MP PUTS HOSPITAL BOSSES ON RED ALERT

Aidan yesterday questioned at length the Chief Executive of Mid-Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust, Lyn Hill-Tout, over the further delay to the re-opening of Stafford Hospital's A&E Department. In an hour long telephone conversation, Mr Burley questioned the reasons for the delay, what plans are in place to mitigate those risks going forward, and whether there was an alternative agenda to never re-open A&E at all.

The new re-opening date is now set for October, after the hospital said that it needed to be sure that the Department could sustain the reopening and avoid any problems once open. This latest delay comes after the re-opening date had originally been set for March, and then subsequently delayed to June.

Mr Burley said afterwards: "I am deeply disappointed and extremely frustrated by this further delay – the third delay in just six months. If the A&E Department now opens in October, as planned, it will have been closed for at least 10 months – an unacceptable length of time for my constituents to be without this vital local service, almost a year with no local 24 hour A&E.

"I understand from the Chief Executive that patient safety was the reason for the last minute decision not to re-open in June, however I would question why the Clinical Director and his team did not inform the Trust Board earlier and left it to the last minute to pull the rug from under their feet. It appears that a bad case of 'last night nerves' got the better of the clinicians, who should have been mitigating risks such as too few middle grade Doctors running the Department after 10pm. It will not be acceptable for them to suddenly tell the Board at the last minute that they have cold feet in October – resilience for the Department must be planned in over the coming five months.

"Whilst I pay tribute to those doctors and nurses on the hospital floor who have worked hard to meet the stringent criteria for re-opening, the Trust Board are now on red alert. If the Hospital does not open in October, or earlier, the Governors should sack the Board who have had long enough to solve this problem. It should not take more than a year to make an A&E Department fit for purpose and clinically safe – especially when they have received additional funds and assistance with staffing resources during the last two years."

MP PROVIDES WARD SUPPORT AT HOSPITAL

Aidan volunteered at Cannock Chase Hospital on Friday 11 May, supporting the valuable work done by Age UK Ward Support Volunteers. This is the second time the MP has volunteered at the Hospital since his election, previously helping out with 'The League of Friends' trolley service at the Hospital.

Aidan worked under the instruction of Elizabeth Gooch, volunteer coordinator, along with a number of other ward volunteers providing services including hair washing, hand massages and serving lunch to elderly patients at the hospital.

The Ward Support service, provided by Age UK South Staffordshire, currently operates at both Cannock and Stafford Hospitals, and offers a wide range of support services targeted at the problems faced by older patients at the Hospitals. More than 60 volunteers currently work at Cannock, and one of their main responsibilities is to assist with serving meals and feeding older patients. As well as assisting with all three meals each day, ward support volunteers offer a hair washing service, hand massages, and can assist patients with other tasks as well as simply providing company and support. They are also extending the service to provide support to patients after they are discharged from hospital, when they return home.

The project, funded by the Mid-Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust, is led by a trained team of staff and volunteers who provide caring services to complement that provided by hospital staff. Aidan had agreed to volunteer with the service after being approached by volunteer and constituent Shelagh Brindley who told him about the valuable work done by the volunteers.

Commenting Aidan said: "I was surprised to learn how many older patients arriving on the wards are suffering from some form of malnutrition. It is obvious that a good diet and three meals a day will help to speed up recovery for these patients, and the support provided by the volunteers makes a world of difference to ensuring this happens. The volunteers have the time to sit with patients while they eat, and help them with any difficulties. It is truly wonderful work that they do."

CANNOCK CHASE MP AND LOCAL CHARITY MEET TRANSPORT MINISTER TO CALL FOR CHANGES

Transport Minister Norman Baker met Cannock Chase MP Aidan Burley and representatives of Staffordshire-based children's disability charity Newlife Foundation earlier today (Thursday) to discuss possible changes to the law which could potentially benefit thousands of vulnerable children across the UK.

Earlier this year, Mr Baker responded positively to a Newlife campaign to increase the weight limit of Class Two wheelchairs – from 113kgs to 150kgs – making some of the most hi-tech mobility aids legally available to the under-14s for the first time.

This latest meeting, arranged by Aidan, follows on from his 10-Minute Rule Motion in the House of Commons in March, calling for wider-reaching changes. The motion received cross-party support; however it now relies on being taken up by the Government to progress.

Aidan has been a staunch supporter of the on-going Newlife campaign, which calls for a further change to the Road Traffic Act 1988 to increase the weight limit for Class Three wheelchairs to 200kgs, from 150kgs, and remove the existing minimum age restriction of 14.

Following the meeting at the Department for Transport, Newlife co-founder and CEO Sheila Brown, OBE, said: "We are delighted that the Minister agreed to meet us to discuss what we consider to be an outdated law that is hampering the comfort, development and opportunities of thousands of young people across the UK.

"We look forward to working with the officials who are considering a more sophisticated approach to wheelchair use and classification. It is good to know that Newlife's campaign is now fully on the top table and that, together with the Department for Transport, we can continue to improve the lives of severely disabled children."

Aidan said: "I was reassured by the Minister that these issues are being looked at closely and that he has taken into consideration the arbitrary limits of weight and age. It is about time these issues were resolved and I was grateful for the opportunity to press the Minister on Newlife's campaign."

Sheila Brown added: "Aidan has moved forward the fight to ensure disabled children are given the best chance of getting the right equipment. We are very grateful for his commitment and fortunate to have engaged his support on this important issue."

When Aidan introduced his 10-Minute Rule Motion, supporting the Newlife campaign, he paid tribute to the charity for its nurse services, provision of more than £7million of essential disability equipment and £12million funding of groundbreaking medical research. He highlighted how charities like Newlife are restricted from providing the most advanced equipment by the Road Traffic Act and the belief that statutory providers such as primary care trusts use the law to avoid supplying the costly equipment, despite properly assessed needs.

Speaking in the House of Commons, he said: "I am not clear why the Department stopped short of amending provisions for Class Three wheelchairs, and only increased the weight of Class Two to match that of Class Three. Such an approach is illogical. The weight restrictions were devised more than 20 years ago, when wheelchairs were still called 'invalid carriages' and were more primitive compared to the designs available today. Modern designs provide for a 'sit to stand or lie' facility and have longer battery life. They also provide for wider, more robust tyres that allow users to travel on difficult, uneven terrain. That is why they are heavier; they can do more things and help disabled people more. Nowadays it is not the equipment that is holding people back, but the outdated legislation."

Statement on Stafford A&E

Aidan said: "I am deeply disappointed by the Mid Staffs Trust board's decision to delay the night time re-opening of Stafford Accident and Emergency Department for a second time, pushing the planned opening back to October 2012. This will be almost a year since we were told the A&E would be closing for a three-month period, a decision which many of us felt at the time was a step too far.

"Only six weeks ago we were told that the A&E department was all set to open in June, and I am sure local people will, like me, be surprised to learn that this timeframe has changed. It gives rise to some very serious questions about who made the decision to announce that the re-opening was on schedule, what setbacks have happened in the last six weeks, and whether the Board is really in control of this situation.

"The Trust has said that this new extra delay will allow new staff to settle in and enable significant improvements already made to become embedded. It is important to stress that while I do not object to this intention; I do have serious concerns about the manner in which this situation appears to have been handled since day one.

"I will be speaking to Trust Chief Executive Lyn Hill-Tout as soon as possible to communicate my dismay and impress upon her my concerns and those of my constituents' at this decision. Stafford A&E must reopen as soon as possible, and the Trust needs to be honest with us about when that will be."

MP AND RESIDENTS CELEBRATE AS THREAT OF INCINERATOR-BLIGHT IS REMOVED FROM CANNOCK HOMES

Aidan Burley has welcomed news that Biffa Ltd will not appeal a planning decision to refuse permission for a huge new incinerator in Cannock.

The application, which was refused last year after some controversy, would have seen Biffa construct a waste incinerator on land adjacent to the Kingswood Lakeside/Poplars landfill and recycling depot.

Aidan Burley, a leading opponent of the incinerator plans, has now confirmed that the waste company will not appeal this decision to the national Planning Inspectorate, as the time-limit for doing so has now passed.

Having initially voted narrowly in favour of the incinerator, Staffordshire County Council was forced into a fresh hearing for the application, following pressure from Mr Burley and outraged local residents. In light of new legal advice, the Council ruled that the company's offer of a 'community fund' for local projects was not closely related to the development, and could not be taken into consideration by councillors deciding on the scheme. Councillors subsequently voted against the incinerator, after Aidan wrote to highlight fears locally that public health would be put at risk.

Commenting, Aidan said: "I am delighted that all the hard work put in by myself and local councillors, especially John Bernard and Pat Corfield has resulted in this outcome. A new incinerator would have worsened air quality problems in neighbourhoods already blighted by the busy A5 and M6-toll corridor. It would have sent out the wrong message that burning more waste is okay, and burning it on our doorstep is acceptable.

"I would like to thank everyone who has made this possible. Despite what is often said, this shows that when local residents and local politicians work together to present a strong case, the planning system can deliver a result that is sensible and beneficial for an area."

BURLEY BACKS CALLS FOR DRINKS COMPANIES TO REDUCE SUGAR LEVELS TO COMBAT DIABETES AND OBESITY

Manufacturers of soft drinks will be required to reduce the amount of sugar in their products, and put a proportion of their profits back into diabetes prevention research, under new rules proposed by Keith Vaz MP in a 10-minute rule bill supported by Cannock Chase MP Aidan Burley. The bill, which has cross-party support, came before MPs after Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday (18th April) and was accepted unopposed. Its second reading will take place on 27th April 2012.

The Bill's call for the government to intervene in the growing obesity and diabetes epidemics follows Denmark's introduction of a 'fat tax' in October last year, and the French Constitutional Council's approval of a 'soda tax' in December.

The link between obesity and the development of type 2 diabetes is firmly established. 80% of type 2 diabetes cases could be prevented by a healthy lifestyle.

Excessive sugar consumption is an important factor in such cases, and those seeking to lower the amount of sugar and fat in their diet often overlook the contribution soft drinks make to their calorie intake. A 330ml can of soft drink may contain up to 8 teaspoons of sugar.

Commenting Keith Vaz MP said: "I was delighted to have the support of Aidan Burley for my 10 Minute Rule Bill. It is measures like this that will help us beat these health crises."

Aidan added: "I am very concerned by the rising levels of obesity and diabetes in the UK.

"We need to send a strong message about the importance of a healthy diet and the dangers of excessive sugar consumption. This bill is a good starting point."

COMMONS AND LORDS EDGED OUT BY CHASE COALITION IN TWICKENHAM CHARITY MATCH

The Commons & Lords rugby team's annual charity match at Twickenham Stadium raised more than £11,000 for first-time beneficiaries, the RFU Injured Players Foundation, this afternoon (Tuesday April 17).

A combined team from Cannock and Rugeley rugby clubs in Staffordshire travelled south to the Home of England Rugby to take on the Commons & Lords RUFC, made up of MPs, Peers, parliamentary staff and guests.

Aidan, scrum half for the Commons & Lords, had organised the parliamentary team's opponents, who dubbed themselves 'Chase Coalition' and ran out 13-7 winners, scoring two tries to one.

John Owen, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the RFU Injured Players Foundation, and RFU Past President, was present to receive the £10,900 proceeds that included each Cannock and Rugeley player contributing £300 for their chance to play on the hallowed turf, a donation by the Commons & Lords and more than £600 from a post-match auction of memorabilia.

Having made a 5.30am departure to get to London for the match, the Staffordshire teams' day was topped off by a visit to Downing Street for a photocall outside No.10 and a look inside the Cabinet Room.

The RFU Injured Players Foundation (IPF) supports people who sustain a catastrophic injury while playing rugby. The charity, which has more than 130 clients currently, provides help and support for players and their families, in the early months after the injury and in the long term.

"One of the first things I did on getting elected as an MP in 2010 was accept an invitation to the Rugeley RUFC annual dinner, and I was soon persuaded to play a game for their second XV," said Burley, who was joined in the Commons & Lords team by Lord Addington, and MPs, Mike Penning and Stephen Mosley.

"It was a privilege to be asked to organise an opposition for this charity match and I thought that my two local clubs, normally arch rivals, would be perfect."

Played in four quarters, the match began with a try for the Chase Coalition by Dave Gregory, but the Commons & Lords led when Mike Penning, MP for Hemel Hempstead and Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Transport, caught a lineout and the ball was moved expertly for Jug Johal to score a try converted by James Faiers.

A penalty goal squeezed over by Tom Impallomeni with eight minutes remaining edged the combined Cannock and Rugeley side back in front, and delighted prop Tommy Wilson celebrated a once-in-a-lifetime try at Twickenham from a rolling maul to finish the scoring.

John Owen said: "Fund-raising days like this are so important to enable us to care for the clients of the RFU Injured Players Foundation.

"We thank Aidan Burley, MP, and all the Commons & Lords team who play half a dozen matches a year, for returning to Twickenham for this annual fixture.

"It was also a marvellous effort by Cannock and Rugeley, both to raise the money they did and to make the journey to Twickenham, and I wonder if perhaps we should rename them the Staffordshire Barbarians."

Two teams of Year 7 schoolchildren from Fair Oak Academy and Hagley Park Academy were part of the fun, playing a curtain-raiser match on the Twickenham pitch.

Martin de Ridder, Rugeley RUFC director of rugby, said: "This has been a fantastic day for everyone involved.

"Catastrophic injury in rugby is very rare, thankfully, but it is great to know that if the worst does happen there is an organisation like the IPF there to help."

Man of the match Penning was presented with a bottle of champagne by Eliott Ray of the RFU Wine Club.

RUGELEY AND CANNOCK RUGBY CLUBS PLOT TO BEAT MPs

The captains of Rugeley and Cannock met up this week to plan their strategy ahead of their match against the combined House of Commons and House of Lords Team at Twickenham next Tuesday.

Just last week the two captains Barrie Newton and Stuart Cheshire scrummed down against each other when Cannock edged a close match 24-17. The rivalries will be put to one side when they join forces to form the Chase Coalition XV.

Chase MP Aidan Burley who has organised the game was on hand to oversee the meeting although he was left out of the tactical discussion as he will be playing for the opposition during the match.

Rugeley Captain Barrie Newton said: "I must admit it will feel strange scrumming down with Cannock who has been our local rivals for a number of years. However, it is a once in a lifetime opportunity to play at Twickenham and any rivalry will be put to one side as we hope to represent the Chase area and beat the MPs".

Cannock skipper Stuart Cheshire added: "We are taking a coach load of players & spectators down for the day who are all looking forward to the opportunity of visiting Twickenham & playing on the hallowed turf. We are very grateful for Aidan for sorting this out for us as well as a trip to Downing Street, which promises to be very interesting."

Aidan Burley MP said: "Unfortunately Stuart and Barrie were keeping their cards close to their chests so I was unable to gain any tactical information to benefit my own team. I am delighted my constituents including two local schools (Hagley Park and Fair Oak) will get the opportunity to play at Twickenham".

The match is raising money for the RFU's Injured Players Foundation which is a charity which supports injured rugby players.

MP BACKS TAX CUT FOR FAMILIES AND PENSIONERS IN CANNOCK CHASE

Aidan has welcomed figures this week which reveal that residents in Cannock Chase will see a real terms cut in their council tax bills.

After council tax spiraled out of control under Labour, Conservatives in Government repeated their council tax freeze initiative for a second year running.

Commentating, Aidan said: "Under Labour, council tax in Cannock Chase rose by 122% hitting local people and these bills would have kept rising if they had clung onto power.

"In contrast over the last two years with Conservatives in Government council tax has been frozen providing welcome relief to local residents.

"I am sure that local people in Cannock Chase are thankful that the council tax freeze offered by Conservatives in Government has had the effect of cutting their bills in real terms. This will be a welcome saving for hardworking families and pensioners across the district."

Statement on Stafford Accident and Emergency Department

Aidan Burley MP has released the following statement in response to the Mid Staffs Trust Board meeting of 29 March 2012.

"I welcome the announcement today by Mid Staffs NHS Trust which recommends a re-opening date of 11th June for Stafford Accident and Emergency Department. It is now vital the Trust do everything they can to ensure that this deadline is kept to. My constituents in Cannock Chase have already gone for too long without a proper, local 24-hour emergency healthcare service, and I am glad that a resolution is within reach.

"Going forward, I will be pushing hard to see the plans they have for monitoring performance post opening, in order to ensure that the Hospital does not simply revert back to its old ways. It is also vital that Mid Staffs Trust set out clearly what steps are being taken to ensure the correct standards are maintained and what procedures they have in place to provide an early warning of potential difficulties in the future.

"We all know that the previous crisis was caused because people who knew of the problems were too scared to speak out under the old management regime. It is therefore vital to find out what systems the current management team are introducing to ensure that in the future staff can raise their concerns without fear of retribution."

MP BACKS INVALUABLE SUPPORT SERVICE FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME

Aidan has paid tribute to the work of Victim Support during a recent visit to Victim Support Staffordshire.

The visit comes just a few weeks after the Government launched a consultation on reform of victim support services entitled 'Getting it right for victims and witnesses'. This sets out the Government's proposed approach to ensuring that victims and witnesses get the support they need, both to overcome the consequences of crime and to participate fully in the criminal justice process. It also sets out the commitment to ensuring that offenders take greater responsibility for repairing the harm they have caused, through a combination of financial reparation and restorative justice.

During his visit Aidan met with Divisional Manager Melina Hancox where he was told of the support provided by the charity. They also discussed the consultation document and what additional support Government should provide to both victims and witnesses of crime.

Aidan was then introduced to an Anti-social behavior worker and met many of the volunteers who support victims and witnesses of crime through the court process.

Commenting after the visit Aidan said: "I would like to pay tribute to Melina and the dedicated team of volunteers at Victim Support who provide such a valuable service to victims and witnesses of crime.

"Without their support the experience of court would be far more daunting and intimidating for many witnesses and victims. They do valuable work in helping victims of crime, rather than the offenders who are supported by the system.

"I was particularly pleased to discuss with Melina the government consultation and more importantly what more she thinks government should be doing to support charities such as Victim Support."

NATIONAL CHARITY WELCOMES MP'S CALL TO FURTHER HELP DISABLED CHILDREN

Leading UK children's disability charity Newlife Foundation has welcomed Cannock Chase MP Aidan Burley's Parliamentary support for its campaign to amend an outdated piece of "nonsensical legislation" which affects disabled teenagers throughout the UK.

Speaking in the House of Commons yesterday as he introduced a 10-minute Rule Motion, Aidan highlighted the plight of potentially thousands of disabled children who are currently denied access to the most appropriate wheelchairs due to existing weight and age restrictions.

Newlife – which is based in the MP's Cannock Chase constituency – has been at the forefront of a campaign for change.

Speaking in the House, Aidan paid tribute to Newlife for its nurse services, provision of more than £7million of essential disability equipment including wheelchairs and funding of groundbreaking medical research. He highlighted how charities like Newlife are restricted from providing the most advanced equipment by the 1988 Road Traffic Act and the belief that statutory providers such as primary care trusts use the law to avoid supplying the costly equipment, despite properly assessed needs.

He said: "Wheelchair providers - usually primary care trusts (PCTs) or local authorities - have found a loophole in current law to avoid having to fund high-specification powered wheelchairs to both adults and children who need them.

"PCTs are currently not balancing their books on the backs of the poor – but balancing them on the backs of the most disabled children, a situation I'm sure the whole House would find abhorrent in a country such as ours."

Aidan seeks to change the Road Traffic Act 1988 to increase the weight limit for the biggest, Class Three, wheelchairs from 150kg to 200kg and remove the minimum age limit of 14.

Aidan commended the commitment of Newlife's Interim Campaign Manager Sue Woodward, despite her being an opposition candidate when he gained the Cannock Chase seat.

There were no speakers against the proposal it and will have its second reading on Friday 27 April. Importantly Maria Miller, Minster for Disabled People, and Norman Baker, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport,were present to hear the proposal. Aidan acknowledged such bills rarely get on the statute books but he remains hopeful that the widespread support received will prompt ministers to act accordingly.

Newlife's co-founder and CEO Sheila Brown OBE said: "Aidan spoke passionately, with intelligence and great common sense in this 10-Minute Rule Motion. In raising this issue he has strategically moved forward the fight to ensure disabled children are given the best chance of getting the right equipment. We are very grateful for his commitment and fortunate to have engaged his support in this important issue."

Aidan's proposal comes hot on the heels of an amendment earlier this month which potentially opens up access to the most hi-tech Class Two wheelchairs to thousands of under-14s across the UK. The amendment came as a direct response to Newlife's dedicated campaign for change to raise the weight limit of Class Two wheelchairs to 150gs to allow wider provision.

The amendment will enable more disabled children to experience greater independence, with wheelchairs that have a wider range of functions including sit-to-stand, tilt-in-space and posture support. The additional weight allowance will mean statutory providers, Newlife and other charities will now be able to supply this equipment.

MPs who supported the motion are: Anne Begg (Aberdeen South), Stephen Gilbert (St Austell and Newquay), Keith Vaz (Leicester East), Stephen Lloyd (Eastbourne), Jeremy Lefroy (Stafford), John Glen (Salisbury), Karen Bradley (Staffordshire Moorlands), Priti Patel (Withan), David Morris (Morecombe and Lunesdale), Christopher Pincher (Tamworth) and Robert Buckland (South Swindon).

You can watch Aidan's speech below:

MP WELCOMES NEW STALKING LAWS

Aidan has welcomed new government action to tackle stalking. Commenting after the Prime Minister announced that the government would create two new criminal offences of stalking and stalking where there is a fear of violence, Aidan said: "Stalking is a terrible crime which can ruin lives. It breaks-up relationships, often forces the victims to move house and can make them feel as though they are being watched 24 hours a day.

"Tragically we know that stalking can sometimes lead to physical violence. By putting stalking on the statute books as a criminal offence the government is supporting victims and giving an extra weapon to our local police as they fight this heinous crime."

Home Secretary Theresa May MP said: "Stalking is an issue which affects many lives, often in devastating ways. That is why we are taking it seriously and introducing these new offences. Offenders need to know that they will be brought to justice for making others' lives a misery.

"We will do all we can to protect victims of stalking more effectively and to end this appalling crime."

BURLEY BACKS BUSINESS AS HE LOOKS BEHIND SCENES AT JCB

Aidan has reaffirmed his commitment to local business and the manufacturing sector across Staffordshire in a half day visit to the JCB Cab Systems factory in Rugeley.

This is one of a number of recent fact finding visits by the Cannock Chase MP to manufacturing and engineering firms across Cannock Chase to learn firsthand the challenges facing local employers and to listen to the views of local employees. Picture shows local workers (from left to right) John Smith, Chris Oakley and Tim Dutton with Aidan Burley MP.

Aidan was met at the factory by Director and General Manager Robert Owen and Operations Manager David Carver before being given a tour around all areas of the main building on-site, including the offices, old factory areas, new factory areas and assembly lines, and the research and development facility.

The plant, located at the Riverside estate in Rugeley, employs over 400 local people many of whom come from the Rugeley area and walk or cycle to work. The plant makes hundreds of different cabs for all different models of JCB, all of which are customised to order in one of the two assembly lines. Each cab is made to an individual specification, with the focus of creating the most ergonomic and comfortable environment for the operator, at the best value to the customer.

During his visit Aidan spoke with the management about some of the challenges facing JCB and also discussed how the company had responded to and dealt with the tough economic conditions. Aidan then spent a significant amount of time on the factory floor speaking with local employees about their roles and working at such a well-known company. He also took questions from the staff about tuition fees and even offered to support one of the employees who is involved in raising money for diabetes.

Commenting after his visit Aidan said: "It was a real honour to visit JCB Cab systems and I would like to thank Robert and his team for taking time out to show me around.

"I had some very useful discussions with the management about what more government can do to support them, in particular the ways in which we can encourage and support more young people to take qualifications in relevant mechanical and engineering skills to tackle the skills shortage in these important areas of the business.

"I was particularly pleased to get onto the factory floor to meet with the many local workers. There was a definite sense during my discussions that this is a company people are proud to work for with several staff even telling me they have their children enrolled at the local JCB academy!"

Robert Owen, Director and General Manager at JCB Cab Systems said: "Manufacturing is an important part of the local economy and Aidan's visit to JCB Cab Systems was an opportunity to show him exactly what we do here in Rugeley. Over 400 people are employed on this site in skilled jobs manufacturing cabs for a wide variety of JCB equipment. It's important for them to know that their local MP is taking a keen interest in what they do and backing manufacturing industry."

MP QUIZZED DURING SCHOOL VISIT

Aidan recently paid a visit to Hednesford Valley High School to meet with the pupils and staff.

Aidan was met on arrival by Head teacher Anita Rattan where he was given a tour of the school. After the tour, Aidan attended a special school assembly on the topic of 'singing' where he presented certificates to students with outstanding achievement before listening to an original song by the pupils. After the assembly Aidan held a Question and Answer session with Year 10 students about life as a MP.

The school, located at Stanley Road in Hednesford, is a generic secondary special catering for pupils between the ages of 11-19 with special educational needs.

Commenting Aidan said: "I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Hednesford Valley High and I'm grateful to Mrs Rattan for showing me around. This school is an important part of the local community providing specialist tailored teaching to its 130 local pupils. I particularly enjoyed the Q&A session where the children posed some very interesting questions about life as an MP."

Head teacher Mrs Rattan said: "It was fascinating for our students to learn about the work of our local MP and to have the opportunity to ask him questions. We really hope he enjoyed his time with us and look forward to welcoming him again soon"

Picture shows Aidan with Head teacher Anita Rattan and pupils from left to right- Steven Green, Bethany Kril, Amy Rose, Billy Baker and Ryan Harvey.

MP WELCOMES GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR 16 YEAR OLDS IN CANNOCK CHASE

Aidan has welcomed the launch of the second year of National Citizen Service.

National Citizen Service is a scheme for 16-year-olds first proposed by David Cameron in 2005 and now introduced by the Coalition government. It brings together 16-year-olds from different backgrounds in the summer after they have taken their GCSEs to work together and give something back to their communities. After three weeks of team-building and outdoors activities, participants spend 30 hours helping improve their communities.

There will be 30,000 places available on National Citizen Service this summer, including 210 in Staffordshire. By 2014 there will be 90,000 places available and it is our ambition that there will ultimately be places available for all 16-year-olds. Aidan has already written to all secondary schools in Cannock Chase urging them to encourage their students to get involved in the scheme.

Commenting Aidan said: "National Citizen Service is a fantastic idea and a great thing for young people to do.

"It is all about giving young people the chance to come together from different backgrounds, have new experiences, learn new skills, understand how to work as a team, and give something back to the community. It's also great news for the rest of us, as all young people taking part spend 30 hours making their community a better place.

"I am very pleased that there are 210 places on National Citizen Service for young people in Staffordshire and I hope that eventually all young people in Cannock Chase will be able to benefit."

MP BACKS FIRM’S GROWTH

Aidan recently visited Fuel Conservation Services Limited to meet with management and staff and hear about the firm's recent growth and plans for expansion in the future.

During his visit Aidan met with Managing Director Michael J Myatt and the rest of team to discuss their successful training programme and plans for the future.

FCS Ltd, based at Anglesey Business Park in Hednesford, was established in the early 1980's, to service the kiln, furnace, oven and dryer sections of industry. Manufacturing and installing low thermal mass linings.

They employ 30 local people, many of whom joined straight from local school Kingsmead often with little or no qualifications. The company specialise in offering internal training to all their staff at their own dedicated training school as well as a number of external training courses.

The company has already worked in overseas markets such as Bangladesh, Brazil, South Africa, Thailand, Russia and the USA with more than 10 of the young engineers having worked on international contacts.

Commenting Aidan said: "I really enjoyed my visit to FCS Ltd to meet with Mike and the team. As the local MP I am determined to visit as many local businesses as possible not only to get a greater understanding of the challenges facing local firms but more importantly finding out what we can do as a government to help these firms grow and prosper.

"I was particularly impressed to learn about the firms training programmes that enable its employees not only to learn key engineering skills necessary for their job but also wider life skills. I was also excited to hear about the firm's plans for growth and particularly pleased to learn that that they are looking to employ more local people over the coming years."

Mike Myatt MD of FCS said: "Aidan took great interest in the training and development of our young engineers, speaking individually to many of them. His visit gave everyone at the company a lift".

LOCAL MPs VISIT CANNOCK HOSPITAL

Aidan Burley, along with Jeremy Lefroy MP, visited Cannock Hospital last Friday 2nd March to meet with Mid Staffs Trust Chief Executive Lyn Hill-Tout and Chief Executive of the Staffordshire Cluster of PCTs Graham Urwin. The reason for the visit was to conduct a walk around the hospital and see fist hand the services being delivered and the patient experience. It was also an opportunity for Aidan and Jeremy to question the Trust about the future of services at both Cannock and Stafford and the temporary closure of Stafford A&E.

Aidan was shown around the Hospital by Mid Staffs Trust Chief Executive Lyn Hill-Tout who has recently committed to the future of the Hospital following a question by the Cannock MP at a recent public meeting, asking her to commit to a "two site solution" which would ensure the futures of both hospitals.

Both Aidan and Jeremy have been working closely over recent months to ensure that Mid Staffordshire Trust, which runs both Cannock and Stafford Hospitals, both re-opens Stafford Accident and Emergency Unit as soon as possible, and ensures that sufficient services are provided in Cannock to keep it viable.

Aidan's was pleased to learn that more services for Minor Injuries will now be operated at Cannock. Patients needing X rays and plastering for breaks or fractures will be able to get treatment at Cannock Chase Hospital's Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) from April, following an expansion of the current services provided. Cannock Hospital's Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) already provide treatment for sprains and strains, broken bones, wound infections, minor burns and scalds, minor eye injuries and insect or animal bites.

Commenting Aidan said: "This tour gave me the opportunity to witness some of the vital services the hospital offers first hand as well as enabling me to question Lyn on number of key issues raised by constituents surrounding the hospital, including ward closures and car parking.

"Cannock Hospital should be source of pride for the people of Cannock Chase and I am keen, as the MP, to ensure that the Hospital is fully utilised to ensure that it reaches its full potential. Its hydrotherapy pool and facilities are simply world class – and I urge all local people to ask their GP to refer them to Cannock Hospital, if appropriate, for their ailments. We need to bang the drum for Cannock hospital and the quality healthcare it provides on our doorstep."

MP WELCOMES CAPPED BENEFITS FOR FAMILIES WHO DON’T WORK

The Government's victory in passing the Welfare Reform Bill, ensuring that no family can get more in benefits than the average working family earns, has been welcomed by Aidan.

Under the reforms, the benefit payments that a household on out of work benefits will be capped at £26,000 per year to ensure that work always pays. Under Labour, households were able to receive up to £104,000 per year in Housing Benefit alone.

Labour have opposed this fair cap on benefits, voting to maintain a something for nothing culture whereby some families who don't work get thousands of pounds more in welfare handouts than the average working family earns.

Commenting Aidan said: "In Cannock Chase the average person would have to pay tax for 32 years to pay for one household to receive £104,000 in benefits a year, which could happen if Labour had their way.

"This benefit cap shows that Conservatives are the party of fairness, standing up for hard working taxpayers. By voting against it, Labour have once again shown they are the party of something for nothing."

Prime Minister David Cameron said: "Today marks an historic step in the biggest welfare revolution in over 60 years. This government has taken bold action to make work pay, while protecting the vulnerable. Past governments have talked about reform, while watching the benefits bill sky rocket and generations languish on the dole and dependency. This government is delivering it. Our new law will mark the end of the culture that said a life on benefits was an acceptable alternative to work."

MP WELCOMES MAJOR INVESTMENT TO REDUCE ROAD DELAYS

Aidan has welcomed a substantial investment by the Government to support Police Forces in efforts to reduce the length of time roads are closed after accidents.

Following a review carried out by the Department for Transport, the Government is providing £3.14 million to assist Police Forces across the country purchase specialist 3D laser scanners.

This announcement comes after pressure from motoring groups and Parliamentarians including the Cannock Chase MP who recently pressed the Government on the issue in a written Parliamentary Question.

Aidan has learned that Staffordshire and West Midlands Police Forces will be awarded £194,000 to invest in three 3D scanner units which will help police on the ground speed up accident investigation and reduce the length of time that roads need be closed following accidents.

The forces, which bid jointly for funding, are operationally working together on dealing with motorway incidents and will share the cutting edge scanners. They are due to be operational by the spring.

In response to Aidan's Parliamentary Question, the Government has also announced a joint initiative called CLEAR with the Emergency Services, Highway Agency and the Home Office to reduce the re-opening period of motorways following incidents.

Commenting Aidan said: "With the road network being the lifeblood of the UK's infrastructure it is vital we do all we can to ensure that we keep Britain's roads moving as freely as possible. I therefore very much welcome this major Government investment to help ease the disruption caused by traffic incidents and am particularly pleased that our two biggest local Police Forces have received funding for 3D scanners"

LOCAL MP GETS CRAFTY

Aidan recently spent the afternoon at Norton Canes Library with the Crafty Creations Group run by Friends of Norton Canes. The group meets every Friday to take part in craft work and is also a great way for local people to meet each week and chat in a relaxed environment.

Later in the afternoon Aidan was on hand to serve tea and coffee at an afternoon tea organised the Norton Canes Community Partnership which supports local people and groups and helps promote local events in the area.

Aidan then held a 90 minute Q&A session with local residents hosted by Norton Canes Community Partnership, during which a multitude of issues were discussed, including speed limits on local roads, the quality of teaching in local schools, Ofsted inspections and green belt development. Aidan was joined throughout the afternoon and at the Q&A session by local Norton Canes Councillor and Chairman of Cannock Chase District Council John Beddows and County Councillor John Rowley as well as local Police Community Support Officer Neil Griffiths.

Commenting Aidan said: "I was very pleased to be able to attend Norton Canes library for this crafts session and afternoon tea. A big thanks must go to Tracey Gould for organising the day – and for allowing me to make the tea and coffee, and most importantly of all, providing the biscuits!"

Tracey Gould, Community Development Officer at Norton Canes Community Partnership added: "Norton Canes Community Partnership was delighted that Aidan could attend our Afternoon Tea event at Norton Canes Library. Everyone enjoyed the discussions and was pleased that he volunteered to make the teas and coffees".

AIDAN WELCOMES SECRETARY OF STATE TO CANNOCK CHASE

Aidan recently welcomed Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith MP to Cannock Chase to speak with local charities and stakeholders.

During his visit the former Conservative Party leader met with representatives from the Newlife Foundation, Richmond Fellowship and the Cannock Branch of Pertemps People Development Group among others.

Commenting Aidan said: "I was delighted to welcome Iain to Cannock to speak with some key local stakeholders here in Cannock Chase. It's not every day a Secretary of State visits our town, so I took the opportunity to speak with him about the government's Welfare Reform programme and the need to press ahead with changes to the benefit system to ensure work always pays."

Newlife CEO Sheila Brown, OBE, said: "Newlife welcomed the invitation to meet the Minister and to discuss aspects of legislation that directly affect disabled children, in particular why we are campaigning for the Disability Living Allowance mobility component to be extended to the under-threes. We want families of very young disabled children to have the same opportunities to get out into their communities as anyone else."

"The meeting also gave us a platform to talk about what the charity does locally in relation to providing volunteering and job opportunities for disabled adults in the area."

MP BECOMES APPRENTICE FOR A DAY

As part of National Apprenticeship Week, South Staffordshire College helped Aidan get an insight into life as an Apprentice.

Aidan visited the College's Progress Centre to meet and speak to Painting & Decorating Apprentices, donning white overalls and trying his hand at some painting and decorating skills alongside apprentices, South Staffordshire College's Deputy Principal Mark Robertson and Lecturer Phil Bogacki.

Aidan said: "I am delighted to support National Apprenticeship Week 2012 which aims to highlight the advantages of employing and supporting apprentices in the workplace.

"I would like to pay tribute to South Staffordshire College and its Apprenticeship programme for their on-going commitment to securing careers for young people across Staffordshire. I witnessed just one part of this programme recently when I met with local apprentices and took part in a Painting & Decorating session at the Progress Centre in Cannock, and was thoroughly impressed.

"Apprenticeships are central to the Government's strategy to deliver growth and build a sustainable economy. They not only help and support people gain the skills they need to succeed and progress in their careers but also help employers to build a workforce with the motivation and expertise they need to compete globally. "

MP JOINS FIGHT AGAINST “INEFFICIENT AND INTERMITTENT” ONSHORE WIND TURBINES

Aidan has joined with 105 other MPs from the four largest political parties represented in the House of Commons and written to the Prime Minister urging a reduction in the amount of subsidy given to onshore wind.

The joint letter also signed by fellow Staffordshire MPs Jeremy Lefroy, Chris Pincher, Bill Cash, Andrew Griffiths and Karen Bradley, asks for amendments to be made to the National Planning Policy Framework to help protect the rural landscape and heritage sites across the country.

It also asks for the Planning Inspectorate to be told that these factors, as well as the views of local residents, to been given more weight in their decisions to counter-balance recent decisions which have given more weight to regional, national and European renewable energy targets.

Commenting Aidan said: "I'm delighted to be part of this campaign. Not only is onshore wind production inefficient and intermittent, it also increases the price of energy bills to every home and business in Cannock Chase."

"I am keen to see the amount of money available in subsidy for onshore wind reduced and this saving spread across other renewable energy types and also spent on local energy efficiency measures."

"It is also important that the new planning regime the Government is introducing ensures that local peoples' views are taken fully into account and that the system recognises the importance of the beautiful countryside and heritage assets we have."

MP WELCOMES GOVERNMENT FUNDING FOR MORE HOMES IN CANNOCK CHASE

Aidan has welcomed additional Government funding to build more affordable homes in Cannock Chase. Through the New Homes Bonus, Cannock Chase District Council has been allocated £584,178 over the next two years to build much-needed housing in the local area.

The New Homes Bonus is a multi-billion pound programme that rewards communities when they accept more house building in their area. The Bonus includes an extra reward for building new affordable homes, and for getting long-term empty homes back into use.

Building on the flagship Housing Strategy, the Government has also unveiled a range of measures to help first time buyers onto the housing ladder, provide support for millions who have been left languishing on social housing waiting lists and get construction on the move.

Commenting Aidan said: "Labour led Britain into a housing crisis - the number of affordable homes fell, waiting lists almost doubled and first-time buyer numbers collapsed to their lowest level for a generation.

"Housebuilding is already up a quarter under the Coalition Government, but there is more to do.

"I am delighted to welcome this funding for new homes in Cannock Chase. The Government's actions will help local people onto the housing ladder, provide more affordable housing and create local jobs".

MP CYCLES TOUR DE NOCK

Aidan was among over 250 riders who braved the freezing temperatures on Sunday to take part in the Tour de Nock Charity bike ride which, for the second year running, raised money for local charity The Hibbs Lupus Trust.

Beginning at Hayes Green Community Centre, the MP rode 45 miles through the Chase and Staffordshire, at one point even entering the neighbouring county of South Derbyshire!

Aidan, who was equipped for the event with a racing bike and cycle gear from Mammoth Lifestyle and Fitness (The Green, Stafford ST17 0UR), was joined by Ian Kendrick, Bar Manager of the Cannock Conservative Club. Together they have so far managed to raise over £350.

The Tour, now in its third year and open to all, was sponsored by Cycle Shack Events and is estimated to have raised over £1300 for The Hibbs Lupus Trust, which provides support for those affected by lupus and helps raise awareness of the condition. It is run entirely by voluntary trustees, friends & supporters of the charity and so relies heavily on the support of the general public.

Commenting Aidan said: "I'm thrilled to have been able to take part in this year's Tour de Nock cycle ride in aid of The Hibbs Lupus Trust; a great local charity. I would like to pay tribute to all of the riders and spectators who braved the cold to take part in this fantastic event.

"I had initially only intended to ride the 15 mile route, however having got caught up in the excitement of the day, I ended up riding the 40 mile course – which actually turned out to be 45 miles! A decision my muscles still haven't forgiven me for! "

Aidan and Ian will be presenting the money they raised to the Hibbs Lupus Trust in the next few weeks.

MP BACKS GOVERNMENT‘S TOUGH PENALTIES FOR METAL THEFT

Aidan has welcomed a recent announcement by the Home Secretary, Theresa May MP who has said that cash payments for scrap metal will be banned and penalties increased, as the Government steps up its action against metal theft.

In a statement to Parliament the Home Secretary said the Government would:

• Create a new criminal offence to prohibit cash payments when purchasing scrap metal
• Introduce unlimited penalties on those who break the law.

In November last year, the Government announced that a dedicated metal theft taskforce would be established. These changes are part of a wider plan to tackle all stages in the illegal trading of stolen scrap metal and further measures to crack down on rogue dealers will soon be outlined.

This new crackdown by the Government comes following recent figures showing that levels of metal theft from churches in Cannock Chase and Lichfield are some of the highest in the country.

Commenting Aidan said: "People across Cannock Chase are disgusted by metal thieves and the criminals who deal in stolen metal. This is a despicable and cowardly crime that strikes at the very heart of our communities.

"It is vital that we do all can to protect business, the public and our national heritage from metal theft and so I'm pleased that the Government has taken tough action and is stopping cash payments and introducing tough penalties to clamp down on the illegal metal trade"

AIDAN BURLEY MP: SECURING THE FUTURE OF OUR POST OFFICES IN CANNOCK CHASE

Aidan has welcomed the news of a 10-year deal between Royal Mail and the Post Office, securing the future of services without resorting to the failed closures programme which dominated Labour's time in government.

The deal follows the Government's other measures to protect Post Office services including additional funding, new local and national contracts, a successful piloting scheme to transform many local post offices and improvements in the services offered.

Commenting, Aidan said: "In opposition I campaigned tirelessly to overturn Labour's cuts to our Post Offices here in Cannock Chase and across the country, which saw them close over 6,500 in a decade. The Government's announcement means the future of the Post Office is secured guaranteeing this valuable service for millions of people"

STATEMENT ON STAFFORD HOSPITAL A&E

In response to the news that Stafford Hospital Accident and Emergency Department will not fully re-open until May 2012 at the earliest.

Aidan Burley MP said: "This announcement by Mid Staffs Trust is very disappointing and confirms my original fear that three months was a hopelessly optimistic time scale to solve the problems of Stafford A&E Department

"Local people will understandably feel let down by this further delay, which in itself was given "only a 75%" chance of being successful by Lyn Hill-Tout at the public meeting in Cannock last night.

"Looking longer term, I believe there needs to be a more permanent solution to the situation at Mid Staffs which may involve closer collaboration with another Trust.

"In the meantime, I will continue to work with the Trust to ensure the Hospital's A&E department is fully opened as soon as possible."

MP SUPPORTS THRIVING LOCAL BUSINESS

Aidan has paid tribute to what he has called a "truly inspiring" local firm during a recent visit.

Last week Aidan attended Mailcoms Ltd, an independent, Royal Mail-approved franking machine supplier and maintainer, based in Cannock - the only one of its kind between Birmingham and Manchester.

The firm, which employs 12 local people, has just invested nearly £500,000 in new premises for the business with no help from grants or outside organisations. Aidan was on hand to help celebrate the opening of the new premises.

After the opening, Aidan was shown around by Managing Director Des McManus, who had originally set up the business with his wife from their Cannock home in 2006. Since then, the firm have gone on to turn over in excess of £1 million pounds a year and are now the largest online retailer in the UK of franking machine supplies.

Mailcoms Ltd will shortly become the first company in the UK to develop the technology and equipment to offer Franking Ink cartridge recycling, remanufacturing and refilling approved by Royal Mail.

During the visit Aidan was also introduced to some of the firm's newest members of staff who, until recently, were unemployed. The company are now advertising for two more positions in light of the new capacity with more positions planned for later this year.

Commenting after the visit Aidan said: "It was a genuine honour to be asked to attend the opening of the new premises for Mailcoms Ltd, a company which is clearly thriving.

"It was clear to me throughout the visit the dedication and passion all the employees bring to the business, and their strong desire to make it a success. I have no doubt that it will continue to go from strength to strength, as evidenced by its truly inspiring journey over the past five years, having started out of a converted garage and now working from brand new bespoke new premises in Heritage Park"

"It is small business entrepreneurs such as Des McManus who will grow our economy back to strength and so it is vital that as a government we do everything we can to support them."

Managing Director of Mailcoms Ltd, Des McManus added: "I'd like to thank Aidan for his support and genuine interest in Mailcoms and our story so far.

"Small private sector business's are essential to the economic recovery and Aidan very much showed his support and appreciation for what we had achieved by way of growth and local job creation. Aidan's interest in Mailcoms further demonstrates his tireless work for both private and the public sector for Cannock Chase"

AIDAN HIGHLIGHTS CASE OF ABDUCTED CANNOCK CHASE CHILD AT PRIME MINISTER’S QUESTIONS

Speaking at Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday, Cannock Chase MP Aidan Burley raised the horrific case of constituent Jobe Felton who was kidnapped from his home in Norton Canes and taken to Thailand by his mother in March 2010.

Six months later his father, Sean Felton, finally tracked Jobe down in a remote village and found his son in a terrible condition. Jobe couldn't speak, had broken teeth and bruises all over his body. Jobe's father believes that had he not got Jobe back then, Jobe would have been sold.

Research by Aidan's office has shown that each year in the UK over 500 children are kidnapped in similar circumstances.

Aidan praised the work of Sean Felton and his charity Abducted Angels and called on the Government to do all it can do to help other parents in similar situations.

In his response the Prime Minister said: "It is absolutely vital we put in place the best possible arrangements. As he knows, the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP) system is going to be put into the National Crime Agency.

"I very much hope we will be able to legislate for the National Crime Agency and make sure it is properly resourced. It is vitally important that when these appalling acts happen we get on top of them right away. The early time and early effort is absolutely vital in saving these children."

Sean Felton, who was in the gallery with Jobe during PMQs said: "I cannot thank Aidan and his aide Peter enough for all the help and support they have given me over the last two years – firstly in my fight to get my son back and then on my efforts to help other parents like me.

"Coming to Parliament today and hearing this issue raised in Parliament - live with my own ears - has been a fantastic experience and I'm sure it will help raise the profile of this horrific crime that literally destroys lives and families"

Watch Aidan's Question to the Prime Minister:

The story was also covered by Central News :

More information about Sean Felton's Charity Abducted Angels can be found at: http://www.abductedangels.org/

LOCAL MP URGES LOCAL CHARITIES TO SIGN UP TO FREE JUST GIVING TEXT SERVICE

Aidan has today welcomed a new platform for donating to charity and urged local charities and fundraisers across Cannock Chase to sign up to the free scheme.

The JustTextGiving service developed by Vodafone on a not-for-profit basis allows charities and individuals to raise money via text message and provides a free, swift and convenient means of fundraising. The service is free to set up, with every penny donated going direct to the charity.

Commenting Aidan said: "Recent studies have shown that over eighty-nine percent of adults now carry a mobile phone - and with charities facing a tough environment for fundraising, this free service will allow them to raise much needed money through utilising the latest technology."

Donations can be made by the customers of any network provider without network charges and gift aid can also be claimed on each donation. JustTextGiving enables charities to personalise their own unique 6-digit text code - called a VIC or Vodafone Individual Code - and receive donations of up to £10 per message by text. Vodafone is also offering a free marketing support pack for charities to help them to promote their new code.

Until now, mobile fundraising has been only used by large charities for occasional campaigns due to the substantial set-up costs involved but now registered charities can use a simple text message to fundraise - it takes just three steps to get going.

Full details on how to sign up are available at www.justtextgiving.co.uk

MP BACKS PIONEERING NEW APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME

Aidan has attended and spoken of his support for a pioneering new social media apprenticeship programme aimed at creating much-needed employment opportunities for young people across Staffordshire.

Aidan last Friday attended a presentation where interested local firms were invited to find out more about the social media marketing apprenticeships being run by Cannock Chase companies SSC Learning from Hednesford and Passionate Media from Bridgtown. After the presentation, Aidan met with SSC Director Ian Shepherd, CEO of Spartan Digital Media Solutions Chris Pattihis and young apprentice Andy Sparks as well as young people from Cannock Chase interested in becoming apprentices.

Training specialists SSC Learning are looking for local businesses interested in taking on an apprentice to handle their digital marketing. Throughout their apprenticeship, the young people will receive training and support from media specialists, Passionate Media. Each of their places cost around £2,500 to £4,500, and are funded by the Government's Skills Funding Agency.

Commenting after the event Aidan said: "I would urge all local employers to get involved in this fantastic initiative which is providing great opportunities for young people here in Cannock Chase and across Staffordshire

"Apprenticeships are central to the Government's strategy to deliver growth and build a sustainable economy. They not only help and support people gain the skills they need to succeed and progress in their careers but also help employers to build a workforce with the motivation and expertise they need to compete globally."

Provisional data for the full 2010/11 academic year shows that apprenticeship starts increased by over 50% to 442,700. In Cannock Chase 1,190 people started an apprenticeship in 2010/11 compared with just 580 in 2009/10. This represents an overall increase in the number of people starting apprenticeships of 610 in the last year. (Picture from left to right: Andy Sparks - Social Media Apprentice at Spartan Digital Media Solutions, Aidan Burley MP, Ian Shephard - Director SSC and Chris Pattihis - CEO Spartan Digital Media Solutions)

MP WELCOMES ACTION ON HIGH SPEED 2

Aidan has welcomed the Government's announcement that the proposed high-speed rail route (HS2) linking London to the West Midlands and the north of England will go ahead.

Adding up to 26,000 more seats for rail passengers, and slashing journey times by as much as half, HS2 will help create jobs, growth and prosperity for Cannock Chase and the country as a whole.

Commenting, Aidan said: "This is great news for Cannock Chase and a massive investment by the government in the economy of the West Midlands. This project will support 40,000 jobs in the first phase alone, provide a boost to growth and deal with growing congestion on our railways. Local businesses will be more closely linked to the engine room of the south east and have far quicker access to clients and markets in London.

"This follows on from the recent announcement by Network Rail to approve the line speed upgrade of the Chase Line, which will help local people to travel into Walsall and Birmingham in half the time. I personally remain committed to lobbying the government for full electrification of the Chase Line over the coming years".

MP WARNS OF BOGUS DOORSTEP COLLECTORS IN CANNOCK CHASE

Aidan is warning constituents who give unwanted goods on their doorstep to charitable causes to take care in ensuring that the goods will reach genuine charity beneficiaries.

Supporting the Bogus Bags campaign, Aidan said, "We are aware that there are some bogus operators collecting goods and giving the false impression that they are being sold for charitable causes. In some parts of the country, genuine charity collection bags have also been stolen from residents' doorsteps.

"Not only is this a crime against local householders, but charities are losing out on millions in lost income each year. I am encouraging Cannock Chase residents to make a few simple checks so that you can give with confidence to the charities that so desperately need your support".

Alistair McLean, Chief Executive of the Fundraising Standards Board (FRSB), adds "While charity bag crime is a worry for all, we ask donors to remember that the large majority of collections are legitimate and that charities rely heavily on this income stream."

The Bogus Bags campaign is led by the Fundraising Standards Board (FRSB) and supported by fellow industry bodies; the Institute of Fundraising (IoF), Charity Retail Association and Textile Recycling Association. The campaign aims to help the public give confidently to the charities they care about, offering this simple advice to local residents:

• Check – Legitimate charity collection bags will clearly state what organisation(s) funds are being raised for and feature a registered charity number. Check these details with the Charity Commission www.charitycommission.gov.uk.
• Look for the tick – As with any fundraising appeal, you can look for the FRSB tick logo indicating that the charity is signed up to fundraising regulation and to industry standards. See www.givewithconfidence.org.uk.
• Call – A collector would ensure there is a working landline telephone number on fundraising materials for you to contact them on.
• Report - After making these checks, if you think that a collection is not legitimate, report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or visit www.actionfraud.org.uk.

Charity collections of household goods are an important way of not only reducing waste and preserving the environment, but of generating vital funding for good causes. Charities deliver branded bags to households asking the public to fill them with unwanted clothes and goods for a set collection date. Whether collected goods are passed on for resale at charity shops, sold overseas or recycled, they can generate a solid income stream for good causes.

LOCAL STUDENTS ARTWORK DISPLAYED IN MP HELP ZONE

Aidan recently welcomed teachers, parents and grandparents to give out prizes to local students from Staffordshire University Academy who had produced a selection of 3D pictures and canvass work for display in the MP's Help Zone.

The winning artwork, chosen by Aidan, was created by Catherine Talbot with second and third place going to Chloe Blair and Rebecca Bubalo respectively. Each student whose artwork is displayed received a special commended certificate from the MP.

Speaking after the award ceremony Aidan said: "I would like to thank all the students from Staffordshire University Academy who submitted artwork for my MP Help Zone. The quality of the artwork was fantastic and I'm sure will be enjoyed by all local people who visit the shop."

"Particular congratulations must go to Catherine however, whose piece stood head and shoulders above the rest. She has a big future as a local artist."

All the pieces are now available for the public to view in the MP Help Zone.

AN APOLOGY TO THE PEOPLE OF CANNOCK CHASE

I want to take this opportunity to express my deepest regret at the shame I have brought upon Cannock Chase in the local, national and international media over the last ten days.

There are no excuses for my foolish behaviour which, over the past two weeks, has caused so much distress to so many people.

Let me begin by saying very clearly; I know that I made a mistake, and Cannock Chase - I am sorry. To my supporters in the Conservative Party, to those who voted for me in May 2010, and to all those who didn't, but are represented by me in Parliament – I made a bad error of judgement and you deserved better from your local MP.

Being involved in a stag party where an SS uniform was worn was wrong and offensive. It was the wrong decision on my part; crass and insensitive. I am deeply sorry, and want to take this opportunity to offer the people of Cannock Chase an unreserved, wholehearted and full apology for the terrible offence this incident has undoubtedly caused.

It has been an unbelievably difficult ten days for my family and friends, and I feel ashamed that Cannock Chase has been placed in the limelight as a result of my behaviour. My family have been through hell, and I want to thank them in particular for the love, courage and support they have given me.

I think it is important to make one thing very clear: Being involved in a fancy dress party does not mean you endorse, tacitly or explicitly, the actions and philosophy of the person that is being impersonated. In fact, quite the opposite is true. I have no sympathies whatsoever with Nazism, racism, or fascism.

I also wish to make clear, as the Mail on Sunday did, that I personally did not participate in any alcohol-fuelled attempted toasts by other guests to the Third Reich. Nor did I participate in any chants, offensive or otherwise. As the video showed, I left the restaurant immediately when that inexcusable behaviour by other guests started.

The most important thing for me going forward is that I am judged on the work I do for the people of Cannock Chase. I am so proud to have been elected to represent this community and hope that over the past 18 months I have demonstrated my commitment to doing my very best locally.

In 2012 I will be redoubling my efforts to secure jobs and prosperity for Cannock Chase, and to be visible and accessible to all constituents who need my help. I have already met, assisted, and worked with thousands of local people and hope to do the same for thousands more. I will continue to stand up for my constituents, and all I ask is that you judge me on this record.

I hope that over time local people can forgive and forget this episode. I have been hugely touched by the many letters of support I have received and am grateful for your kindness. In the meantime, I wish everyone a very peaceful Christmas, and a happy New Year.

MP BACKS CALLS FOR SPRINKLER SYSTEM AT STAFFORDSHIRE UNIVERSITY ACADEMY BUILDING PROJECT

Aidan has welcomed a multi-million pound Government investment for Staffordshire University Academy's Capital Build project but has raised safety fears over the lack of sprinkler systems in any of the proposed plans.

Aidan has learnt that neither of the plans submitted so far appear to contain provision for sprinkler systems to be installed in the school, despite strong calls from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service for them to be included.

Estimates suggest that sprinkler systems cost around 1% of the total build cost in new builds. However this cost is still more recouped in lower insurance costs for the school and potential costs of a rebuild. Sprinkler systems can last up to 100 years, proving them to be a long term investment.

Figures produced by the Fire Service also suggest that a sprinklered building will, on average, receive less than 3% damage to its structure compared to a non sprinklered building which can expect to receive between 62 and 95% structural damage.

Schools are considered as a primary target for arson attacks due to large amount of technology and equipment they store and the MP has highlighted the incident at Chasetown High School and Chase Terrace High School in 2002 as a prime example of how sprinkler systems could have prevented such devastation.

Commenting Aidan said: "I am very concerned that none of the current plans submitted for Staffordshire University Academy's building project contain provisions for sprinkler systems. The inclusion of a sprinkler system in any new build School building should be a no brainer and all the evidence I have seen seems to support this view.

"I would therefore urge all developers and the Academy to take the advice of Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service and revise their plans to include sprinkler systems"

Chris Enness, Deputy Chief Fire Officer at Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service added: "We welcome the investment proposed in Staffordshire University Academy and the vision of raising educational standards across Staffordshire by Staffordshire County Council. However, our strong recommendation is for the Academy to be built with sprinklers to ensure its longevity and flexibility throughout the lifespan of its use.

"Existing standards state that this building should be afforded the best levels of protection and to use lesser guidance in order to save money is in my opinion short sighted and not in the best interests of the County Council nor the Academy itself. We are currently involved in constructive discussions with the County Council and are hopeful that this oversight will be corrected".

MP AWARDS PRIZES FOR SECOND ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CARD COMPETITION

Aidan last week met with students from Moorhill Primary School and Sharon Birch from Pertemps People Development Group to award prizes for his second annual Christmas card competition.

Aidan received hundreds of entries from pupils across Cannock Chase each hoping to have their design selected to appear on the front of Aidan's official Christmas card.

Aidan's Christmas cards were kindly sponsored for the second year running by local employment firm Pertemps People Development Group who have worked alongside the MP Help Zone since the election in helping and supporting the long term unemployed back into work.

The winning entry entitled 'Cannock Chase at Christmas' was designed by Keeley Aubrey (Aged 10) from Moorhill Primary School in Cannock. The runner up, whose design appears on the back of the card, was Emma Barmer (Aged 10) also from Moorhill Primary School. Both pupils were given framed copies of their card with a certificate and prizes of stationery from the House of Commons.

Jonathan Skelly, the site manager for the Cannock office of Pertemps People Development said: "Working alongside such a dedicated MP as Aidan, it's been our pleasure to support our local Community by once again sponsoring this year's Christmas Cards"

Aidan added: "I would like to thank all the pupils who entered a design for my Christmas card competition; I was thrilled by the sheer number of entries received. Particular congratulations must go to Keeley and Emma, whose designs made it onto my official MP Christmas Card.

"I would like to pass on my sincere thanks to Pertemps People Development Group for sponsoring my cards for the second year running. I have worked very closely with Pertemps People Development Group since my election and have seen firsthand the great work they do in offering help and support for unemployed people in Cannock Chase and I look forward to continuing to work hand-in-hand with them over the next few years"

MP WELCOMES PLANS FOR CHASE LINE SPEED UPGRADE

Aidan has released the following Statement following the announcement by Network Rail to fund the West Midlands Line Speed Improvement scheme for the Chase Line.

Aidan said: "This is great news for local people in Cannock Chase and something I and others have been lobbying for over recent months, both with partners in Cannock Chase and through the Department of Transport, where I work as a Parliamentary Private Secretary.

"This upgrade will not only help support my efforts to bring business to the area but also reinforce the message that Cannock Chase is the place to come to in South Staffordshire.

"The Chase Line has the second highest levels of passenger growth in the Centro area and so this important scheme will not only help deliver faster journey times, but also allow better value for money and importantly facilitate better connections at Rugeley Trent Valley – something that I know local people will very much welcome.

"I look forward to working with Network Rail and others over the next few months to help get this project underway."

MP SERVES UP LUNCH AT LOCAL SCHOOL TO PROMOTE HEALTHY EATING

Aidan recently helped serve up lunch at Hazel Slade Primary School in Cannock Wood to help promote their healthy eating menu and the wider importance of healthy eating.

The visit comes only a few weeks after figures from South Staffordshire PCT showed that Childhood Obesity levels in Cannock Chase were well above national average. The figures showed that 100 children in reception years (18%) and 200 (23%) at year six are classified as obese in Cannock Chase, compared to the national average of 10% and 19% respectively. Experts have predicted that obesity levels in the UK as a whole will nearly double in the next 20 years which could mean an extra £2bn a year has to be spent by the NHS to cope.

After donning the traditional chefs hat, Aidan helped serve up Gammon with Pineapple and vegetables and Fresh Fruit salad to the hungry pupils. Following lunch, Aidan took part in a Question and Answer session with some of the pupils speaking about life as an MP.

Commenting after the visit Aidan said: "I was delighted to be able to visit Hazel Slade School to see what steps they are taking to promote healthy eating among its pupils. It is vital we do all we can to educate youngsters at an early age about the importance of exercise and healthy eating if we are to have any chance of reversing the shocking levels of Childhood and Adult Obesity in the UK"

MP STEPS UP EFFORTS ON STAFFORD A&E CLOSURE

Aidan has been speaking with a number of key stakeholders over the last two weeks as he stepped up his efforts to solve the crisis at Stafford Hospital Accident and Emergency Department.

Aidan has already hosted a meeting of Staffordshire MPs and taken part in discussions with the Chief Executive of the West Midlands Ambulance Service about the need to provide extra ambulance cover in the Cannock Chase area.

In recent days, the MP has also spoken with a representative of Cannock Chase GPs' to discuss the impact of the planned closure of Stafford A&E and potential ward closure at Cannock Hospital.

On Thursday night, Aidan joined Stafford MP Jeremy Lefroy at a meeting with Health Minister Simon Burns MP to discuss local peoples' concerns and urged the Department for Health to support Mid Staffs Trust in whatever way it can.

This was followed on Friday with a meeting of the Governors of Stafford Hospital in which Aidan and other Staffordshire MPs Jeremy Lefroy and Bill Cash pushed for more urgent action to solve this crisis.

Commenting Aidan said: "I am determined to do whatever I can to represent the concerns of local people in Cannock Chase on this vital issue. I have had very constructive discussions over the last couple of weeks with key stakeholders to ensure that all possible arrangements and contingencies are in place to deal with the affects of the closure. My priority remains to support the Trust in any way I can to ensure that Stafford A&E reopens as soon as possible after 1st December."

MP SLAMS TRUST ON PROPOSED WARD CLOSURE

Aidan has criticised plans by Mid Staffs hospital chiefs to close a ward at Cannock Hospital from January 2012.

The plans, if implemented, will see the Holly Bank Ward at Cannock hospital merging with Fairoak ward to become a 28 bedded combined neurological / rheumatology / ortho-elderly care facility.

These latest plans come only two weeks after it was announced that Stafford Accident and Emergency Department would be closed overnight for three months starting from 1 December 2011 due to staffing shortages.

Aidan has today written to Trust Chief Executive Lyn Hill-Tout demanding an urgent meeting to discuss these latest proposals and the potential risks to local people in Cannock Chase.

Commenting Aidan said: "I am astonished by the decision of Mid Staffs Trust to close another ward at Cannock Hospital. I am absolutely clear that any closure of wards at the Hospital is totally unacceptable.

"Whilst I fully appreciate that space in our hospitals is at a premium, and reserve capacity for emergencies and added load in the winter months is prudent. I am extremely concerned that an additional ward closure should be planned, solely on the basis that patients need "decanting" during ward refurbishments.

"Local people are already concerned that their casualty service is being cut and so I cannot see how any more plans for closures will build confidence in the Trust and its ability to deliver quality healthcare for people in Cannock Chase."

Aidan has also hit out at the Trust for the way in which he was informed of the proposals saying:

"I am dismayed to have initially learnt of these plans from the local 'grapevine'. My office had initially contacted the Trust after I picked up a rumour from a local colleague. This rumour was initially denied on the phone only to be confirmed by email yesterday. It is hugely damaging for proposals such as this to be allowed to develop in the dark."

AIDAN BURLEY MP: BOOSTING APPRENTICESHIPS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE AND SMALL BUSINESSES

Aidan has welcomed new measures from the Government to ensure young people and small businesses feel the full benefits of the successful expansion of apprenticeships.

Data released last month showed that here in Cannock Chase:

• 580 people started an apprenticeship in 2009/10.
• 1,190 people started an apprenticeship in 2010/11.

This means the number of people starting an apprenticeship increased by 610 last year.

Commenting Aidan said: "Over 600 more people in Cannock Chase are benefiting from an apprenticeship thanks to the government's extra investment. This is great news not just for these individuals, but also for the whole local economy.

"Until now, too many businesses have been put off taking on an apprentice because of unnecessary bureaucracy and red tape. It is therefore good news for businesses and young people alike that the government is streamlining the system.

"I also welcome the cash bonuses for small firms who take on young apprentices and I urge companies in Cannock Chase to take up this opportunity."

MP WELCOMES DROP IN UNEMPLOYMENT IN CANNOCK CHASE

Aidan  has welcomed figures showing a significant drop in the number of unemployed claimants in Cannock Chase last month.

Figures released today by the Office of National Statistics show that the number of unemployed claimants in Cannock Chase constituency in October 2011 was 2,218, down 126 from September 2011. This month on month drop is the 13th largest of all the constituencies in England and 26th largest in the UK in absolute terms and represents a drop of over 5 per cent between September and October.

These welcome figures come on the back of recent action by the Cannock Chase MP to help support local people back into work. Over 600 local people attended two recent Jobs Fayres which had been organised and hosted by the local MP, and these are the first official figures since those Jobs Fayres. Recent feedback from the Fayres had shown that around 1 in 10 of those who attended the Fayres had enhanced their career prospects; however this figure is now thought to be much higher.

Commenting Aidan said: "I welcome these figures showing the number of unemployed claimants in Cannock Chase dropping significantly in the last month. Along with my Jobs Fayres, we have seen a number of big investments in Staffordshire in recent months with Jaguar Land Rover, Amazon and APC Overnight all investing and creating jobs locally.

"Despite this, I fully accept that times continue to be tough and local people are understandably concerned about their job security. It is clear from the national unemployment figures, particularly among young people, that the recovery we are seeing is very fragile and we must not rest on our laurels. There is much still to be done and it is vital that we do everything to boost confidence in the economy and in Cannock Chase in particular."

MP QUESTIONS 3 MONTH ‘ARBITRARY’ LIMIT FOR A&E CLOSURE

Aidan has questioned the decision by Mid Staffordshire Trust to announce a closure of Stafford Accident and Emergency Unit for an 'arbitrary' period of three months.

Aidan has written to the Trust seeking an explanation as to the reasoning behind announcing a closure of 3 months and demanding that it do all it can to re-open before this time.

Aidan has also asked to Trust to identify what contingency plans are in place if the problems are not solved in this 3 month period and what reasoning there is to assume that the problems will be solved within this time frame.

Commenting Aidan said: "I remain bitterly disappointed by the decision to close Stafford A&E which is so vital to local people in Cannock Chase. I am particularly concerned about the impact of this closure on nearby Hospitals and Ambulance services"

"To many people, including myself, this 3 month figure seems like an arbitrary period - why not 87 or 92 days? I am keen to find out the reasoning for announcing such a specific time frame and demanding to know that if the key criteria for opening are met the A&E will be able to open before this period is up"

"I have also asked to see what contingency plans are in place in the event of the problems not being sorted in these 3 months and/or if there is a major incident in the Staffordshire area"

MP CALLS ON LOCAL MANUFACTURERS TO GET INVOLVED IN ‘MAKE IT IN GREAT BRITAIN’ CAMPAIGN

Aidan has called on local manufacturers in Cannock Chase to take part in the Government's 'Make it in Great Britain' campaign to transform outdated opinions of UK manufacturing.

As part of the campaign, Government is looking for UK manufacturing champions to help overturn the persistent myth that Britain 'has no manufacturing industry'. Business Secretary Vince Cable has called on manufacturers across the country to help Government find up to 30 'industry champions' to take part in, and support the Make it in Great Britain campaign.

The campaign will culminate in an exhibition that will celebrate the successes of the manufacturing sector, challenge inaccurate views of manufacturing and encourage young people to consider a career in the industry.

Over the past three weeks the Government has announced £140million of investment in manufacturing to end 13 years of decline in manufacturing under Labour.

Commenting Aidan said: "Manufacturing can boost the economy if we help manufacturers to grow and export.

"The Government has announced more than £140million investment in manufacturing in the last month and is turning back the tide after 13 years of decline under Labour. But it's not just about spending, we need to dispel the myth that 'we don't make anything in the UK anymore'.

"That is why I am encouraging everyone involved in manufacturing in Cannock Chase, whether they are business owners, designers, engineers, plant operators or even apprentices to support the campaign by putting themselves forward as manufacturing champions. With their help, we can modernise people's views of manufacturing."

The industry champions will be knowledgeable about manufacturing and will play an important role in challenging the current myths about UK manufacturing. They will identify and publicise British manufacturing successes and act as advocates for the campaign and the future of British manufacturing.

Campaign Website: http://www.bis.gov.uk/makeitingreatbritain

STATEMENT ON STAFFORD A&E CLOSURE

Aidan has released the following Statement following the Mid Staffordshire Trust Board Meeting of 10th November.

"I am naturally very disappointed at today's decision by Mid Staffordshire Trust to close Stafford A&E between 10pm and 8am. I am also surprised that such an important decision was taken so rapidly at the meeting, in the face of overwhelming opposition, especially when the Chief Executive had been on the radio only this morning saying that no final decision had been taken. I believe this is wrong decision and will have a detrimental impact on many of my constituents.

"Next week I intend to follow up my previous letter to the Trust by seeking further explanation of the decision and reassurance of their future intentions.

"It is in everybody's interest that the A&E department is re-opened as soon as possible."

MP DEMANDS RETHINK ON PLANS TO CLOSE STAFFORD A&E

Aidan has today urged Mid Staffordshire Trust to put on hold any decision to temporarily close Stafford Accident and Emergency Department.

The Trust Board is due to meet on 10 November to decide whether a closure of the A&E department is necessary between the hours of 10pm and 6am to deal with staffing shortages.

Aidan has called on Trust Chief Executive Ms Hill-Tout to postpone this meeting and instead asked that the Trust continue to work together with the Department for Health and other relevant bodies to find an alternative solution to closure.

In an open letter to Trust Chief Executive Lyn Hill-Tout, Aidan said that whilst he acknowledges the staffing problems at the Hospital, any closure would have a devastating impact on local people in Cannock Chase.

Commenting Aidan said: "The safety of local people in Cannock Chase is paramount in my role as their MP and it is my job to ensure that nothing is done to put their safety at risk. Whilst I accept the staffing problems the Trust have encountered, my constituents in Cannock Chase have already seen the removal of services from Cannock Hospital in recent years. I believe that closing the Accident and Emergency Department at Stafford Hospital, even for a temporary period, is a step too far."

"A closure would mean that some of my constituents would have to make a 20 mile and 45 minute journey in order to find emergency healthcare. Therefore, we owe it to the local community to find a resolution to this problem without closing such a vital service, one that is literally a matter of life or death for my constituents."

MP demands rethink on plans to close Stafford A&E

MP WELCOMES NEW ONLINE AND TELEPHONE SERVICES

Aidan has welcomed an £11 million Government investment in new online and telephone services which will help to support parents and families in Cannock Chase.

The Government is providing funding to eleven voluntary and community organisations, including Young Minds and Gingerbread, to deliver a range of support including relationship advice, advice on educational issues and services tailored specifically for fathers.

Commenting Aidan said: "Every parent across the country can benefit from these services and I welcome the Government's decision to trust organisations with a proven track record in supporting families to deliver them.

"Online and telephone support will give families in Cannock Chase the help they need, when they need it, without interfering in family life."

The Voluntary and Community Organisations benefitting from the funding are:

• Coram Children's Legal Centre provides advice on all aspects of family law and on some education issues such as exclusions.
• Contact A Family advises the parents of disabled children and those with special educational needs.
• Family Lives offers advice to parents on virtually any issue, both online and through its telephone helpline.
• Family Matters Institute operates the DadTalk online advice and support service specifically for dads.
• Family Rights Group provides advice to the parents of children on the edge of the social care system.
• Gingerbread provides information and advice to single parents on a wide range of issues, including benefits, both online and through a telephone helpline.
• Netmums is a well-known social networking site that employs specialists such as health visitors in its forums to offer general and one-to-one advice.
• One Plus One operates the Couple Connection and the Parent Connection webservices to help parents work through their relationship issues together.
• Relate offers one-to-one online counselling for parents with specialist therapeutic counsellors.
• Single Parents Action Network supports single parents online through specific issues for single parents, including getting back to work.
• Young Minds provides advice and counselling to the parents of children with mental health or behaviour problems.

MP WELCOMES ACTION ON HOUSING INJUSTICE

Aidan has demanded the Government speed up its efforts to address an anomaly in the housing system which allows six figure earners to live in subsidised council housing.

Aidan's call came during Local Government Question time in the House of Commons on Monday.

Commenting after the exchange Aidan said: "Local people will be gobsmacked to learn that at a time where in Cannock Chase alone there are over 2300 people listed on the Housing register with 164 of these marked as statutory homeless, these high earners continue to take up valuable subsidised social housing which should be used for the most vulnerable people in our society. It is only right that if these people wish to continue living in these homes they are made to pay full market rate."

The Government have estimated that there are around 6000 people in Britain today still living in council houses paying subsidised rent despite earning more than £100,000 a year - more than four times the average salary of local people in Cannock Chase.

The "Pay to Stay" scheme now under consultation will force those high earners in social housing to either leave or pay full market rate for the properties.

In his response to the Cannock MP, Housing Minister Grant Shapps also made clear that every penny of the money raised from this scheme, estimated to be tens of millions of pounds, will go toward building more affordable housing.

Aidan added: "Whist I accept that this alone will not solve our housing crisis, it is only right that Government acts to deal with this small but significant social injustice."

JOBS FAYRE SUCCESS CONTINUES

Aidan  has welcomed the news that to date over 35 local people have been employed as a direct result of attending one of his Jobs Fayres. This figure does not include Amazon, who have also confirmed that a number of the 400 people they have recruited came through the Jobs Fayre route.

The Fayres held last month had been organised and hosted by the local MP as part of his mission to get Cannock Chase working.

These latest figures come after Aidan recently met with three new employees of Blue Bird Care all of whom were recruited at the events, with the company advising that a total of 8 positions have been filled from applications submitted as a direct result of the Fayres.

Other companies who have recruited following include banking giant HSBC (4 jobs), local firms Chase Tyres (3 jobs) and Newlife Foundation (2 jobs)

Commenting Aidan said: "To see that over thirty five jobs have been created to date as a direct result of the Fayres is very pleasing indeed and I know that some employers, such as Tesco, are still going through applications and conducting interviews. However, I am also aware that any recovery we are seeing here is very fragile and we must not rest on our laurels. There is much still to be done and it is vital that we do everything to boost confidence in the economy and in Cannock Chase in particular."

Full list of Companies Recruited so far:

Amazon – 400 in total (Not all through Jobs Fayres)

Angel Home Care: 1 job

Allied Health Care: 1 job

HSBC - 4 jobs

Bluebird Care- 8 jobs

Pertemps: 12 jobs

Newlife Foundation- 2 jobs

Chase CVS – 3 Volunteer Places

QTT Business Training - 4 jobs

Home Comforts- 3 Volunteer jobs

Chase Tyres- 3 jobs

South Staffordshire College: 60 Registered Apprenticeships

MP BACKS GOVERNMENT PLAN TO TACKLE HUMAN TRAFFICKING

Aidan has backed the Government's efforts to tackle human trafficking.

A reception was recently held at Number 10 Downing Street to mark Anti-Slavery Day, and to encourage awareness of human trafficking and modern-day slavery. The day was established last year following the campaigning work of the Conservative former-MP, Anthony Steen.

Human trafficking is a brutal form of organised crime where women, children and men are treated as commodities and exploited for criminal gain. In July the Government published a Human Trafficking Strategy to address the crime by supporting victims and fighting traffickers. The Strategy focuses on four core themes:

• improving identification and care of victims – the aim is to ensure victims receive support tailored to their needs but also to prevent people becoming victims in the first place
• enhancing our ability to act early before harm reaches the UK – the Government is working to deter and disrupt trafficking overseas
• smarter action at the border – strengthening our border controls and policing will make it harder for traffickers to enter the UK
• more coordination of our law enforcement efforts – the establishment of the National Crime Agency in 2013 will create a Border Police Command to improve immigration controls and crack down on trafficking.

Government has also protected £2 million of annual funding for two years for victims of trafficking. In addition, all UKBA front line staff have been given training to ensure they are aware of human trafficking and child protection issues.

Commenting Aidan said: "Human trafficking is something that I know people across Cannock Chase would deplore and so I'm pleased to back this Government's work to tackle this terrible crime.

"The UK must not be a safe haven for trafficking and those who traffic women, children or men must be pursued and brought to justice.

"The Government's Human Trafficking Strategy and the new National Crime Agency's Border Police Command will help focus action on this issue".

MP ANSWERS CALL TO HELP IMPROVE BREAST CANCER SURVIVAL TO MATCH THE BEST IN EUROPE

Aidan recently met with local constituent Charlotte Wright from Breakthrough Breast Cancer's Campaigns & Advocacy Network (CAN) at the 12th annual Westminster Fly-In event to discuss how to improve breast cancer survival rates.

Nearly 48,000 women and 300 men are diagnosed with the disease each year, making it the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UK. Even though more women are surviving breast cancer than ever before thanks to better awareness, screening and treatments, survival in England still lags behind some other European countries. If England was to achieve survival rates at the European best for breast cancer, an estimated 1,000 lives could be saved each year.

In response to this challenge, Breakthrough Breast Cancer developed the Bridging the Gap in Breast Cancer Survival Charter and believes that the Government can tackle this issue by supporting its key principles; promoting breast awareness messages to help drive early diagnosis, providing access for all eligible women to gold standard NHS Breast Screening Programmes and maximising the potential of breast cancer research, to create personalised or targeted treatments.

Commenting Aidan said: "We have the opportunity to make effective change that can save lives. It is clear that by following these principles, we give ourselves the best possible chance to match our European counterparts' breast cancer survival rates and make a real difference"

Chris Askew, Chief Executive of Breakthrough Breast Cancer said: "Breast cancer knows no political, social or demographic boundaries – it has the ability to affect everyone. That's why more needs to be done to bridge the gap in breast cancer survival rates. It's great that the MPs here today have signed up to support our Charter but the next step is for us to see real action and for MPs to really throw their weight behind it so we can end the fear of this disease for good."

You can support Breakthrough Breast Cancer and find out more about the work it does at breakthrough.org.uk/gap

MP MEETS JOB FAYRE SUCCESS STORIES

Aidan last week met some of the local people and employers who have benefited from Cannock Chase's inaugural Job Fayres.

The Fayres had been organised and hosted by the local MP as part of his mission to get Cannock Chase working. In all over 600 local people attended the two Jobs Fayres held at South Staffordshire College in Cannock and the Rugeley Rose Theatre and over 360 CVs were handed out to businesses. As well as meeting potential employers at the fayres, local people also had the opportunity to attend a number of free seminars and workshops aimed at improving their employability skills. Picture shows Aidan with Samantha Danks (recruited at Rugeley Jobs Fayre), Kayleigh Taylor (recruited at Cannock Jobs Fayre) and Sean Doyle-Burnett (recruited at Cannock Jobs Fayre).

One employer who has already benefitted is Bluebird Care, which provides home care to elderly and vulnerable people to help them live independently at home. They have confirmed that as a direct result of the fayres they have already interviewed and recruited 4 local people for positions as Care workers with more due to be in interviewed and hopefully recruited over the next couple of weeks.

Sudan Milakovic Director of Bluebird Care said: "We were really grateful for the opportunity to recruit some excellent staff ready for the Autumn & Winter increased need for care in the community. There is a huge demand in the area for high quality care staff and all that is required is a caring manner and willingness to learn".

One of the new recruits Samantha Danks said: "I had not thought about working in care and thought I would be turned down as I have no experience. But, I was thrilled to be given the chance to be a carer and I know I'm going to love it. I'm very grateful that the Jobs Fayre was held and very excited to be back in work"

As well as the success at Bluebird Care, Aidan has confirmed that he has received a number of emails from constituents who have said that they have been given interviews and placements as a result of meeting employers at the Fayres.

Commenting Aidan said: "I would like thank all the businesses and jobseekers for getting involved in these two Job Fayres.

"At the beginning of this process I was clear that if we could help just one person find employment then the Fayres would be worthwhile. I am delighted therefore that a number of businesses including Bluebird Care have already got in touch saying that they have employed several people as a direct result of meeting them at the Jobs Fayres. I hope this is just the beginning and that many more attendees will go on to gain employment."

GROUPS HAVE THEIR SAY TO SUPPORT THE CHASE

Aidan Burley has confirmed that all 4 local groups he recently selected to speak with a representative of the Independent Panel on Forestry have now completed their discussions.

This comes after Aidan was asked to identify a small number of key local groups who were able to put forward their views on the future of Cannock Forest directly to the Panel looking into the future of the public forestry estate.

The groups selected to put forward their views were: Friends of Cannock Chase, Brindley Heath Parish Council, 'Save Cannock Chase' Facebook Group and Hednesford Town Council.

Commenting Aidan said: "I am pleased that all four of the local groups I selected to speak to the Panel have now had the chance to do so. I would like to say a special thank you to all the groups for taking part and helping to support Cannock Chase."

A spokesperson from the Panel Secretariat said: "The conversations were most helpful and revealed a range of views about a number of issues relating principally to the public forest estate and Forestry Commission, but also some about the wider Chase. The two most common themes from the conversations were a clear sense of "local ownership" of the Chase and the important role it plays for access for local people and those from the wider area"

The Panel expect to publish a progress report of their findings towards the end of November.

MP SWAPS QUESTION TIME FOR MILK TIME

Aidan recently visited Chadsmoor Community Infants and Nursery School to become a 'milk monitor' and help celebrate World School Milk Day.

Chadsmoor Community Infants and Nursery School is one of thousands of schools across more than 40 countries taking part in celebrations dedicated to World School Milk Day (28th September). The day encourages children to drink milk and aims to educate them about the benefits of milk.

In the UK, school milk is free for children in day-care or primary education under the age of five, and subsidised for school students aged five to eleven. Milk is delivered fresh and chilled to the classroom, distributed by students and consumed as a group.

This process helps teach children responsibility, independence, manners and numeracy, and provides important social time in a child's day. Further, milk is vital for building healthy bones and teeth and improves a child's concentration, memory and creativity.

Commenting after the visit Aidan said: "I was delighted to pay a visit to Chadsmoor Community Infants and Nursery School as part of World School Milk Day 2011. I enjoyed being an honorary 'Milk Monitor' for the day, and was pleased to have the opportunity to support this international initiative which helps promote the importance of drinking milk at school"

Head Teacher from Chadsmoor Community Infants and Nursery School, Mrs Karen Burns, said that milk at snack time in our nursery is helping our pupils adopt healthy eating habits. She added: "It also rehydrates and gives an energy boost enabling them to get the most out of their active learning."

HUNDREDS ATTEND CANNOCK CHASE JOBS FAYRE

Over 350 local people flocked to Cannock Chase's inaugural Jobs Fayre last Friday as part of the local MP's mission to get Cannock Chase working.

The event, hosted by South Staffordshire College and the first of its kind in Cannock, was the initiative of local MP Aidan Burley and aimed to bring together businesses and potential employees to meet each other, network and discuss what job opportunities may be available now and in the future.

In all, over 35 businesses attended the Fayre including national giants Tesco and Amazon as well as local firms such as Mercian Labels and Chase Tyres.

As well as meeting potential employers, local people also had the opportunity to attend a number of free seminars and workshops provided by the College, Pertemps and The Complete Works.

These included CV Improvement workshops as well as Presentation and Body Language sessions. There were also a number of computers available for local people to sign up to the National Apprenticeship website and apply for vacancies.

The Fayre received very positive feedback and was hailed as a success by the organisers, businesses and local people.

Commenting Chase MP Aidan Burley said: "I was overwhelmed by the reaction from businesses who wanted to get involved in the Jobs Fayre. As the local MP many residents had told me how they were desperate to get back into the workplace but that they did not know which employers were looking to recruit. Although as the MP I cannot create jobs, organising this Fayre was my attempt to help and support local people back into the workplace. After speaking with many of the businesses throughout the day, I am very hopeful that a number of attendees will go on to gain employment."

Graham Morley, Chief Executive Principal at South Staffordshire College added: "We were delighted to support Aidan and this excellent initiative. Our role is to help and support local people so that they have the skills required to progress on to higher education, other training and employment. We work closely with employers to ensure that our learners have the skills they need and we were delighted that many local businesses and so many local people supported this event. "

For those people who missed out on the Cannock Jobs Fayre, Aidan has organised a second Fayre on Friday 30th September this time at the Rugeley Rose Theatre. The Fayre will run from 10am-4pm and includes over 30 businesses. More details can be found here.

MP WELCOMES NEW JAGUAR LAND ROVER INVESTMENT

Aidan has welcomed today's announcement from Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) confirming a £355 million investment in a new facility to manufacture all-new, advanced technology, low-emission engines in the UK.

The engine manufacturing facility is expected to create up to 750 highly-skilled engineering and manufacturing posts at a new factory they are opening on a site just across the border in South Staffordshire, with work due to start early next year.

Commenting Aidan said "This announcement by JLR is great news for Staffordshire and Cannock Chase. This new facility will not only mean hundreds of new job opportunities for local skilled people in Cannock Chase but also the potential to create thousands more highly-skilled manufacturing jobs further down the supply chain at local businesses across Cannock Chase and Staffordshire"

MP URGES JOBSEEKERS TO ATTEND JOB FAYRES AS LATEST UNEMPLOYMENT FIGURES RELEASED

Following today's unemployment figures, Aidan Burley MP is reminding local jobseekers to attend the two Job Fayres he has organised for later this month.

Latest figures have shown that unemployment remained stable in Cannock Chase in August 2011 at 2,358. This represents a rate of 4.9% of the economically active population aged 16 to 64 and the 324th highest of the 650 UK constituencies.

Commenting Aidan said: "These latest unemployment figures have highlighted the need for us to do all we can to get people back into employment. On a national level we have recently introduced the biggest back to Work Programme since the Second World War but I am determined that as a local MP I do all I can to get people into work. That is why I have organised two Job Fayres in Cannock Chase later this month.

"We have already had a fantastic response from employers; so much so, we now have over 40 businesses attending the Fayres, all of whom have vacancies. Both Job Fayres are free to attend and I would urge all local people to come along."

The Cannock Jobs Fayre is to be held between 10-4pm on Friday 23rd September at Cannock Campus of South Staffordshire College, The Green, Cannock, WS11 1UE

The Rugeley Jobs Fayre is to be held between 10-4pm on Friday 30th September at Rugeley Rose Theatre, Taylors Lane, WS15 2AA.

Businesses confirmed so far are:

NatWest

Amazon

HSBC

Angel Home Care

Allied Heath Care

NHS Trust

The Army

The Police

Blue Bird Trust

Ranstad

The Post Room

Job Centre Plus

Pertemps

Newlife

Staffs College

CVS

Home Comforts

Staffs Mind

JCB

Finnings

The DAAT

Mercian Labels

C Residentail

Blue Print Work Wear

Telecom 150

Gill Collier Hair Salon

Tesco

Digbits Engineering

Hawkes Yard Estate

PMES

South Staffs Water

Chambers

Utility Warehose

Cobwebs Cleaning

Smart Training and Recruitment

Echo (South Staffs Water)

E Solutions

QTT Business Training

Connextions Learning Difficulties

Chase Tyres

MP JOINS VOLUNTEERS FOR ‘BLOODY STEPS’ CLEAN UP

Chase MP Aidan Burley last week joined volunteers from across Staffordshire to help clean up an infamous canal hotspot.

The clean up sessions had been organised by local Inland Waterway Association representative Margaret Beardsmore. The IWA helps campaign for the use, maintenance and restoration of Britain's Inland waterways.

Having been taken on a ride though Rugeley's canal network, Aidan moored by the 'Bloody Steps' in Rugeley where he met up with the work party and a number of other volunteers including Stuart Collins of British Waterways and Mike Moorse of the Inland Waterways Association.

The group then spent all morning cleaning up and clearing soil and bracken and vegetation from around the "Bloody Steps" as well as painting railings and trimming trees before having a well-earned picnic lunch.

Commenting Aidan said: "A number of constituents had brought to my attention the ongoing problems with vandalism and anti-social behavior at the 'Bloody Steps' in Rugeley. So, after hearing about the planned workgroups being set up to help clean up the mess, I was only too pleased to get involved and do what I could to help out. I don't mind saying digging some of that compacted turf out was back breaking work!

"We are very lucky to have such a wonderful canal network across the West Midlands and Staffordshire and so it is important we do all we can to ensure it remains a safe and clean environment to visit. I would like to pay tribute to all the volunteers who helped out over the weekend and especially Margaret Beardsmore from the local waterway association who made it all happen. I hope one day the 'Bloody Steps' area will be a nice picnic area for walkers and canal users alike."

Photos above show Aidan alongside Volunteers. (Pictures courtesy of Harry Arnold - www.waterwayimages.com).

MP SELECTS LOCAL GROUPS TO SPEAK WITH PANEL SECRETARIAT

Chase MP Aidan Burley has today selected the four groups who will get the chance to put their views directly to a representative of the Independent Panel on Forestry.

The groups selected to have a phone interview with the Panel Secretariat are:

Friends of Cannock Chase

Brindley Heath Parish Council

'Save Cannock Chase' Facebook Group

Hednesford Town Council

This announcement comes after the MP persuaded the Independent Panel on Forestry to identify a small number of key local groups who will be able to put forward their views on the future of the Chase directly to the Panel Secretariat.

Aidan had initially only been offered two interviews with local groups, however following pressure from the MP the Panel Secretariat have agreed to speak to all four local groups selected.

Aidan has selected two community groups, one Parish and one Town Council.

The chosen groups will now get a direct and unique chance to put forward their opinions on the future of Cannock Forest to a Panel Representative, rather than simply as part of the general consultation, which closed last month.

Commenting Aidan said: "I was delighted by the level of response to my letter calling for groups to speak with a Panel Representative.

"I was determined to ensure local people's views would be heard, and have chosen four groups who I believe are best placed to represent local opinion on the unique character, history and heritage of our woodland.

"I was especially pleased to be able to persuade the Panel Secretariat to speak to two community groups, as well as a Parish and a Town Council.

"These groups will now have their own opportunity to represent our woodland to the key decision makers."

Aidan has asked all groups to maintain confidentiality in all discussions with Panel Secretariat until the Panel has published its report.

MP BACKS B&Q ‘FOREST FRIENDLY’ CAMPAIGN

Aidan paid a visit to Cannock B&Q recently to meet staff and lend his support to their 'Forest Friendly' campaign.

The company has become the first major UK retailer to achieve its goal of only buying timber products from proven responsible sources.

During his visit to the store at Wyrley Brook Cannock, Aidan met with General Manager Steve Sprosen who told him of their campaign to raise awareness of the need for consumers to demand that their timber products come from well managed sources. Each of the retailers 330 stores are now covered by their own FSC and PEFC chain of custody certification and customers can see on their receipts which products are certified under which scheme as well as looking at the label on the timber product.

During the visit Aidan also made time to go onto the shop floor and speak with some of the stores employees.

Commenting after the visit Aidan said: "It was a pleasure to visit B&Q to support their campaign and chat with some of the stores employees, many of whom live locally.

"I would like to pay tribute to B&Q who have led the way in ensuring that our forests are responsibly managed. I very much hope that other retailers will follow suit to ensure that our forests remain sustainable for future generations. For Government's part, we are committed to eradicating illegal timber from the European Union market and strongly support global efforts to tackle illegal logging and deforestation. Indeed, the Programme for Government's very first commitment on the environment was to make the import or possession of illegal timber a criminal offence."

MP INVITES LOCAL GROUPS TO HAVE THEIR SAY ON THE FUTURE OF THE CHASE

Aidan  has today written to local groups and organisations in Cannock Chase inviting them to put forward their views regarding how best to secure the future of Cannock Chase forest.

After much trying, Aidan finally managed to secure a meeting (in July) with a senior representative of the Independent Panel on Forestry, set up in March 2011, to advise the Government on a new approach to forestry policy in England.

The Secretariat of the Panel has now written to Aidan asking him to identify a small number of key local groups who will be able to put forward their views on the future of Cannock Forest directly to the Panel. They were not planning to do this before Aidan's intervention.

Aidan said: "I am delighted that the Independent Panel on Forestry has asked me to identify a small number of key local groups who will be able to put forward their views on the future of Cannock Forest directly to the Panel Secretariat.

I know from my postbag that there are many local people who care very deeply about the future of Cannock Chase – that's why I was determined to do all I could to ensure their views were heard.

I want local groups to make the best case for retaining and improving the facilities of our forest – and so have written to them today inviting them to engage directly with the Panel."

The Panel's decision to finally engage with local people in Cannock Chase comes after Aidan secured a meeting in the House of Commons with their Secretariat. This followed their decision not to visit Cannock Chase as part of their round of fact finding visits.

At the meeting, Aidan presented the representative with a dossier about Cannock Chase and urged that as a visit was not possible, representatives of the Panel should, at the very least, speak to local stakeholders so they can contribute their views to the report.

The report will include looking at how woodland cover can be increased and the options for enhancing public benefits from all woodlands and forests.

AIDAN ANNOUNCES DATE FOR SECOND JOBS FAYRE – IN RUGELEY

Aidan Burley has today announced plans for a second Jobs Fayre in Cannock Chase, this time to be held in Rugeley. This comes after last week's announcement of the first ever Jobs Fayre, to be held in Cannock on 23rd September. The Rugeley one will be held exactly one week later, on Friday 30th September.

Aidan was over-whelmed with the positive response to his organising the Jobs Fayre in Cannock, and has taken up a suggestion by Rugeley Traders Association to organise another Jobs Fayre, specifically focussed on Rugeley businesses and residents.

This second Jobs Fayre will be held on Friday 30th September from 10am to 4pm at the Rugeley Rose Theatre (Taylors Lane, Rugeley, Staffs, WS15 2AA) and will be open to all local people (for free!) from 10am-4pm.

Aidan has again written to local businesses, in particular around the Rugeley area, as well as organisations and charities, inviting them to attend. He has requested all interested companies with job vacancies to get in touch and reserve a stall, and spent yesterday afternoon hand delivering invite letters to businesses in Towers Business Park, off the Rugeley Bypass.

Commenting Aidan said: "I'm delighted to be able announce this second Jobs Fayre focussing on Rugeley. I am aware of the potential difficulties some low income unemployed people in Rugeley may face trying to get down to the Jobs Fayre in Cannock. That's why I have decided to organise a second Jobs Fayre in Rugeley one week later, to ensure local people don't miss out on their chance to get a Job.

"This second date will also provide an opportunity for those who can't make the Cannock Jobs Fayre to come along and see what job opportunities are on offer. It is yet another chance for local people to meet potential employers and network with businesses who are looking to recruit either now or in the near future."

These Jobs Fayres come on the back of the latest unemployment figures announced yesterday, which show that the number of unemployed claimants in Cannock Chase constituency in July 2011 was 2,357. This represents a rate of 4.9% of the economically active population aged 16 to 64, the 310th highest of the 650 UK constituencies. The number of claimants is the same as in July 2010 and 19 higher than in June 2011.

For further details about the Rugeley Jobs Fayre, or to reserve a stall, please contact Claire Wixon on 01543 502 447 or e-mail claire.wixon@parliament.uk

MP URGES PRIME MINISTER TO DEPORT NON-UK RIOTERS

Aidan has urged the Prime Minister to deport immediately all those involved in rioting and looting who are not British citizens.

Aidan raised the issue during the emergency session of Parliament, which had been recalled following the recent disturbances.

The Prime Minister responded by saying "There are now much better mechanisms to ensure that people who enter the criminal justice system and who do not have a right to be here are removed more quickly."

Commenting, Aidan said: "What we saw last week across the country was criminality pure and simple. Local people in Cannock Chase will simply not stomach any of those rioters or looters prosecuted remaining in Britain if they are not UK Citizens.

"They should be deported immediately – and not allowed back into this country ever again."

The full text of Aidan's exchange, as reported in Hansard:

Aidan Burley (Cannock Chase, Conservative): Will the Prime Minister consider the suggestion that anyone who is convicted of rioting and who is not a UK citizen should be deported immediately and barred for life from returning to this country?

David Cameron (Prime Minister; Witney, Conservative): My hon. Friend makes a good point. There are now much better mechanisms to ensure that people who enter the criminal justice system and who do not have a right to be here are removed more quickly.

You can view the exchange here.

MP SUPPORTS BOOST TO LOCAL PUBS IN CANNOCK CHASE

Aidan Burley enthusiastically supports the Government's review which will boost the number of local pubs. As part of its commitment to the Great British pub, the Government last week launched a review of restrictive covenants, a legal clause that can be used to prevent community pubs reopening as public houses following a sale.

In just 5 years under Labour - between 2004 and 2009 - some 572 pubs are said to have been permanently lost following a sale with a restrictive covenant, potentially depriving thousands of regulars of an important community asset.

Commenting Aidan said: "Pubs are hubs of community life, as important to the local social scene as they are to the local economy here in Cannock Chase. But time is being called at too many of our 'locals', depriving people of treasured places to get together in the community.

"We are putting the people back in charge, giving them the power to step in and save their much-loved community assets. By reviewing this restrictive red tape we will enable people to use their collective powers to ensure that their locals remain local and continue to thrive at the heart of every local community".

CHASE MP ORGANISES FIRST EVER CANNOCK CHASE JOBS FAYRE

Aidan has announced he is organising Cannock Chase's first ever Jobs Fayre in order to help the unemployed back into work.

The Jobs Fayre is to be held on Friday 23rd September 2011 at the Cannock Campus of South Staffordshire College, (The Green, Cannock, Staffs, WS11 1UE) and will be open to all local people (for free!) in Cannock Chase, from 10am-4pm.

In organising the event, Aidan has personally written to over 100 local businesses, organisations and charities, inviting them to the Jobs Fayre. He is also publicly calling on businesses to get behind the event and has requested all interested companies with job vacancies to get in touch and reserve a stall.

Employers will be able to book a table where they can have literature, leaflets, business cards and pull up banners, and local people will be free to drop by throughout the day and meet to discuss potential opportunities. There will also be seminars throughout the day, including CV writing and interview technique workshops.

Commenting Aidan said: "As the local MP, many employers tell me they are looking to take on new people, either right now or in the near future, but that they do not know how best to meet those in search of a job.

"Yet at the same time many local people who are out of work tell me how desperate they are to get a job, to get back into the workplace, but that they do not know which employers are looking to recruit.

"That's why I am organising this Jobs Fayre – it is my attempt to put those two needs together, by getting employers and potential employees in the same room so that they can meet each other, network and discuss what opportunities may be available."

Aidan added: "I want companies to come along and back the Jobs Fayre. I want local people to spread the word – tell your neighbour, friend or family. This will be a fantastic opportunity to network with employers, learn about roles and opportunities with companies looking to recruit and even get some useful CV tips. I urge businesses to get behind the fayre and support their local community."

If you own a business, organisation or charity that either has posts available it is looking to fill or is likely to have vacancies in the near future, or is looking to develop a pool of potential recruits for a future date, then this is your chance to meet local people in search of a job.

Please contact Claire Wixon on 01543 502 447 or e-mail claire.wixon@parliament.uk to reserve a place at the Jobs Fayre.

MP FINDS OUT ABOUT POTENTIAL BANK SUPPORT FOR LOCAL GOOD CAUSES

Aidan was delighted to find out about a brand new initiative which could provide valuable volunteer and financial support to local good causes when he hosted the Chase Community Showcase at The Premier Suite in Cannock.

NatWest has launched CommunityForce, a new initiative to help local charities, organisations and groups raise publicity of their work and attract volunteers. The programme also provides the opportunity to receive funding through the NatWest CommunityForce awards.

Through the initiative 158 individual CommunityForce areas have been created - one of which is available in the Stafford and Shropshire area, which includes the Cannock Chase - offering local projects the chance to win one of three £6,000 awards.

Organisations and charities can apply for a CommunityForce award at www.natwest.com/communityforce or www.rbs.co.uk/communityforce between 25th July and 4th September 2011. An on-line public vote will then decide which three organisations will receive the awards, ensuring the winners are those that local people feel benefit their community most.

The new CommunityForce initiative will offer organisations more than just financial support. By applying for the awards, charities and projects will become part of a local online network giving them greater visibility and the opportunity to attract volunteers from the local area. NatWest's people will also be volunteering their time and expertise, and supporting the bank's commitment to deliver 7000 days of community volunteering in 2011.

Aidan Burley MP for Cannock Chase, said: "Last year one of our local charities - the West Chadsmoor Family Centre - was awarded £1,000 through the NatWest Community Fund, the predecessor of Community Force. It would be fantastic if a good cause from Cannock Chase was a winner again this year, so I would encourage officials from Charities and organisations to register so that local people can vote for them."

Louise Williamson, the manager of NatWest Cannock branch, said: "NatWest has a long and proud history of supporting the community in the area and I'm delighted about the launch of CommunityForce. It is really gives the community the chance to vote for the award winners, ensuring these funds go to the organisations local people value the most."

Louise added: "CommunityForce is part of our ongoing commitment to support the communities where we live and work; not just by donating funds, but also through volunteering our time and expertise"

HIGH STREETS GET BOOST FROM FAIRER PARKING IN CANNOCK CHASE

Aidan has welcomed new measures to provide more car parking spaces in town centres. Anti-car red tape imposed by Labour is being scrapped, tackling the parking misery faced by shoppers.

Centrally-imposed limits on town centre parking spaces will be removed, helping to provide a big boost to struggling high streets and small shops, Communities Secretary Eric Pickles announced this week. National parking restrictions set by Whitehall have until now dictated the number of parking spaces a council is permitted to grant, often with a cap that limits the spaces town centres can offer even when they want to offer more.

Commenting Aidan said: "The return of fairer parking is great news for Cannock Chase, its shoppers and businesses.

"We are calling off Labour's war on the motorist. We want to see more parking spaces to help small shops prosper on local high streets and assist mums struggling with their family shop.

"In addition to ripping up the red tape on parking, I am pleased the Government has scrapped Whitehall rules on town centres, doubled small business rate relief for two years and helped local councils by giving them more powers to tackle late-night antisocial behaviour".

CANNOCK CHASE FLYING THE FLAG FOR THE BIG SOCIETY

Aidan Burley teamed up with Chase CVS today to host a Chase Community Showcase at the Premier Suite in Cannock Town Centre. The event which was organised by Aidan and his Help Zone team was aimed at promoting and showing the benefits of the 'Big Society' here in Cannock Chase.

The event, which took many weeks of organising, brought together over 45 voluntary and third sector organisations from across Staffordshire to offer the public an opportunity to showcase what activities and services are available to them in the local area.

Some of the services offered at the event, which was opened by the Chase MP, included employment and training advice, housing information and guidance on how to get involved with volunteering in the local community. Soroptomists and Cannock Lions Club were also on hand to provide cake, tea and coffee with all proceeds going to local charities.

Aidan and his Help Zone team were also on hand throughout the day to talk with constituents about what support is available through the MP.

Commenting after the event Aidan said: "The community showcase was all about bringing together those who are working for the benefit of Cannock Chase, and letting the public know what's out there for them. I am extremely grateful for the work organisations like this do for local people, and am proud to be supporting them through the Big Society."

MP HELPS OUT AT NEWLIFE

Aidan recently spent a morning helping out at a prominent Cannock Charity.

Newlife Foundation for Disabled Children, based in Hemlock Way in Cannock, helps to raise awareness and money to support families with disabled and terminally ill children.

Aidan has taken a deep interest in the charity since his election last year, not only paying tribute to them on the floor of the House of Commons but also ensuring a visit to the charity from Disabilities Minister Maria Miller MP. Aidan also had the honour of opening their 'Newlife at Home' store with fiancée Helen in October last year.

And it was at this store where Aidan started his day by spending time meeting and greeting customers before serving on the till. Following his stint on the shop floor, Aidan joined the Newlife Nurse team, reviewing equipment grant applications from families across the UK.

Last year, Newlife awarded £1.2million in equipment grants to children throughout the UK. The charity is currently experiencing hugely increased demands on its resources; calls to the Newlife Nurse helpline – 0800 902 0095 – have shot up by 73 per cent compared to the same period last year. This is an average of 300 calls a week, with thousands more hits on the charity's website www.newlifecharity.co.uk

Commenting after the visit Aidan said: "It was a real privilege being able to spend some time with Newlife helping out at their store and nurses department. What Newlife does is fantastic on so many levels – providing employment locally, helping get the long-term unemployed and disabled back into work, raising huge amounts of money for disabled children and, of course, providing fantastic deals for local shoppers."

Charity CEO Shelia Brown added: "It was good to see Aidan come back and volunteer in the Homestore that he and his partner opened a few months ago. Many customers enjoyed being served by him and he has added to his CV the ability to use a till! Aidan then went on to meet the Newlife Nurse team and reviewed real-life situations that families face. He was particularly concerned at the confusion surrounding pathways to funding equipment and has offered to raise this matter in the House of Commons."

MP WELCOMES PLANS TO EXTEND VOTING DEADLINES FOR OVERSEAS AND PERSONNEL VOTERS

Following an intervention by Aidan the Government has confirmed that the electoral timetables for future elections will be reviewed in order to allow more overseas and service personnel to vote in elections

Following calls from a number of overseas constituents, Aidan tabled a Parliamentary Question on this issue urging the Government to take action to ensure that all such voters were given more time to return their ballot papers during an election.

Under the existing system, postal votes cannot be issued to registered electors until at least 11 working days before the poll. The time taken to print and issue the postal votes shortens this window even further and means that voters, particularly those overseas, are left with a small timeframe within which to complete and post back their ballot paper – something several constituents complained to Aidan about.

The new provisions now being considered will mean that the electoral timetable for UK Parliamentary elections will be extended to 25 days ahead of the poll, eight days earlier than under the current system, providing extra time for postal votes to be sent and returned. The measures will also ease pressure on those who administer elections.

The draft legislation is intended to form part of a package of elections measures including individual electoral registration which has already been published separately for pre-legislative scrutiny. The Political and Constitutional Reform Select Committee will now consider the changes before legislation is introduced next year, to be implemented in time for the next General Election in 2015.

Commenting Aidan said: "It is quite shameful that overseas voters and many of our brave men and women serving overseas in our Armed Forces were unable to vote in the last election due to unreasonable election deadlines. The existing timetable for elections is extremely tight and makes it very challenging for postal votes to be turned around. I am glad therefore that this Government has now listened to the concerns of my constituents and others and put forward proposals to extend these deadlines.

"The right to vote is the very bedrock of this country and one that should not be denied to some our bravest citizens by inappropriate bureaucratic timescales."

AIDAN WELCOMES STRONG APPRENTICESHIP FIGURES

Aidan will be using his Help Zone in Cannock town centre to boost employment in the area by providing advice to local businesses and organisations on how to apply for assistance to take more apprentices through the Government's new £25 million Higher Apprenticeship Fund.

This new Fund, announced by the Prime Minister, will support the expansion of apprenticeships up to degree equivalent in companies, particularly SMEs, where there is unmet demand for the higher level skills that are necessary to create additional jobs and growth.

This comes on the same day that it was announced that 900 people have taken up an apprenticeship in Cannock Chase in the 9 months to April 2011, a take-up rate 50% higher than across the country as a whole.

"The figures so far have been good, but I believe that we must do more," said Aidan. "Youth unemployment in Cannock Chase rose under Labour to be amongst the highest in the West Midlands. That is why I want to use the facilities of the Help Zone to encourage those who have not yet taken the plunge."

Figures released on Tuesday showed that 900 apprenticeships programmes were started by learners living in Cannock Chase in the period to April, compared to 580 in the same period in 2009-10. Nationally, the Coalition Government has delivered 326,700 starts in the first nine months of the 2010/11 academic year – more than double its ambition – and means that the Government has met the targets set by Gordon Brown in 2003, but which Labour failed to ever reach. The growth has been across all sectors, at all ages and all levels.

Commenting further on the figures Aidan said: "The growth we have seen in apprenticeships, both locally and nationally proves that employers recognise them to be a sound platform for long term economic prosperity. Every £1 the Government spends on an apprenticeship is estimated to deliver a return of some £40 to the wider economy. More importantly, it provides an increased sense of self-esteem to those people who are learning a trade and earning their own way in the world. I see them as a key building block in the strategy to return Cannock Chase as a thriving centre of skilled employment."

MP UNCOVERS BIFFA’S SECRET PLANS TO DUMP ALL UK WASTE IN CANNOCK

Aidan has questioned Biffa's ambitions for the recently and controversially approved incinerator at the Poplars site.

Uncovering excerpts from Biffa's original submission to Staffordshire County Council in February 2009, it states that if rail was used, the Energy Recovery Facility recently approved could potentially serve the whole of the United Kingdom. It states:

"There is potential for rail importation via the former Mid Cannock coal disposal point nearby, which is now a freight distribution facility. However, that site is not under Biffa's control and it is not clear what rail infrastructure remains. It should also be borne in mind that viable travel distances by rail are far greater than by road, to the extent that the catchment area could effectively extend to all of mainland UK, which may or may not be politically acceptable to the Council."

Commenting Aidan said: "This submission from 2009 appears to show Biffa's true ambitions. Not only does it seem Cannock Chase will be the dumping ground of the West Midlands but, if Biffa get their way, potentially the dumping ground for the whole of the mainland UK.

"I opposed this planning submission from the beginning, largely on the grounds that it would be a disproportionately large facility for our local area. It would require rubbish to be lorry loaded in from all over the West Midlands. Now we see Biffa want to import it from all over the UK.

"Despite this stated intention, they failed to make their ultimate aim clear to the councillors in their application. I also understand that they also have plans for the extraction of 2.8 million tons of clay from the Poplars Landfill site, over a ten year period, all to be taken by road to a brick factory in Walsall. These aspirations are being progressed through the Staffordshire County Council Minerals Core Strategy. This would also create a void of 1.4 million m3, equivalent to 2-3 years extension of the Poplars Landfill operations. Did they make the planning panel aware of this in their application?

"I believe they didn't and that is why I am continuing to call on Staffordshire County Council to judicially review this outrageous planning decision."

“WINTER-PROOF YOUR HOME AND SAVE CASH”, SAYS CHASE MP

Aidan is calling on constituents to take action, winter-proof their homes and save money.

With the costs of food, clothing and running a car all on the increase, one cost that consumers can take action to control, is their rising energy bills.

Currently, around £1 of every £4 we spend on heating our homes is wasted because of a lack of adequate insulation. And with over 6 million cavity walls unfilled, and over 10 million lofts unlagged, huge amounts of money is being wasted.

Cavity wall and loft insulation consumers can heat their homes for a much lower cost, saving hundreds of pounds from their bills. And customers of British Gas can take advantage of the company's offer to insulate their homes free.

Research from the Centre for Economic and Business Research (Cebr) has shown that energy efficiency can have a significant impact. The research, conducted earlier this year, analysed over 40 million meter readings over a five year period and showed that customers of British Gas are using 22% less gas on average. Some customers were saving as much as £322 a year on their energy bills.

Commenting Aidan said: "We all know that household budgets are stretched. One area where households can take control is over their energy bills where simple steps such as switching supplier and improving your home insulation can help save you money. I would urge all my constituents to take action and get the free energy efficiency that they are entitled to, so that they can be ready in time for winter."

Following an agreement with Government, the major energy suppliers are committed to improving the energy efficiency levels of much of the UK's housing stock to the tune of £5.5billion. Through this scheme, many vulnerable people have access to free energy efficiency measures.

Gearoid Lane, Managing Director of British Gas New Markets says: "Rising energy prices don't have to mean higher bills. Britain's housing stock is some of the most inefficient in the developed world with £1 in every £4 spent on heating our homes wasted because of poor insulation. Basic efficiency measures can make a difference. All our customers need do is contact us and we can get them the help they need."

MP PRESSES FOR LOCAL GROUPS TO HAVE A SAY IN FOREST’S FUTURE

Aidan yesterday met with the Deputy Head of the Secretariat for the Independent Panel for Forestry, Mike Seddon, in order to express the strength of feeling of local people about the future of Cannock Chase Forest.

Mr Burley had called for the meeting after the Panel's decision not to visit Cannock Chase as part of its latest round of visits.

At the meeting, Aidan presented a dossier about Cannock Chase and Mr Seddon said he would go back to the Panel and look again at a potential visit to the Chase. However, Aidan pressed for a commitment that if a visit was not possible, members of the Panel would speak to local stakeholders so they can contribute their views to the report, currently being put together by the Panel.

Subsequent to the wide scale of public interest in the Panel's work and the immense input to the consultation, the Panel's deadline for its inquiry has been extended until April 2012, with a progress report due in November this year.

Commenting after the meeting Aidan said: "I was delighted to meet with Mike Seddon to discuss the future of Cannock Chase Forest. I felt it was a constructive meeting, in which I believe Mr Seddon came away with a clear idea of the local people's passion for our greatest asset. He was particularly pleased with the dossier I presented to him, which highlighted the unique features of our great forest.

"During the meeting I re-invited Mr Seddon and the Panel to visit Cannock Chase and see firsthand the rich bio-diversity of our great forest and the leisure and tourism opportunities. I also suggested they speak to local groups and residents so they can contribute their views on how best to protect our forest to the report."

Aidan also brought the issue of Heritage Status to Mr Seddon's attention, to which he confirmed that the Panel will consider the points raised, but at this moment the Panel would not be ruling anything in or out.

Picture shows Aidan holding his dossier alongside Deputy Head of the Forestry Panel Secretariat Mike Seddon.

AIDAN SECURES MEETING WITH FORESTRY PANEL REP

Cannock Chase MP Aidan Burley has had a success in his campaign to protect Cannock Chase forest by securing a meeting with a representative from the Independent Panel on Forestry. The Panel was set up in March to advise the Government on the future direction of forestry and woodland policy in England.

Aidan will meet with a member of the Forestry Panel Secretariat following the Panel's decision not to visit Cannock Chase as part of its latest round of visits.

Aidan will use this meeting as an opportunity to represent to the Panel local people's views about the future of the Chase: he will also discuss his cross-party campaign for the Chase to receive "Heritage Status".

Commenting, Aidan said: "I was determined to ensure that the views of my constituents here in Cannock Chase were not ignored by the Panel. I am delighted therefore to be meeting with a representative from the Panel to put forward those views in person."

STAFFORDSHIRE MPS CONDEMN APPROVAL OF ‘SPACESHIP’ CANNOCK WASTE INCINERATOR

Local Staffordshire MPs Aidan Burley (Cannock Chase) and Gavin Williamson (South Staffordshire) have issued the following statement:

"We are appalled that Staffordshire County Councillors have approved this planning application for a huge new incinerator in Cannock. The decision is disastrous for public health and sends out the repellent message that it is okay for Cannock to be the dumping ground of the greater West Midlands.

"We both intend to write to Cllr Philip Atkins to express the extreme disappointment of our constituents that this has been allowed to happen. What's more, the vote was tied at 4 councillors each way, and the incinerator was given the green-light by the casting vote of the Chair. How can it be right for a decision of this importance to be made with five councillors absent – and carried only because the Chair voted twice?"

Aidan added: "The people of Cannock rightly feel let down. Some are calling for judicial review of the decision: they have my full support. I am sickened that a development of this magnitude can be approved on the say-so of one out-of-touch councillor from a different part of Staffordshire. He will never be welcome in our town."

MP WELCOMES DILNOT REPORT ON SOCIAL CARE

Aidan has welcomed the publication of the Commission on Funding of Care and Support report headed by Andrew Dilnot.

The report, commissioned by the Government last year was tasked to consider a range of funding ideas including both voluntary insurance and partnership schemes. The Commission, set up as an independent body, built on the extensive body of work that had already been done in this area.

The Government have initiated talks between all three political parties on social care funding reform and have said that they will take forward consideration of the commission's recommendations as a priority.

Commenting Aidan said: "I very much welcome the publication of this report by Andrew Dilnot, which has some excellent proposals. For too long social care reform has been a talking shop but the simple truth is that the current system is simply not fit for purpose. I hear on a daily basis stories of hard working people who have paid their taxes and saved hard being made to pay such large sums and in some instances sell their homes in order to pay for their care. This is totally unacceptable and needs to change. It is certainly the case that trade-offs will inevitably have to be made to make progress on this issue but this Government is determined to build a funding system that is fair, affordable and sustainable in the long term".

AIDAN VOLUNTEERS AT BRITISH HEART FOUNDATION

Aidan recently spent a morning at the Cannock British Heart Foundation store.

Aidan spent time selling badges and goods, operating the till and sorting out stock.

As well as helping out in the store, Aidan was there to raise funds and awareness for the charities latest campaign "Big Hearts wear Little Hearts" which is raising awareness of heart problems in children and young people. He managed to collect £25.95 in his tin in just a few hours!

The popular charity shop, based in Cannock Town Centre, has been open to the public for over 20 years selling second-hand clothes, shoes, books and other goods. All money raised goes towards the British Heart Foundation's pioneering research into cures for heart conditions. The shop in Cannock has 3 paid staff but its army of over 44 registered volunteers help keep the shop running smoothly.

Commenting Aidan said: "I was delighted to help out at the BHF shop and help raise awareness and money for the 'Big Hearts wear Little Hearts Campaign'. It is sometimes easy to forget that heart problems can affect children and young people just as much as older people, so it is important we do all we can to help find cures and treatments. Thanks to the generosity of the public, the BHF have made significant progress but there's still a way to go.

"I would especially like to pay tribute to the large number of volunteers here in Cannock Chase and across the country who give up their time to help run and support BHF shops like this one in Cannock. Charity shops would simply not be able to operate and raise such vital funds if it weren't for the generosity and time of volunteers. I would encourage anybody who can spare a little time to do so and help make a real difference to people's lives"

AIDAN WELCOMES ARMED FORCES DAY

In advance of Armed Forces Day 2011 Chase MP Aidan Burley takes the opportunity to say thank you to all those that are serving in the Armed Forces, their families, veterans and cadets and encourages all to show their support on the day.

Commenting on this week's Armed Forces Day Aidan said:

"Armed Forces Day is a great opportunity for us to show our appreciation for all those who wear the uniform, their families, veterans and cadets. We all owe a huge debt to our brave service personnel who work tirelessly keeping this country safe. I wish those attending a great day out and on behalf of all the people of Cannock Chase say a big thank you to our amazing Armed Forces.

"The Government and the Conservative party are both committed to providing for our troops. In the past year we have already doubled the operational allowance and introduced a pupil premium to help with the education of our forces children. It is with these practical policies that we show our commitment and gratitude to our brave forces."

MP URGES PRIME MINISTER TO FIX BROKEN WELFARE SYSTEM

Aidan has urged the Prime Minister and the Government to double its efforts to reform the broken welfare system.

Speaking at Prime Minister's Questions yesterday, Aidan cited the example of one man who had received so much in benefits he was able to set up his own illegal loans company.

Figures released by the Department for Work and Pensions showed that welfare spending increased by 45% in real terms in the ten years to 2009/2010. Last year £192 billion was spent on welfare payments, compared to £35 billion on defence, £50 billion on education, and £98 billion on health.

Responding, the Prime Minster agreed with Aidan that people wanted the Government to fix the welfare system. He made it clear that anybody who can work and is offered a job shouldn't be allowed to live a life on welfare. He also gave assurances that support will still be there for people who genuinely need help.

Commenting after the exchange Aidan said: "It was clear from speaking to people on the doorstep in Cannock Chase both before and after the election that they want us to reform our welfare system. I was delighted therefore, to get an assurance from the Prime Minister that we would double our efforts to reform our broken welfare system and make work pay – as I know this is important to local people. I was also pleased with the affirmation from the Prime Minister that those who genuinely need help will continue to receive support."

AIDAN BURLEY MP: BIG SOCIETY FUND SUPPORTS VOLUNTARY SECTOR IN CANNOCK CHASE

Chase MP Aidan Burley has welcomed the news that money from the Government's Big Society Transition Fund will support the voluntary sector in Cannock Chase. The funding, part of the third wave of payouts from the £107 million Transition Fund, is being paid out to Be Together Limited which is based in Rugeley.

Although three quarters of charities receive no public funding, the Government is determined to protect those charities, such as Be Together Limited which are most vulnerable to public spending cuts.

The Transition Fund provides grants to these organisations to allow them to prepare for the future opportunities opened up by the Big Society. The money will fund the crucial changes that charities need to make to take advantage of the new opportunities available to them from opening up public sector contracts. So far more than 900 charities nationally have received support from the Transition Fund.

Commenting Aidan said: "I'm pleased that the Government is committed to supporting charities, voluntary groups and social enterprises across Cannock Chase despite the necessity of dealing with Labour's disastrous economic legacy.

"It's great to hear that Be Together Limited which does important work improving the employability skills of young people in Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent will receive £160,000 of funding."

MP POPS A PARLIAMENTARY QUESTION

Chase MP, Aidan Burley, has proposed to his girlfriend, Helen Boyle (she said 'yes'!)

Helen was celebrating her birthday on Tuesday 14th June and thought she was coming into the House of Commons for dinner. However, unaware to her Aidan was planning another surprise high up on the roof of the Houses of Parliament.

Aidan had hidden a bottle of champagne and two glasses on the roof and after showing Helen the views over Westminster, he went down on one knee. As she said 'yes', Big Ben loudly chimed 6.45pm.

Commenting, Aidan said: "It was such a special moment for us both. Being so high up gave us wonderful views over a bustling Westminster – and yet was so quiet and serene. The weather was just beautiful, and having gone down on one knee, the best part of all happened - she said 'yes'!"

The couple plan to get married next year in the bride's home village in Herefordshire.

AIDAN OPENS SOUTH STAFFORDSHIRE COLLEGE’S REDEVELOPED NURSERY AT CANNOCK

South Staffordshire College has opened the newly refurbished "Little Learners" nursery at Cannock Campus, with Chief Executive Principal Graham Morley welcoming it as another successful project in the College's £3.5 million investment programme.

The official opening ceremony was performed by Aidan Burley, MP for Cannock Chase. Graham Morley said "Aidan has shown a very keen interest in the college since he was elected to represent the Cannock Chase constituency and we were delighted that he agreed to officially open our new nursery. Little Learners will benefit the children of learners and staff at South Staffordshire College but it is also open to the wider community looking for an outstanding nursery.

"We are very proud of our new development, which includes new furniture, equipment and landscaped areas."

The nursery project was partly financed by the Department for Children, Schools and Families and also by Cannock County Council.

Belinda Ball, Head of Learner Services for South Staffordshire College, says "The new nursery site will offer a happy, stimulating and caring environment in which parents can have the confidence to leave their child knowing they will be well looked after."

The redevelopment means the nursery will now be able to accept children from six weeks to five years and the baby, toddler and pre-school rooms have been designed to meet the specific ages and stages of development for each group.

Belinda adds, "The creation and improvement of our outside space will enable the children to have free flow access to outdoor play at all times and will become a key aspect of our provision of childcare."

VIP guest Aidan Burley and Graham Morley spent time talking to the children enjoying the new facilities and joined in the activities, including placing their handprints alongside the youngsters to create a commemorative piece of artwork.

Aidan said: "I was honoured to be asked to open this new nursery facility here at Cannock and to support the launch of the Little Learners brand.

"The facilities at the nursery are second to none and after speaking with some of the children it is clear they agree!

"Nurseries such as this not only provide perfect learning facilities for students on childcare courses, but also provide a vital resource for both students at the college with children and the local public.

"The redevelopment will also benefit the College students on Childcare and Health and Social Care courses who will have the opportunity to gain valuable experience of a professionally run nursery environment."

AIDAN BURLEY MP: FIGHTING CRIME WITH THE NATIONAL CRIME AGENCY

Aidan has welcomed Government plans to introduce a new National Crime Agency (NCA), which will come fully into operation by 2013.

Organised crime costs the UK public between £20 billion and £40 billion each year and affects the everyday lives of individuals. The NCA will be responsible for tackling these crimes which include child abuse, drug and people smuggling, illegal immigration, fraud, cyber crime and many other serious and organised crimes.

Until now there has been no national overview or means of co-ordinating and focusing the law enforcement response to get to grips with the scale and complexity of the problem. This has led to too many of the 6,000 groups involved in organised crime in the UK escaping justice.

The NCA will be made up of four distinct commands which will come together to work more efficiently and effectively:

The Organised Crime Command will address organised crime groups across local, national and international borders. The Border Policing Command will co-ordinate law enforcement agencies, ensuring illegal goods are seized, illegal immigrants are dealt with and networks of organised criminals are effectively disrupted both overseas and at our ports. The Economic Crime Command will improve the capability to deal with economic crimes, including those carried out by organised criminals.The Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre will retain its vital national role, unique identity and capabilities, while benefiting from shared intelligence across the NCA.

At the heart of the NCA will be an intelligence hub which will build and maintain a national intelligence picture of the threats, harms and risks to the UK from organised criminals. This information will be used to prioritise criminals and task police and law enforcement agencies to ensure there is an appropriate operational response.

Commenting on the announcement, Aidan said: "This Government has a clear plan to fight crime with the new National Crime Agency. The impact of serious and organised crime is felt in the everyday lives of people in Staffordshire".

"The NCA will make sure crime-fighters work together to more effectively address serious and organised crime.

"Organised crime, economic crime, cyber crime and child exploitation are real problems, for real people across Staffordshire. The NCA will better defend our borders, protect children and tackle the drug trade and many other crimes".

AIDAN WELCOMES MUNRO REPORT INTO CHILD PROTECTION

Aidan has welcomed the publication of the independent review into child protection by Professor Eileen Munro. This follows a speech made by the MP in the Commons debate on the topic last week.

The review, commissioned last year by Education Secretary Michael Gove, has built on reports by Lord Lamming and the Social Work Task Force.

The report concluded that for too long social services has been bogged down with "too many forms and procedures which are preventing professionals from being able to give children the help they need".

Aidan used the debate on child protection to highlight concerns raised by a number of constituents regarding the interpretation of the term "emotional abuse" by some social services. He urged the Minister that as part of the review into child protection he look again at the definition of this term, to ensure it is being applied correctly and accurately.

Commenting Aidan said: "I was pleased to be able to speak in this very important debate on child protection. Professor Munro has taken a long hard look at what is preventing child protection services from working as well as they should in this country and I very much welcome her through analysis of the problems. It is vital that as we take forward these excellent proposals we remember that the interest of the child must always come first".

AIDAN ATTENDS RUGELEY CHARTER FAIR

Aidan Burley attended the Rugeley Charter Fair at the weekend, the second time he has attended the popular event in as many years.

Before attending the parade Aidan judged the Trolley Parade with Angi Cooney from the Rugeley Traders Association by the Globe Island Pub in the Town Centre. Photo to follow.

Aidan was then one of the official judges who judged the outstanding entries for this year's Rugeley Charter Fair. He helped judge the 6 winners ranked 1-3 for the best mobile float and best walking float.

Commenting Aidan said: "I was delighted to attend the Charter Fair for the second year running. I had such a wonderful time last year I just had to come back again. I would like to pay tribute to everyone involved in the organisation of the Charter Fair and Parade which showcases the very best of Rugeley. It was also great that so much money was raised for so many worthwhile causes - and I understand that Rugeley had far more floats than the equivalent event in Lichfield last weekend!"

Picture above shows Aidan awarding the prize to this year's winning MOBILE float - The Royal British Legion with local councillor Ann Allt and members of the winning float team.

Picture right shows Aidan awarding prize to winning WALKING float – The Watt Christian Theatre Group with their memorable red arrow display team and Admiral Nelson who raised money for the Stroke Association.

AIDAN’S MISSION TO ISRAEL

Aidan spent time in Israel last week as part of a delegation of MPs visiting the afflicted region on a fact finding mission. Other delegates included Government Whip Chloe Smith MP and Derbyshire MP Heather Wheeler.

The trip came only a week after US President Barrack Obama reaffirmed his commitment to peace negotiations in the region to create a viable Palestine, and a secure Israel. The President said that the borders of Israel and Palestine should be based on the 1967 lines with mutually agreed swaps, so that secure and recognised borders are established for both states.

During the visit, the delegation went on a tour to the northern border, observing the division between Israel and Lebanon, the Golan Heights and Syria, as well as Kerem Shalom – the point where aid crosses to reach the troubled Gaza region. At the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Aidan met with his Israeli counterparts, the Knesset members (Above Picture), as well as many other Palestinian Businessmen and politicians to discuss key issues, such as security, trade links and the current situation in Iran involving new nuclear power facilities that threaten stability in the region.

Aidan was also reminded of the horrors of the Second World War when the delegation visited Yad Vashem, Israel's Holocaust memorial museum which honours the millions of Jews persecuted during the War. (Picture right, Aidan in front of the Old City of Jerusalem)

Commenting upon his return Aidan said: "Israel may seem far removed from us here, but the Holy Land has been at the root of many of the major conflicts that this country has fought over the last 40 years. As such, it has touched families in Cannock Chase and across Staffordshire. It is important for the new generation of politicians to try and end the fighting through a "Two State" solution. The trip (privately funded at no cost to the taxpayer) has given me and other MPs a deeper understanding of the tensions and difficulties that stand in the path of peace."

MP HELPS OUT WITH CANNOCK MARKET TOMBOLA

Aidan visited Cannock Market last week to help the traders with their monthly tombola which this month was raising money for The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association which provides guide dogs, mobility and other rehabilitation services to meet the needs of blind and partially sighted people and aid their independence.

This is the second time Aidan has visited the market. In February this year Aidan met with local traders to discuss their work and highlight the importance of markets to the local community.

Commenting after the visit Aidan said: "It was a pleasure to re-join the traders on Cannock Market to help them with their tombola. Markets are a very important to the local community not just financially but also their role helping local charities. I was happy to help them sell tombola tickets and raise money for the Guide Dogs for Blind Association which is a very worthy cause."

Secretary of Cannock Market Traders Committee Margaret Lavender added: "We are very fortunate to have our local MP take an interest and support our market, and it was a pleasure to see him again in spite of his busy schedule."

MP ACTS TO BOOST ENTERPRISE ZONE BID

Aidan has stepped up efforts to try and get an Enterprise Zone located in Cannock Chase.

Aidan has already spoken with local businesses and has recently been in contact with senior representatives from Birmingham City Council, who are key players in the Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), which is helping write the bid for the Zone, which will be submitted to the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. Members of Aidan's team have also attended meetings of the LEP to help shape the bid.

Taking this one stage further, he is now seeking to organise a meeting between all the major players to discuss and drive forward the application.

Under the proposals that are being developed there would be an "Enterprise Belt" of several Enterprise Zones across Staffordshire, one of which would incorporate Cannock Chase.

Enterprise Zones were announced in the March Budget with plans to establish 21 across England that will seek to stimulate investment through tax breaks, reduced planning restrictions and "superfast" broadband. The first 10 of these Zones will be located in the ten major cities with the remaining 11 Zones available for bidding by Local Enterprise Partnerships.

Commenting Aidan said: "It's important that the Cannock element of the 'Enterprise Belt' submission is as strong as possible. That way if the 'belt' idea is rejected, the Cannock element of it could still be considered on its own merits.

"I have long thought that Kingswood Lakeside on Orbital Way would make an excellent Enterprise Zone location, and have offered my assistance to Cannock Chase District Council to work with their officers to make the bid as strong as possible."

NATIONAL FORESTRY PANEL WELCOMES MP’S INVITATION TO VISIT CHASE FOREST

Chase MP Aidan Burley has confirmed that the Independent Panel on Forestry notified him in April that it is considering taking up his offer to visit Rugeley and Cannock as part of a national consultation on reforms to the Public Forest Estate.

In a letter to Mr Burley the Rt Revd James Jones, who is chairing the panel, thanked Aidan for inviting the fact-finders to visit Cannock Chase. Bishop Jones said that the invitation was "most welcome", and told the MP that the Panel is "keen to ensure that our work draws on broad input". The Panel has released its list of "initial visits" and will confirm later whether the further visits will follow.

Aidan has also welcomed the support from the 'Save Cannock Chase' campaign, in the form of a submission to the Panel they will be compiling over the coming months to express local people's views of the importance of the Chase.

Aidan said: "I'm pleased to see that the forestry panel has begun its important consultation work. I'm also very pleased that the Chair is considering coming to Cannock Chase, to visit our forest and to speak to our people about how important it is to us.

"The importance of the Save Cannock Chase campaign joining my efforts is that it shows to the panel that this is not just the views of the local MP, but truly reflects grassroots feeling in the area and beyond."

MP: WE’VE ALREADY CUT TAX FOR 1,990,000 IN WEST MIDLANDS

New figures show that the Government has cut income tax for 1,990,000 people across the West Midlands, resulting in 71,000 of the lowest paid being taken out of tax altogether. Across the country, 22.6 million people have had an income tax cut worth £200 this year, and 830,000 have been taken out of tax altogether.

The increase in the income tax personal allowance of £1,000, announced at the June 2010 Budget, came into effect last month and means that basic rate taxpayers are £200 a year better off. And next year's personal allowance increase of £630, will benefit a further 2,140,000 people in the West Midlands by £126 a year, and take a further 25,000 people in the region out of tax.

Commenting, Aidan said: "I welcome the fact that this year alone, thanks to Government action, almost two million people in the West Midlands are paying £200 less income tax this year, and 71,000 of the lowest paid in this region have been taken out of tax altogether.

"We know that times are tough for families across the country, and so it is also important to lift people out of the income tax system and allow them to keep more of their hard-earned money."

LOCAL MP WELCOMES GROWTH AND NEW JOBS FOR CANNOCK BUSINESS

Aidan visited the award winning Cannock business Key Precision Ltd this week to congratulate them on their continued growth which has been supported by NatWest.

The successful Key Precision Ltd which was established in 2004 are manufacturers of precision turned parts, inserts for plastic and sheet metal fasteners, and are based on Phoenix Rd, Hawks Green, Cannock. The company which uses the very latest CNC (computer numerical control) machines undertake bespoke manufacture of parts for a wide range of industries and recently won the Black Country Supplier of the year award. The award recognised the high level of service and quality in the supply of components.

As a result of the success, skills and reputation it has, the company - which employs 22 people - is now expanding into the aerospace industry with the support of NatWest. This move could generate an additional two jobs.

Aidan Burley MP visited Key Precision Ltd following discussions with local NatWest management about support for small and medium sized enterprises in the area and said: "I was delighted to visit Key Precision and talk with the management about their success. It is vital that government supports businesses like this, which along with other small and medium size businesses create much of the sustainable growth and jobs that will drive our economic recovery. These remain tough times for many businesses, but they have shown that Cannock Chase is a great place to do business even in a difficult economic environment. Their success also highlights how important it is for businesses and banks to work closely and the important role they will both play in the economic recovery."

Neil Dawson, Director Key Precision Ltd said: "This is an extremely exciting time for our business and we're delighted that Aidan has taken the time to come and see and talk to us about our plans. We've got a fantastic workforce and this will go a long way to help us grow and achieve long term success for the business. We're maximising the opportunities we have at the moment and are confident we can continue grow further and hopefully provide more local jobs. We also very much appreciate the support NatWest has provided in helping us to move the business forward. It's good to know they're behind us and our plans."

NatWest Development Manager Andy Tuck, who was at today's meeting, said: "The team at Key Precision Ltd have incredible experience, skills, drive and expertise and our support reflects their outstanding commitment and professionalism. These are undoubtedly more challenging economic times for the business community but we remain focussed on funding the investment to help businesses throughout the local area to develop and grow."

MP CALLS FOR TOP CLUBS TO PAY THEIR SHARE

Chase MP Aidan Burley yesterday urged Ministers to end the taxpayer subsidy of Premier League Football clubs in a debate on the cost of policing football matches.

Aidan led the half hour debate in Westminster Hall which has received both local and national press interest.

At present, clubs pay for the policing costs inside and immediately outside their grounds, Aidan stated that the police, and therefore the taxpayer, were still losing out "to the tune of millions of pounds a year" due to the consequential costs of policing away from the grounds, at train stations and other public areas.

West Midlands Police alone lost out by £722,232 in the 2009/10 Premier League season and with their force looking to make budget cuts of around £123 million by 2014, Mr Burley believes that it is unacceptable for such lucrative businesses such as Premier League clubs to pass off the these extra police costs onto the taxpayer.

After the debate Mr Burley said: "Everyone has seen the extra police patrolling towns and train stations on match day, and they are only there for one reason: because it is match day. I do not see how it is fair that taxpayers are footing the bill and feel the police should be able to recuperate all their costs on match day."

As a result of the debate the Government has promised to review the situation and Home Office Minister Damien Green stated they are "considering all options to ensure a mutually beneficial resolution."

AIDAN BURLEY MP: POLICE SHOULD BE CRIME-FIGHTERS, NOT FORM-WRITERS

Aidan Burley has welcomed the Home Secretary's commitment to fight crime by slashing police bureaucracy. In a speech on Monday, Theresa May outlined a package of reforms which will save 2.5 million police hours a year – the equivalent of 1200 officer posts. The reforms will cut paperwork above all by restructuring the police's performance review process, and simplifying crime recording. They will change the culture of policing by moving away from the tick box, cover-your-back culture of today. This is a truly radical change with Government committing to trust the police to get on with their job.

Although Labour promised to cut bureaucracy, the police saw more paperwork not less. The police were directed by Whitehall diktat and spent their time chasing centrally-defined targets, rather than responding to the needs of local communities. Despite record spending, bureaucracy and form-filling kept police behind desks. A report last year by the police inspectorate found that only eleven per cent of police officers were visible and available to the public at any time.

The Coalition Government is introducing a series of measures as part of their plan to fight crime:

• Slashing bureaucracy. The new package of reforms will save an estimated 2.5 million hours of police time, the equivalent of 1200 officer posts. Steps have already been taken to save up to an additional 800,000 hours of police time by scrapping the stop form and limiting stop and search reporting.
• Removing all targets. All Labour's targets for the police have been scrapped and replaced with a single goal: to cut crime.
• Providing transparent information. Street-level crime maps on police.uk provide accurate information so local communities can see how police are dealing with crime in their area.

Commenting Aidan said:"This is a watershed moment for policing across Cannock Chase. After years of rising paperwork, Government is taking effective steps to cut crime by tackling the bureaucracy that keeps the police behind desks, not out on the streets.

"Dealing with the paperwork from a simple burglary can require 1,000 process steps. Labour claim to support reducing bureaucracy but couldn't even answer whether the police should spend more time on paperwork or patrol when I questioned the then Shadow Home Secretary Ed Balls in January".

"Only this Government is prepared to trust the police to get on with their jobs – rather than tying them up in paperwork and red tape. That's why I support the Home Secretary's decision to scrap all police targets and instead set the police just one goal: to cut crime".

MP THROWS WEIGHT BEHIND FAMILIES’ CAMPAIGN TO END WASTE OF NHS FUNDS

Aidan Burley has pledged to back local families affected by devastating muscle-wasting disease in their fight for specialist services, which they say would change lives while saving the NHS £millions in costs.

Aidan met local constituents and family members living with muscle-wasting diseases as they gathered at Westminster to present the report to Health Minister Paul Burstow and to call for immediate action to address the waste.

The health service is currently wasting £31million each year on distressing emergency hospital treatment for muscle-wasting disease patients that could have been entirely avoided through proper access to specialist care and equipment, according to a report published on Wednesday (11 May) in Parliament by a national charity.

The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign's report Invest to Save estimates that nearly 40 per cent of the £81million annual cost of emergency hospital care for the UK's the 70,000 people affected by muscle-wasting diseases is unnecessary and is a direct result of failure to invest adequately in ongoing treatment to manage the conditions.

It is estimated that as much as £7.1million is wasted each year in the West Midlands alone.

Commenting Aidan said: "I was shocked to hear about difficulties faced by patients and families in accessing the specialist muscle-wasting disease care they so clearly require. I am offering my full support for improvements in health care for people in Cannock Chase and across the country, which would save the NHS money while changing lives."

Cannock Chase constituent Elizabeth Orme added: "Muscle-wasting diseases are rare and GPs, hospital staff and physiotherapists often know little about them. We need support and advice from people who fully understand our conditions and how to treat them. I was delighted to meet Aidan Burley at the reception and to have the opportunity to tell him why specialist care is so important to us. Aidan Burley's support for the Invest to Save campaign is absolutely crucial in ensuring that we see desperately needed improvements to specialist care for people with muscle-wasting diseases become a reality."

MP SHOWS SUPPORT FOR LOCAL REGIMENT

Aidan today joined MPs from across Staffordshire to show his support for the 3rd Battalion of the Mercian regiment (the Staffords) which is currently in active service in Afghanistan.

The House of Commons team including (from left to right) Andrew Griffiths MP (Burton & Uttoxeter), Gavin Williamson, (South Staffordshire), Jeremy Lefroy MP (Stafford), Karen Bradley MP (Staffordshire Moorlands), Bill Cash MP (Stone), Christopher Pincher (Tamworth) and Aidan showed off "Staffords" mugs and T-shirts bearing the legend "I support 3 Mercian" beneath Big Ben at Westminster this week.

The "Staffords" were merged with two other regiments, the Cheshire regiment and the Worcestershire & Sherwood Foresters regiment in 2007 to form the new Mercian regiment.

Commenting Aidan said: "I was delighted to have the opportunity to proudly show my support for our famous local regiment currently serving in Afghanistan. We should do everything we can to support 3 Mercian and I wish them all a safe return from duty. I encourage local people to support 3 Mercian by purchasing the "Staffords" mugs and t-shirts."

For more information or to order your Staffords mugs or T-shirts email Paul Mason on tshirts@3mercian.co.uk or call 01827 283 027. You can also write to 63 Brookend, Fazeley, Tamworth, B78 3RS.

MP WELCOMES PRIME MINISTER’S PROMISE TO CONTROL IMMIGRATION

Aidan has welcomed the Prime Minister's recent speech on immigration. David Cameron recognised the huge contribution made by immigrants to Britain while setting out Government's comprehensive and effective plans to cut immigration. The Prime Minister promised to control immigration and to bring net migration down to the sustainable levels we saw in the 1980s and 1990s.

Under Labour immigration was out of control. While they were in power, 2.2 million net migrants arrived – that's twice the population of Birmingham and 24 times the population of Cannock Chase.

This Government is committed to controlling immigration by reducing net migration down from the hundreds of thousands to the tens of thousands a year. To achieve this we are taking action across the board:

We have capped economic migration from outside of the EU.We have reformed the largest route, the student visa system, and clamped down on widespread abuses.We will soon take action to break the link between temporary routes and permanent settlement, and to address the family visa route. We will set up a Border Policing Command to control our borders.We are clamping down on illegal immigrants already in the country.

Commenting Aidan said: "I'm pleased with the Prime Minister's no ifs no buts promise to the British people to control immigration.

"Immigration under Labour was out control with net migration reaching unsustainable levels. Immigration consistently cropped up as a major concern on the doorsteps here in Cannock Chase during the election last year, therefore I strongly welcome this Governments aim to reduce net migration down to the levels of the 1990s – the tens of thousands rather than the hundreds of thousands. Labour has admitted that they swept immigration under the carpet when they were in Government – so it's a real shame they refuse to support the Governments sensible proposes in this area."

MP HELPS WITH SURVEY FOR CANNOCK CHASE AONB

Aidan joined volunteers from Veolia Environmental Services and Emma Beaman, AONB Officer from Shugborough Park Farm, on Friday to conduct the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty's 2011 Visitor Survey.

The survey aims to establish how many visitors travel to the Chase, where they come from, and why they visit AONB sites – in order to continually improve the tourism offer to local people. In all, over ninety volunteers are devoting 12 days of their spare time, from October 2010 to October 2011, to survey visitors at 30 protected AONB sites at Cannock, Rugeley, Lichfield District, Stafford and South Staffordshire.

After a short briefing session, Aidan, clipboard in hand, set about surveying visitors at Marquis Drive in Cannock. The information gathered from the surveys is invaluable to groups such as AONB who help to promote and protect Cannock Chase and surrounding areas.

During the afternoon Aidan also received his certificate for becoming the first individual member of the AONB Membership Scheme (cost, not met by the tax-payer, £25!) which is working to make sure the right balance is struck to conserve and enhance the area, while maintaining it as a living, working environment.

This latest volunteer day forms part of Aidan's commitment before the election to spend up to a day a month volunteering in the local community. Aidan has previously volunteered at Chase Voluntary Service, Dog A.I.D and Home Comforts among others.

Commenting after his session Aidan said: "I really enjoyed my afternoon surveying visitors. I wanted to take an active role to help maintain and protect these AONB sites and surveys like this are vital to ensuring these sites remain protected. Spending the afternoon talking to local residents and visitors reminded me of just how lucky we are in Cannock Chase to have such natural beauty on our doorstep – and I was amazed by how far people had travelled to visit the Chase, including from Wales!"

Emma Beaman, Assistant AONB Officer added: "We're so grateful to all our volunteers, including Aidan, for giving up their free time to help us with our survey. We're also delighted that Aidan has shown his commitment to the local environment and has become our first individual member of the AONB Membership Scheme."

MP VISITS NEW OPUS LAND DEVELOPMENT

Chase MP Aidan Burley made a visit to Opus Land's new 47,000 sq ft green development on Friday.

The site, located at Kingswood Lakeside in Cannock, will be the new regional headquarters building for leading waste company Veolia Environmental Ltd.

During the visit Aidan met with Richard Smith, Managing Director of Opus Land, who led him around the new development with the Site Manager. The new building is expected to be operational in July this year.

The BREEAM 'excellent' rated building includes innovative environmental measures such as roof mounted solar panels for heating water, rainwater collection to support the sanitation system and light sensors ensuring that lighting is activated only when the offices are occupied. The office scheme, which has been designed and built for the UK's leading recycling and waste management company, Veolia Environmental Services, will be completed this summer and accommodate 400 employees relocating from its existing sites in Wolverhampton and Walsall.

Commenting after the visit Aidan said: "As a frequent commuter along the M6 Toll travelling from Westminster to Cannock Chase, it is a heartening sight to see Opus Land's development for Veolia progressing so quickly and getting closer to completion each week.

"Although many of the employees will be relocated from Veolia's existing sites in Walsall and Wolverhampton, there will also be new job opportunities created for local people and it will act as a magnet for future success of the company. In short, with their fantastic new HQ, I expect Veolia to continue to grow their business, which should lead to more jobs being created for local people. This development is a visible sign of the regeneration of our area – a totemic symbol showing that Cannock Chase is 'open for business' ".

MP WELCOMES SUPPORT FOR THE POOREST CHILDREN THROUGH THE PUPIL PREMIUM

Chase MP Aidan Burley has welcomed new figures which show that disadvantaged children in Cannock Chase are set to receive £834,000 this year under the Coalition government's new 'pupil premium'.

The pupil premium is a new policy promised by both the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats before the general election last year. It is an extra lump sum of cash which follows every disadvantaged child and is received by schools, allowing them to provide additional support such as one-to-one tuition and extra pastoral care.

The Government has announced that in the year from April 2011, the pupil premium will be worth £430 a year for every pupil on Free School Meals, £430 a year for every looked-after child, and £200 a year for every child who has a parent in the armed services. This means that in Cannock Chase this year:

• 1,950 children overall will benefit from an extra 834,000.
• 11 children of members of the armed services will benefit from an extra £2,200.

Commenting Aidan said: "This is fantastic news for children in Cannock Chase. The gap between the academic performance of children from deprived backgrounds and their peers is far too big and has been ignored for too long.

"The pupil premium will tackle this disparity head on, providing targeted funding for those who need it most. This could mean extra one-to-one tuition or more pastoral support.

"The Coalition government didn't create these problems but, even in these tough times, it is delivering a massive boost to the education of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable children."

AIDAN BURLEY MP: TACKLING CRIME THROUGH COMMUNITY ACTIVISM

Aidan Burley has welcomed the report of Baroness Newlove, the Government's Champion for Active Safer Communities, which sets out a radical new approach to community activism. As she suggests, there needs to be a change of culture so neighbourhoods no longer view crime, anti-social behaviour and disorder as a problem for someone else to solve. Services and local agencies need to go beyond just asking communities what their problems are – they must see local communities as equal partners in tackling issues.

The Government has a clear plan to cut crime through reforming the police and the criminal justice system. They have already abolished all the complex targets that Labour imposed from Whitehall and set the police just one goal: to cut crime.

Communities also have an important role to play in the fight against crime. The www.police.uk website, launched in February, gives local people real information in map form about exactly what crime is happening in their areas and allows them to hold the police to account for their work.

Further reforms include:

• Introducing, from next May, directly-elected Police and Crime Commissioners to restore the link between the police and their communities.
• Driving out bureaucracy that wastes police time so that officers can be crime-fighters not form-writers.
• Reforming and strengthening the powers to tackle anti-social behaviour.

Commenting Aidan said: "I fully support this commitment from Government and Baroness Newlove to harness the great energy of communities across Staffordshire in the fight against crime.

"Crime and anti-social behaviour are not someone else's problem but a real issue that we all must work together to address. I want to see streets right across Cannock Chase reclaimed by the people who live here".

MP BACKS IVORY SURRENDER TO SAVE ELEPHANTS

Chase MP Aidan Burley has shown his support for elephants by backing the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW)'s ivory surrender.

Aidan attended IFAW's campaign launch at the House of Commons and posed with huge elephant tusks. He is calling on members of the public to send in any unwanted items of ivory they may have to IFAW to ensure they do not end up back on the commercial market, and to highlight the illegal ivory trade.

Commenting Aidan said: "I am pleased to be backing the ivory surrender, and urge my constituents to send in unwanted items of ivory to IFAW and back their campaign for greater protection for elephants."

Shockingly, new Ipsos MORI polling shows that nearly half of adults in the West Midlands are unaware that elephants have to die before their ivory can be obtained, while almost four million British residents are owners of ivory[i].

Robbie Marsland, Director of IFAW UK, said: "Every piece of ivory represents a dead elephant. We are therefore very grateful to Aidan Burley for showing his commitment to elephant protection. That is why we are holding a UK-wide ivory surrender to help raise awareness of the threats facing elephants and to encourage the UK Government to push its pledge to press for a ban of ivory sales internationally."

The global illegal trade in wildlife is estimated to be worth £12 billion annually, second only to the illicit trade in drugs and arms. Ivory forms a significant part of this. Seizures of illegal ivory are skyrocketing and recent stockpile sales to Japan and China sent a signal to poachers that it is open season on elephants.

MP DELIVERS ON PROMISE TO PLAY RUGBY FOR RUGELEY

Aidan Burley kept to his post election promise by playing a game for Rugeley Rugby Club 2nd team on Saturday.

Aidan who played scrum half, played the entire first half and despite ending up on the losing side put in a spirited and hard working performance. Indeed, he was unlucky not to score when he crossed the try line following a quick tap penalty. Unfortunately the referee decided he had not taken the penalty from the right spot and called him back.

The Merit League Fixture between Rugeley 2nd XV and The Birmingham Barbarians was held at the Hagley Playing Fields in Rugeley.

Aidan had promised to play a fixture for the club when he was a last minute invite to the club's annual dinner last May, just days after he was elected as the MP for the Cannock Chase constituency. He went on to wear a Rugeley Rugby Club tie when he was sworn in to Parliament the following month. Aidan, who is currently Vice Chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Rugby Union Group has invited Rugeley to take on the Parliament team next season.

Commenting after the match Aidan said: "I was a bit nervous about dusting off my boots having not played a competitive game of rugby for nearly 10 years. However, the boys were very supportive and made me feel really welcome as part of the team. The Birmingham Barbarians are a quality opposition but we certainly had our chances throughout the game. Whilst I don't think Rugeley's regular scrum half will be worried about his place in the team, I hope that I might be used as an 'impact substitution' for a future game!"

Rugeley Rugby Club Secretary Martin de Ridder added: "We were delighted that Aidan honoured his promise to play a match for us. He seemed to enjoy himself and intends to play a few more next season. We were pleasantly surprised by how good he was. Our first team could do with a decent scrum half. Perhaps we can sign him up for next season."

The Rugby Football Union website also covers Aidan's game here.

MP WELCOMES EXTRA GOVERNMENT FUNDING FOR POTHOLE REPAIRS

Aidan has welcomed the Government's announcement that it will give an extra £4 million to Staffordshire Highways to repair potholes.

This extra money is especially valuable after the terrible weather this winter caused terrible damage to a lot of the regions roads.

The money is in addition to the £831 million already provided to councils for road maintenance this year and the £30 billion of transport infrastructure spending the Government has committed to over the next four years.

It is hoped the additional funding will not only tackle the problems caused by the coldest December on record, but will also be used to speed up the road reconstruction programmes across Staffordshire which have already had a massive boost with a £30m injection over three years.

Commenting Aidan said: "This extra funding is fantastic news. This money should make a real difference to the huge number of drivers and cyclists in Cannock Chase and across Staffordshire who are fed up with having to continually battle against dangerous potholes, giving them safer and smoother journeys.

"I know that Staffordshire highways are working extremely hard to improve the roads and, after years of neglect under the last Labour council, have invested heavily over the last two years to ensure this is the case."

LOCAL MP ESCORTS MINISTER TO NEWLIFE

Local MP, Aidan Burley, accompanied Maria Miller, the Minister for Disabled People, on her recent visit to Newlife Foundation for Disabled Children - the Cannock-based leading charity - and heard how the charity was improving the lives of children and families across the UK and accepted suggestions for government to action to achieve improvements.

Aidan helped to open 'Leanne's Lift' at Newlife's Opportunity Centre. The lift was named after a former volunteer (Leanne Brindley) who sadly passed away in December last year. The lift will open up work, training and volunteering opportunities to disabled and elderly volunteers, who could not previously have easily accessed the centre.

As the charity celebrates its 20th birthday this year, CEO, Mrs Sheila Brown OBE, said: "Local people will know about our clothes trading company and the latest homeware store set up last year but may not know that the income generated means we can offer Nurse services and equipment grants as well as investing in medical research and lobbying for change to improve the lives of disabled children.

"We are reliant on fundraising more than ever with many local statutory services failing to meet disabled children's equipment needs and demand on Newlife is increasing in the current economic crisis."

Sheila concluded: "Parents and children are not asking for a Rolls Royce system of provision, but an understanding of their needs and for a reasonable response to the broken system of provision and flawed legislation which has haunted the lives of disabled and terminally ill children for years. We are delighted that the Minister has come to the Midlands, seen the work of the charity and heard our message of the changes that are urgently needed and which are very do-able even in difficult economic times. We are grateful to our MP, Aidan Burley, for taking up the case of the children across the UK that Newlife serves."

Aidan Burley responded: "I urge people to help Newlife by volunteering and donating where they can. The charity currently needs to raise £85,000 to fund life-changing equipment for 42 disabled children throughout the Midlands."

Anyone who can help should call Newlife on (freephone) 0800 988 4640 where they can suggest fundraising ideas or offer volunteering help. For more information visit www.newlifecharity.co.uk and email info@newlifecharity.co.uk.

MP WELCOMES ANNOUNCEMENT OF INDEPENDENT PANEL MEMBERS TO LOOK AT FUTURE OF FORESTS

Aidan has welcomed the announcement of the members of Independent Panel of Experts tasked with making recommendations on the future of England's forests.

The panel makeup and terms of reference were officially announced by the government in a statement last week.

The panel which is to be chaired by the Right Reverend James Jones, Bishop of Liverpool, brings together a wide range of interests and expertise covering the environmental, social and economic aspects of forestry. They will advise government on a new approach to forestry policy in England, including looking at how woodland cover can be increased and the options for enhancing public benefits from all woodlands and forests. The panel will make its recommendations to the Secretary of State in the autumn.

Aidan is already leading a Staffordshire-wide campaign to grant Cannock Chase 'Heritage' status and hopes that the review panel set up will consider this designation as part of its review into the future of England's forests.

Aidan has wasted no time in making written representations to the panel chair James Jones asking him to visit Cannock Chase as part of his enquiry to take evidence from local people.

The panel chair and its members will be looking at the complete picture of forestry in England and will have the freedom to decide how best to gather evidence to make its recommendations. Although the panel members are not representing their organisations in an official capacity, they bring with them a wealth of experience and expertise in a range of areas that are important to consider in the future direction of forestry policy.

Commenting Aidan said: "I welcome this announcement of the Independent Panel to look at the future of our forests. It was clear from the very large number of letters and emails I received on this topic that the people of Cannock Chase care deeply about their forest and how it should be protected in the future. I share with them their concerns and hope that the panel will take a particular interest in Cannock Chase forest and my campaign for 'Heritage' status. I have already formally written to the Right Reverend James Jones asking him to visit Cannock Chase and take representations from local people as part of his evidence gathering"

AIDAN BURLEY MP DOES SOMETHING FUNNY FOR MONEY AT SILVER BLADES ICE RINK, CANNOCK!

On Friday 18th March Silver Blades Ice Rink hosted a special event to raise money as part of Red Nose Day 2011. Their Red Nose Day Skate session was open to the public between 4pm and 5.30pm, with £2 of the special entry price of £4.50 going to Comic Relief.

The event was supported by Cannock's local MP Aidan Burley. Aidan took part in a sponsored skate assisted by Silver Blades' head skating coach, Tash Fennell-Owen. Along with skaters from Cannock International Skating Club, Aidan & Tash did an impressive routine on the ice, accompanied by the song "Grease Lightning"! In the process, Aidan raised £140 for Comic Relief.

Aidan also helped out with the prize draw, selecting the lucky winners, prizes included a Skate UK Course, a month's free skating pass, a 1 week free skating pass, a family ticket plus some VIP tickets.

Everyone got into the spirit of the day including Silver Blades staff who came to work in their pyjamas! There was a fantastic response from members of the public who participated in all the fun and games on the ice.

MP PAYS A VISIT TO AWARD WINNING HOUSING SCHEME

Aidan paid a visit to an Extra Care housing scheme in Hednesford after it scoped a major prize at the prestigious National Housing for Older People Awards. School Court won the Gold Award in the 'Best UK Housing with care Scheme' category.

The scheme which is managed by the ExtraCare Charitable Trust, gives older people a safe and secure future in a network of inspirational communities. The Charity is founded on the principle that age, health or financial means shouldn't be a barrier to achieving quality of life. The trust enables people to enjoy active and independent lifestyles in their later years.

Aidan attended the celebration evening which was held to recognise this national award as well as other achievements and contributions made by staff, volunteers, residents and their families who make up the School Court Community. After presenting certificates to the staff and volunteers he delivered a short speech paying tribute to scheme and its important work. Aidan was also treated to some fabulous dancing by the elderly residents to songs from the Rat Pack era.

Commenting after his visit Aidan said: "It was pleasure to visit School Court and pass on my personal congratulations for their well deserved award. I would like to pay a special tribute to the great work of all the staff and volunteers who help run the scheme.

"This pioneering new concept, developed by ExtraCare, certainly represents the future of older people's services. It enables older people to live in a safe environment whilst still having an active lifestyle. I particularly enjoyed the show performed by the residents which included some impressive dance numbers!"

MP WELCOMES NEW TOURISM STRATEGY

Aidan has welcomed the publication of the Government's new tourism strategy that will cut red tape, free up local businesses, and re-establish the tourism industry as a key priority for restoring the UK economy.

The bold proposals include plans to create an industry task force, led by senior industry figures, to cut red tape. They will be asked to identify sector specific rules, regulations, inspections and forms which are holding the industry back so we can cut, modify or abolish as many of them as possible.

Aidan's backing for the new strategy came after he questioned Tourism minister John Penrose in the House of Commons on the importance of Cannock Chase as a tourist destination. Aidan also used the opportunity to repeat his calls for Cannock Chase to be specially recognised by the review panel looking at the future of England's forests.

Commenting Aidan said: "I believe that the Coalition's Tourism Strategy will make a huge difference to the local economy here in Staffordshire. For too long, Labour ignored the vital importance of tourism whilst suffocating the industry with red-tape. After years in the Labour wilderness, tourism is finally being recognised as the crucial driver of our economy that it is.

"I was delighted I also got the opportunity to question the minister about the importance of tourism in places like Cannock Chase and my campaign for Cannock Chase to be designated a 'Heritage' forest. I believe that labels such as 'Heritage' are important in encouraging tourists to visit destinations and spend their pounds. That is why I am continuing my campaign to get Cannock Chase recognised as such in the forthcoming review of the forests."

CHASE MP BACKS PETER JONES’ TENNER TYCOON CAMPAIGN

Aidan has announced his support for a scheme that sees school children encouraged to start a business with just £10 each, in the biggest ever Tenner Tycoon challenge.

Aidan is backing the landmark scheme, called Tenner Tycoon, which will see the campaigning charity Enterprise UK loan hundreds of thousands of pounds to young people across the UK to encourage them to start up their own businesses.

Participants in Tenner Tycoon will receive £10 and be challenged to make as much profit and social good as they can in a month. This year, the challenge is to also 'give something back' and participants are encouraged to donate some of their profits to charity. The scheme, supported by the Peter Jones Foundation, has been a huge success since it launched in 2007. Previous winners have made their money in diverse ways such as fashion shows, cookery books and concerts.

Commenting Aidan said: "Tenner Tycoon is an innovative scheme that gives young people in Cannock Chase and all over the UK the chance to showcase their skills and ingenuity whilst gaining practical business experience. The programme's relevance and importance has never been as great as it is this year – the year that aims to kick-start the 'entrepreneurial decade'.

"With youth unemployment a big problem in Staffordshire, it is vital that we do all we can to encourage more young people to be enterprising and that starts with a reappraisal of the role that enterprise education plays in making this happen. Initiatives like Tenner Tycoon aim to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs and therefore ensure the future prosperity of the UK."

CHASE MP PAYS HIS RESPECTS TO QUAKE VICTIMS

Auckland born Aidan Burley today paid his respects to all those who lost their lives in the devastating earthquake to hit his native country two weeks ago.

Aidan, together by MPs from all parties, joined a procession to New Zealand House to sign the Book of Condolence for victims of the Christchurch Earthquake.

Commenting Aidan said: "My uncle and his family live in Auckland and my father spends several months a year living over in New Zealand, so I was particularly concerned when I heard the news of the awful earthquake.

"Fortunately my family and friends are safe on the North Island, but my heart goes out to those in and around Christchurch who have suffered such terrible losses. I was deeply touched by the large delegation of MPs from all parties who accompanied me to New Zealand House to sign the book of condolences, and I thank the High Commissioner for his support for the families of those affected living in the UK."

MP SEEKS UNSIGNED MUSICAL TALENT

Aidan Burley has called for unsigned bands and venues across Cannock Chase to take part in 'Rock the House', a live music event to celebrate the British music industry.

Described by Mike Weatherley MP as a "music competition with a political twist" Rock the House intends to support unsigned bands and artists whilst raising political awareness of the importance of music and other creative businesses in the UK.

Supported by a myriad of big names within music, including key sponsors UK Music and Future Publishing, the competition has already attracted significant interest from a number of chart toppers.

Both bands and music venues are invited to enter themselves, via their MP, who will make nominations to a judging panel of music industry heavyweights on behalf of their own constituencies.

Entries can be submitted until the closing date of 31st March 2011. Further details and the official application form are available online at: www.rockthehouse.me.uk and winners will be announced by the end of May.

Commenting Aidan said: "Music is hugely important to this country and it is imperative therefore to ensure that the UK's composers, artists and musicians can continue to dominate the world stage. I believe it is vital that we recognise the role of intellectual property in enabling artists to generate an income, the significant contribution that music sales make to the British economy, and our continued development of new talent."

UK YOUTH PARLIAMENT CONFIRMS CHASE MP AS NEW PARLIAMENTARY TRUSTEE

Aidan Burley has been confirmed as the new Conservative Party trustee for the UK Youth Parliament.

Aidan joins the Board of Democracy for Young People, UKYP's governing body alongside Labour MP for Gedling, Vernon Coaker and Lib Dem MP Jo Swinson.

Last year Aidan voted to support giving members of the UK Youth Parliament the green light to stage debates in the House of Commons annually for the next 5 years. Aidan also attended the UKYP election results last year in Stafford. (Aidan with local UKYP Reps left)

As well as acting as Trustees with the accompanying responsibilities, Parliamentary Trustees by convention help facilitate UKYP's relationship with Parliament itself - including welcoming MYPs to Parliament each year when they take over the House of Commons chamber for the day.

Aidan replaces Charles Hendry MP who was the longest serving Parliamentary Trustee having succeeded the late Andrew Rowe, UKYP's founding father and Patron. Charles stood down in May having been appointed Minister of State for Energy.

Commenting Aidan said: "I am honoured to become a trustee of the UKYP. The YP plays a key role engaging and empowering young people to have a say in the key challenges facing our country. I am looking forward to working with the other trustees to re-engage young people with politics and Parliament. Recent events in the Middle East have shown us that parliamentary democracy is one of our great gifts to the world to which people everywhere aspire."

MP WELCOMES NEW WELFARE REFORM BILL

Aidan Burley has welcomed the Government's shake up of the welfare system, the most radical in 60 years. The Welfare Bill and Work Programme deliver on a number of Conservative election promises to mark the beginning of a new era of 21st century welfare.

At the election, the Conservatives promised to work to reduce the high marginal tax rates faced by people on low incomes who want to return to work or increase their earnings. The Welfare Bill the Government introduced this week delivers on that promise. The Universal Credit will simplify the system, ensuring it will always pay to work.

The Conservatives also made a promise to impose sanctions to remove benefits from those who will not take work when it is offered and they have delivered on that promise as well. If you're unemployed and refuse to take either a reasonable job or to do some work in your community in return for your unemployment benefit, you will lose your benefits for three months.

The Government will also ensure fairness for taxpayers by introducing an annual cap ensuring no family can get more in benefits than the average family earns by going out to work.

Commenting, Aidan said: "The current benefits system costs every working family in Cannock Chase £3,000 a year. The reforms announced in this Welfare Bill show that this Government is on the side of people who want to get ahead. It is morally wrong that people should be better off, on benefits, than in work and paying taxes. These new measures will get people into work whilst supporting the most vulnerable in society".

MP FIGHTS ON FOR CANNOCK CHASE ‘HERITAGE’ STATUS

Chase MP, Aidan Burley, has pledged to keep up his fight to protect Cannock Chase by having it ranked alongside Sherwood Forest and the Forest of Dean as a 'Heritage' forest.

His promise to local people followed the Government's decision to suspend a consultation on the future of the Public Forestry Estate.

Aidan has been leading a campaign of 5 Staffordshire MPs from across all parties who were seeking to have Cannock Chase awarded 'Heritage' status - placing it amongst the first tier of England's forests and ensuring maximum protection for access.

Commenting Aidan said: "Without Heritage status there is a danger that we could be in the same position as we were under the Labour government with no specific protections for access."

Aidan's campaign to secure 'Heritage' status was praised in the House of Commons by the Environment Secretary, Rt. Hon. Caroline Spelman MP. She stated that Aidan had done "an admirable job in speaking up for Cannock Chase" and confirmed that as a result the new Independent Review Panel would actively consider Cannock Chase for 'Heritage' status over the coming months.

Aidan added: "I was delighted to get such an encouraging reply from the Secretary of State; this suggests to me that we are firmly on the right track but we need to keep pressing.

"I came in for some criticism for suggesting that the Government had not already made up its mind and that people should contribute to the consultation in order to get their views across. I am pleased to say that this is what has happened - the government has listened to our comments and has changed its mind. My campaign now seeks to secure Cannock Chase for future generations – ensuring public access will never be compromised."

In the exchange in the House of Commons Aidan asked the Secretary of State: "Under the policy of the last Labour government Cannock Chase could have been sold off without any protection for access whatsoever. This would have been completely reversed by the granting of Heritage status under her previous proposals. The people of Cannock Chase will rightly feel that today's decision leaves the forest as exposed as it previously was under Labour. What reassurances can the Secretary of State give that the granting of Heritage status will remain an option for the independent panel, and that there are no plans, or never were any plans, to sell off Cannock Chase?"

In her response Caroline Spelman MP said: "Well I can give my hon. Friend my absolute assurance that we, as ministers, have said many times that we wish to protect access and public benefits. But he has done an admirable job speaking up for Cannock Chase and I certainly encourage the independent panel to look at this issue of heritage forest and he has made a very strong case for Cannock Chase to be considered as part of the heritage forest and I'm sure that all of the people that he represents will thank him the more for that."

CHASE MP CONGRATULATES LOCAL PRIMARY SCHOOL FOR COLLECTING PRESTIGIOUS AWARD

Aidan visited Western Springs Community Primary School in Rugeley and took its assembly last week after learning that the school had won the 2010/2011 Learning Outside the Classroom (LOtC) award for Excellence in Innovation.

The LOtC Awards for Excellence and Innovation, which are sponsored by TUI Education Division, are awarded to schools that have a strong commitment to providing an innovative curriculum that offers its pupils real-world, practical experiences. Aidan's trip to the school follows a few months after Prime Minister David Cameron visited the school during the general election campaign.

Commenting Aidan said: "This award demonstrates the school's fresh and creative approach to giving its pupils hands-on experience.

"So I was delighted to meet with Deputy Head Teacher Simon Robson and present all staff and pupils with a letter offering my congratulations. It was a real treat to be asked to take the school assembly, if a little nerve-wracking – televised debates in the Commons Chamber are no preparation for holding an assembly with more than 140 primary school children!

"I would just like to say well done again to the diligent staff at Western Springs for their hard work in gaining this award; and it was an absolute pleasure to meet them and their pupils last week".

Deputy Head Simon Robson added: "Winning the award was a huge achievement for the school. It was a great honour to have Aidan recognise all the hard work of both staff and pupils. Whilst Aidan was with us he took morning assembly, which all of the children loved."

MP GOES TO MARKET

Chase MP Aidan Burley recently took a stroll around Cannock Market and used the opportunity to highlight their important role in the community.

Aidan spent time with traders, discussing the work they do including their regular fundraising for local charities. During the visit, Aidan also met with Margaret Lavender (left), a local Cannock trader and member of the National Market Traders Federation.

The 44 market stalls in Cannock town centre are celebrating their 40th birthday next year; however some retail markets have struggled in recent years. A combination of out-of-town supermarkets, the recession and internet shopping all take their toll on market sales.

In order to help retain local markets, the Government has announced a trio of measures in conjunction with the industry, to support existing markets and help potential enterprising traders get started. This includes a practical advice guide for markets, highlighting their benefits, areas of good practice and pointing traders to more detailed information on specific concerns.

Aidan said: "Despite some markets struggling, the 1,100 retail and 600 Farmers markets operating in the UK today turnover in excess of £3.5 billion a year, supporting almost 100,000 jobs. It was great to visit Cannock market and chat with traders and customers about this important local enterprise"

He added: "A well run market can be a hub of social activity, a centre of community enterprise, tourist asset and a meeting point for local people. I believe markets have a key role in helping to build stronger communities."

Margaret Lavender added: "We are delighted that Aidan has shown his support to the market traders of Cannock. Aidan took great interest in the work that the traders do including the fundraising for local charities. People of Cannock Chase keep the market going and are excellent customers showing great support. We look forward to working with Aidan in the future for the support of Cannock Market."

MP’S BACKING ENCOURAGES YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES

Chase MP Aidan Burley has lent his support to National Apprenticeship Week (7th-11th February 2011) and urged businesses across Cannock Chase to provide more placements for young people.

Aidan recently met with a number of local apprenticeships providers, to gain a better insight into the role of apprenticeships and training in developing local employment. Apprenticeships offer increased opportunities to businesses and trainees and are an essential part of obtaining various vocational qualifications.

He recently met with Georgia Massey, Managing Director of 1st 2Achieve Training, at Elmwood Close Cannock. They work closely with partners and employers to deliver a range of courses and programmes to train staff in the occupational skills they need to successfully do their job. They specialise in delivering apprenticeships in the outdoor activity, sport, health and fitness sectors and their programs are fully funded by the government for learners aged 14-24 years old, which means courses do not cost the employer or learner a penny.

Aidan also visited the HB Training Learning World Academy in Cannock, which aims is to provide young people with the best possible start to a career in construction, whilst offering employers a no risk solution to meeting their workforce needs. He was able to meet with both apprentices and staff to discuss the challenges and benefits of apprenticeships to young people and local business.

Aidan has urged businesses across the region to support 1st2Achieve, the HB Training Learning World Academy and other organisations who help local people, in particular young people, to invest in their skills and build strong careers in local industry.

Commenting Aidan said: "Apprenticeships are a fantastic opportunity for people to gain the skills and experience they need for future jobs, equipping the country for our goal to build long-term sustainable growth. That is why, despite some difficult decisions on spending, we are increasing the number of Apprenticeships. It is vital not just to help people into work for the short term but to make sure they can have successful long term careers. We are fortunate to have so many great organisations in Cannock Chase promoting the value of apprenticeship particularly for young people. Apprenticeship Week is a great opportunity for more businesses, young people and potential apprentices to get involved, and enjoy the benefits that apprenticeships provide."

Georgia Massey said: "1st2 Achieve Training are celebrating Apprenticeship week with 100% success rate for all our learners. We are so great at what we do; young people regardless of their history, prior experience or learning support needs are successfully completing their apprenticeship programs and achieving nationally and industry recognised qualifications.

"The 1st2 Achieve apprenticeships lead to NVQ's, Functional Skills and many industry qualifications of your choice. For example First Aid at Work, Coaching Certificates & Working in the Outdoors. Learners can complete the programme in as little as 12 weeks but most finish their program within six months. Due to popular demand we are now offering Young Apprenticeship programs for Years 10 & 11 at school as part of an alternative curriculum"

Any businesses wishing to get involved should contact:

Georgia at 1st2Achieve Training on 07790196247, www.1st2achieve.co.uk

James Evans at HB Training on 01543 579583, website www.hbtl.co.uk

LOCAL MP REVEALS WASTEFUL SPENDING

A written parliamentary question tabled by Chase MP Aidan Burley has found out the soon to be abolished Audit Commission frittered away £53,000 of public cash on designer office chairs in the last 12 months.

Britain's spending watchdog lavished taxpayers' money on office chairs including designer models costing nearly £900 each.

Aidan and Ministers have accused the Audit Commission, an independent body set up to ensure money is spent legally and wisely, of going on a "shopping spree" while Britain was still suffering from the recession. In the last year the Audit Commission bought:

* Four "modern and elegant, eye-catching" Kinnarps Omni Swivel chairs at £854 each.

* Two Naughtone Hush chairs at £840 each which offer "sanctuary from the everyday hubbub".

* Eleven Kinnarps Bone chairs at £562 each. In total, the commission bought 224 office chairs in total in the last 12 months, including 125 Godfrey Syrett "ergo plus high back asynchro" models at just over £200 each. The cheapest chair was £99.

The Audit Commission has previously come under fire for its spending, including £40,000 on office pot plants.

Shortly after the election, the Communities Secretary Eric Pickles rejected the Commission's request for a pay package of almost £240,000 for its new chief executive.

In August the coalition government announced that the commission is to be abolished as part of its "bonfire of the quangos".

Commenting, Chase MP Aidan Burley said: "It is a shocking waste of money for a spending watchdog to have shelled out so much on designer chairs. No wonder the state ran up such massive debts under Labour. This reinforces the case for scrapping this wasteful quango"

Local Government Minister Grant Shapps added: "It seems that whilst the country was in recession the Audit Commission went on a massive shopping spree buying designer chairs.

"This kind of casual attitude to spending taxpayers' cash undermines faith in the public sector and is yet more evidence of how under Labour the Audit Commission forgot that its job was to protect the public purse."

Responding the Audit Commission said: "In 2009 the Audit Commission refurbished several of its offices to reduce our office space and save money.

"The chairs were an expense as part of a wider saving initiative and were intended to last for at least 10 years."

AIDAN WELCOMES CROSS-PARTY SUPPORT FOR HERITAGE STATUS CAMPAIGN

Aidan has today welcomed the support of Labour MP Tristram Hunt in his campaign to grant Cannock Chase forest 'Heritage' status.

Mr Hunt, MP for Stoke-on-Trent Central is the latest MP to sign the joint letter to Environment Secretary Caroline Spelman calling for Cannock Chase to be granted special heritage status. The campaign has already gained the support of Staffordshire MPs Jeremy Lefroy, Gavin Williamson and Michael Fabricant.

Mr Burley yesterday launched a petition to be presented to the Environment Secretary as part of the ongoing government consultation on the future of the public forestry estate.

Commenting Aidan Burley said: "I'm delighted Tristram has agreed to join our campaign. I believe it is only right that Cannock Chase should be recognised alongside the New Forest and Forest of Dean as a 'Heritage' forest. At a time when the national focus on England's forests has never been greater, my job is to make sure that the Government recognises our forest as one of the most important assets in our country's heritage."

Tristram Hunt added: "I am delighted to join a cross-party campaign to protect this ancient woodland for future generations."

Heritage status will allow Cannock Chase to take its place amongst the great forests of England and help ensure its status as a primary tourism area.

MP’S FURY AT BEING FROZEN OUT OF FORESTRY DEBATE

Chase MP Aidan Burley is to take up with the Commons authorities why he was unable to speak in the debate to discuss the future of the Forestry Commission on Wednesday (2nd Feb).

Mr Burley, who was in the chamber throughout the entire debate, and made clear his desire to speak, was not called by the Speaker. He was restricted to making an intervention at the very end of the debate, when the Minister confirmed that the Government would be amenable to considering granting Cannock Chase Forest heritage status as part of the ongoing consultation.

Aidan said: "I am furious that the representative of a constituency that contains one of England's great forests was not able to take part in this important debate. This is a slap in the face for the people of Cannock Chase and one which I am extremely angry about. I have been contacted by literally hundreds of local residents expressing both support and annoyance, and their views have gone unaired."

Aidan is determined that Cannock Chase should be granted heritage status alongside other areas such as the Forest of Dean and the New Forest.

He will be leading a campaign by Staffordshire MPs to ensure that Cannock Chase is able to take its place alongside these other forests and has already sent a joint letter to the Minister along with the MPs from Stafford, South Staffordshire and Lichfield. Aidan has today launched a petition calling for Heritage status, which will be delivered to the Secretary of State as part of the consultation process

MP WELCOMES NEW CRIME DATA WEBSITE

Aidan Burley has welcomed the government's world leading website www.police.uk which provides data maps that show crime and anti-social behaviour at a street by street level in Cannock Chase. This means, from today, everyone can see exactly what crime is happening and where - right down to the level of their street corner. If anyone has concerns about the crime they see or how issues are dealt with, they can raise them with the police.

Under Labour the police were directed by Whitehall diktat. They spent their time chasing centrally-defined targets, not responding to the needs of local communities they were supposed to be serving. Despite record spending, bureaucracy and form-filling kept police behind desks. They were not on the streets fighting crime. A recent report by the police inspectorate showed only eleven per cent of police officers were visible and available to the public at any time.

The coalition government is introducing a series of measures as part of their plan to fight crime:

Slashing bureaucracy – steps already taken to save up to 800,000 hours of police time by scrapping the stop form and limiting stop and search reporting.

Removing all targets and setting the police just one goal: to cut crime.

Introducing directly-elected Police and Crime Commissioners to ensure that police forces respond to the needs of local communities

Providing transparent information so local communities really know about crime in their area.

Commenting Aidan said:

'I am really pleased that the government has demonstrated they are serious about cutting the levels of crime and anti-social behaviour in our communities.

'By providing crime data in an open format that anyone can access, even from their mobile, we can all hold the police to account. We can ensure they deal with the issues that actually matter to us locally not those decided by a Whitehall bureaucrat'.

MP WELCOMES NEW PROTECTIONS FOR CANNOCK CHASE

Following representations from Aidan Burley MP, Ministers in the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs have this week confirmed that Cannock Chase's forest will remain in public ownership unless established woodland owners would be prepared to commit to improving the public amenities.

Commenting, Aidan said: "I am delighted that Ministers have listened carefully to the representations I have made to them regarding Cannock Chase's importance as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

"Defra has identified Cannock Chase as an exemplar of the type of forest that "combines timber production with significant recreational facilities, high visitor numbers and ... high levels of biodiversity.

"This is a significant step. It offers the protections appropriate to our AONB-designated countryside, but also presents our local community with the opportunity to make the best possible use of the Chase.

"However, the discussions will continue. I firmly believe that Cannock Chase is as important to England's national heritage as the Forest of Dean and Sherwood Forest. I am concerned that without a heritage designation Cannock Chase could be seen as a lesser beauty spot than these other areas which could impact upon our attractiveness as a tourist destination.

"Therefore during the consultation, I will be arguing for the Chase to be given the same status as these other areas.

"I noted with dismay that the immediate reaction to the announcement, posted on the "Save Cannock Chase" website only a minute or so after the document became available, advocated non-participation with the Government consultation.

"We won't help Cannock Chase by ignoring these proposals. If that happens, the people making the decisions will simply think that people of Cannock Chase don't care about their forest. I am afraid that comments by Stoke-on-Trent city councillor Mark Davis suggest that his campaign is driven more by party politics than by a true desire to protect our forest"

You can input your views into the consultation here.

MP AND MINISTER BACK PLANS FOR LOCAL COMMUNITY RADIO STATION IN CANNOCK

Aidan last week gave his backing to a proposed local Cannock community radio station by raising the issue in the House of Commons.

Cannock Community Radio (to be known as Chase FM) is seeking an FM Community Radio Licence from Ofcom, the UK's regulator of Radio and TV services. The Chase Community Radio campaign group has already submitted an expression of interest to Ofcom following a successful trial in 2001, and a Facebook group and website have been launched to support their bid.

Community Radio stations are a new tier of Radio Licences offered by the government regulator, Ofcom. There are 181 of them already on air across the country. They each cover a small area of up to 5km, and station formats vary from covering specialist music, catering for a specific ethnic group, to (as in this case) providing local information for an area otherwise overlooked. The Government recently announced over £500,000 a year funding to support Community Radio stations.

Questioning Culture Minister Ed Vaizey MP at Question Time last Thursday, Aidan welcomed the funding for community radio and sought assurances that new licenses such as the one proposed for Chase FM will be issued by Ofcom, using part of this fund. In response Mr Vaizey reaffirmed the Government's commitment to supporting community radio and assured Aidan that Ofcom are currently considering opening a third round of applications for new licenses. Mr Vaizey also wished the group luck with their application.

Speaking after the exchange Aidan said: "This Community radio station would provide a brilliant way to engage the local community here in Cannock Chase. For too long, Cannock Chase has been ignored by the radio media and this station would provide the people of Cannock with a dedicated service discussing issues directly related to the region. Not only would it provide a service to its listeners but also enable youngsters and adults from across the Chase to participate in the running and development of the station. I hope all the people of Cannock will get behind this application"

Pete Baker, the campaign group's Chairman added: "Where Radio is concerned Cannock has always been overlooked. We have to make-do with stations meant for nearby areas such as Beacon and BRMB who officially do not cover our area. If we are successful in our application we will offer a truly local service that the people of Cannock, Hednesford, Heath Hayes and Norton Canes.

"We've had overwhelming support already, notably from Aidan Burley MP, Local Businessman Fred Pritchard, and several of the area's sporting clubs, which we're hugely grateful for. We ask anyone who would like to pledge their support for a local station to send us a letter or email of support, or join the facebook group at www.chasefm.net"

An Internet only version of the community station will shortly go live at www.chasefm.net

FEBRUARY 9TH IS A RED LETTER DAY

Research recently released* has shown that someone on average earnings in Cannock Chase will spend 26 days this year just paying the interest on Labour's debts. That means that until February 9th all the payments from Cannock Chase's taxpayers will go towards paying the creditors who bailed Britain out during the Labour years.

The previous government left the country with an annual overspend of £156 billion, greater than at any point in our peacetime history. And, of course, the money spent just paying the interest on their £790 billion debt bill cannot be spent on front line services such as hospitals and schools.

Commenting on the figures, Chase MP Aidan Burley said: "Labour's addiction to debt means each and every taxpayer now has to spend five weeks of the year working just to pay the interest bill. The economic reality is that our national debt costs us £120 million of interest every single day– that is £6,000 a second. If we don't address this now it will fall to our children to sort out our mess - and that is simply wrong.

"We've all received the occasional red letter when we forget a bill. Well this red letter from Labour is one bill that we can no longer ignore."

MP SUPPORTS SCHOOL CAMPAIGN TO COMBAT HUMAN TRAFFICKING

Aidan visited Cannock Chase High School on Friday to collect a petition signed by over 500 local pupils, teachers and parents calling for action to stop Human Trafficking.

Pupils from the school started the petition after watching video clips on Human Trafficking during a citizenship lesson. According to some estimates, human trafficking is the third largest illicit money-making venture in the world after drug dealing and the arms trade. Around 800,000 people are trafficked per year worldwide, 100,000 of those into and within the EU each year.

The petition calls on the government to continue its action on pressing other EU governments to take a more proactive role is stopping human trafficking. After speaking with the pupils, Aidan forwarded the petition to Jeremy Browne MP, Minister of State for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office who has responsibility for Human Trafficking under his EU remit.

Commenting after the visit Aidan said: "I was pleased to have had the opportunity to come here today and collect this petition. I would like to pay particular tribute to pupil Danielle Robinson who took the lead with organising the petition. I think every Member of Parliament should take some collective responsibility to raise awareness of what is essentially modern-day slavery. I personally have already joined the All Parliamentary Group against Human Trafficking which is made up of MPs from all political parties. I know that the government are already making progress in this area working with the European Union and other regional organisations such as the Organisation for Security and Co-Operation in Europe, however there is still much to do. I am happy to do whatever I can both locally and nationally to raise awareness and encourage discussion on this issue."

Cannock Chase High School teacher Mr Mark Flint added: "After being made aware of this global injustice, I was determined to give our pupils the chance to have their say on human trafficking. The response from pupils was fantastic and I'm delighted that Aidan Burley could come into school and formally accept the petition. It's great for pupils to see Aidan working on their behalf."

MP OPENS UP HELP ZONE TO ALL CANNOCK CHASE COUNCILLORS

Cannock Chase MP Aidan Burley has sent an open invitation to all Conservative, Liberal Democrat and Labour Councillors inviting them to use his MP Help Zone to serve the people of Cannock Chase.

Mr Burley, a former councillor himself, believes that opening up his MP's Help Zone to councillors of all political affiliations for surgeries and other meetings will help ensure the facility is used as effectively as possible.

Because of his experience as a local councillor, Aidan was determined to operate an open office available for any constituents to drop in to get help and advice. The MP Help Zone located at 6 High Green Court in Cannock town centre has now been open and running successfully for over seven months with Aidan conducting many of his surgeries there as the MP.

Commenting Aidan said: "The help-zone is already being used by two local councillors but I thought it only right to open it up to all councillors on Cannock Chase District Council from all parties in order to best serve the local people. Many local groups and organisations have already made use of the help zone and opening it up to every local councillor seemed like the next obvious step. Having been a councillor myself, I know how important it is to build up a face-to-face relationship with the people you serve. I want people to see the Help Zone as a centre for the whole community whichever political party you support and whoever you represent."

AIDAN APPOINTED PARLIAMENTARY PRIVATE SECRETARY TO SECRETARY OF STATE FOR TRANSPORT

The Prime Minister yesterday approved the appointment of Aidan Burley MP as Parliamentary Private Secretary to Philip Hammond, Secretary of State for Transport.

Becoming a PPS has traditionally been seen as the first rung on the Ministerial ladder, and comes with it the need to follow the Ministerial Code and the ability to work with the Minister in their Department.

It is unusual for a new MP to become a PPS within a few months of taking office, and Aidan is the only member of the 2010 intake to have been made a PPS to a Minister of Cabinet rank – making him the only new MP to be working closely with a Secretary of State.

Aidan said: "I'm delighted to have been appointed Parliamentary Private Secretary to Philip Hammond, Secretary of State for Transport, and to be able to work closely within the department that has responsibility for our transport system. My constituency of Cannock Chase is at heart of country and therefore its road network, including the M6, Spaghetti Junction and the M6 Toll.

"Cannock Chase is an important manufacturing area with a large number of small and medium size businesses. These businesses need an efficient transport network in order to survive and prosper.

"I am greatly looking forward to seeing how the Department of Transport works close at hand. It is also great to be working with Philip Hammond (right), who has already gained a reputation as a highly competent and well regarded Secretary of State – and who gave me my first job in politics, as a researcher back in 2002."

SHADOW HOME SECRETARY THINKS PAPERWORK IS AS IMPORTANT AS POLICE PATROL

Cannock Chase MP Aidan Burley today (11^th January 2011) got the shadow Home Secretary, Ed Balls, to astonish the Home Affairs Select Committee by conceding that he did not want to see the police spending more time on the beat than they do filling in forms. The statement from the Shadow Home Secretary came during questioning before the Home Affairs Select Committee of which Aidan is a member, as part of their investigation into Police Finances.

Earlier in the Home Affairs Select Committee questioning Mr Balls had stated categorically that a Labour government would be spending more money on the police than is proposed by the Coalition.

However, under questioning from the Cannock Chase MP, Mr Balls intimated that this would not have led to more policemen on the street. Instead he stated that he was not concerned by the fact that 16% of police time is spent filling in forms compared to just 11% on the beat.

The following exchange took place (click here to watch video footage of the exchange):

Mr Burley: "I suggest to you that it is a more important use of police time being available on patrol than it is filling in paperwork. And what that report (HMIC Report into Police Bureaucracy) shows...is that more police time as a percentage of their day is spent filling in forms – 16% - as opposed to being available on the beat, just 11%. I put it to you that it would be better if we got to a position where those figures were reversed..."

Mr Balls: "...My constituents don't just want people arrested, they want them charged and prosecuted and imprisoned if they've committed a serious offence and that does mean you have to take proper records which stand up in court.."

Mr Burley: "Do you think it would be better if police spent more time on patrol than they do on paperwork?"

Mr Balls: "Erm...I think that is too simplistic a question for me to give a sensible answer."

Mr Burley: "So you don't...have a view as to whether on a police officers' day, whether it would be better for the public if they spent more time on patrol or more of their time filling in forms...you don't have a view on that as Shadow Home Secretary?"

Mr Balls: "Of course I want the police out on the streets keeping people safe, I also want to know when they arrest somebody that they are questioned properly and we get it to court and they get convicted."

Commenting, Aidan said: "I am amazed that the Shadow Home Secretary seems to think that it is too simplistic a question to answer as to whether it is more useful to have the police on patrol or filling in forms. Surely what people want is police out there arresting people and being able to respond to crimes, not stuck in stations filling in paperwork.

"This little cameo from the Shadow Home Secretary sums up Labour's whole approach to public services. They want to spend more money but they don't want that to be reflected in the provision of a better service. Just as the amount of money the last government spent on the police went up, so the time that an individual officer had to be on the streets went down. We need to cut the bureaucracy and allow the police to be out where they belong.

"Under Labour, the police spent more time on paperwork than on patrol. The public want to be crime fighters, not form-writers. No wonder there is record dissatisfaction and low morale within the service – the man who would be Home Secretary seems not to care whether they are solving crime or pushing pens."

PRIME MINISTER COMES TO CANNOCK CHASE ON FACT FINDING VISIT

Prime Minster David Cameron visited Cannock Chase on Wednesday (5th January) to meet with local MP Aidan Burley.

Aidan briefed the Prime Minister on the importance of manufacturing industry locally and the central role that the Chase plays in the area. The meeting came as the Government announced plans to create up to 40,000 new businesses by 2013 as part of its strategy for growth and job creation. This will be achieved through the New Enterprise Allowance to help thousands of unemployed people set up their own businesses.

After the meeting Aidan said: "It's not every day the Prime Minister visits our town, so I took the opportunity to speak with him about support for our business community and the need to encourage growth, investment and private sector jobs in our area."

MP HELP ZONE CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR OPENING

Aidan Burley's MP Help Zone will close on Wednesday 22nd December at 4pm. It will reopen on Tuesday 4th January 2011 at 10am.

From 10th January 2011 the new MP Help Zone opening hours will be: Monday to Friday 10am until 4pm

Please find some helpful numbers for emergencies below:

Cannock Chase Hospital (Brunswick Road, Cannock, Staffordshire WS11 5XY) 01543 572757

Council Housing Repairs (power, lights, etc) 9am – 5pm 01543 456 816

For emergencies only outside normal office hours, during weekends or bank holidays 01543 456816.

Fire Direct (Unit 3 Ash Park, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS11 7XA) 01543 466355

Cannock Police Station (Wolverhampton Road, Cannock, Staffordshire WS11 1AW) For non-emergency calls and general enquiries 0300 123 4455

Rugeley Police Station, Anson Street, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2BQ  0300 123 4455

In an emergency, where your life is in danger or a crime is in progress, call 999.

Cannock Chase Council (PO Box 28, Beecroft Road, Cannock, Staffordshire WS11 1BG) 01543 462621

Women's Aid 0870 270 0123.

Benefit Enquiry Lines 0800882200

MP JOINS CANNOCK LIONS AND SSAFA FOR CHRISTMAS LUNCH

Aidan spent Monday morning alongside the Cannock Lions who had organised a Christmas lunch for the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA).

The lunch, at St Luke's Church Hall in Cannock, began with Christmas carols sung by pupils from St Luke's School. This was followed by an appearance from Father Christmas himself. After saying a few words, Aidan had the job of carving the Turkey for the lunch.

The Cannock Lions are a new addition to the International network of volunteers who dedicate their spare time to helping vulnerable people, groups and individuals in the area through local community projects.

SSAFA Forces Help support those who serve in our Armed Forces and those who used to serve - even if it was only for a single day. They also care for the families of both.

Commenting after the Lunch Aidan said: "Carving the turkey and serving roast potatoes to these servicemen and women was a real honour and a wonderful way to start the week. The Lions club did a superb job in arranging the Christmas Lunch with all the trimmings and full tribute must be paid to Pam and her hard working team of ladies in the kitchen. I was delighted to be able to contribute in a small way by providing the turkey myself. Volunteers putting on events like this make you realise what the big society really means in practice- a warming dinner for war heroes in St Luke's church on an otherwise cold Monday morning"

Cannock Lions representative Beverly Stanyer added: "It was a lovely event and it was very humbling to see these ex-servicemen and women getting into the Christmas spirit. It was a pleasure to thank them for all they have done".

MP AWARDS PRIZES FOR CHRISTMAS CARD COMPETITION

Aidan visited West Hill Primary School last Friday (10th) to award prizes for his first annual Christmas card competition.

Following the launch of the Christmas card competition in October, Aidan received hundreds of entries from children across the Chase each hoping to have their design selected to appear on Aidan's official Christmas card. The competition, which had a Cannock Chase theme, proved so popular that two different designs are now being used on the cards.

The two winning entries were made by West Hill Primary School student Rhys Westley (pictured right) for his depiction of Santa at Birches Valley's 'Go Ape' and Bridgetown Primary School student Harry Birch for his design entitled 'Merry Christmas from Cannock Chase'. Both pupils were given framed copies of their card with a certificate and stationery from the House of Commons.

Mr Burley's Christmas cards have this year been kindly sponsored by local employment firm Pertemps and Excelerate print. Pertemps have worked alongside the MP Help Zone since the election in helping and supporting the long term unemployed back into work.

Jonathan Skelly, the centre manager for the Cannock office of Pertemps People Development Group said he was delighted to support the printing of this year's constituency Christmas card: "Being invited by Aidan to help recognise the efforts of young Rhys and all the other pupils at West Hill School was a most enjoyable experience. There is an abundance of local talent in Cannock and the image chosen by Aidan effectively illustrates the point that participation and effort is always appreciated."

A delighted Aidan added: "I am overwhelmed by the reaction to my Christmas card competition. The standard was very high indeed and it was a very tough choice selecting the winning entries. I would like to thank all the teachers and students who took part in the competition; I was thrilled by the sheer number of entries received. I am also very grateful to Excelerate print and Pertemps for sponsoring my cards this year and making this competition possible. I have seen firsthand the great work Pertemps do in offering help and support for unemployed people in Cannock Chase and I look forward to continuing to work hand-in-hand with them over the next few years"

MP WELCOMES GOVERNMENT PLANS TO IMPROVE SCHOOL DISCIPLINE

Chase MP Aidan Burley has welcomed the Government's plans to improve discipline in schools as new analysis of government figures reveals how unacceptable behaviour became in Britain's schools over the last thirteen years.

Under Labour, 12 children in Staffordshire were excluded every school day for abuse and assault, both physical and verbal, against their teachers and fellow pupils. Across the country as a whole, almost 1,000 children were excluded every day for abuse and assault.

The Government is planning to introduce a series of tough new measures to improve discipline in schools in Staffordshire including: removing the power of appeals panels to send pupils back to schools where they have been permanently excluded by the head teacher and abolishing the requirement on teachers to give 24 hours' notice for detention.

Commenting Mr Burley said: 'I am very pleased the Government is introducing these tough but fair new measures to improve school discipline. There are disturbing levels of abuse and assault in our schools and I do not feel enough was done about it by the previous Government.

'Teachers should not have to deal with this kind of unacceptable behaviour so frequently. With the Government's new measures, we can really get to grips with the problem and improve behaviour in schools for everyone's benefit.'

MP SUPPORTS 'COMMUNITY SAFETY DAY' IN CANNOCK TOWN CENTRE

Cannock Chase MP Aidan Burley has teamed up with Cannock Chase Council and organisations from across the District to help Cannock Chase residents stay safe over the festive period.

Cannock Chase Community Safety Day takes place around the new bandstand in Cannock Square, Cannock town centre, on Friday 10th December between 1pm and 6pm, when shoppers will be able to get information from the large number of organisations that work together to keep communities safe in the Cannock Chase District.

There will be information on fire safety from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, as well as a driving simulator to demonstrate the effects of driving while under the influence of alcohol. Officers from Staffordshire Police will also be on hand to help shoppers avoid becoming a victim of crime over the festive period, with advice on everything from vehicle crime to property marking and drinking alcohol responsibly.

Other organisations who will be offering advice and guidance in Cannock town centre on the day include Trading Standards, Neighbourhood Watch, the Youth Service, Victim Support, Women's Aid, Addaction and many more.

Aidan said: "I am thrilled to be participating in the community safety day in Cannock town centre, working alongside Cannock Chase Council and other partners. It offers the perfect opportunity for local services to work together in providing invaluable safety information for the local community over the festive period."

Inspector Pat Shannaghan, Commander of Cannock Neighbourhood Policing Unit (NPU), said: "We will have officers available throughout the afternoon to talk with residents and shoppers about the community safety partnership and the facilities that are on offer to them throughout the Cannock Chase area. PCSOs will be on hand to provide crime prevention advice and guidance, particularly around vehicle security, house security and staying safe this festive season."

Wes Southall, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service Risk Reduction Manager, said: "Firefighters will be in attendance with a driving simulator, courtesy of RoSPA, as part of the driver safety campaign to help highlight the dangers of winter driving.

"We'll be giving members of the public the chance to see the differences between driving sober and driving with our 'beer goggles' on. We will also be on hand to answer any questions about driving safely in the winter, as well as general fire safety information."

HISTORIC SUMMIT COMES TO CANNOCK

Chase MP Aidan Burley today (22nd November) hailed the historic Home Affairs Select Committee seminar into policing, held this morning at the Premier Suite in Cannock town centre.

The event brought together key stakeholders from across the UK, including Chief Constables, Policing Minister Nick Herbert, Shadow Home Secretary Ed Balls as well as MPs and senior officers. Topics discussed at the seminar included police force budgets, elected police and crime commissioners and the proposed National Crime Agency.

Over 150 guests were able to listen to and take part in the debate, which included contributions from the Chief Constable of Staffordshire Police Mike Cunningham, President of the ACPO (Association of Chief Police Officers) Sir Hugh Orde, President of HMIC (Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary) Sir Dennis O'Connor as well as local Cannock Police Constable Darren Platt. The event was chaired by Keith Vaz MP, Chairman of the influential Home Affairs Select Committee. Local MP Aidan Burley was also part of the panel that questioned the expert witnesses.

Commenting, Aidan said: "I'm incredibly proud to have hosted this historic event in Cannock Chase. Before the election I promised to help put Cannock Chase on the map- but never in my wildest dreams did I think that within just six months we would have the Policing Minister, Shadow Home Secretary and Chief Constables debating the future landscape of policing in our town. The event itself was hugely constructive and there were positive discussions about doing more for less and protecting the thin blue line that we all rely on"

"From a personal perspective I was particularly interested in the debate around freeing police from the stranglehold of bureaucracy, as this is what I spent much of my career doing before becoming an MP"

"The output of today's discussions will form the basis of the HASC written report into the changing policing landscape, and I look forward to debating it back in the House of Commons"

MP OPENS NEW HOME COMFORTS SHOP IN RUGELEY

On Friday Cannock Chase MP Aidan Burley officially opened the new Home Comforts shop in Rugeley.

Home Comforts is an initiative of Chase Council for Voluntary Service in partnership with Staffordshire County Council. It collects and sells unwanted items at cut prices to disadvantaged families across Cannock Chase and Lichfield Districts.

After being shown around the new shop, Aidan cut the customary cake to mark the opening of the new store based at Riverside Industrial Estate.

The opening follows on only a few weeks after Mr Burley's volunteering at Home Comforts where he spent the day delivering furniture to homes across Cannock Chase.

Speaking after the opening Aidan said:" I was delighted to be asked to open this new Reuse shop in Rugeley. It could not have come at a better time as families are preparing for Christmas. Not only are there some great bargains but you know that all money spent will go straight back into helping the local community.

I would urge anyone who has unwanted gifts or household items to pop along and donate them to the shop. I wish all of the Home Comforts team a successful future and they can be assured as their MP I will do whatever I can to support this and other projects"

Kent Parson, Chief Officer of Chase CVS said: "We are very pleased to be in partnership with the County on this project - the first of its kind in Staffordshire. The staff have worked extremely hard to get us to this point and we hope to make it a great success."

MP SECURES MEETING FOR LOCAL HEADMASTER WITH EDUCATION MINISTER

Chase MP Aidan Burley secured a highly sought after meeting with Lord Hill of Oakeshott, the Education Minister, for local Headmaster Mark Sutton from Fairoak and Hagley Schools in Rugeley.

With schools up and down the country trying to secure meetings with their MPs and Education Ministers to discuss the future of the Building Schools for the Future (BSF) Programme, local MP made sure that Rugeley's voice was heard down in Westminster.

Photo right shows Executive Head teacher of the Rugeley high schools Mark Sutton, MP for Cannock Chase, Aidan Burley, and Cabinet Member for Schools Cllr Liz Staples and Assistant Director for Education Transformation Mike Osborne-Town who met with Lord Hill to discuss the county council's cost cutting proposals following the scaling back of the £35 million Building Schools for the Future programme.

Aidan said: "Virtually every school in the land is trying to meet with Michael Gove and his team to discuss the implications of the scaling back of the BSF programme, so I was delighted to be able to secure and personally attend this meeting. I was proud to support Mark Sutton and his team as they put their case to the Minister directly in Westminster.

"Whilst there was agreement on all sides that the 'Building Schools for the Future' programme was highly inefficient and bureaucratic, we made it clear that it was still our aim locally to see the town's two high schools - Hagley Park Sports College and Fair Oak Business and Enterprise College, together with the Aelfgar Sixth Form Centre - brought together onto a newly developed single site built to modern and efficient standards."

Executive Head teacher Mark Sutton said: "It was a very positive meeting. We could not expect that we would come away from the meeting with a cheque for £35m, but it was good to have our voice heard at the highest levels of government. Lord Hill was very interested in our innovative plans for a brand new learning campus and was impressed by the economic and educational arguments."

"We must now wait for the outcome of the James Review in December which will set out how the capital for the re-building and refurbishment of schools across the country will be distributed."

The campaign to secure funding for a new super school for Rugeley will now await the response from the Under-Secretary of State for Education, Lord Hill, who has now received the county council's proposal for a reduced level of funding.

LOCAL MP GETS ASSURANCE FROM CHANCELLOR ON SMALL BUISNESS TAXATION

Chase MP Aidan Burley yesterday got a commitment from the Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne that small business tax will be simplified under the Coalition government.

During Treasury Questions on Tuesday 16th November, Aidan asked: "More than 20% of my constituents in Cannock Chase are employed by manufacturing centred small businesses. Will the Chancellor assure them that the small business tax review will simplify and reduce taxes for small businesses rather than complicate and increase them?"

Speaking in response to Mr Burley's question the Chancellor said: "Yes, I can give that assurance. The actions that the Government have taken have kept the small companies rate down, avoiding the rise in the rate that we inherited"

Speaking after the exchange Aidan said: "I am delighted that the Chancellor has given me this assurance. Small businesses are a vital part of Cannock Chase with over 20% of the population employed by small and medium manufacturing firms. It is important therefore, that Government does whatever it can to support these firms who are the wealth creators in our local community"

The newly formed Office of Tax Simplification has now begun its review of small business taxation with initial findings expected by the Budget next year.

As part of the initial report, the Office will also explore alternative legislative approaches to IR35. IR35 (the intermediaries legislation) is legislation introduced in 2000 to counter avoidance of tax on employment income where workers receive payments from a client via an intermediary (usually a personal service company) and the relationship between the worker and the client would otherwise be one of employment.

MP WELCOMES START OF PUBLIC INQUIRY INTO MID STAFFORDSHIRE TRUST

Cannock Chase MP Aidan Burley has welcomed the start of the inquiry hearings into into the role of the commissioning, supervisory and regulatory bodies in the monitoring of Mid Staffordshire Foundation NHS Trust.

Aidan said: "I am happy that this long awaited inquiry is under way and beginning to hear testimonies from some of the families affected. I have taken a great interest in this important matter.

Both before and since my election I have heard from many constituents about the poor standards of care they and their families received at Stafford Hospital. It is vital that this inquiry not only gets to the bottom of why problems at the trust were not identified, but also recommends important lessons to be learnt for the future of patient care at Mid Staffs and other trusts throughout the country"

MP SUPPORTS BRITISH PUB WEEK

Cannock Chase MP Aidan Burley did his bit for British Pub Week on Friday (5th November) by working a shift behind the bar at Mill Farm pub in Cannock.

British Pub Week aims to promote the positive aspects of the pub trade and aims to get customers back in pubs. Aidan has also backed an Early Day Motion in Parliament recognising the social, economic and cultural importance of well-run community pubs.

Jenny Grant, Corporate Affairs Manager at M&B who own the pub was quoted in the Morning Advertiser newspaper saying: "Aidan said he hadn't pulled a pint since he worked in a pub when he was a student - but he was very professional and really very good at it"

"He looked so relaxed behind the bar that some customers wouldn't believe he was actually their MP!"

"Aidan really enjoyed the banter with our customers and explained that he was doing this to support British Pub Week. Mill Farm manager Sue Gibbons (pictured left with Aidan) is so proud of her business that she treated Aidan just like a new member of staff, launching into full training mode, coaching and correcting him all night, and he responded really well."

Aidan Burley added: "I was delighted to help out at Mill Farm; it took me back to my student days when I used to work in a local pub"

"Pubs are the beating heartbeat of our nation and the very best of British institutions. Nothing can quite match the pub for its historical, cultural and social importance. We must protect our pubs, celebrate them and ensure they can continue to thrive. That is why we are pushing for a ban on below-cost alcohol sales to curb cheap supermarket deals. I will do all I can to urge the Government to implement a package of policies which will help secure the future of viable and well-run community pubs"

MP UNITES WITH COMMUNITY TO OPPOSE NEW ‘SPACESHIP FULL OF RUBBISH’ INCINERATOR

Cannock Chase MP Aidan Burley has announced that he will oppose the construction of a 400,000 tonne waste incinerator in Cannock. Writing to Council planning officers this week, he has questioned the need for a new facility of this size, and condemned the plans to erect it just five miles from a similar planned facility in South Staffordshire.

Aidan said: "I have written to the County Council to lodge my opposition to Biffa's planning application for a new ‘Energy Recovery Facility' at Kingswood Lakeside. I offer my full backing to the campaign to prevent this facility from being built, and I have signed the petition against it, being circulated by Cannock's local County Councillor, Patrick Corfield."

"Having seen the plans for this facility, I was shocked at the size of the proposed building. It would be huge: 90-metre towers, built in an elevated position, would ensure that this facility dominates the landscape. Its large capacity would see waste lorries piling into Cannock from all over the West Midlands and North of England. In short, the incinerator would look like a spaceship full of rubbish landing in our town, and I am absolutely opposed to it."

"In my letter to County planners, I have questioned the length and scope of the consultation exercise being conducted. They have written to 850 local residents, but this development would affect the amenity and air quality of far more people. And as the statutory consultation period comes to an end, there is no guarantee that fresh opposition to the plans will be counted, despite the fact that the planning application won't be heard by councillors until early next year. I have sought assurances that consultation will be adequate and fair."

Aidan has placed a copy of the planning application, and the petition against it, in his MP Help Zone in Cannock town centre, where local constituents can sign it, and get more information about the proposals.

STAFFORDSHIRE MPs WELCOME GOVERNMENT DECISION ON STAFFORDSHIRE AND STOKE-ON-TRENT LOCAL ENTERPRISE PARTNERSHIP

Staffordshire MPs have welcomed the Government's decision to back the Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) proposal in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire. Cannock Chase MP Aidan Burley and Jeremy Lefroy Member of Parliament for Stafford constituency believe the new LEP will provide strategic leadership and set out local economic priorities. LEPs will play a pivotal role in delivering the Government's aim for an economy rebalanced towards the private sector.

Commenting on the decision Aidan Burley said "This is fantastic news. For too long Britain has suffered under the top-down bureaucratic and inefficient Regional Development Agency run out of Birmingham. Now local businesses and communities can finally receive the support that they deserve"

"The Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent LEP will allow businesses and local authorities to come together and assert their priorities for their area rather than being simply told what's best for them."

"My key priority both during and subsequent to the election has been to advertise Cannock Chase as ‘open for business'. There is certainly a feeling in the business community that we need to take that opportunity and work with the other sectors to deliver something that creates economic development, regeneration, jobs and growth."

Jeremy Lefroy added: "It is very welcome news that the Staffordshire LEP will be included in the first phase. This partnership will help develop the local economy and promote growth in jobs and enterprise. I look forward to working with the LEP in furthering the economic prospects of the whole area."

CANNOCK CHASE CHOSEN FOR NATIONAL POLICE SEMINAR

Cannock Chase has been chosen as the venue for the Home Affairs Select Committee's national inquiry into policing. The important seminar on the new landscape of policing will take place on Monday November 22nd 2010 from 10am - 12.30pm in the Premier Suite Conference Centre, Cannock Town Centre. It will be addressed by the Minister for Policing, Rt. Hon. Nick Herbert MP, Shadow Home Secretary Rt. Hon. Ed Balls MP, ACPO President Sir Hugh Orde and Chief Constable of Staffordshire Police, Mike Cunningham. Local MP Aidan Burley will host and open this historic summit.

The trilogy of topics to be covered will include; the impact of the Comprehensive Spending review on the police, directly elected individuals, known as ‘Police and Crime Commissioners' and the National Crime Agency.

Rt. Hon Keith Vaz MP, Chair of the Home Affairs Select Committee, said:

"The landscape of policing looks set to change considerably in the near future if plans to implement directly elected individuals and to create a new National Crime Agency go ahead. This very important seminar will allow the Committee to open discussions with the Minister and relevant stakeholders on the impact this will have on policing in the 21st Century."

"We have chosen Cannock Chase because of its position in the centre of England. I am delighted that we will be hosted by one of our hard-working Committee members, Aidan Burley MP."

Aidan Burley, Member of Parliament for Cannock Chase, said:

"I am delighted that the Home Affairs Select Committee is holding this important conference which will help shape the future of policing - and absolutely thrilled that they have chosen Cannock Chase as the venue. Such a high profile event will help put our community on the map and shows we open for business. I look forward to welcoming the Minister, Shadow Home Secretary, ACPO President and other high octane guests to what will be a very special event for our area."

MP’s HELP ZONE TO ‘WEAR IT PINK’ TO FUND A CURE FOR BREAST CANCER

Cannock Chase MP Aidan Burley and his Help Zone staff are joining forces with Breast Cancer Campaign to raise awareness of its award winning fundraising event, wear it pink day, supported by Vanish.

On Friday 29 October 2010 Aidan along with all his staff in the MP Help Zone and schools, colleges and businesses throughout the country will be wearing an item of pink in support of the Campaign and each making a donation to help fund innovative world-class breast cancer research.

Last year over one million people took part in wear it pink to help improve survival rates for the one in nine women who experience breast cancer during their lifetime.

Aidan said: "Every year in the UK, over 45,500 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women. Although it is rare, men can also suffer from breast cancer, with around 300 men diagnosed each year. I know people who have lost friends and family members to the disease and I would encourage everyone in Cannock Chase to support this great cause. My staff and I in the Help Zone will be wearing pink on Friday to do our bit"

Wear it Pink is supported by Vanish, which has committed to raising an incredible £250,000 for the charity this year.
A Collection box will be located in the MP Help Zone on Friday for those who wish to make a donation. Alternatively go on to the wear it pink website or call 0800 107 3104.

ENDS

MP OPENS NEW STORE

Cannock MP Aidan Burley and his partner, TV fashion expert Helen Boyle had the privilege of opening the Newlife at Home store in Cannock on the 23rd October.

The new store at Hemlock Way will provide bargain shopping, where quality goods can be snatched up for a fraction of their recommended price. Stock includes rugs, kitchen goods, designer items and small electrical appliances. All profits go to the Newlife Foundation which provides help and support to disabled children and their families.

Commenting at the official opening Aidan said "It is an honour and a privilege to open any new business in such challenging economic times as these, so I really do take my hat off to Sheila and the Newlife team. What they do is fantastic on so many levels - providing employment locally, helping get the long-term and disabled back into work, raising huge amounts of money for disabled children and, of course, providing fantastic deals for local shoppers."

The store will be open Mondays to Fridays from 11am to 7pm, and Saturday, Sunday and bank holidays 11am-5pm.

See below for the frontpage press coverage from the Express & Star.

CANNOCK CHASE MP AND GOVERNMENT MINISTER PRAISE LOCAL CHARITY IN THE CHAMBER OF THE HOUSE OF COMMONS

Oral Questions in the Chamber of the House of Commons this week provided local MP Aidan Burley with an opportunity to praise the work of the Cannock-based charity the New Life Foundation.

Mr Burley raised the pertinent issue of help and support for disabled young children and, more specifically, the mobility element of the Disability Living Allowance with Maria Miller MP, Minister of State for Disabled People.

In addition to his initial question, Mr Burley drew to attention the hard work that the New Life foundation is currently engaged in. As well as raising awareness of issues surrounding help and support for disabled children
the charity raises money to provide vital equipment to help individual children, nurse led-support services, pioneering medical research, awareness and campaigning.

In response the Mr Burley's question, Maria Miller MP commended the efforts made by New Life and its founder Shelia Brown OBE in helping disabled and terminally ill children. As a result of this issue being raised by Aidan, the Minister has now offered to visit the centre based in Cannock as part of the Government's review of support for disabled people.
Mr Burley is also thrilled to be opening the new "New Life at home" outlet this Saturday at 11am.

Aidan said: "These are very important issues and I am so glad I had the opportunity to raise them with the Minster in the House. I would urge everyone to help and support the Newlife Foundation in whatever way it can. A New Life collection box can be found in my Help Zone in Cannock."

More information on the New Life Foundation and its work can be found at www.newlifecharity.co.uk

The Hansard Transcript of the exchange can be found here.

MP URGES BUISNESS AND CHARITIES TO HIGHLIGHT UNNECESSARY RED TAPE

Local MP Aidan Burley has urged business and charities in Cannock Chase to contribute to the Government's new task force looking at ways at cutting red tape.

The taskforce set up jointly by the Department of Business Innovation and Skills and Cabinet Office have been asked to investigate and recommend measures to reduce the bureaucratic burdens and red tape on small business and charities.

Commenting on the news Aidan said: "I am delighted the Government have set up this task force to look at the ridiculous red tape that holds many businesses and charities back. Having visited a number of small businesses and voluntary groups in Cannock Chase they all tell me just how much unnecessary paperwork and form filling they have to do. Small businesses in particular, are the wealth creators in this country and so it is vital that Government make it as easy as possible for business to get on. I would urge all businesses and charities in Cannock Chase to tell the task force about bureaucracy that causes unnecessary burdens for them"

All contributions should be sent to red.tape.taskforce@cabinet-office.x.gsi.gov.uk

MP LAUNCHES CHRISTMAS CARD COMPETITION

Cannock Chase MP Aidan Burley has today launched a competition for local children and youngsters to submit drawings and paintings to be used on the MP's Christmas card. The winning design will also be blown up to poster size and displayed in the front window of the Help Zone over the festive period along with the winners' name and school.

Aidan and his team will select the winning card which will be sent out to everyone on the MP's Christmas list.
Entries for the Christmas Card designs can be submitted by hand to the MP Help Zone or by post to Unit 6 High Green Court, Newhall Street, Cannock, WS11 1GR.

Closing date is November 12th and further information can be obtained by calling Claire on 01543 502 447, or by visiting the MP Help Zone at High Green Court.

MP AWARDS ARTWORK PRIZES

On Tuesday 28th September Aidan welcomed teachers, parents and grandparents to give out prizes to youngsters who had produced artwork for the MP's Help Zone. The winning artwork chosen by Aidan was created by Laura Weaver from Cardinal Griffin School in Hednesford. The piece is available to view in the window of the MP Help zone.

Speaking after the award ceremony Aidan said: "I would like to thank all the children and young people who submitted entries for the art competition. The standard of the artwork was truly fantastic; Cannock Chase has certainly got some Van Gogh's of the future!

Particular congratulations must go to Laura however, whose piece stood head and shoulders above the rest. She has a big future as a local artist."

REFORM EVENT SHOWS CANNOCK CAN!

Aidan Burley MP joined local leaders, business people and opinion formers at the "Can Cannock Cope" event last Friday, hosted by influential think tank Reform.

Over 120 local people turned out at the Premier Suite in Cannock to discuss how Cannock will respond to national spending cuts. The meeting formed part of a series of fact-finding events in advance of the October Spending Review.
The event received local coverage on the BBC Politics Show and national coverage in the Guardian newspaper, with a full comment piece opposite the editorial.

Speaking after the event Aidan said: "I would like to thank everyone who attended the event.The contributions from both panelists and audience members were excellent and certainly deepened my understanding of the challenges facing Cannock Chase over the next couple of years. The people of Cannock Chase are resilient and resourceful. They understand that cuts have to be made to deal with the massive deficit. It was hugely encouraging to see a local community facing up to the cuts in an innovative, positive and creative way."

"I would like to thank Reform for selecting Cannock Chase to hold the event. It was the first of its kind outside of London and certainly proved a real success. It undoubtedly put Cannock Chase on the Map"

AIDAN GOES APE

Aidan Burley MP on Saturday (18th September) visited the ‘Go Ape' forest adventure at Birches Valley, Cannock Chase. Aidan visited the attraction in order to highlight and promote the fantastic tourist attractions within Cannock Chase.
‘Go Ape', described as a ‘high-wire forest adventure' has giant obstacle courses up in the trees using ladders, walkways, bridges and tunnels made of wood, rope and super-strong wire, and zip wires.

After a thorough safety briefing from the helpful staff, Aidan harnessed up and began his adventure through the forest climbing trees, tackling rings and zip wiring over the Chase.

After the experience Aidan commented: "It was such a fantastic day, There were times when I was genuinely terrified but it was well worth it.

"We are very lucky to have such a wonderful attraction right on our doorstep. For those who don't fancy the adrenalin of ‘Go Ape' you can always hire a bike and cycle along one of the beautiful trails along the Chase. Coming to places like ‘Go Ape' are not only fun and healthy but it provides a vital boost to the local economy at this very crucial time. I would highly recommend that the people of Cannock Chase and visitors from further afield visit the Chase and all its fantastic amenities".

Ian Hickman, Forest Management Director for the Forestry Commission on Cannock Chase said: 'We very much welcome the support shown by My Burley in visiting Birches Valley to enjoy the high wire tree top course. The thrill, excitement and fear he will experience should, I hope, stand him in good stead for the Parliamentary sessions ahead!

"Birches Valley is a very popular centre for both local residents and visitors to Cannock Chase and, as well as the Go Ape rope course, it acts as a high quality cycling centre drawing bikers away from the more sensitive parts of this beautiful area."

AIDAN'S TROLLEY DASH WITH LEAGUE OF FRIENDS

Aidan Burley MP spent Friday (10TH) morning alongside staff and volunteers from the Cannock Hospital League of Friends on their daily trolley service around the wards of Cannock Hospital.

The League of Friends, which has services at both Cannock and Stafford Hospitals, is a voluntary organisation which provides much needed equipment and comforts for the benefit of patients and staff through the income raised by the work of volunteers. Local volunteers operate a ward trolley service providing patients with hot and cold drinks as well as confectionery and cakes.

After meeting up the staff and volunteers at their coffee shop base, Aidan loaded up his trolley and accompanied the volunteers visiting the wards selling drinks, snacks and chocolates.

After completing the trolley rounds Aidan spoke with senior nursing staff and patients about the service and the general standards of cleanliness within the wards. He said: "The dedication and commitment of all the staff and volunteers to the patients was clear to see. The attitude levels toward cleanliness in particular, impressed me immensely".

He added: "It is clear from my discussions with both patients and their families how valuable a service this is. It not only sells food and drinks to patients and visitors, which is of course vital, but also provides an opportunity for those patients who perhaps are lonely or have no visitors to have a chat with a volunteer over a cup of tea. Hospitals are never the nicest places to be, but the volunteers from the League of Friends make the patient experience just that little more pleasurable"

"I thoroughly enjoyed my visit here and would like to thank everybody at the League for letting me help. I would encourage anyone who is interested in helping the League, on this, and other projects to get in contact with Jean Shepherd at Stafford and Cannock League of Friends on 01785 257888 ext 5372.

Aidan caught speechless. Very briefly.

Local MP shocked by £20 000 bonuses given automatically to Civil Servant bosses

In his new position on the Home Affairs Select Committee, Aidan asked Home Officer Minister Damian Green about the size of Whitehall bonuses.

Aidan, quoted in Hansard and on page 12 of the Times said "Surely a bonus is not compulsory, it is discretionary." Aidan said afterwards "Local people will be as shocked as I was to discover Civil Servants paid with hard-earned tax revenue get bonuses of up to £20 000 automatically!"

"I also don't believe that anyone in the civil service should earn more than the Prime Minister." When I found out this week that Lynn Homer, Head of the UK Border Agency which was described as "Not fit for purpose", earned £208 000 last year - PLUS a bonus of £10 000 to £15 000, I started to look more closely."

Aidan continued "When Gordon Brown was PM, 323 Civil Servants got bigger paychecks. Since David Cameron has been Prime Minister, and he volunteered to cut his own pay-check, this number has rocketed to over 800 Civil Servants across the country. This is an issue I will keep on raising until common sense returns ." 

Aidan new Trustee of UK Youth Parliament

Aidan with Cannock Chase UK YP representative Elliot Payne and Jess Gilbert, the UK YP representative for Lichfield.

Parliament last week voted in a late night sessions to allow UK Youth Parliament members to hold annual debates in House of Commons

Aidan Burley was this week appointed as the prospective new Trustee of the UK Youth Parliament taking over from fellow Conservative MP, Charles Hendry who had been Trustee since 2001. Confirmation of his appointment by the Board is expected at their next full meeting.

Across the country, some 600 000 teenagers aged 11-18 vote for 400 local Youth Parliament representatives. Anyone aged 11-18 can vote or stand in these elections. The whole Parliament meet 2-3 times per year nationally and more often on a regional basis. More info here http://www.ukyouthparliament.org.uk/

On Tuesday night, Parliament stayed up until after 1:00 a.m. debating and then voting 499 to 21 to give members of the UK Youth Parliament the green light to stage a debate in the House of Commons annually for the next 5 years. Aidan was one of those who stayed up late to vote in favour of this historic vote. ,

Aidan Burley said: "I am delighted to be appointed as a Prospective Trustee - all the more so in this historic week for the UK Youth Parliament. Allowing members of the Youth Parliament to debate inside the House of Commons chamber sends out a positive and inspiring message to hundreds of thousands of young people. It lets them know they are valued and that they belong. I even started my own political career in a school election at the age of 11 and a half."
Issues discussed last year included lowering the voting age to 16, youth crime and university fees.

Aidan Burley applauds move towards simpler taxes.

On Tuesday, the Chancellor and Exchequer Secretary launched the Office of Tax Simplification: its job is to provide the Government with independent advice on how to simplify the UK tax system.

The Chancellor George Osborne said:
"The previous Government took a complex tax system and made it even worse. A decade of meddling and intervening has made the tax affairs of millions of families and businesses across the UK extremely complicated. We need to sort out this mess.

"Two years ago I promised to create the Office of Tax Simplification. Today, we're delivering on that promise. With its independent, expert advice it will be a permanent force for a simpler tax system. Simpler, more competitive taxes will help us show the world that Britain is open for business."

Aidan Burley said:
"Complex tax systems make life hard for businesses - especially small businesses who are usually overstretched. Anything that does that stands in the way of jobs and job creation. Accountants should be helping businesses become more healthy and stable instead of helping them grapple with complicated and complex tax laws. I am especially glad that this new initiative will focus initially on small businesses. Simplification of the tax system will be a challenge but it's a good thing for businesses, those who work and those who want to work! It is especially important for those who have small businesses and can't really stretch to hiring accountants and financial advisers. The vast majority of large businesses were small one-man or two-man bands at one stage.

I have said before that a government can't wave a magic wand and create new private sector jobs. But I hope that a simpler tax system will encourage a new age of new business start ups and enable existing local businesses to focus on what they do best - making money to spend locally and creating local jobs right here in Cannock Chase."

Aidan in the stocks at Longford Primary School Fete

After "Opening" the Longford Primary School Fete, local MP Aidan Burley visited the stalls and spoke to parents and pupils. Aidan said: "Local community events are not just great fun to visit - they are the backbone of the community."

Aidan hands out Charter Fair dosh

 At a Charter Fair presentation event at Rugeley Rose Theatre on Friday 9th July, local MP Aidan Burley presented 10 cheques - just under £2000 in total - on behalf of Rugeley Town Council to local charities. The money was raised by Rugeley Town Council at the Charter Fair on the 5th June.

Aidan said: "What a pleasure to recognise these local charities and the local people who run them. What a terrific event the Charter Fair was - and only because of local people and local charities getting stuck in.

After the judging I had planned on walking a short part of the route with the floats but got so caught up in the atmosphere and excitement of the day that I ended up walking the whole route. I really enjoyed meeting so many wonderful people."

Aidan gives his Maiden Speech

Aidan Burley (Cannock Chase, Conservative)

I am grateful to you for allowing me to make my maiden speech, Mr Deputy Speaker, and I am especially glad to be doing so in front of your good self.

In the past few weeks I have listened to, and had the opportunity to contribute in, some excellent debates about foreign affairs, international development and the nation's finances, but I have waited to make my maiden speech in a home affairs debate. Home affairs is often not seen as a glamorous policy area. It is often overlooked and undervalued, but it is a policy area that affects everybody, all the time. We tend to notice home affairs only when things are not working properly; and let me assure the House that after 13 years of the previous Government, people in Cannock Chase have been noticing it more and more. Uncontrolled immigration, police filling in forms rather than being out on the streets, an explosion in knife crime, burglars being given more rights than the owners of the homes that they are breaking into, and a general culture of petty lawlessness and lack of responsibility have all combined to make local people feel less safe and less secure. If we are to do anything with our time in office, I sincerely hope that we will restore a sense of confidence and pride in our communities that brings with it a sense of order and security.

Let me turn first to Cannock Chase and its predecessors. Traditionally a bell-wether seat, Cannock Chase has a long history. Cannock-or Chenet, as it was called then-was mentioned in the Domesday Book in 1086, and is thought to mean "hillock". Over the years, it has been home to kings and to coal miners. In the reign of Henry VIII, the oak-filled forest of Cannock Chase was frequented by the king and the gentry for hunting. Then came the industrial revolution and it became the petrol station of the country, with coal from its mines fuelling the factories and the nation's industries. In 1958, the Chase-the largest surviving area of lowland heath in the midlands-was designated an area of outstanding natural beauty because of its beautiful landscape, its wildlife and its history. The Chase is still home to some 800 wild fallow deer, which are descended from the original herd introduced in Norman times for hunting purposes.

Let us fast-forward to 2010. The Chase is now famous for its mountain biking trails and its musical concerts. Since 2006, the forest has been used as an open-air music venue, hosting stars such as Jools Holland and Status Quo. In fact, I was there just two weeks ago when I took my mum and my girlfriend to see Simply Red. The constituency comprises three main towns: Cannock, Hednesford and Rugeley. Each has its own character, history and traditions. Increasingly, however, each also has its own problems. Our challenge in Cannock Chase is to restore those towns to their former glory, with shops opening rather than closing, people moving to them rather than from them, and businesses and families thriving and staying. I very much hope to be a catalyst in that regeneration.

Cannock Chase is fortunate to have been served by hard-working and dedicated Members of Parliament. My hon. Friend Mr Howarth-never shy about coming forward, and always first to defend the nation's interests-began his political career there in 1983, eventually rising to become Margaret Thatcher's Parliamentary Private Secretary. Although he now finds himself representing the people of Aldershot, he is still remembered fondly by many of the constituents I spoke to during the election campaign. It is a great pleasure to see him continuing to serve the nation in his new Front-Bench role.

More recently, the seat was in the capable hands of my predecessor, Dr Tony Wright, from 1992 until his retirement in 2010. Dr Wright was well respected on both sides of the House. He was independent minded and not afraid to stand up and criticise his own Government when he felt it right to do so. He also had a keen interest in the political process, and his most significant contribution to the House was his chairmanship of the Wright Committee. In the light of the expenses scandal, the country and the Commons cried out for real and lasting reform, and, in a calm and measured way, Tony Wright and his Committee delivered this. The recommendations in his report, which are now being implemented in full by the coalition Government, have ensured that the role and relevance of Parliament as an institution have increased, as have those of Back Benchers. In my view, he was simply one of the best parliamentarians of recent times. It is therefore no wonder that he never got to serve as a Secretary of State-only the Labour party could ignore such talent, and put its spin above his substance. [Hon. Members: "Hear, hear!] I am sure that the House will join me in wishing him a happy and healthy retirement.

I should also like to make a brief mention of my right hon. Friend Mr McLoughlin, the Government Chief Whip, known in a former life as Cannock Chase District Councillor McLoughlin. He is a former miner at Littleton colliery, and Cannock is very proud to call him one of its own.

Cannock Chase is sometimes called the forgotten part of the west midlands. Often dismissed as a former mining town, it was ignored by the Conservatives for too long as a no-hoper, and taken for granted by Labour. People locally told me that they felt let down by Labour. One day, when I was campaigning with my great friend, ally and supporter, my hon. Friend Michael Fabricant-who was key to my success in the election-an elderly lady came up to me and said, "Young man, there's only one thing worse than being let down, and that is being taken for granted." As a Conservative representing a former mining seat, I will not and cannot ever take my constituents' votes for granted.

Before coming back to home affairs, I want briefly to mention my family. I do not come from an especially political family, but my great-grandmother was one of the first ever female councillors in Birmingham-admittedly for the Labour party-in the early 1950s. She fought one parliamentary election and eight municipal ones, and my mother and my grandmother still live in the Moseley and King's Heath wards that she stood for on three occasions before finally being elected in Longbridge. A successful café owner, in 1950, when the House of Commons kitchens were reported in the national press as running at a loss, she publicly offered to supervise the catering right here, to pay £1,000 for the privilege of doing so and still make a profit. History does not record why her offer was never taken up-[Hon. Members: "Shame."] I have with me the newspaper article that reported this incident.

My parents both ran small businesses in manufacturing and public relations and instilled in me those small-business values of hard work and self-reliance-values that many in this country would do well to follow. Because of their hard work and success, they were able to send me to the best secondary independent school in Birmingham, King Edward's in Edgbaston. At the time, more than a third of the school comprised pupils with some form of an assisted place, which engendered an incredible atmosphere of competitive learning. I very much hope that during my time in this House, the education debates will return to the subject of selection by ability, whereby the brightest pupils are taught with their peers in exactly the same way as the best young sportsmen are intensively coached in academies to become the stars and Olympians of tomorrow.

I talked earlier about the importance of home affairs policy, and I am delighted to speak in a debate that, to me, represents one of the continuing running sores of our criminal justice system-the continued lack of anonymity to men who are accused of rape. Let us not beat about the bush here: a false allegation of rape can ruin a man's life. Even if he is tried in a court of law and found not guilty, he will still remain suspect in many people's eyes. It is human nature to say that there is no smoke without fire, especially, it would seem, when it comes to the thorny issue of rape. It is virtually impossible for a man to survive an accusation of rape without a stain remaining on his character. There will always be whispers and rumours and slurs.

To me, what this debate is about is very simple: it is about avoiding punishment before, and sometimes without, trial. That is why I welcome this debate on the Government's proposals to grant anonymity to defendants in rape cases. For me, anonymity only until trial is not enough, because the principle of no smoke without fire still applies. Surely all hon. Members will accept the principles of equality before the law and equality between men and women. Surely all hon. Members also believe that people are innocent until they are proven guilty.

The legal situation that exists now protects women in rape trials, but it does not protect men. It gives women anonymity, but not men. A special legal exemption has been made in the case of rape, but why has it been made just for those making the accusation? Why does that same protection not apply to those who are being accused? If we are singling out this particular area of the criminal justice system for special treatment, why should it not apply equally to both men and women? Male defendants should be afforded the same protections as women making the accusations because every man is innocent until he is proven guilty. If women need anonymity for this particular type of case, so do men.

We would all agree that men who are convicted of rape should have their names made public. Convicted rapists should be known and should face the consequences of their actions in respect of public opinion towards them. All that the Government's proposals mean is simply that a man will face those social penalties after he has been convicted of the offence rather than facing advanced trial by others who will always think that there is no smoke without fire. In high-profile cases, this will also avoid trial by media in advance of trial by court.

I have listened to all the arguments made today, but I still do not understand why some Labour Members oppose this simple reform. I have heard that if men are given anonymity, it might somehow discourage other women from coming forward, but let us not forget that guilty men will still be exposed when convicted. If anything, the change should encourage more women to come forward because they will have seen that a conviction has been successful.

There is, of course, a strong argument for having no anonymity at all in any legal case. Anyone who believes in a completely open system of justice would agree with that, but the reality is that exceptions have already been made in cases involving children or women making accusations of rape. Surely if a male defendant in rape cases is innocent, he is just as vulnerable as they are. Why are women and children vulnerable, but not men? No one on the Opposition Benches has answered that today. The law is the law, and it should treat men and women equally dispassionately or equally protectively. That is why we should either remove the right of anonymity for women, which no one is suggesting, or we should extend that right to men under precisely the same principle that extends it to women. In this, the mother of all Parliaments, we should do everything that we can to avoid punishment before, and sometimes without, trial.
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Add an annotation (e.g. more info, blog post or wikipedia article)3:15 pm

Thank you Mr Speaker. I'm grateful to you for allowing me to make my maiden speech in this House today.

In the past few weeks I have listened to, and had the opportunity to speak in, some excellent debates about Foreign Affairs, International Development, and the Nation's Finances.

But I have waited to make my maiden speech in a Home Affairs debate. Home Affairs is often not seen as a glamorous policy area. It is over-looked and under-valued. But it is a policy area which affects everybody, all of the time. You only notice it, when its not working.

And Mr Speaker, let me assure you, that after 13 years of the last government, people in Cannock Chase have been noticing it more and more.

Uncontrolled Immigration, police filling in forms rather than out on the streets, an explosion in knife crime, burglars being given more rights than the owners of the homes they are breaking into, a general culture of petty lawlessness and lack of responsibility, have all combined to make local people feel less safe and less secure.

If we are to do anything with our time in office, I sincerely hope we will restore a sense of confidence and pride which brings with it order and security in local communities.

But first let me turn to Cannock Chase and its predecessors, before coming back to Home Affairs and in particular the issue at hand, that of anonymity for defendants.

A Traditionally bell weather seat, Cannock Chase has a long history. Cannock, or as it was then called Chenet, was mentioned in the Domesday Book in 1086 and is thought to mean "hillock".

It has been home over the years to Kings and to coal miners. In the reign of Henry VIII the oak-filled forest of Cannock Chase was frequented by the King and gentry for hunting.

But then came the Industrial Revolution and it became the petrol station of the country - with the coal from its mines fuelling its factories and the nations industries.

In 1958 The Chase - the largest surviving area of lowland heathland in the Midlands - was designated as an AONB - because of its beautiful landscape, its wildlife and its history. Famous for its scarce and endangered lowland heath, the Chase is still home to some 800 wild fallow deer that descend from the original herd introduced in Norman times for hunting purposes.

Fast-forward to 2010, and The Chase is now famous for its biking trails and its musical concerts. Since 2006, the forest has been used as an open air music venue hosting stars like Jools Holland and Status Quo - In fact I was there two weeks ago when I took my mum and girlfriend to see Simply Red.

It comprises three main towns - Cannock, Hednesford and Rugeley. Each has their own unique character, history and traditions, although increasingly their own problems as well. Our challenge in Cannock Chase is restore these towns to their former glory, where shops are opening not closing, which people move to not from, and where businesses and families can thrive. I very much hope to be a catalyst for that regeneration.

Cannock Chase has been fortunate to have been served by hard working and dedicated Members. My Hon Friend the Member for Aldershot, never shy at coming forward, but always first to defend the Nation's interests, began his political career there in 1983, eventually rising to become Lady Thatcher's PPS. Although he now finds himself representing the people of Aldershot, he is still remembered fondly by many constituents I spoke to during the campaign, and it is a great pleasure to see him continuing to serve the nation in his new Frontbench role.

More recently, the seat was in the capable hands of my predecessor Dr Tony Wright, from 1992 to his retirement in 2010. Dr Wright was well respected on all sides of this House. Not only was he Independent minded but he was not afraid to stand up and criticise his own government when he felt it right to do so. He had a keen interest in the political process- and his most significant contribution to this House was that of the Wright Committee.

In light of the expenses scandal, the county and the Commons cried out for real and lasting reform. And in a calm and measured way, Tony Wright and his Committee delivered this. The recommendations from his report, which are now being implemented in full by the coalition government, have ensured that the role and relevance of parliament as an institution is increased as is the role of backbenchers.

In my view he is one of the best parliamentarians we have had in recent times. Therefore it is frankly no wonder that he never got the opportunity to serve as a Secretary of State. Only the Labour Party could ignore such talent - and put their spin above his substance. I'm sure the house would join me in wishing him a happy and healthy retirement.

I would finally like to make a brief mention of my Rt Hon Friend, the Member for Derbyshire Dales and Government Chief Whip, known in a former life as Cannock Chase District Councillor McLaughlin. A former miner at Littleton Colliery, Cannock is proud to call him one of its own.

Sometimes Mr Speaker though, Cannock Chase does feel a little like it is all dressed up with nowhere to go.
Often dismissed simply as a "former mining town" Cannock Chase has been ignored by the Conservatives as a no-hoper and taken for granted by Labour. People locally told me they felt let down by Labour. But as one old lady said to me, "young man, there is only one thing worse that being let down: and that is being taken for granted." Well as a Conservative representing a former mining seat, I will not - I cannot - ever take their votes for granted. Cannock Chase has been fobbed off with trinkets and tokens for too long, and I intend to change that. I intend to bring lasting change to the Bell Weather seat.

Before coming back to Home Affairs, I just wanted to briefly mention my family. I do not come from a political family, but my great grandmother was one of the first ever female councillors in Birmingham - admittedly, for the Labour party! - in the early 1950s. She fought one Parliamentary election and eight municipal ones, and her daughter and her daughters' daughter - my mother - still live in the Moseley and Kings Heath ward she stood for un-successfully on three occasions, before getting elected in Longbridge. A successful cafe owner, in 1950 when the House of Commons kitchens were reported in the national press as running at a loss, she publically offered to supervise the catering there, pay £1,000 for doing so, and make a profit. History does not record why she was never taken up on it.

I talked earlier of the importance of Home Affairs policy, and I am delighted to be speaking in a debate which to me represents one of the continuing running sores in our criminal justice system - that of the continued LACK of anonymity granted to men who are accused of rape.

Mr Speaker, lets not beat around the bush here: a false allegation of rape can ruin a man's life. Even if he is tried in court of law and found NOT guilty, he will still remain suspect in many people's eyes. Human nature is to say that there is no smoke without fire - especially in would seem, when it comes to the issue of rape. So it is virtually impossible for a man to survive an accusation of rape without a stain on his character: there will always be whispers and rumours and slurs. Speaking as a man, I can only think that being falsely accused of being a paedophile would be worse.

That is why I welcome this debate and the government's proposals to grant defendants in rape cases anonymity until proven guilty (for me anonymity only until trial is not enough, because the principle of no smoke without fire still applies). Surely everyone in this House would accept the principles of equality before the law and equality between men and women. Surely everyone also believes that people are innocent until proven guilty.

But the situation we have now is that the law protects women in rape trials - but not men. It gives women anonymity - but not men. A special legal exception has been made in the case of rape - but why for just those making the accusation? Why does the same protection not apply to those who are accused?

If we are singling out this particular area of the criminal justice system for special treatment, and that is another debate which I shall come onto briefly in a moment, then should not that same treatment be applied equally to both men AND women? Male defendants should be afforded the same protections as the women making the accusations, because every man is innocent until proven guilty. If women need anonymity in this particular case - then so do men.

Of course Mr Speaker, we would all agree that the man's name should be made public if he is found guilty, just as the woman's name should be made public if he is not guilty. Convicted rapists should be known to the public and they should face the consequences of their actions in terms of public opinion towards them.

All that the government's proposals would simply mean is that a man faced these penalties AFTER he had been convicted of the offence. And given what I was saying earlier about ‘no smoke without fire', all it avoids is advance trial by friends and family of the accused or the accuser, their neighbours and communities, and for people in the public eye - celebrities and so on - trial by media in advance of the trial by court.

Listening to the arguments today, I still don't really understand why some of the Members opposite oppose this reform. What I do understand that there a very strong argument for NO ANONOMYITY AT ALL in ANY legal case, if we believe in a system of open justice in this country.

But the reality is that exceptions have already been made, where the victim is seen as being particularly vulnerable, such as children or women making accusations of rape. But surely the male defendant in rape cases, if innocent, is just as vulnerable? Why are women and children vulnerable - but not men? Surely that is no more than sex discrimination?

The other argument one hears in this debate, is that somehow if men are given anonymity, then that might discourage other women from coming forward. But let's not forget that GUILTY men will still be publically exposed - when convicted - and if anything this will encourage more women to come forward if they have seen that a conviction has been successful.
The facts remain that some men are innocent of the rape they are accused of. Even if the numbers are very small, that tiny number of innocent men are entitled to due process and equal protection. The proper protection of the law should be afforded to everyone. There is a fundamental PRINCIPLE here - that of equality under the law. We can't go around saying "everyone is equal but some people are more equal than others."

The law is the law and it should treat men and women equally dispassionately, or equally protectively, and that is why we should either remove the right of anonymity for women, or extend it to men under precisely the same principle that it is extended to women.

Budget Week

This week was Budget Week. It was an emergency budget, necessary because of the previous government's management, which meant we have lived on increasing amounts of credit as a country for years.

We now borrow one pound for every four we spend - increasing our national debt by £3 billion a week. For me, the key figure was that if we carried on borrowing and spending as we were, during this parliament the interest payments ALONE to international bankers would be a quarter of a trillion pounds. That is money that could be used to educate our children, police our streets and defend our country.

Yes, some of the decisions in the budget were tough, but some of them seemed to be focussed specifically towards helping areas such as Cannock Chase. For example:

• An increase of £1,000 of tax free income for the lowest paid 
• Lower corporation tax for manufacturers
• A reduction of business tax for smaller businesses
• Businesses set up outside of London and the South East (such as in Cannock Chase) do not have to pay employer national insurance on their first 10 employees hired in their first year of business
• Cancellation of the planned jobs tax
• Re-linking of the state pension to annual earnings

I promised during my campaign to say that ‘Cannock Chase is open for businesses'. These measures will actively support what I want to achieve.

The House of Commons was absolutely jam packed to hear this announcement, and the atmosphere was electric. MPs were packing the aisles to hear what was said - and your own MP was sat on the carpet throughout. Isn't it a good job that health and safety legislation doesn't appear to apply to the House of Commons!

Public Enquiry Stafford Hospital

Last week was a very important week for residents of Cannock Chase and other users of Stafford and Cannock Hospitals - and the NHS in general. The new Secretary of State for Health, Andrew Lansley, kept his promise to hold a Full Public Enquiry (under the 2005 Act) into the tragic events at Stafford Hospital.

This came as great news to all those who have been affected by what went on at Stafford, and it was heartening to see Julie Bailey and Cure the NHS down in Westminster. They have campaigned tirelessly for a Public Inquiry and deserve this result. They are a credit to themselves and to Staffordshire.

The reason we need a full public enquiry is not only to make sure that it never happens again at Stafford - but that the systems, process and procedures that went so badly wrong can never happen again at ANY hospital in the country. I have never believed what went on at Stafford was peculiar to our hospitals - and we must learn the full lessons for the sake of the wider NHS.

During the debate, I asked my first ever question on the floor of the House of Commons. It was concerning a constituent who had been thrown off her training course as a nurse at both Cannock and Stafford hospitals, after starting to expose some of the appalling neglect of her elderly patients. Instead of having her concerns taken seriously, she instead lost her job.

I was therefore delighted to hear that the government will be introducing new protections for ‘whistleblowers' so that the culture of secrecy and fear will no long reign. I hope that last week marks a new chapter for our NHS.

John Jillings

The last week has been an incredibly sad one for me, after learning of the death of Cllr John Jillings. John was a not only a great servant to his community, but also a close friend. He was larger than life, with an infectious and palpable enthusiasm for life and a real can-do attitude. Cannock Chase has lost a magnificent man, and we will all be worse off for not having him around. My sincere condolences go out to Mandy and his family.

I remember when I first got selected as a candidate, John - JJ to his friends - was there on the selection committee, asking me difficult questions, probing and testing my knowledge and experience. We shared a passion for the police and reducing their stifling bureaucracy and as an ex-policeman he was passionate about Street Wardens.

As a campaigner, he was second to none. His love of life and making things better for his community was un-matched; he was a true champion for his community, and was doing important things as Conservative Group Leader.

On a positive note, and this is something that would not have surprised JJ, I have been - quite literally - overwhelmed by the number of responses to my advert for an Office Manager in this paper just two weeks ago. We have had nearly 50 CVs sent in, many of incredibly high quality. There is truly some first class talent wanting to make a difference and help their community. Many thanks to all who have applied - it is genuinely much appreciated.

I am hoping to make a decision very soon, but have decided to personally interview every candidate- so please bear with me! In the meantime my brand new website went live this week - www.aidanburleyMP.org - why not have a look and let me know what you think?

Aidan in Rugeley Mercury

Rugeley Mercury link.

http://www.thisislichfield.co.uk/news/MP-sticks-word-dons-rugby-tie-Commons/article-2220046-detail/article.html

Election Result

The results of the 2010 general election:

Candidate Votes Share %

Aidan Burley, Conservative 18,271 40.1%
Susan Woodward, Labour 15,076 33.1%
Jon Hunt, Liberal Democrat 7,732 17.0%
Terence Majorowicz, British National Party 2,168 4.8%
Malcolm McKenzie, UK Independence Party 1,580 3.5%
Ron Turville, Independent 380 0.8%
Royston Jenkins, Get Snouts Out TheTrough 259 0.6%
Mike Walters, Independent 93 0.2%

Conservative majority: 3,195

Turnout: 61.2%