I was delighted to be asked to write a weekly column for the Cannock Chase Post Newspaper which is distributed throughout the constituency. The purpose of the column is to give my constituents an insight into my work in Parliament and Cannock Chase.
Please find all my past columns below.
We live in a time when the reputation of some journalists and newspapers is perhaps only marginally higher than MPs. However, even in the deepest fog beacons stand out. In my opinion the Chase Post under the inspired editorship of Mike Lockley was one such beacon. Its loss will be deeply felt by everyone here in Cannock Chase.
Even when publicity is good, bad and indifferent it is important that people have access to quality local news. The Chase Post has certainly provided this and should be commended for the fair and balanced way it has reported local news and the way it has always supported Cannock Chase and the people who live and work here.
This was true when as a Parliamentary Candidate Mike agreed to my suggestion that the paper organise, host and chair Cannock's first ever parliamentary debate with all the main MP candidates. Readers were able to write in with questions and for the first time local people could question all the candidates in a public forum.
Over 300 people attended on the night and asked questions that mattered to them. Many said in the bar afterwards that they had changed their vote on the basis of listening to the candidates' answers. This is politics at its best, and most real.
Since the election, the paper has been very supportive of my efforts to promote Cannock Chase and help get people back into work. I will be forever grateful for the fantastic support and promotion of my recent Jobs Fayres, which were all about helping and supporting local people get new jobs. We also must not forget the papers own job listings which I know have helped many people back into work.
I was also delighted when Mike gave me the opportunity to contribute a weekly column to the paper so that local people could keep informed about what I am doing for them in Westminster and Cannock Chase. I shall miss writing about my 'Week in Westminster' – not least because I know many readers felt it an original insight into the crazy world of the Westminster Village.
I think I speak for all readers in saying that the Chase Post will be sorely missed, and I for one know that my Saturday mornings will never be quite the same without Mike's 'lighter look at life' which I had the privilege of guest writing last Christmas. My best wishes go to Mike and all his professional staff at this difficult time. You have been an inspiration to us all.
Telephone: 01543 502 447
Email: aidan.burley.mp@parliament.uk
Post: 6 High Green Court, Newhall Street, Cannock,
WS11 1GR
