogging and the internet on politics, click here to watch on You Tube

Constituency Video Diares (2)

Check out my second Constituency Video Diary, up on Hadrians Wall having a chat with Blue from Vetrans Aid International about the difference they are making... View on You Tube

The big 'Big Society Tour'

As most of you who read the blog will know I am passionate about the Big Society. For me it is one of the strongest planks of this governments agenda; outlining our commitment to supporting our local communities and developing a stronger society.

That's why over the next few weeks and months I'm undertaking my big Big Society tour to visit the places and projects where the big society is already taking shape and meet the people behind the ideas.

Keep an eye on the blog next week for my first stop on the Tour, the most amazing project in the heart of Allendale...

BBC covers our fight...

The BBC have covered our fight to save Tynedale Magistrates Court, - first few seconds into the program:

Click here to watch on iplayer

westminster week

A packed week:
- Monday saw a meeting with the climate change secretary over Egger and the RHI
- Tuesday featured extensive constituency work, and time in the chamber
- Wednesday saw the PMQs [ Harriets last bow] and was followed up with the ID Cards debate and an interview with the BBC Look North team
Also met with the Chancellor as part of the preparation for the October budget cuts

Constituency Video Diares (1)

View on Youtube

Ponteland Market

Just a quick parish notice to let you know that the newly relocated Ponteland Market now takes place on a Friday rather than a Saturday.

The market is at the Merton Way Shopping Centre and the produce is superb. The next one is the 24th September, might see you there!

Get involved...

Conservative Future is designed for those of you under 30 (those were the days!) who have a keen interest in politics. It centres around bringing like-minded young people together through various social and campaigning activities. Not only is it a stepping stone for those interested in politics but an informal place where debate is encouraged.

Its' mission is to get young people involved in social activism, volunteering and local fundraising in a fun and informal setting. I'm pleased to say we have recently set up Hexham Conservative Future and you can find out more about getting involved locally at their blog here or by joining their facebook group here.

They've raised more than 250 quid for charity and are already planning thier next social event - not bad for a weeks work!

Hexham Conservative Future

Robbs - The Futures Bright

Robbs is the lynch pin store in Hexham and recently things looked decidedly bleak when news broke that it was to close. However in a good sign for the local economy Robbs was taken over and its new parent company has invested £2million in bringing the store up to scratch.

I joined Hexham’s Mayor Coun. Terry Robson for the ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday and the staff are determined to make the revamped store a success.

The new investment will hopefully spill beyond Robbs and provide a further boost to tourism and local traders in the town.

RIP Cllr Mel Armstrong

I just wanted to say a few words on the recent and sudden death of respected local councillor Mel Armstrong.

Mel had served on the former Castle Morpeth Council and was a member of both Northumberland County Council and Ponteland Town Council.

Mel cared a great deal about his patch and so often went above and beyond for everyone, including me. He was a great support to me as a newbie MP, and a great friend.

He will be missed by everyone.

MP's Charity Quiz Night

I spent last night in the village of Stamfordham at the Bay Horse - where my brilliant young team of volunteers, Sarah, Pete, Amy and Charlie had organised the first of our MP's Charity Quiz Nights.

The idea is to make me more accessible as their MP, whilst also having a bit of fun and hopefully raising some money for Charity in the process.

I'm pleased to report last night was a great success and we raised an incredible £250 for Help the Heroes and TASC. The guys did amazing and a big thank you to everyone who came and made it such a great success!

Top 30

Yesterday Total Politics announced the top 30 MP blogs - and this is one of them! The list is the result of more than 2,200 people who voted in the Total Politics Annual Blog Poll. Very proud!

On the beat...

This month I spent some time on the beat in Hexham with the neighbourhood policing team. It was really useful to talk about the work taking place and to discuss the issues that constituents have raised with me; many of which I'm pleased to report the local neighbourhood policing team are already focused on.

We also called into the Hexham East Sure Start Centre and it was good to see everyone working closely together. There are many different factors involved when it comes to effective policing but visible local neighbourhood policing teams are a vital part of reducing peoples fear of crime as well as reducing anti-social behaviour and boosting public confidence.

The local policing team are doing a great job and thier contact with the local community is very strong. I'll be keeping in regular contact so do let me know if there are problems you would like me to let them know about.

Prudhoe Community Allotment

All 66 photos from the Prudhoe Community Allotment Open Day uploaded to flickr so you can see this little oasis for yourselves... click here

Getting Online...

During the election and since the access to broadband Internet has been a big part of my daily post. For most of us the Internet is a part of everyday life. Indeed there are 30 million of us who use the Internet everyday in the UK. More than half of all leisure travel is now booked online, 90% of all new jobs require basic Internet skills and seven million jobs were posted online last year. That is why I champion increasing access to broadband across rural Britain, in places such as my constituency of Hexham.

However the problem is a wider one. Even were access isn't the problem, there are still 10 million people in the UK who have never used the Internet, and are missing out on the benefits, opportunities and savings it can provide. What’s more, the problem is worst for those already at a disadvantage. The facts are if you’re older, disabled, or on a low income, its far more likely you will be off-line - and thats not fair.

I'm always keen to support anything that helps change this situation for the better and have already signed up to support Race Online 2012.

In October, www.ukonlinecentres.com/getonlineweek will be running a joint campaign with Race Online 2012, the BBC, Post Office and mobile phone network Three to help people gain the skills and confidence they need to get started online.

People can also learn the basics without paying a penny by visiting www.myguide.gov.uk

In the mean time I'll be keeping up my campaign to increase the availability of broadband Internet to my constituency.

3rd Annual North Tyne Shield

A few Sundays back I had the honour of presenting Wark Captain Gary Scott with the third annual North Tyne Shield at Wark Sports Club after thier match against Bellingham.

On a sunny afternoon Wark walked away winners after a hard fought match in front of over 100 spectators. Special congratulations to Liam Anderson taking Man of the Match for Bellingham. Thanks also of course to the match sponsors; John Famelton – Inline Fitness & William Murray WVC Electrical Services.

Doing my bit.

One of the big themes of this government, and one I particularly support is the 'Big Soceity'. Everyone, where ever possible doing their bit to make our society stronger. It might be helping out at a youth football club, lending a hand at the village hall, or maybe even just checking on elderly neighbours.

During my time as an MP I have spoken to hundreds of volunteers and members of the public across the constituency about the extra work they do make their communities, and society as a whole, a better place.

I'm always impressed by their efforts and delighted to lend my support to their activities and often urge anyone who has any spare time and wants to make a difference to volunteer.

But as they say in Allendale - talk is cheap.

So recently I took myself down to my local Save the Children Charity Shop in Hexham, rolled up my sleeves and spent the Saturday afternoon working in the shop. I got the chance not only to talk to the volunteers about their experiences but also experience it for myself. I learned a lot and I'm going to try and make it a regular thing.

If your interested in getting involved in volunteering get in touch at hexham@tory.org and I'm sure I can help point you in the right direction.

GUEST POST: Pete McManus, Office Volunteer

As a voluntary intern I had a few preconceptions about what awaited me in the constituency office. I am pleased to say, however, that this was not the case. Missing were the spin doctors, and non-existent were the great swaths of staff, public relations officers, and personal advisers. I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised. As a matter of fact, the running of Guy’s office is left to a dedicated team of two, not counting the current intake of voluntary helping hands.

It was, therefore, an added bonus when the preconceptions of being a volunteer intern were put to bed and we were given actual responsibility and management over a number of key tasks and events. Across the desk I share with my office manager, Jon, are facts and figures outlining the stark consequences of the proposed closing of Hexham’s magistrates, something Guy is fighting tooth and nail to prevent. The closing of the court will have a disastrous effect on the local judicial system as witnesses, families, and victims will have to travel to Newcastle to attend a sitting. This seems reasonable for a resident of Ponteland or Stannington, but imagine the extra cost, travel distance and inconvenience for a disabled person in Kielder, a pensioner in Hexham or a resident of Haltwhistle, where distance and travel time is more than doubled. Hexham is unique because of its geography, and sometimes exceptions need to be made because of unique circumstances because, as Guy put it so well, ‘an area well in excess of 1,150 square miles will have no magistrate’s court whatsoever’ (Journal, July 16th) and that is quite plainly wrong.

This is one of the reasons why Guy and his team are determined to fight to keep something that is not only vital for local justice, but a place that has been at the centre of Hexham’s history for hundreds of years. And it’s great to be part of that fight.

In this photo: Jack Gebhard, Sarah Byers, Pete McManus

Humshaugh Village Shop

In my constituency there are hundreds of 'Big Society' ideas and projects. This month I attended the grand reopening of Humshaugh Village Shop. Humshaugh Village Shop isn't just any village shop. When it faced closure last year, the community took on the shop and it is now run by local volunteers, selling everything from the morning papers to fresh fruit and vegetables. Had it not been for local people deciding to go that little bit further, to go that extra mile for their community, the shop would have closed. Instead the shop continues to be at the heart of the local community and it is a great success.

There are many more projects like this one, and the Prudhoe Allotments project that as an MP I’ve been lucky enough to see for myself. To me they are what the 'Big Society' is all about. Making life that bit easier for the people who decide they are going to try and make a positive difference to their community.



Take a look at flickr to see all the photos from the opening of the Humshaugh Village Shop - a very special village shop...

Hopley Pharmacy

One of the visits I most enjoyed this August was to Hopley Pharmacy in Ponteland. Peter and his wife Pam and their team do a fantastic job of providing a real local service to the community in Ponteland. During the visit on August 5th I was able to meet with both customers and the dedicated staff as well as seeing how various services are provided first hand.

Hopley Pharmacy is great example of a great team working to really go that extra mile for their local customers.

The photo below is Jill Johnson (Technician), Diane Bassam (Dispenser), me and Peter Hopley.

Wark Bridge Saved!!!!!!!

Wonderful news - the bridge will be saved. I am so pleased for everyone involved - not least Edward Heslop, the local councillor. A good piece on this in the courant.
http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/u-turn-secures-bridge-s-future-1.745898?referrerPath=home

Marathon Constituency surgery day

Started this morning at 10 and finished at 7 in a never ending consituent surgery session. Saw everyone from Tyne Valley Trains to Health / Police groups against alcohol, along with lots of constituents. It was a great day. Spending tomorrow in Kielder

Prudhoe allotments

A great day in Prudhoe - started with 2 surgery appointments, and then on to the Prudhoe allotments, in the heart of the town: this is a group of people who are enthusiastic, fun and brilliant gardeners - the atmosphere when you go there is just so good. I cannot praise them enough. The lynchpin is the effervescent Joan Russell.

Ponteland Rotary

A great day finished with a session at Ponteland Rotary. Gave a speech to a large group of Rotarians on non political items at the Golf Club for 45 minutes - a really nice group of individuals.

Lunch in Humshaugh, dinner in Bedlington

Had a fun lunch in Humshaugh. It was great to see the couple who canvassed for us in Slaggyford and Knarsdale at the lection. They had spent 9 hours doing the job. It was an epic journey down country roads and tracks but great fun
Then off en masse with Christine and the volunteer interns to Bedlington where we joined some of the Wansbeck and Morpeth Conservatives at a Quiz night for charity in a Methodist Church Hall. Gutted to come third when in with a shout of winning, but a good evening all round.

Christine, Me and Amy one of our young volunteers...

Durham and Morpeth

Durham Prison - right in the heart of Durham and visible easily from the cathedral
Spent the morning in Durham Prison where the governor Tim Allen showed me round. Raised the case of one constituent who is presently an inmate.

Then on to Morpeth for the scrutiny meeting of the courts by Councillor Glen Sanderson and his team - the team have done a lot of work to save Alnick and Tynedale courts

National Park Sunday

Spent the whole of Sunday morning with Tony Gates, and John Riddle, chair of the Northumberland National Park. We went to Steel Rigg, twice Brewed and Greenhead, meeting key individuals and players on the way
Went down to Featherstone and Lambley in the evening for a long walk, finishing with a pint in the Wallace Arms

Constituency meetings

Had a series of meeting in Haltwhistle, Hexham and then went to Newbrough to play cricket; bowled terribly but made 30 not out in the gloom

Westminster Update

A late night yesterday seeing through the Academies Bill; taking part today in a debate on North East Health care

Update on Wark Bridge

Update from Cllr Heslop on the Wark Bridge campaign:

"The situation is that we have received the report from NCC as to the history concerning the bridge. I am now awaiting the report from the company who did the recent survey to find out exactly where we are and what is needed as well as the timescales involved.

When I have this I will discuss it with officers of NCC and some fellow councillors who are helping me as well as our MP. The plan is then for the Mid Tyne Community Forum to host an open meeting at Wark ( I guess towards the end of August). I am open to any suggestions but would envisage a group of 8 or 9 people with interest and relevent experience to be formed to take the cause on from there."

Any thoughts please drop me an email and I'll get them back to Cllr Heslop

Help the Heroes and the Youth Parliament

Spent yesterday playing cricket with the Army, and various cricket celebrities including the amazing Devon Malcolm, at a charity match in aid of Help the Heroes. An amazing day at Wormsley, organised by Tim Munton

Meant to record also the other big news of the week - when we voted that the Youth Parliament should resit in the House of Commons; despite some objections this vote was carried overwhelmingly. I look forward to welcoming Northumberland young politicians to Westminster soon. We have lots of young volunteers helping us on our various campaigns in Hexham.

Housing developments

A good piece on housing in the Journal

http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/07/24/minister-outlines-new-planning-process-for-rural-housing-61634-26920812/

Westminster week

All week we have been debating the Academis Bill. I have spoken on several occasions - particularly on Monday and Thursday nights - see http://www.theyworkforyou.com/debates/?id=2010-07-22a.595.3&s=speaker%3A24962#g665.0

Meanwhile you have to marvel at the access we have to the most amazing people: only this week I have
- met for nearly 2 hours the Home Secretary, at the Home Office,
- shared a meeting with the Parliamentarians Against Poverty Group who had Bill Gates as their guest speaker
- dined with the Tote who are facing being sold
- and lobbied hard for both the A1 [see Scottish Questions] and our Magistrates Court, in meetings / conversations with the Justice Team

The most impressive by far was Gates - whose amazing capacity to spend money on our behalf in Africa has saved literally millions of lives

The Big Society

A great idea by David Cameron that is already in action in Northumberland
Went on Local radio and then wrote a piece for the Journal on the issue

Meeting General Sir David Richards

An amazing 2 hour long session with Britains new general - held at the House of Commons.
He impressed me as a very practical 21st centruy general, but the enormity of the task in hand in Afghanistan and Pakistan in particular cannot be underestimated.

Tynedale Activities for Special Children

Tynedale Activities for Special Children (TASC) is a registered charity in my constituency. TASC provides weekend and holiday activities for children and young people in Tynedale who have physical and/or learning disabilities.

TASC provides huge benefits for the young people and their families but the Charity is facing real difficulties with its funding for their summer scheme. All charities are facing a tough time as the difficult economic conditions continue. The Charity is doing all it can by to try and plug the funding gap and they've just completed their latest bag pack.

If you can help TASC in anyway please either contact me or call them on 01434 600077 or email tascadmin@tiscali.com.uk

Update on Wark Bridge

You can click here to find out about the latest developments in the Save the Wark Bridge campaign after the County Council submitted its report to the West Area Committee last week.

You can also show your support for the campaign by joining the facebook group here

Cutting the cost of politics...

The coalition has announced it is reducing the number of MPs from 650 to 600, bringing our oversized House of Commons into line with legislatures across the world. This will save about £12m a year on pay, pensions and allowances alone.

Saturday 3rd July

Nice early start at 9am for our Supermarket Surgery. This time it was Waitrose in Ponteland with all four Ponteland Councillors; Mel, Peter, Veronica and Richard - all of them know their patch like the the back of their hand.



I like to try and do a mixture of Supermarket Surgeries, Office Surgeries, some down in the Community Centre and house visits as it means you get the best coverage of the constituency. Hexham is a very diverse constituency with many different people who all have different lives so this mix and match approach seems to work best.

Then it off for a cup of coffee and chat at the Merton Hall coffee morning. Connie and all the ladies were on top form as ever.



Ended the day by having the honour of opening the Wark Village Fete - luckily the sun was still shining!

Friday Catch Up

Another busy Friday in the constituency. Started the day with a visit to the Tyne Rivers Trust to find out about their work then off down to river to see it in action. They are a really dedicated bunch of people - who really know their rivers!



Then back to the Office for my MPs Advice Surgery - still very busy. Appointments are being booked faster than we can make them, but our next available slots are on Saturday 17th July. Give us a ring to make an appointment: 01434 603777

Then to round off the day a visit to Blachland to meet with Peter Samsom and Chris Woodley-Stewart, Director of the North Pennines AONB Partnership. We did a 3 mile walk from Blanchland; had a really good chat about the future of the AONB and got back to Blanchland at around 9pm. Just in time for a well deserved pint in the Lord Crewe.

Parliamentary work and budget debate

Spoke last week on the budget and have only just had a chance to download it
You can read the full speech here

Also now have a desk and office - hurrah!

Spoke also in the farming / defra debate asking questions of the minister on sheep ID scheme in particular and then in energy questions and the energy debate on matters in relation to egger

Armed Forces Day

What a great success Armed Forces Day turned out to be on Saturday. I have never seen so many in people in Hexham, all turning out to show our support for our troops. The Duchess of Northumberland awarded campaign medals to those just returned from Afghanistan and Mayor Terry Robson awarded the soldiers the Freedom of Hexham.

What an incredible day.

Have your say on courts future

The Ministry of Justice has launched a consultation on reforming the courts system. This has an impact in Hexham as Tynedale Magistrates’ court is one of those the Ministry of Justice has highlighted.

I'd like to know what you think on the plans, you can view the consultation documents here.

You can then email me your views: hexham@tory.org or send them to me on facebook here

PM praises Hexham for tribute to Armed Forces

'The Prime Minister yesterday hailed Hexham for "going the extra mile" in paying tribute to British soldiers.

David Cameron praised the town as hundreds of soldiers from 39 Regiment Royal Artillery, The Welsh Gunners, stationed at nearby Albemarle Barracks, prepare to parade in the town in support of Armed Forces Day on Saturday.

His comments came after Hexham MP Guy Opperman said other areas should follow the lead of the town during Prime Minister's Questions.'

To read the full article in The Journal use the link:
http://hexham.journallive.co.uk/2010/06/pm-praises-hexham-for-tribute.html

Prime Minister's Questions

I asked my first question at Prime Minister's Questions yesterday. I highlighted it was Armed Forces Day on Saturday and what is going on in the constituency to honour our troops. I was great to hear the Prime Minister's enthusatic response.

Guy Opperman (Hexham) (Con): Saturday is armed forces day. In my constituency of Hexham in Northumberland we have hundreds of Royal Artillery servicemen who have recently returned from Afghanistan and will receive the freedom of the town. When they are off duty, they will receive multiple discounts from dozens of stores, restaurants and pubs that are doing their bit locally. Does the Prime Minister agree that it is everyone’s duty, not just in the House but all around the country, to go the extra mile and show the gratitude that we all have for our brave troops?

The Prime Minister: I very much agree with my hon. Friend. As I said earlier, this is something that the whole country needs to do, not just the Government. Yes, we have our responsibilities to make sure that we are living up to the military covenant and are doing all that we can for our armed forces and their families, but it is something that communities, individuals and businesses can do, too. I understand that in Hexham, there will be a nine-hour forces celebration. When those servicemen and women are off duty, there will be discounts, as he said, from restaurants and pubs, so I expect that it might get a bit lively, and I am sure that he will join in the fun.

Budget Day

I will be in the House for the Emergency Budget today; expect the Chancellor to get to his feet at around 12.30, Huw Edwards will be presenting the BBC's coverage on BBC2 from 12.

Armed Forces Day - Sat 26th June

Come and join us in Hexham town for Armed Forces Day on Saturday 26th June.

We have the honour of welcoming troops as they march through our town. There will be 300+ soldiers on duty in Hexham with 200+ taking part in the march through Hexham. There will be a Parade inspection and presentation of Afghanistan campaign medals by the Duchess of Northumberland, the Lord Lieutenant of Northumberland. The Mayor will also present the Regiment with the Honorary Freedom of the Town of Hexham.

I will take great pride in honouring our brave troops on Saturday, hope you can come along and show your support.

Allendale, Catton, Ovingham...

Another busy day in the constituency on Saturday. Met up with Cllr Ian Hutchinson for a meeting at the Allendale Bakery, part of the Allen Mill Regeneration project. Some fantastic local enterprises, including MAKE - a recycling craft shop.
 
Then off to see Cllr Colin Horncastle open the Catton Village Fair. Got some great bargains, including plenty of jam, a lasagne dish... and a Christmas tree. Really good village atmosphere.



Then managed to pop along to the Ovingham Goose Fair, fantastic atmosphere; brilliant support from the local police; real community policing. Some great local stalls as well from Green Ovingham and the Prudhoe air cadets .

Friday in Prudhoe

After a busy week down in Westminster I spent most of Friday in Prudhoe. Had a meeting with Rev. Charles Hope and Yvonne at the Prudhoe Partnership / Info Point; they have some amazing projects and we've got some good ideas going forward. I am doing my best to go around all the partnerships.



Then off to meet headteachers from Prudhoe. Dr Shaw head of Prudhoe High School, Mrs Kidd headteacher of Highfields Middle and Mrs Coulson, headteacher at the local First School. All three schools are lucky to have such hard-working and dedicated leaders. Some tough questions, and we made plans for the future from the meeting.

Finished off the day meeting some local businesses and local residents including Robert and Fiona Forsythe - real gold mines of local history; then on to Peter Atkinsons farewell party at Hexham Racecourse - which was wonderful.

Thursday - print and TV work

Morning in the House of Commons. Have received office confirmation that we get established on Monday.
Had my piece in the Journal published today, and Morpeth Herald, and then did the Tyne Tees late show with Gerry Foley and various other politicians from around the region.
Travelled up late and met up with friends and family in the Angel in Corbridge for dinner.

Wednesday in westminster - Northumbrian Association

A good day in westminster culminated in the Northumbrian Association dinner - organised by Northumbrian Water, with support from Durham Cathedral and other volontary organisations. All in support of the Cathedrals good work and many heroes were celebrated.

wood pannelling meeting

Met with the labour MPs who represent the other constituencies that have a significant wood pannelling presence - obviously mine is Egger.
The Government ROC incentives are subsidising energy companies with terrible effects on timber producers / users
We are doing all we can to help Egger

Friday in Hexham

Spent Friday in Hexham town with my Advice Surgery at the Community Centre; fully booked again - great to be able to try and help so many people. Then a visit to see the great work of Tamsin and her team at the Hexham Community Partnership; one of their biggest projects is keeping the Forum Cinema alive and kicking which is a real asset to the town. Rounded off the day with a visit to local businesses.

Friday 11th June

Home to Hexham: I have a correspondence catch up this morning then a surgery this afternoon, and various meetings; then supporting various shows Saturday.
Good news on the A1 - have had correspondence with the Shadow Roads minister and the issue will still be supported by the government

Westminster week

Monday to thursday sees me in westminster;
i). Office report: the office situation is still a non starter - one correspondent suggested that I go to Office world and buy a desk; sadly that is not the problem. The issue is where you base yourself. The simple truth is that there is very limited space in westminster, and we are all crammed in like sardines. Am told this will get resolved next week
ii). Met again with George Osborne the shadow chancellor at Number 11 Downing Street, and his team, including Justine Greening. I have already raised concerns by constituents about CGT rises. The matter is being relooked at but the level of national debt remains off the scale.
iii). Delighted to speak in the ID Card debate + good news that they are going: either they were vital to government / national interest, and therefore were required to be carried at all times or they were just another civil liberty infringement - you cannot have it both ways; and they cost £30+

My Maiden Speech

I made my maiden speech on Monday during the Constitution and Home Affairs debate, you can read the full text of it here.

Correspondence Central

Attempting to respond to all letters, emails and petitions but we are literally inundated; please bear with us if it takes time.

Super Saturday!

Busy day today: started at 10am when went down to the Tyne to support the Hexham Regetta; then spent 90 minutes doing a surgery - this time a Supermarket Surgery which we held in Tesco - went really well, definitely going to be doing them again! Then off to Humshaugh and Corbridge to visit their fetes - great sense of community (and great cakes!)



Finished the day with a trip up to Capheaton / Belsay to the brilliant Northumberland Young Farmers Rally to meet everyone and present a trophy. Claire and the committee did an excellent job organising the whole event; there were literally hundreds there; a great day was had by all. Looking forward to the Birtley Village fete tommorow.

Visit to Haltwhistle Partnership

Visited the Haltwhistle Community Partnership today - the ladies there do some excellent work.We talked for an hour about how we can help; I am holding a copy of their local magazine - just hot off the presses.

Parliamentary week

Still no desk or office, but the post has come flooding in; have been trying to go to the House as much as is possible as making my maiden speech late Monday afternoon next week.

Northumberland County Show

Brilliant day at the Northumberland County Show... including backing the NFU campaign to get British Wool into the Olypmics - http://www.nfuonline.com/Regions/North-East/News/Help-secure-Olympic-place-for-wool/

Bank Holiday weekend

Have been catching up on various things - not least the mass of letters; still do not have an office which makes life tricky, but we are getting there. Went for a long run on the Saturday evening - trying to get fit for Kielder marathon [that was a bad idea!] -which I am secretly looking forward to.
Today on sunday went to the Haydon Point to Point at Hexham racecourse - a great day but chilly. Off to the County Show tomorrow

Surgery days

A packed day with over 10 people seen in surgeries in and out of the office. Much notoriety in the local paper as my plan to have Tesco surgeries starting next Saturday were trailed by the paper:
http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/mp-goes-shopping-for-new-business-1.713812?referrerPath=news

National Beef Fair in Hexham

Home on the very early train and straight down to the Mart in Hexham where there was an incredible display both in and outside the Mart of all matters "beef". The orgainsers deserve great credit; we had entrants from as far afield as Devon.
A great set of trade stands were set up both inside and out. My host was Edward Heslop, who knows beef cattle inside out.


A good day was had by one and all
Good piece in the local paper about my meeting with the head of the NFU in London last week http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk/news/news-at-a-glance/nfu-gathers-support-from-new-batch-of-mps-1.713805?referrerPath=news

New visitors

Had the pleasure of welcoming Graham Usher from Hexham Abbey to the House today and we talked for 2 hours in the House. We discussed a variety of matters, not just on the issue of faith.
Am off to Hexham very early tomorrow morning for the Beef Fair
Also sat in the chamber for part of the Foreign and Defence debate; good maiden speech by Colonel Bob Stewart - who is a welcome addition to the house; he will speak his mind and do it with vigour

Downing Street and the Queens Speech

What a day: morning saw us doing constituency correspondence and then down to the House of Commons and Lords for the Queens Speech; the Queen was amazing.

Back in to the chamber for the debate and then more correspondence / meetings followed by drinks with the shadow cabinet and David Cameron in the gardens of 10 Downing Street. At this meet and greet got a good chance to chat to Liam Fox, and mentioned to George Osborne several constituents concerns about CGT rises. Also chatted at length to Dominic Grieve and Mark Francois.
The garden of 10 Downing Street is L shaped and high walled. Downing Street itself is small and number 10 not that big: the White House it is not!
Then back to the House for more work on correspondence: Sarah my secretary says she has never known it this busy in all her many years working in the House. Left the House at 9.30pm