Saturday, April 19, 2014
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
Newsletter January 2014
Nelson Mandela
18.7.1918 - 5.12.2013
The House of Commons paid tribute to former President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela who died on 5 December 2013.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Valerie said: “Not many of
us would have his courage not to compromise our principles, and many of us
today are still judged by the colour of our skin, rather than on our talents.
As he said, he was not bitter, because if he had been so, he would still have
been in prison. We can only honour his legacy if we together work for his
values of forgiveness, perseverance, peace and hope. We give thanks for his
life and may he rest in peace.”
VALERIE WELCOMES REV JESSE JACKSON TO WALSALL COLLEGE
Valerie said: “The Rev’d Jesse Jackson is an iconic figure
within the Civil Rights Movement in the USA. When I introduced the Rev’d
Jackson to the audience I highlighted the movement he founded, the Rainbow PUSH
Coalition, which aims to bring people together to serve humanity. The movement
works to expand education, employment and business opportunities for people who
are disadvantaged and for ethnic minorities. The Rev’d Jackson touched on this
theme when he pointed out the dearth of ethnic minority students at Oxford and
Cambridge.”
“Nevertheless he emphasised to the audience that progress
has been made in the pursuit of equality, saying that ethnic minorities no
longer face the same difficulties experienced 50 years ago in accessing public
amenities or taking part in the democratic process.”
Small Business Saturday
“Small Business Saturday took place on 7 December 2013 and
celebrates the contribution of Small Businesses to the local and national
economies. It is a grass-roots campaign that encourages people to shop locally
and support small businesses in the local community. Ahead of Small Business
Saturday, I invited the Shadow Business Secretary, Chuka Umunna MP to Walsall
College on Thursday 5 December 2013. He spoke about the important impact that
Small Businesses make and the importance of giving them more support.”
To Contact Valerie:
Constituency Office: 16A Lichfield Street, Walsall, WS1 1TJ
Telephone: 01922 635835
Westminster Office: House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA
Telephone: 020 7219 7176
Email: valerie.vaz.mp@parliament.uk
Referrals to
Family Mediation Down
At Justice Questions, Valerie asked the Secretary of State
what recent assessment he has made of family mediation services. The Secretary
of State replied that there had been a drop in referrals to family mediation
services following changes to Legal Aid in April 2013.
Valerie said: “This was a foreseeable consequence of cuts to
legal aid. Referrals to family mediation service have dropped by 47% since
April 2013. It is crucial that the Government takes steps to change its policy
now.”
Office Move
From Monday 6 January 2014, the Walsall Office will be
located at 16A Lichfield Street, Walsall, WS1 1TJ. The telephone number remains
01922 635835.
Health Select
Committee
On Tuesday 17 December 2013, the Health Select Committee, of
which Valerie is a member, heard evidence from the Secretary of State (SoS) for
Health, Jeremy Hunt, and the Chief Executive of NHS England, Sir David
Nicholson.
Valerie said: “I asked the SoS to confirm if there has been
£600 million underspend so far this year. He replied that this is money that
has been committed to budgets in many different parts of the NHS and they did not
know that they were going to underspend until the end of the year. Given there
is a crisis in A&E and more doctors and nurses are needed, it is not clear
why £2.2bn was returned to the Treasury in 2012/13 and £1.4 billion in 2011/12.
In November the SoS announced an extra £150m to go to CCGs, in addition to the
£250m announced in September for hospitals to cope with winter pressures. He
confirmed this is not new money and is being taken out of the underspend.”
“I asked Sir David to confirm if there will be a
new regime in place to make CCGs accountable to NHS England. He said CCGs will
now be subject to quarterly assessments of their effectiveness by NHS England.
Whilst CCGs should be accountable for public money, this new regime shows there
was a
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Valerie Vaz MP Parliamentary Report June 2013
May/June 2013
GALA BATHS
In June Valerie raised the proposed closure of the Walsall Gala Baths in Walsall Town Centre
at Questions to the Leader of the House. She also presented a petition of 1,938 users of the Gala Baths to Parliament.
Valerie said: “Keeping the Borough’s flagship Gala Baths in the Town Centre would send the message that sports, exercise and improving people’s participation in physical activity are a priority. 7.7% of adults in the Borough suffer from diabetes, 27.8% are classed as obese, only
21.8% eat healthily and only 7.8% exercise enough according to Department for Health figures.
It is clearly vital that Walsall MBC takes steps to encourage many more people in the Borough to exercise.”
Speaking in the debate which followed the Queen’s Speech in
May, Valerie said:
“I had hoped the Queen’s Speech would include plans to implement the 290 recommendations of the Francis Report into events at Stafford Hospital. Instead, the Secretary of State for Health has merely suggested the creation of a Chief Inspector of Hospitals. This was not a recommendation contained in the Francis Report and looks more like a vanity policy rather than a genuine measure to protect patients.”
he Government wants people to build conservatories, but at the
same time has introduced a ‘bedroom tax’ forcing people out of
their family homes. It is giving the companies the benefit of doubt
over lunch to minimise their tax bills, yet at the same time does not
give the benefit of doubt to those people who must attend ATOS
assessments even if they are in a wheelchair or have other long
term health conditions. Nurses and junior doctors say they need
more staff, yet the Government has failed to commit to improving
staffing ratios.”
“The Government’s new legislative agenda should be based on
justice, tolerance and the rule of law, yet this is being undermined.
The gracious people of this country on whose behalf the gracious
speech was made deserve better.”
Debate on the Queens Speech Legal Aid Debate
Speaking in the Backbench Debate on Legal Aid on 27 June 2013,
Valerie said: “I was disappointed that the Lord Chancellor did not
attend the Debate and chose not to engage with lawyers, charities and advice organisations on this issue. It is not clear what the Lord
Chancellor is trying to achieve other than undermining the legal system. The Lord Chancellor does not appear to understand that if people are given access to legal services, they do not always need to go to court. In the West
Midlands 20 firms would have been given access to Legal Aid. This undermines client choice. These proposals are toxic to society and should be withdrawn.”
Following the debate, the Lord Chancellor has conceded on client choice.
Incident near Aisha Mosque, Rutter Street
Following the recent incident near the Aisha Mosque, Rutter
Street, Valerie said:
“This could potentially have been a very serious incident and
I am pleased that nobody was hurt. During my visit to Rutter
Street on Sunday afternoon the majority of residents were
returning to their homes. Residents were shocked but settled
when I spoke to them. They were understandably upset that
their lives should be disrupted. I would like to thank West
Midlands Police for its proportionate response and Walsall
MBC for providing shelter to residents who were evacuated.”
Buses on Stafford Road, Darlaston and Stanhope Way, Pheasey
On Thursday 27 June 2013, Valerie raised at Transport Questions the problem of buses using Stafford Road Darlaston and Stanhope Way, Pheasey.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Valerie said: “Stafford road and Stanhope way in my constituency are in
a state of chaos owing to unco-ordinated bus services using narrow residential roads. What plans does the
Minister have to look at the strategic co-ordination of bus services outside London?”
Valerie’s question and the Minister’s answer can be viewed on the Official Report
On Friday 24 May 2013, Valerie visited the Shree Ram Mandir Hindu
temple on Ford Street to take part in the Shiv Ling Pran Pratistha celebrations. This marked the installation of a new Shiva Ling, a representation of the deity Lord Shiva. As part of the celebrations, the congregation processed along Ford Street and Wednesbury Road and returned to the Temple.
Valerie said: “It was a pleasure to meet
the students from Moorcroft Wood Primary School. The Parliament
Educational Service provides a wonderful learning experience for school children of all ages. Moorcroft Wood Primary School spent the day touring Parliament and learning more about UK politics.”
Caldmore Village Festival 09 June 2013
Valerie said: “At the Caldmore Village Festival in Palfrey Park we heard from a
number of very good musicians who entertained the crowd. It was good to see
Palfrey Sure Start at their stall with members of staff helping us to make
badges. There were may other stalls including the Charity Midland International
Aid Trust. I bought plants from Calmore Community Gardens. It was a lovely sunny but windy day.”
George Rose Community Garden
On Friday 21 June 2013, Valerie visited the George Rose Community Gardens.
Valerie said: “It was a pleasure to visit the Gardens in the planning stage. I
am pleased that Kier Construction has worked with Walsall MBC’s
Community Gardens Officer, Alison Bate to clear the land free of
charge. Now local residents can turn this once derelict land in
Darlaston into what will become a beautiful wildflower garden. The
George Rose Community Gardens is a wonderful example of what can happen when the community works together.”
Question on Green Belt Protection
Valerie Vaz Speaking in the House of Commons, Valerie Said:
“The national planning policy framework states that it is inappropriate to build on the green belt, yet a ministerial statement last September said that local plans would be fast-tracked if they included the green belt. My constituents want to know whether the green belt is safe, so may we have an urgent debate on Government guidance to local decision makers on this conflicting policy?”
Valerie’s question and the Leader of the House’s response
can be viewed on the Official Report
Valerie Vaz Darlaston SureStart Children’s Centre
On Friday 14 June 2013 Valerie visited Darlaston SureStart Centre.
Valerie said:“The tremendous contribution made by SureStart
Children’s Centres to our communities is too often
overlooked. But the impact of Darlaston SureStart Children’s
Centre is immense. I was impressed by the dedication of staff,
who often deal with extremely difficult situations. The Centre
brings together a range of services under one roof including a day
nursery, the National Childbirth Trust new parents class, a sewing
group and a place where anyone can meet in a cafe largely run by
volunteers. On Thursday mornings advice is available from
Walsall Welfare Rights Service.”
“Our SureStart Children’s Centres represent a vital investment in
the future of society and I hope they continue to be funded in the
coming years.”
Health Select Committee
In May and June the Health Selection Committee, of which
Valerie is a member, has taken evidence on and is due to
report on the following:
. Emergency services and emergency care.
. The implementation of the Health and Social Care
Act 2012.
. Management of long term conditions.
. Post-Legislative Assessment of the Mental Health Act
2007.
Further information regarding these enquiries is available on
the website of the Health Select Committee
Children and Families Bill
Valerie tabled two amendments to the Children and Families Bill
which had its Third Reading in the House of Commons on
11 June 2013. However the amendments fell.
Valerie said:“I introduced two 10 Minute Rule Bills to Parliament.
In 2010 I moved the Epilepsy and Related Conditions (Education
and Health Services) Bill, and in 2011 I moved Adoption (Leave,
pay and Allowance Arrangements) Bill.”
“I am pleased that the Government has included provisions from
both of my 10 Minute Rule Bills. These provisions will give
adoptive parents the same entitlement to statutory leave, pay and
allowances for those who are self employed as parents whose
children are born to them. The Government has also included a
local authority requirement to secure for a child, educational,
health and care plans, in light of a having an assessment of their
education, health and care need, although it has not made specific
reference to epilepsy.”
Other Questions in Parliament
In May and June, Valerie has asked questions in Parliament
on;
. The situation in Burma.
. Funding for urgent building repairs at Joseph Leckie
School
. The budget for medical education and research.
. Onshore wind planning policy.
. Accident and Emergency departments.
Valerie’s questions and the Ministers’ responses can be
viewed on the Official Report
GALA BATHS
In June Valerie raised the proposed closure of the Walsall Gala Baths in Walsall Town Centre
at Questions to the Leader of the House. She also presented a petition of 1,938 users of the Gala Baths to Parliament.
Valerie said: “Keeping the Borough’s flagship Gala Baths in the Town Centre would send the message that sports, exercise and improving people’s participation in physical activity are a priority. 7.7% of adults in the Borough suffer from diabetes, 27.8% are classed as obese, only
21.8% eat healthily and only 7.8% exercise enough according to Department for Health figures.
It is clearly vital that Walsall MBC takes steps to encourage many more people in the Borough to exercise.”
Speaking in the debate which followed the Queen’s Speech in
May, Valerie said:
“I had hoped the Queen’s Speech would include plans to implement the 290 recommendations of the Francis Report into events at Stafford Hospital. Instead, the Secretary of State for Health has merely suggested the creation of a Chief Inspector of Hospitals. This was not a recommendation contained in the Francis Report and looks more like a vanity policy rather than a genuine measure to protect patients.”
he Government wants people to build conservatories, but at the
same time has introduced a ‘bedroom tax’ forcing people out of
their family homes. It is giving the companies the benefit of doubt
over lunch to minimise their tax bills, yet at the same time does not
give the benefit of doubt to those people who must attend ATOS
assessments even if they are in a wheelchair or have other long
term health conditions. Nurses and junior doctors say they need
more staff, yet the Government has failed to commit to improving
staffing ratios.”
“The Government’s new legislative agenda should be based on
justice, tolerance and the rule of law, yet this is being undermined.
The gracious people of this country on whose behalf the gracious
speech was made deserve better.”
Debate on the Queens Speech Legal Aid Debate
Speaking in the Backbench Debate on Legal Aid on 27 June 2013,
Valerie said: “I was disappointed that the Lord Chancellor did not
attend the Debate and chose not to engage with lawyers, charities and advice organisations on this issue. It is not clear what the Lord
Chancellor is trying to achieve other than undermining the legal system. The Lord Chancellor does not appear to understand that if people are given access to legal services, they do not always need to go to court. In the West
Midlands 20 firms would have been given access to Legal Aid. This undermines client choice. These proposals are toxic to society and should be withdrawn.”
Following the debate, the Lord Chancellor has conceded on client choice.
Incident near Aisha Mosque, Rutter Street
Following the recent incident near the Aisha Mosque, Rutter
Street, Valerie said:
“This could potentially have been a very serious incident and
I am pleased that nobody was hurt. During my visit to Rutter
Street on Sunday afternoon the majority of residents were
returning to their homes. Residents were shocked but settled
when I spoke to them. They were understandably upset that
their lives should be disrupted. I would like to thank West
Midlands Police for its proportionate response and Walsall
MBC for providing shelter to residents who were evacuated.”
Buses on Stafford Road, Darlaston and Stanhope Way, Pheasey
On Thursday 27 June 2013, Valerie raised at Transport Questions the problem of buses using Stafford Road Darlaston and Stanhope Way, Pheasey.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Valerie said: “Stafford road and Stanhope way in my constituency are in
a state of chaos owing to unco-ordinated bus services using narrow residential roads. What plans does the
Minister have to look at the strategic co-ordination of bus services outside London?”
Valerie’s question and the Minister’s answer can be viewed on the Official Report
On Friday 24 May 2013, Valerie visited the Shree Ram Mandir Hindu
temple on Ford Street to take part in the Shiv Ling Pran Pratistha celebrations. This marked the installation of a new Shiva Ling, a representation of the deity Lord Shiva. As part of the celebrations, the congregation processed along Ford Street and Wednesbury Road and returned to the Temple.
Valerie said: “It was a pleasure to meet
the students from Moorcroft Wood Primary School. The Parliament
Educational Service provides a wonderful learning experience for school children of all ages. Moorcroft Wood Primary School spent the day touring Parliament and learning more about UK politics.”
Caldmore Village Festival 09 June 2013
Valerie said: “At the Caldmore Village Festival in Palfrey Park we heard from a
number of very good musicians who entertained the crowd. It was good to see
Palfrey Sure Start at their stall with members of staff helping us to make
badges. There were may other stalls including the Charity Midland International
Aid Trust. I bought plants from Calmore Community Gardens. It was a lovely sunny but windy day.”
George Rose Community Garden
On Friday 21 June 2013, Valerie visited the George Rose Community Gardens.
Valerie said: “It was a pleasure to visit the Gardens in the planning stage. I
am pleased that Kier Construction has worked with Walsall MBC’s
Community Gardens Officer, Alison Bate to clear the land free of
charge. Now local residents can turn this once derelict land in
Darlaston into what will become a beautiful wildflower garden. The
George Rose Community Gardens is a wonderful example of what can happen when the community works together.”
Question on Green Belt Protection
Valerie Vaz Speaking in the House of Commons, Valerie Said:
“The national planning policy framework states that it is inappropriate to build on the green belt, yet a ministerial statement last September said that local plans would be fast-tracked if they included the green belt. My constituents want to know whether the green belt is safe, so may we have an urgent debate on Government guidance to local decision makers on this conflicting policy?”
Valerie’s question and the Leader of the House’s response
can be viewed on the Official Report
Valerie Vaz Darlaston SureStart Children’s Centre
On Friday 14 June 2013 Valerie visited Darlaston SureStart Centre.
Valerie said:“The tremendous contribution made by SureStart
Children’s Centres to our communities is too often
overlooked. But the impact of Darlaston SureStart Children’s
Centre is immense. I was impressed by the dedication of staff,
who often deal with extremely difficult situations. The Centre
brings together a range of services under one roof including a day
nursery, the National Childbirth Trust new parents class, a sewing
group and a place where anyone can meet in a cafe largely run by
volunteers. On Thursday mornings advice is available from
Walsall Welfare Rights Service.”
“Our SureStart Children’s Centres represent a vital investment in
the future of society and I hope they continue to be funded in the
coming years.”
Health Select Committee
In May and June the Health Selection Committee, of which
Valerie is a member, has taken evidence on and is due to
report on the following:
. Emergency services and emergency care.
. The implementation of the Health and Social Care
Act 2012.
. Management of long term conditions.
. Post-Legislative Assessment of the Mental Health Act
2007.
Further information regarding these enquiries is available on
the website of the Health Select Committee
Children and Families Bill
Valerie tabled two amendments to the Children and Families Bill
which had its Third Reading in the House of Commons on
11 June 2013. However the amendments fell.
Valerie said:“I introduced two 10 Minute Rule Bills to Parliament.
In 2010 I moved the Epilepsy and Related Conditions (Education
and Health Services) Bill, and in 2011 I moved Adoption (Leave,
pay and Allowance Arrangements) Bill.”
“I am pleased that the Government has included provisions from
both of my 10 Minute Rule Bills. These provisions will give
adoptive parents the same entitlement to statutory leave, pay and
allowances for those who are self employed as parents whose
children are born to them. The Government has also included a
local authority requirement to secure for a child, educational,
health and care plans, in light of a having an assessment of their
education, health and care need, although it has not made specific
reference to epilepsy.”
Other Questions in Parliament
In May and June, Valerie has asked questions in Parliament
on;
. The situation in Burma.
. Funding for urgent building repairs at Joseph Leckie
School
. The budget for medical education and research.
. Onshore wind planning policy.
. Accident and Emergency departments.
Valerie’s questions and the Ministers’ responses can be
viewed on the Official Report
Saturday, May 11, 2013
Enews from Valerie Vaz MP for May
VALERIE QUESTIONS HEALTH SECRETARY & NHS CHIEF EXECUTIVE
The Health Select Committee, of which Valerie is a member, has heard evidence from Sir David Nicholson the Chief Executive of the NHS and the NHS Commissioning Board and the Secretary of State for Health, the Rt Hon Jeremy Hunt MP, following the publication of the Francis Report into events at Stafford Hospital. The Committee’s report is expected shortly.
Speaking after the Hearing with Sir David Nicholson in March, Valerie said: "I asked Sir David about the problems at the three strategic health authorities he was in charge of and what he did about them. It is extraordinary that he was not aware of, in particular, the high mortality rates in the hospitals that he oversaw. He said he was not made aware of the mortality rates until he was made Chief Executive of the NHS in 2006. However these figures have been made publically available by Dr Foster since 2001. In his statement, I could not find anything about patient care. Sir David said that during that time, ‘patients were not the centre of the way the system operated, for a whole variety of reasons’."
Following the Hearing with the Secretary of State on Tuesday 23 April, Valerie said: "It was important to ask about the circumstances surrounding the suspension of children’s heart surgery at Leeds Hospital. I asked the Secretary of State to clarify the timeline of when the information about children’s heart surgery mortality rates was received by Sir Bruce Keogh and when he himself had been told. It is extraordinary that he did not know the exact dates of when this information was provided. I am concerned about the role of the new Chief Inspector and the Secretary of State told me he did not know how much this would cost."
SADDLERS’ 125th ANNIVERSARY
On Sunday 29 April 2013, Valerie attended the End of Season Awards and 125th Anniversary Celebration of Walsall Football Club.
Valerie said: "Walsall FC makes a tremendous contribution to the community locally and helps to put Walsall on the map nationally. The Club had a successful season in League One and finished only 6 points from the playoff places. I hope next season, the Saddlers will be able to gain promotion to the Championship."
Dear Friends
This edition of my eNews covers my work over March, April and the Easter Recess. You will find some statistics on the next page about my work during the 2012-13 Session. Parliament is now prorogued and the new Session will start with the Queen’s Speech on Wednesday 8 May 2013.
Yours ever
Valerie
GALA BATHS
Valerie said: "Walsall Gala Baths is home to the only brine pool in the West Midlands and I know this resource is valued by many of my constituents."
"I was contacted by constituents who use the pool and were concerned about its closure. I raised this with the Chief Executive of Walsall MBC who said that the Council is currently reviewing the provision of the Sports and Leisure Service. The Council has said that no decision has yet been taken as to the future of the Gala Baths."
"It is clear to me that the Gala Baths are of substantial benefit to many of my constituents and particularly those who are elderly or disabled. Given the Olympic legacy and the need for people to take more exercise, any move to close the Gala Baths would be resisted. I hope that following the review of Sport and Leisure Services, the Council will ensure the long term future of the Gala Baths."
BEDROOM TAX
Valerie said: "A number of significant changes to the benefits system have taken effect in recent months. These are changes I opposed as they do not adequately take account of people’s needs."
"Figures released by the National Housing Federation show that the ‘Bedroom Tax’ risks having a
devastating impact on around 1,434 households in Walsall South. It is estimated that households with 1 spare room will face a bill of approximately £566 extra a year and those with 2 spare rooms will have to pay approximately £1,010 extra each year. It is difficult to see how those affected are going to be able to make ends meet. The Government says funds are available for people in need, but the principle is wrong and these funds may not be available in the long term."
SCHOOL VISITS
Valerie has recently visited Hillary Primary School and Abu Bakr Girls’ School. At Hillary School, Valerie discussed with the Head Teacher Ms Cherry what could be done to remedy traffic problems at the front of the School. Valerie subsequently made representations to Walsall MBC and WHG.
At Abu Bakr, Valerie presented certificates to pupils who had taken part in the ‘Heartstart’ Emergency Lifesaving Skills programme led in Walsall by Phil Jevon of the Manor Hospital, who was also present.
THE CASE OF MRS PRESSDEE
In the Pre-Recess Adjournment Debate in the House of Commons, Valerie raised the case of Mrs Brenda
Pressdee. Valerie said: "My constituent, a senior citizen faces the prospect of having the home she has lived in for 38 years sold but she cannot remember why."
"It is unclear how Mrs Pressdee came into contact with Dream Money Ltd. It brokered an agreement and she had to pay £3,000 in fees because she signed a loan agreement for a second charge on her property of £36,000. Once the brokerage fee and all the fees for lawyers, solicitors and title insurance had been paid, the total charges and interest came to £32,995, which is 99.9% of the £33,000 Mrs Pressdee had initially requested.
"By December 2012, with interest and charges and charges associated with arrears, Mrs Pressdee’s total debt was £51,713.74. She is unable to keep up her payments and now has to sell her home under the mortgage rescue scheme while living there and renting it out. As a result, Blemain Finance will receive a £55,000 redemption from the sale of her home."
"We must help Mrs Pressdee, a vulnerable pensioner who has been driven out of her home. We should be protecting her."
The full transcript of Valerie’s speech is available in the Official Report .
CEMETERY PETITION
Valerie presented a petition of more than 1,200 signatures to Parliament on the planning application for the
development of a cemetery on land south of Aldridge Road.
Valerie said: "The site would be a wholly inappropriate location for a cemetery. The Council took into account the relevant considerations in refusing the application. I presented the petition as residents asked me to and it will ensure that their concerns are raised if ever there is a further application."
The transcript of the presentation is available to view from the Official Report
PARKING CHARGES
Valerie said: "For two years, alongside local businesses, we campaigned for the removal of on-street parking charges. These charges were removed from Ablewell Street in
December 2013, but the parking meters have been left in place. In response to my subsequent representations, Walsall MBC removed the meters during the week commencing Monday 18 March 2013."
"This is fantastic news. It shows clearly the effectiveness of our campaigning over the past two years and I am pleased the Council have now listened to businesses."
2012-13 PARLIAMENTARY SESSION
During the 2012-13 Parliamentary Session, which ended on Thursday 25 April 2013, Valerie:
Spoke in Parliament on
64 occasions
Tabled 56 written questions
Contributed to
11 reports of the Health Select
Committee
Tabled
30 Early Day Motions
Signed 217 Early Day Motions
Was granted an Urgent Question on the situation in Burma
Served on the Crime and Courts Bill Committee.
Raised adoption inequality at Prime Minister’s
Questions
In response to the ongoing situation in Burma and a report published by Human Rights Watch on the humanitarian situation in the country, Valerie raised the issue of Burma with Ministers on two occasions in recent weeks. Valerie’s questions and the Ministers’ answers can be viewed here & here.
Valerie raised in the Pre-Recess Adjournment debate the issue of why the Government has only designated 31 of 127 proposed Marine Conservation Zones. Valerie’s speech can be read here.
Valerie asked the Health Minister whether there was a mistake in the instructions given to parliamentary counsel in drafting the
Section 75 Regulations which have subsequently been withdrawn for redrafting. The Minister’s reply can be viewed here.
Following reports by Cranfield Business School and Lord Davies on women on the Boards of FTSE listed companies, Valerie asked the Minister for Women and Equalities where there was a
possibility of introducing quotas. The Minister’s response is available
Valerie asked the Health Minister whether the new list of 28 prescribed drugs produced by the NHS Commissioning Board will increase access to the cancer drugs fund. The Minister’s answer can be viewed
Following the Secretary of State for Health’s statement on the Government’s response to the Francis Report, Valerie asked whether the new list of 28 prescribed drugs produced by the NHS Commissioning Board will increase access to the cancer drugs fund. The Secretary of State’s response is available
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
December enews Valerie Vaz MP
December 2012
VALERIE QUESTIONS MANOR HOSPITAL DEATH RATES
A report from the Dr Foster Organisation has found that death rates at the Manor Hospital on two
of four key measures were significantly higher than expected. Valerie has written to the Hospital’s
Chief Executive asking for an explanation and raised the matter in the House of Commons.
A number of constituents have contacted Valerie with concerns about the treatment they, or their
relatives, have received at the Manor Hospital. Valerie has made representations to the Hospi-
tal’s Chief Executive on behalf of each constituent who has raised concerns.
Valerie said: “These are very worrying findings and the Hospital must immediately investigate
what has gone wrong and set out the steps it will take to cut death rates as soon as possible.”
NHS QUESTION
Valerie asked the Leader of the House for an urgent debate on why £3 billion has been taken out
of the NHS and not used for front-line services.
Valerie said: “In the light of recent findings regarding patient care at
the Manor Hospital, it is clear that the NHS is being given insufficient
resources to guarantee the highest standards of patient care. The
Government must explain why this £3 billion has been taken out of the
NHS.”
SECOND CHANCES SCHOOL
Students from the Second Chances School in Walsall South
visited Parliament and were taken on a tour by Valerie.
Valerie said: “I was pleased to see the students. I took them
on a tour of the Palace, including the chambers of the House
of Commons and the House of Lords.”
“The School’s Head Teacher, Jan Concannon, told me that
many of the students present had never been to Parliament
before. The students learned about how Parliament works”
WestminsterVisit
Bentley West Primary School invited Valerie to visit the School to speak with pupils as part of
Parliament Week.
Valerie said: “I began by telling the pupils a little about my work and what happens in Parlia-
ment. I showed them copies of Hansard and Early Day Motions. The pupils then took part in a
mock Parliamentary debate on a motion relating to the provision of school milk. They sat on
opposite sides with some pupils representing the Government and some representing the Op-
position. At the end, I asked the pupils to vote on the motion by walking through ‘Aye’ and ‘No’
lobbies as we do in Parliament. The motion to provide school milk was passed by 27 to 23
votes. I was very impressed by the pupils’ knowledge and interest.”
HUMAN FERTILISATION AND EMBRYOLOGY AUTHORITY
Valerie co-hosted an event with Gareth Johnson MP to introduce the work of the Human
Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) and their recent consultation on mitochondria
replacement.
Valerie said: “It was important to highlight the work of the HFEA in Parliament. As the body
responsible for the regulation of fertility treatment, the HFEA plays a crucial role in informing
the public and providing support for families with children conceived through IVF.”
PAT FINUCANE
Valerie has put questions to the Northern Ireland Secretary and the
Prime Minister about the Govern-ment’s response to the murder of
Pat Finucane, in which the security services colluded.
Valerie said: “The Government must ensure that Pat Finucane’s
family receive the justice they de-serve. The latest review into the
case—the Da Silva Report—has not achieved this. The Government
must do more to bring justice.”
EU BUDGET
PARKING CHARGES
PETROL TAX
NEW ART GALLERY
The Government was defeated on the EU budget at the
end of October 2012. Valerie voted against the budget.
Valerie said: “At a time when the cost of living is rising
quickly for tax payers in the UK and significant cuts are
being made to vital public services, it cannot be right to
increase the EU budget. This was a perverse move when
governments across Europe are making big cuts in public
spending.”
“It is important that Britain is an active member of the EU,
which is crucial for much of our trade and many of our
jobs. But when EU plans are wrong for Britain, we must
say so. The EU must look at savings which can be made
through measures such as the reform of agricultural sub-
sidies including the Common Agricultural Policy.”
Following an 18 month long campaign by Valerie and
local traders, Valerie has welcomed news that the on-street parking charges on
Ablewell Street and five other town centre streets
have been removed.
Valerie said: “Shortly after the charges were intro-
duced without consultation,
I was contacted by traders from Ablewell Street who were concerned about the drop
in passing trade. Over the past 18 months I have made
several representations to Walsall MBC, presented an
800 name petition to Parliament and raised the matter
during a debate in the House of Commons. Local busi-
nesses should not have had to endure an unnecessary
drop in trade over the past 18 months. The charges must
now be removed from every street. I will continue to
push for the charges to be dropped in every town centre
street and for a proper review.”
Despite voting against an Opposition motion calling for
it to be scrapped, the Government has announced that
the 3p per litre rise in petrol tax that was scheduled for
January 2013 has been cancelled.
Valerie said: “At a time when the cost of living has been
increasing rapidly and families across the country are
struggling to make ends meet, I was surprised that the
Government told its MPs to vote against an Opposition
motion to scrap the 3p per litre rise in petrol tax as re-
cently as 12 November 2012.”
“We continued our campaign and I am pleased that the
Government has been forced to reverse its position and
cancelled the 3p per litre rise that was due to come into
effect in January.”
2012 has been a successful year for the New
Art Gallery and Valerie is a supporter and a fan
of the NAG.
Valerie said: “After making a number of repre-
sentations to WMBC, and collecting a petition
of over 100 signatures, I was pleased when the
Gallery brought back Sunday openings. This
has boosted visitor numbers by 1,400 a month
and is expected to reach 20,000 a year.”
“The Gallery is one of four to be shortlisted to
host the Turner Prize in 2015 and recently
opened a year long exhibition of Damien Hirst’s
work.”
LEVESON REPORT
The Leveson Inquiry into the Culture, Practice and Ethics of the Press
published its findings and recommendations in November. Valerie has
welcomed the report and called on the Government to introduce legisla-
tion for the statutory underpinning of the regulation of the press.
Valerie said: “We were all shocked when details of the phone hacking
scandal emerged. It is simply not acceptable that the Press Complaints
Commission could be allowed to continue as the regulator of the press
when run by the press.”
“I welcome Lord Leveson’s measured proposals to give the self regula-
tion of the press a statutory basis. I call on the Government to imple-
ment Lord Leveson’s recommendations in full.”
VALERIE’S WORK IN PARLIAMENT
Since being elected to Parliament in May 2010, Valerie has:
. Spoken in Parliament 147 times;
. Tabled 264 written questions;
. Primary Sponsor of 85 Early Day Motions;
. Worked on 5,406 constituency cases;
. Been called 7 times at Prime Minister’s Questions;
. Presented 5 petitions to Parliament;
. Published 20 reports of the Health Select Committee;
. Held 70 constituency surgeries;
. Visited or welcomed to Parliament 20 of 42 schools in
Walsall South.
. Introduced 2 Ten Minute Rule Bills on equal rights for adop-
tive parents and a bill to improve health and education provi-
sion for children and adults with epilepsy.
VALERIE QUESTIONS MANOR HOSPITAL DEATH RATES
A report from the Dr Foster Organisation has found that death rates at the Manor Hospital on two
of four key measures were significantly higher than expected. Valerie has written to the Hospital’s
Chief Executive asking for an explanation and raised the matter in the House of Commons.
A number of constituents have contacted Valerie with concerns about the treatment they, or their
relatives, have received at the Manor Hospital. Valerie has made representations to the Hospi-
tal’s Chief Executive on behalf of each constituent who has raised concerns.
Valerie said: “These are very worrying findings and the Hospital must immediately investigate
what has gone wrong and set out the steps it will take to cut death rates as soon as possible.”
NHS QUESTION
Valerie asked the Leader of the House for an urgent debate on why £3 billion has been taken out
of the NHS and not used for front-line services.
Valerie said: “In the light of recent findings regarding patient care at
the Manor Hospital, it is clear that the NHS is being given insufficient
resources to guarantee the highest standards of patient care. The
Government must explain why this £3 billion has been taken out of the
NHS.”
SECOND CHANCES SCHOOL
Students from the Second Chances School in Walsall South
visited Parliament and were taken on a tour by Valerie.
Valerie said: “I was pleased to see the students. I took them
on a tour of the Palace, including the chambers of the House
of Commons and the House of Lords.”
“The School’s Head Teacher, Jan Concannon, told me that
many of the students present had never been to Parliament
before. The students learned about how Parliament works”
WestminsterVisit
Bentley West Primary School invited Valerie to visit the School to speak with pupils as part of
Parliament Week.
Valerie said: “I began by telling the pupils a little about my work and what happens in Parlia-
ment. I showed them copies of Hansard and Early Day Motions. The pupils then took part in a
mock Parliamentary debate on a motion relating to the provision of school milk. They sat on
opposite sides with some pupils representing the Government and some representing the Op-
position. At the end, I asked the pupils to vote on the motion by walking through ‘Aye’ and ‘No’
lobbies as we do in Parliament. The motion to provide school milk was passed by 27 to 23
votes. I was very impressed by the pupils’ knowledge and interest.”
HUMAN FERTILISATION AND EMBRYOLOGY AUTHORITY
Valerie co-hosted an event with Gareth Johnson MP to introduce the work of the Human
Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) and their recent consultation on mitochondria
replacement.
Valerie said: “It was important to highlight the work of the HFEA in Parliament. As the body
responsible for the regulation of fertility treatment, the HFEA plays a crucial role in informing
the public and providing support for families with children conceived through IVF.”
PAT FINUCANE
Valerie has put questions to the Northern Ireland Secretary and the
Prime Minister about the Govern-ment’s response to the murder of
Pat Finucane, in which the security services colluded.
Valerie said: “The Government must ensure that Pat Finucane’s
family receive the justice they de-serve. The latest review into the
case—the Da Silva Report—has not achieved this. The Government
must do more to bring justice.”
EU BUDGET
PARKING CHARGES
PETROL TAX
NEW ART GALLERY
The Government was defeated on the EU budget at the
end of October 2012. Valerie voted against the budget.
Valerie said: “At a time when the cost of living is rising
quickly for tax payers in the UK and significant cuts are
being made to vital public services, it cannot be right to
increase the EU budget. This was a perverse move when
governments across Europe are making big cuts in public
spending.”
“It is important that Britain is an active member of the EU,
which is crucial for much of our trade and many of our
jobs. But when EU plans are wrong for Britain, we must
say so. The EU must look at savings which can be made
through measures such as the reform of agricultural sub-
sidies including the Common Agricultural Policy.”
Following an 18 month long campaign by Valerie and
local traders, Valerie has welcomed news that the on-street parking charges on
Ablewell Street and five other town centre streets
have been removed.
Valerie said: “Shortly after the charges were intro-
duced without consultation,
I was contacted by traders from Ablewell Street who were concerned about the drop
in passing trade. Over the past 18 months I have made
several representations to Walsall MBC, presented an
800 name petition to Parliament and raised the matter
during a debate in the House of Commons. Local busi-
nesses should not have had to endure an unnecessary
drop in trade over the past 18 months. The charges must
now be removed from every street. I will continue to
push for the charges to be dropped in every town centre
street and for a proper review.”
Despite voting against an Opposition motion calling for
it to be scrapped, the Government has announced that
the 3p per litre rise in petrol tax that was scheduled for
January 2013 has been cancelled.
Valerie said: “At a time when the cost of living has been
increasing rapidly and families across the country are
struggling to make ends meet, I was surprised that the
Government told its MPs to vote against an Opposition
motion to scrap the 3p per litre rise in petrol tax as re-
cently as 12 November 2012.”
“We continued our campaign and I am pleased that the
Government has been forced to reverse its position and
cancelled the 3p per litre rise that was due to come into
effect in January.”
2012 has been a successful year for the New
Art Gallery and Valerie is a supporter and a fan
of the NAG.
Valerie said: “After making a number of repre-
sentations to WMBC, and collecting a petition
of over 100 signatures, I was pleased when the
Gallery brought back Sunday openings. This
has boosted visitor numbers by 1,400 a month
and is expected to reach 20,000 a year.”
“The Gallery is one of four to be shortlisted to
host the Turner Prize in 2015 and recently
opened a year long exhibition of Damien Hirst’s
work.”
LEVESON REPORT
The Leveson Inquiry into the Culture, Practice and Ethics of the Press
published its findings and recommendations in November. Valerie has
welcomed the report and called on the Government to introduce legisla-
tion for the statutory underpinning of the regulation of the press.
Valerie said: “We were all shocked when details of the phone hacking
scandal emerged. It is simply not acceptable that the Press Complaints
Commission could be allowed to continue as the regulator of the press
when run by the press.”
“I welcome Lord Leveson’s measured proposals to give the self regula-
tion of the press a statutory basis. I call on the Government to imple-
ment Lord Leveson’s recommendations in full.”
VALERIE’S WORK IN PARLIAMENT
Since being elected to Parliament in May 2010, Valerie has:
. Spoken in Parliament 147 times;
. Tabled 264 written questions;
. Primary Sponsor of 85 Early Day Motions;
. Worked on 5,406 constituency cases;
. Been called 7 times at Prime Minister’s Questions;
. Presented 5 petitions to Parliament;
. Published 20 reports of the Health Select Committee;
. Held 70 constituency surgeries;
. Visited or welcomed to Parliament 20 of 42 schools in
Walsall South.
. Introduced 2 Ten Minute Rule Bills on equal rights for adop-
tive parents and a bill to improve health and education provi-
sion for children and adults with epilepsy.
Saturday, December 1, 2012
November enews from Valerie Vaz MP Walsall South
November 2012 VALERIE PRESSES GOVERNMENT ON ADOPTION INEQUALITY AT PMQs
At Prime Minister’s Questions Valerie raised the issue of equal rights between adoptive parents and parents whose children are born to them. The Deputy Prime Minister responded on behalf of the Prime Minister, who was abroad. Valerie said: “My Ten-Minute Rule Bill in the previous Session called for equalising statutory rights for leave, pay and allowances between adoptive parents and parents whose children are born to them. That can be done by regulations, so will the Deputy Prime Minister ask a Minister or two to meet me to eliminate that unfairness?” The Deputy Prime Minister responded by paying tribute to Valerie on her campaign for equal rights for adoptive parents and indicating his support for Valerie’s proposals. He suggested that the Government would make an announcement on the issue shortly.
WOMEN ON THE BREADLINE Valerie said: “The Women on the Breadline event was organised jointly by the TUC and the Walsall Women’s Forum. I was pleased to speak with a group of women about politics. The women present also had the opportunity to take part in workshops on a variety of issues, seek legal and welfare advice and take part in training opportunities.”
QUESTIONS IN PARLIAMENT This month Valerie questioned Ministers on a range of topics. At Questions to the Leader of the House, Valerie asked why the West Midlands Ambulance Service has had to rely on assistance from St John’s Ambulance and what can be done to have a Pelican Crossing installed on Darlaston Road. The Leader of the House said he would ask his Ministerial colleagues to look at these matters. During a Statement on Health, Valerie asked whether NHS underspends would be retained or returned to the Treasury. The Secretary of State responded that the Government aims to avoid NHS underspends. LIFESAVING SKILLS As part of a Backbench Business Debate, Valerie spoke on the importance of educating children on life-saving skills in schools. Valerie said: “It is crucial that life saving skills are taught in schools. Knowledge of just a few crucial tech- niques can be the difference be- tween life and death for someone suffering cardiac arrest or seriously injured in an accident. I want the Government to make lifesaving skills part of the school curriculum.”
BRAINNAV LAUNCH The West Midlands Launch of the BrainNav online tool for people with brain injuries and their families was attended by Valerie. To visit BrainNav, Valerie said: “BrainNav shows that organisations with a range of expertise can come together and develop services that can improve people’s lives significantly.”
NEW ART GALLERY SUNDAY SUCCESS Valerie said: “I am delighted that the return of Sunday openings has boosted the New Art Gallery’s visitor numbers by 1,400 in a month and that the Gallery expects this figure to reach 20,000 in a year.” “This is exactly what I and the people of Walsall wanted. I made several representations to Walsall MBC, collected an online e-petition and raised the matter with Culture Minister, Ed Vaizey MP. I am pleased that so many families are visiting the Gallery.”
NOOR INAYAT KHAN This month Valerie attended the unveiling by the Princess Royal of a memorial to Noor Inayat Khan. Valerie said: “I became involved in this project when I was elected in 2010. I tabled Early Day Motion 109 which received cross party support. I then wrote to the Vice-Chancellor at the University of London, of which I am an alumna, to request permission for a commemorative memorial to be placed in Gordon Square near to Noor’s London home. Vice-Chancellor Graeme Davies agreed and after his retirement Vice-Chancellor Geoffrey Crossick honoured that commitment.” “The beautiful sculpture by Karen Newman was well received by the guests. It is right that Noor has now been honoured for her extraordinary bravery during the Second World War. She worked as a radio operator in occupied France and was eventually captured and tortured by the Nazis. Despite this she remained silent until her execution at the age of 30.”
At Prime Minister’s Questions Valerie raised the issue of equal rights between adoptive parents and parents whose children are born to them. The Deputy Prime Minister responded on behalf of the Prime Minister, who was abroad. Valerie said: “My Ten-Minute Rule Bill in the previous Session called for equalising statutory rights for leave, pay and allowances between adoptive parents and parents whose children are born to them. That can be done by regulations, so will the Deputy Prime Minister ask a Minister or two to meet me to eliminate that unfairness?” The Deputy Prime Minister responded by paying tribute to Valerie on her campaign for equal rights for adoptive parents and indicating his support for Valerie’s proposals. He suggested that the Government would make an announcement on the issue shortly.
WOMEN ON THE BREADLINE Valerie said: “The Women on the Breadline event was organised jointly by the TUC and the Walsall Women’s Forum. I was pleased to speak with a group of women about politics. The women present also had the opportunity to take part in workshops on a variety of issues, seek legal and welfare advice and take part in training opportunities.”
QUESTIONS IN PARLIAMENT This month Valerie questioned Ministers on a range of topics. At Questions to the Leader of the House, Valerie asked why the West Midlands Ambulance Service has had to rely on assistance from St John’s Ambulance and what can be done to have a Pelican Crossing installed on Darlaston Road. The Leader of the House said he would ask his Ministerial colleagues to look at these matters. During a Statement on Health, Valerie asked whether NHS underspends would be retained or returned to the Treasury. The Secretary of State responded that the Government aims to avoid NHS underspends. LIFESAVING SKILLS As part of a Backbench Business Debate, Valerie spoke on the importance of educating children on life-saving skills in schools. Valerie said: “It is crucial that life saving skills are taught in schools. Knowledge of just a few crucial tech- niques can be the difference be- tween life and death for someone suffering cardiac arrest or seriously injured in an accident. I want the Government to make lifesaving skills part of the school curriculum.”
BRAINNAV LAUNCH The West Midlands Launch of the BrainNav online tool for people with brain injuries and their families was attended by Valerie. To visit BrainNav, Valerie said: “BrainNav shows that organisations with a range of expertise can come together and develop services that can improve people’s lives significantly.”
NEW ART GALLERY SUNDAY SUCCESS Valerie said: “I am delighted that the return of Sunday openings has boosted the New Art Gallery’s visitor numbers by 1,400 in a month and that the Gallery expects this figure to reach 20,000 in a year.” “This is exactly what I and the people of Walsall wanted. I made several representations to Walsall MBC, collected an online e-petition and raised the matter with Culture Minister, Ed Vaizey MP. I am pleased that so many families are visiting the Gallery.”
NOOR INAYAT KHAN This month Valerie attended the unveiling by the Princess Royal of a memorial to Noor Inayat Khan. Valerie said: “I became involved in this project when I was elected in 2010. I tabled Early Day Motion 109 which received cross party support. I then wrote to the Vice-Chancellor at the University of London, of which I am an alumna, to request permission for a commemorative memorial to be placed in Gordon Square near to Noor’s London home. Vice-Chancellor Graeme Davies agreed and after his retirement Vice-Chancellor Geoffrey Crossick honoured that commitment.” “The beautiful sculpture by Karen Newman was well received by the guests. It is right that Noor has now been honoured for her extraordinary bravery during the Second World War. She worked as a radio operator in occupied France and was eventually captured and tortured by the Nazis. Despite this she remained silent until her execution at the age of 30.”
Friday, November 9, 2012
September /October News from your MP
WALSALL MYPLACE CENTRE
Valerie visited the Walsall MyPlace youth centre in Palfrey and was given a tour of the Centre by Director Ian Cruise – Taylor.
Valerie said: "The Walsall MyPlace youth centre in Palfrey is a fantastic resource. MyPlace offers young people a variety of activities to take part in during their spare time as well as a wide range of advice services delivered by a number of different public and private sector providers. I saw students taking advantage of this who felt they had a real stake in it. They were involved in the design too."
September/ October 2012
WE ARE WALSALL
In September Valerie spoke at the We Are Walsall event at Gallery Square in the Town Centre. The event was organised to oppose an organisation that had come to Walsall with the aim of promoting division in society.
Valerie said: "There is no place in Walsall for people who promote racist views. Our diverse commu-nities have been living together harmoniously for many decades and will not allow themselves to be driven apart by the actions of an extremist minority."
ABLEWELL STREET PARKING CHARGES
Following an 18 month campaign against the charges, Valerie welcomed news that Walsall MBC is to abolish charges for on-street parking on Ablewell Street and five other town cen-tre streets.
Valerie said: "Shortly after the charges were introduced, I was contacted by traders from Ablewell Street who were concerned about the drop in passing trade. Over the past 18 months I have made several representations to Walsall MBC, presented an 800 name peti-tion to Parliament and raised the matter during a debate in the House of Commons. It is a pity that local businesses have had to endure an unnecessary drop in trade over the past 18 months and that the charges are not being removed from every street. I will continue to push for the charges to be dropped in every town centre street and for a proper review."
BADGER CULL
Valerie voted for the Motion to stop the planned Badger Cull. It was carried by 147 to 28.
Valerie said: "The motion called on the Government to stop the planned cull. The Government has only announced a postpone-ment of the cull until next year."
Valerie raised the proposed changes to the planning rules, which were announced by the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, in a Pre-Conference Adjournment Debate.
Valerie said: "The Secretary of State’s statement should have given us clarity, not ambiguity. Planning inspectors will decide on applica-tions, instead of the local authority. The problem is not the speed with which planning officers have to deal with applications, but the lack of properly qualified staff. Cuts are affecting the number of staff who can make considered decisions on planning issues. The proposals to in-crease the limit on the size of extensions that can be built without Planning Permission are wrong and have been rightly rejected by a number of councils. The Government’s plans serve only to take power out of the hands of local people."
EU BUDGET
On Wednesday 31 October, Valerie voted for an amendment calling for a real terms cut in the EU budget between 2014 and 2020. The Government was defeated by 13 Votes.
Valerie said: "At a time when the cost of living is rising quickly for tax payers in the UK and sig-nificant cuts are being made to vital public services, it cannot be right to protect the EU budget.
This would be a perverse move when governments across Europe are making big cuts in public spending."
"It is important that Britain is an active member of the EU, which is crucial for much of our trade and many of our jobs. But when EU plans are wrong for Britain, we must say so. The EU must-look at savings which can be made through measures such as the reform of the CAP."
SUNDAY TRADING
Valerie asked the Leader of the House of Com-mons for clarification of the Government’s posi-tion on Sunday trading.
Valerie said: "Sunday trading regulations help support small businesses by allowing them to open for longer than the larger stores over the weekend. The Gov-ernment has been sending confusing messages about their plans to extend the relaxation of Sunday trading restrictions beyond the end of the Olympic and Paralympic games."
"The Leader of the House said the Government was constantly looking at the issue, but had not changed its plans."
In September, the House of Commons Health Select Com-mittee, of which Valerie is a member, heard evidence from the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The CQC is responsible for regulating all health and adult social care providers in England.
Valerie said: "Inspections are crucial to maintaining public confidence in healthcare practi-tioners and ensuring that abuse, such as that found at Winterbourne View cannot go undetected. I asked about the staffing levels as this was one of the Health Select Commit-tee’s concerns. The CQC told me that there were 194 in-spector vacancies in April of this year. It takes 8 weeks to train an inspector and so it will take some time for all the vacancies to be filled. The CQC must urgently address this problem to ensure inspections are undertaken."
RETROSPECTIVE PRE-PAYMENT
ELECTRICITY CHARGES
Valerie said: "I was contacted by a constituent who had re-ceived a retrospective electricity bill from Npower despite having a pre-payment electricity meter. I am aware that this is not an isolated incident. I wrote to Npower and Ofgem to ask why retrospective bills are sent to pre-payment custom-ers. Npower’s response does not give a clear explanation.
If you receive such a Bill, I would advise you to contact Npower to challenge it
VALERIE BACKS ACTION ON HEARING LOSS’ "LOCATE & RATE" SERVICE
." Valerie is backing Action on Hearing Loss’s ‘locate and rate’ web-site which helps her constituents to find local hearing services best suited to their individual needs.
‘Locate and rate’ enables people with hearing loss to comment on and rate their local NHS and private hearing services in terms of service accessibility, the clarity of explanations about hearing test results, and the usefulness of advice about communication sup-port services. To access "Locate & Rate", please click here.
VALERIE VISITS ACORNS CHILDREN’S HOSPICE
Valerie said: "The Acorns Children’s Hospice offers a network of care for life limited and life threatened children and young people, and their families. It is the only organisation that provides this level of care to vulnerable youngsters whilst offering a range of support services to the whole family to help them cope at every stage of their child’s life and beyond into bereavement. The hospice is well adapted to suit the needs of these children including a special sensory stimulation room and state of the art hoist in every bedroom. The respite care it offers for families is also a vital service."
Valerie visited the Acorns Children’s Hospice and met with the Chief Executive David Strudley and Head of Care, Anne Small.
"To donate to Acorns, please telephone 01564 82 5000 or visit http:www.acorns.org.uk."
EPILEPSEY12 NATIONAL AUDIT REPORT
Valerie spoke at the launch of the Epilepsy12 National Audit Report at the Royal College of Pae-diatrics and Child Health.
Valerie said: "This report is an excellent audit of the needs and services for children with epilepsy. The report sets out 12 specific steps that would be required to improve the quality of care. I sup-port the 12 recommendations proposed including that chil-dren must see a paediatrician with expertise in epilepsy and that an early initial, and timely ongoing assessments should be required. This is a helpful report and monitoring of the recommendations should now prompt further action for healthcare professionals."
RISING FOOD PRICES
At DEFRA Questions Valerie asked the Minister what discussions he had had with his colleagues in the Treasury and Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) about rising food prices.
Valerie said: "Families on incomes in the lowest one-fifth of the population have cut their consumption of fruit and vegetables by nearly a third in recent years, as the cost of food has increased by 12% in real terms according to Defra’s own statistics. This has led to one in five mums going without food to feed their children ac-cording to Netmums. The Minister said he would speak with col-leagues in the DWP to ensure all possible support is provided."
HEALTH QUESTIONS
At Health Questions Valerie asked the Secretary of State for Health if he would use the £4 billion surplus and the savings made in the NHS to lift pay restraints for lower-paid workers to increase morale and boost productivity.
Valerie said: "At a time when the cost of living is rising quickly many front line health staff on the lowest incomes are struggling to get by. These staff are vital to our NHS and it is crucial that they are paid enough to live on."
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