Strong Local Voice, Strong Local Choice News Stories (Mike Brooke)

Feb 2, 2012:
- Annette Brooke MP Presses Government on Local Landlord Accreditation
  Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, has questioned the Government over its support for local landlord accreditation schemes. Annette raised the issue during Department of Communities and Local Government Questions in the House of Commons on Monday. Annette's question came as MPs queried the ministerial team over standards in the private rented sector. Annette asked: "What is the Department's view on local landlord accreditation schemes, and what advice does he give on such schemes to local authorities?" Having had a good experience with a local accreditation scheme run by Poole Borough District Council, Annette sought to highlight the positive impacts these schemes can have in raising standards. In his response, Grant Shapps, the Minister of State for Housing and Local Government, confirmed his support for such schemes. He said, "local accreditation and licensing schemes can be good value for local people." He also highlighted the flexibility of these schemes, noting their ability to meet local needs, and concluded; "it can be fitted in with what the community requires." Question and Answer in Full: Annette Brooke (Mid Dorset and North Poole) (LD): What is the Department's view on local landlord accreditation schemes, and what advice does he give on such schemes to local authorities? Grant Shapps: Local accreditation and licensing schemes can be good value for local people. I attended a local accreditation in Welwyn Hatfield on Thursday evening. The scheme is very good and designed locally to address local problems; in our case, it happens to be a student population. That is the advantage of doing it locally: it can be fitted in with what the community requires. To read the question in full visit: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201212/cmhansrd/cm120130/debtext/120130-0001.htm#12013011000335 Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Jan 30, 2012:
- ANNETTE BROOKE MP ENTERS BUPA 'GET MOVING' CHALLENGE
  Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, last week took part in the Bupa 'Get Moving' Challenge to raise awareness of the benefits of taking regular exercise and was in with a chance of winning £500 of sports equipment for a local school or sports club. Organised by Bupa in partnership with MEND, the Youth Sport Trust and Diabetes UK, Annette joined other Members of Parliament on the walk, which took in some of London's most famous landmarks. Commenting on the walk, Annette said: "I can't wait to find out if I've won. The walk was fun and made even better with the prospect of winning some equipment for people in my constituency. Fingers crossed. Martin George, Managing Director, Group Development, Bupa, said: "It's great that Members of Parliament are taking part in the Bupa 'Get Moving' Challenge to be in with a chance of winning sports equipment for a local school or sports club. Bupa and our partners [MEND, Youth Sport Trust and Diabetes UK] are committed to helping people to get moving and live healthier lifestyles and walking is an excellent way of achieving this." Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Jan 27, 2012:
- Annette Brooke MP 'Speaks Out' Against Prejudice by signing Holocaust Memorial Day Book of Commitment
  Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole has signed a Book of Commitment in the House of Commons, in doing so pledging her commitment to Holocaust Memorial Day and honouring those who died during the Holocaust. Friday January 27th marked the 67th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the Nazi concentration and extermination camp which is the site of the largest mass murder in history - and in the weeks running up to the day, the Holocaust Educational Trust placed a Book of Commitment in the House of Commons, giving MPs the chance to honour those who were persecuted and killed during their Holocaust and encouraging constituents to actively speak out against prejudice and bigotry today. In signing the Book of Commitment, Annette paid tribute to the extraordinary men and women who having survived the Holocaust, work to educate young people about what they endured, through the Holocaust Educational Trust's Outreach programme. In the weeks around Holocaust Memorial Day, thousands of commemorative events will be arranged by schools, faith groups and community organisations across the country, remembering all the victims of the Holocaust and subsequent genocides. This year, people will also be encouraged to take a stand against racism and prejudice today - and to speak out against hatred wherever they encounter it. Annette said: "Holocaust Memorial Day marks the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau - and is an important opportunity to remember the victims of genocide. I encourage all constituents to mark the day and to commit to 'speaking up and speaking out' against prejudice today." Karen Pollock MBE, Chief Executive of the Holocaust Educational Trust, said: "We are proud that Annette is supporting Holocaust Memorial Day this year. It is vitally important that we both remember and learn from the appalling events of the Holocaust - as well as ensuring that we continue to challenge all forms of bigotry." Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Jan 25, 2012:
- Annette Brooke MP Joins Call for More Time on Clock Change Bill
  The Daylight Saving Bill was derailed by a small group of MPs on Friday but pressure is growing on the Government to give the bill a fair hearing. Local MP Annette Brooke has joined scores of other politicians and organisations calling for more parliamentary time to see it through. The bill would mandate the Government to conduct a comprehensive review of the costs and benefits of putting clocks forward an hour throughout the UK, resulting in lighter evenings every day of the year. If this concludes that a change would be beneficial, the government will run a three-year trial of the new system, subject to consent from the devolved governments of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Even with huge support from over 140 MPs at Friday's debate, a couple of politicians were able to block the bill by simply running down the clock. Annette said: "The will of the house was for the Daylight Saving Bill to proceed. I, and many of my colleagues, set aside Friday to attend the debate after receiving a huge number of letters of support from constituents. Despite overwhelming support, a tiny minority employed wrecking tactics to scupper the bill. It's imperative the Government give the bill more time - so it can have the hearing it deserves". 10:10's Lighter Later campaign has been leading the campaign for clock change. The campaign has the backing of over 90 organisations working on an enormous range of issues, from sport and tourism to, road safety and environmental protection. "The support we saw on Friday is pretty unprecedented when it comes to a private members bill. It's imperative the government gives the bill more time" said Daniel Vockins, Lighter Later campaign manager. Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
- Annette Brooke MP Fights For Fair Taxation
  Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, yesterday sought assurances from the Government that Britain's tax system will be made fairer and more equitable in the upcoming budget. She raised the issue during Treasury Questions in the House of Commons. Questions were taken by the Chief Secretary to the Treasury Danny Alexander due to the Chancellor's attendance at the EU's Economic and Financial Affairs Council. Annette spoke out on this following the Institute for Fiscal Studies' assertion that the Autumn Statement's "new tax and benefit measures are, on average, a takeaway from lower-income families with children." Specifically she asked what more actions could be taken to make our tax system fairer. Annette highlighted some possible approaches including "a demonstrable crackdown on tax avoidance, perhaps a mansion tax, and certainly more progressive tax measures". In responding Mr Alexander asserted that the tax system had become fairer under this government and that "the bank levy, the increase in capital gains tax, changes to pensions tax relief and the maintenance of the 50p rate all help to enable us to meet our commitment to increase the income tax personal allowance to £10,000." However due to the continuing need for cuts Mr Alexander did state that "we need to redouble our efforts, both to tackle tax avoidance and to deliver the income tax cuts that we have promised." After leaving the chamber Annette said, "We must keep fighting for fair taxes. The Government has gone someway in this; I certainly welcome the increased income tax personal allowance. But more progressive policies are needed. We must do more on tax avoidance; it is unacceptable that at time of hardship for ordinary people an estimated £5 billion is lost to the treasury every year." Question and Answer in Full: 9. Annette Brooke (Mid Dorset and North Poole) (LD): What steps he plans to take to ensure that the burden of taxation is fairly distributed. [91200] The Chief Secretary to the Treasury (Danny Alexander): We are significantly shifting the burden of taxation away from people on lower incomes and on to those with broader shoulders. The bank levy, the increase in capital gains tax, changes to pensions tax relief and the maintenance of the 50p rate all help to enable us to meet our commitment to increase the income tax personal allowance to £10,000, cutting taxes for millions of hard-pressed, hard-working families. Annette Brooke: I thank my right hon. Friend for that answer. However, the Institute for Fiscal Studies said of the autumn statement: "New tax and benefit measures are, on average, a takeaway from lower-income families with children, and giveaway to middle and top of income distribution". 24 Jan 2012: Column 156 What further approaches will he take in the forthcoming Budget to ensure that we are all in it together, be it a demonstrable crackdown on tax avoidance, perhaps a mansion tax, and certainly more progressive tax measures? Danny Alexander: Of course, the burden of the deficit reduction is fair overall, and we know that the burden falls most highly on the richest 20% of the population. However, with spending cuts needing to continue for longer-another two years-we need to redouble our efforts, both to tackle tax avoidance and to deliver the income tax cuts that we have promised, by lifting the personal allowance as rapidly as the nation can afford. Those are, of course, issues that we shall be considering in the run-up to the Budget. To read Treasury Questions in full visit: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201212/cmhansrd/cm120124/debtext/120124-0001.htm#12012451000510 Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
- Annette Brooke MP Hears Concerns that Physiotherapy Services are 'Stretched to the Limit'
  Mid Dorset and North Poole MP Annette Brooke met with physiotherapists at the House of Commons last week to hear their concerns about the impact of budget constraints on physiotherapy services. Annette was told that patients are waiting longer for treatment as NHS physiotherapy services struggle to cope with budget cuts and staff shortages. She was attending the parliamentary launch of 'Stretched to the Limit', a hard-hitting report from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) which draws on an analysis of statistics gained through an audit of all primary care trusts (PCTs) in England using freedom of information laws; plus two separate surveys of physiotherapy managers. The audit found that in the worst case, patients are waiting up to 27 weeks to access physiotherapy, potentially causing their condition to worsen. Nearly two thirds of managers surveyed by the CSP said they do not expect to have sufficient resources to meet demand for physiotherapy services this financial year. Commenting on the report, Annette said: "Physiotherapy services play a vital role in the treatment and support of thousands of my constituents with a wide range of health conditions. It is crucial that these services are protected to ensure people have prompt access to the high quality care and outcomes that physiotherapy provides." The 'Stretched to the Limit' report also found: More than half (57 per cent) of physiotherapy managers reported cuts to patient services. Nearly 60 per cent said these cuts had, or would, reduce the number of treatment sessions a patient could receive. One in four managers said patient safety was compromised by cuts they were experiencing. 70 per cent of managers who reported safety concerns had also seen cuts in specialist physio posts and 'down-banding' in their workplace - the cost-saving practice of reducing the responsibilities of a post so that it can be filled by a less-experienced physiotherapist. Phil Gray, Chief Executive of the CSP said: "This report paints a disturbing picture of what is happening right now to NHS physiotherapy services across the country. Patients are waiting longer to get the physiotherapy treatment they need, which increases the risk that their condition will worsen." The full report is available to read on the CSP website: http://www.csp.org.uk/sites/files/csp/secure/stretched-to-the-limit-2012.pdf. Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Jan 24, 2012:
- Annette Brooke MP Supports Charity Calls for Urgent Action to Prevent Babies' Deaths
  Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole attended a parliamentary reception in the House of Commons, organised by Sands, the stillbirth and neonatal death charity, for the launch of their new report, Preventing Babies' Deaths: what needs to be done. 6,500 babies are stillborn or die shortly after birth every year in the UK. The charity's report proposes that 1,200 babies' lives could be saved every year through a combination of more research, better care and greater awareness of the risks of stillbirth and newborn baby death. Annette, pictured at last Wednesday's event with bereaved parents and local residents Emma and Nick Johnston, pledged her support for the Sands campaign. She said: "I was shocked to discover the scale of baby deaths in the UK. 17 babies are stillborn or die shortly after birth every day, with stillbirth being the largest contributor to child deaths under the age of five years. These deaths have a devastating impact on parents and their families, and I fully support Sands in their call for urgent action to prevent baby deaths in the future." The Report highlights that advances in neonatal medicine have led to small but welcome reductions in the number of newborn babies dying, however, Sands remains extremely concerned by the UK's persistently high stillbirth rates; stillbirth numbers in the UK are the same today as they were in the late 1990s, with 1 in 200 babies being stillborn. The UK has one of the highest stillbirth rates when compared to similar high income countries, yet Sands strongly believes that with the appropriate commitment and investment in research and improved care, a reduction in these rates is achievable and should be a key focus for all those concerned with maternity services. Neal Long, Chief Executive of Sands, addressed MPs at the parliamentary reception, "A third of stillborn babies - around 1,200 babies - are perfectly formed and born at gestations when they might safely be delivered. But routine antenatal care is failing to detect far too many babies who need help. These babies' deaths are those that Sands, researchers and clinicians working in obstetrics, believe are avoidable deaths. "We want to see real national commitment to tackling this ignored tragedy and preventing all avoidable baby deaths in the future. We want lives saved and families spared the desperate heartbreak of losing their precious baby." What are the facts today? 17 babies die every day in the UK, 11 are stillborn and another 6 die shortly after birth - this equates to 6,500 babies dying every year Stillbirth is not a rare event; 1 in 200 babies are stillborn (die in the womb after 24 weeks gestation) and a third of these deaths happen at full term, (after 37 weeks gestation), at an age when a baby is preparing to start life outside the womb. If these babies can be identified, then early delivery could save many of these babies' lives Babies who die within the first four weeks of life (neonatal deaths) are also not rare, 1 in 300 babies die before they are a month old UK rates of stillbirth are the same today as in the late 1990s, in the same period infant mortality rates have fallen to their lowest ever rate While there is proper focus and concern about preventing child deaths caused by, for example meningitis (around 50 deaths per year); road deaths (81 in 2009); or cot deaths (400 per year), the 4,000 stillbirths each year are more or less ignored The Lancet medical journal's 2011 Stillbirth Series, showed the UK to be among the poorest performing countries when it comes to tackling stillbirth, placing us 33rd out of 35 similar high income countries. Sands Preventing Babies' Deaths Report outlines the key issues contributing to baby deaths in the UK and the action we believe is needed to prevent deaths in the future. Read the full report at www.uk-sands.org Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Jan 19, 2012:
- Annette Brooke MP Presses Government to Take Action on Roadside Littering
  Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, has pressed the Government to take more action in fighting and preventing littering along roadsides. Annette raised the issue during Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Oral Questions in the House of Commons this morning. Annette first praised those in her constituency that voluntarily pick up litter, citing Canford Heath Community Litter Pickers. She then asked Caroline Spelman, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what more will she would do to empower local councils to take effective action against people in vehicles who are responsible for roadside littering. The question raised audible approval from across the house. In response Mrs Spelman accepted that the problem was a serious one and cited a number of potential actions. She accepted the need for a broad approach to the issue and said that, "we have to start in schools by educating children and taking them with us on litter picks, because it then dawns on them what a nuisance this is." She also highlighted a private members bill currently going through Parliament which would make littering from vehicles a civil offence. If implemented at a trial stage, Mrs Spelman said, "we should look at the efficacy of that measure to see what wider lessons we can learn." Mrs Spelman was also keen to point out the actions the Government has already been taking. She reaffirmed support for the Keep Britain Tidy's "Love Where You Live" campaign. She also said, "we are cracking down on fly-tippers by introducing powers to seize the vehicles of suspected offenders and are working with the court authorities on increased sentencing." After leaving the chamber Annette said, "This is an issue of real concern to my constituents and for communities across the country. The selfishness of motorists who blight our landscape in this way is a cause of great anger. I welcome the Secretary of State's comments, although when dealing with roadside littering, we must always keep safety as the number one priority. I am glad the Government is onboard in tackling this and I look forward to a proactive approach." Question and Answer: Annette Brooke (Mid Dorset and North Poole) (LD): What steps she is taking to tackle littering and fly-tipping. [90496] The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Mrs Caroline Spelman): Changing behaviour is the key on such environmental issues. That is why the Government supports the national fly-tipping prevention group and initiatives such as Keep Britain Tidy's "Love Where You Live" campaign, which I launched with Kirstie Allsopp last autumn. We are cracking down on fly-tippers by introducing powers to seize the vehicles of suspected offenders and are working with the court authorities on increased sentencing. Annette Brooke: I thank the Secretary of State for her answer. I congratulate all those involved in community litter picks, including those at Canford Heath in my constituency. Litter alongside the busy roads that link our communities is a blot on the landscape. What more will she do to empower local councils to take effective action against people in vehicles who are responsible for such littering? Mrs Spelman: I freely acknowledge that that is a problem. When I jog around the lanes where I live in the countryside, it appalls me to see what has been dropped casually out of car windows. It is systematically cleared by the council, but within a very short period it is back. This is about changing behaviour. We have to start in schools by educating children and taking them with us on litter picks, because it then dawns on them what a nuisance this is. In addition, an interesting opportunity is presented by a private Bill that is going through Parliament, which will enable London borough councils to tackle the problem of littering from vehicles by making it a civil offence. We should look at the efficacy of that measure to see what wider lessons we can learn. Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
- Annette Brooke MP says clocks change could save lives and create jobs in Mid Dorset and North Poole
  Local MP Annette Brooke is backing a bill to objectively look at the benefits of moving the clocks forward by one hour. Annette Brooke, who represents Mid Dorset and North Poole, is backing the Daylight Saving Bill which receives its Third Reading in the House of Commons tomorrow. The bill calls on the Government to conduct a comprehensive review of the costs and benefits of putting clocks forward an hour throughout the UK, resulting in lighter evenings every day of the year. "The arguments in favour of clock change are compelling. This one simple low-cost policy could bring wide ranging benefits to the whole of the UK including saving lives on our roads, creating much needed jobs in the tourism sector and reducing the fear of crime on dark evenings." said Annette Brooke MP. Supporters argue that lighter evenings would save lives on our roads by making more of our busiest evening rush hours occur in daylight, create jobs by boosting the tourism sector, and make many people, especially older people, feel safer going out in the evenings for longer. Lighter Later, the group coordinating the campaign for change, says support for the cause has never been stronger. "The Daylight Saving Bill is supported by over 90 national organisations from The AA to SAGA and The FA backing lighter evenings. On the year the Olympics comes to Britain, this would be a brilliant legacy for our young athletes." said Daniel Vockins, campaign manager. Members of the public can find out more about the move and check if their MP is in support of the move at www.lighterlater.org Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Jan 18, 2012:
- ANNETTE BROOKE MP SUPPORTS BIG ENERGY WEEK HELPING PEOPLE CUT THEIR FUEL BILLS
  Rising fuel bills are stretching household finances and people are looking for ways to save money on their energy bills. Help is at hand through Big Energy Week (16-21 January 2012) which is being run by Citizens Advice - and has received support from local MP Annette Brooke. During Big Energy Week you can get practical advice on cutting your fuel bills and help to see if you are getting all of the financial support you are entitled to. You can pick up a leaflet with tips and advice on cutting your fuel bills at your local Citizens Advice Bureau. A new website - www.bigenergyweek.org.uk - is full of tips on how to cut your energy bills. The website also has details of local Big Energy Week events in your area. Citizens Advice, Chief Executive, Gillian Guy said: "We know hikes in prices have put extra pressure on people's budgets at a time when money is already tight. Day in day out our Bureaux is helping people who can't afford their fuel bills. "We're worried that some people are struggling unnecessarily because they're not on the best deal; live in homes that haemorrhage heat or are not getting all of the financial help available to them." Annette said: "Fuel bills are a big worry for many people at the moment. I am pleased to support Big Energy Week and hope it will make a big difference to my constituents by saving them money on their bills." Big Energy Week is helping people save money on their bills by encouraging them to: Contact your supplier to check you are you are on the best tariff and payment method for you. Monthly direct debit is on average £100 cheaper per year than paying by cash or cheque. Visit an accredited switching website to see if you could get your energy cheaper elsewhere. You may be able to save up to £200 off your annual bill by shopping around for a different supplier, particularly if you have never changed energy firm. Insulate the walls and the loft of your home and you could save on average around £120 per year. All major gas and electricity suppliers are giving away free or discounted insulation to any household, not just their own customers. Ask if you're eligible so you don't miss out. That goes for heating oil customers too. Check you are not missing out on any benefits or tax credits that could up your income; your local Citizens Advice Bureaux can help you with this. Using less energy could save you money, just by doing simple things like turning off lights and switching appliances off at the wall. Turning your thermostat down 1°C alone could cut your heating bill by £60 on average. If you are unable to pay your bills you should contact your energy supplier immediately as they have to help you manage your bills in a way that you can afford. If you use heating oil or liquid petroleum gas to heat your home, shop around and compare prices from different oil suppliers. You could also save money by buying in bulk with your neighbours; check if there is an oil club you can join or start one up. Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Jan 16, 2012:
- Annette Brooke MP Defends Wareham Middle School Playing Fields
  Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, today sought to safeguard the future of Wareham Middle School's playing fields. During Education Questions in the House of Commons Annette asked Nick Gibb, the Minister for Schools, if both the Department of Education and Sport England would scrutinise any proposal to sell the playing fields very carefully. Annette's concerns are shared by many of her constituents, who want to protect the playing fields for use by the community and the children of Wareham. Annette's question comes as part of a campaign by local people to oppose proposals by Dorset County Council to sell off a large proportion of the playing fields for development. In his response Nick Gibb stated that Dorset County Council had not, as of yet, filed an application to sell the playing fields. Under rules laid down by the School Standards and Framework Act 1998, the county council would have to seek approval from the Secretary of State in order to sell the fields. He further assured Annette that if such an application is made, the Secretary of State would take advice from the independent school playing fields advisory panel before making his decision. After Education Questions Annette said, "We must keep fighting to protect Wareham's playing fields. With the school's closure forthcoming, it is crucial that we safeguard a lasting legacy for the playing fields. I think everyone agrees that they must be retained for community use, as they are an area of huge importance to local sports teams." Question and Answer in Full: School Playing Fields 2. Annette Brooke (Mid Dorset and North Poole) (LD): What his policy is on the sale of school playing fields; and if he will make a statement. [89248] The Minister of State, Department for Education (Mr Nick Gibb): Playing fields are an important part of a school's estate, and sport is a critical element of any school curriculum. The Secretary of State's consent is needed to sell school playing fields under section 77 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998. School playing fields can be sold only if they are genuinely surplus, with all proceeds being used to improve sports or educational facilities. The Education Act 2011 also gives the Secretary of State power to direct that, instead of being disposed of, the land should be transferred to an academy or free school. Annette Brooke: I thank the Minister for that answer. Will he make sure there is careful scrutiny by both Sport England and his Department of the proposed sale of playing fields at Wareham middle school? There are overwhelming objections locally, including from the district council and the town council, identifying the already overall shortage of playing fields. There is widespread community use of the fields, and there is particular opposition to the site's being sold for an out of town supermarket and its possible replacement with inferior provision. Mr Gibb: The short answer is, yes we will. The long answer is that there has not yet been an application from Dorset county council to dispose of the Wareham school playing field. If such an application is made, the Secretary of State's approval to dispose of the playing field will be required, and he will take advice from the independent school playing fields advisory panel. Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Jan 11, 2012:
- Annette Brooke MP Supports a Decentralised Approach to Local Government Finance
  Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, has voiced her support for the localist direction taken in the Local Government Finance Bill, which received its second reading in the House of Commons yesterday. Speaking in the Chamber last night Annette said, "I welcome the general thrust of the Bill: to devolve greater financial powers and freedoms to councils." The Bill seeks to introduce a business rate retention scheme which will allow councils to raise over 80% of their revenues locally and give them a stake in supporting local shops and companies. Annette argued that "the proposals in the Bill will move us away from a complex, non-transparent, centralised system, which offered no built-in incentives for councils to drive economic growth." Annette, who welcomed the Government's recent announcements of a £100m Empty Homes programme to bring vacant properties back into use, supported the bill's proposals to introduce "an empty home premium after a property has been empty for two years." This means the council, under certain circumstances, could have the discretion to charge full council tax plus 50% more if the property has been empty for 2 years or more. There are currently 300,000 properties in England that have been vacant for longer than 6 months. Annette, highlighting what a big issue second homes are in her local area, suggested that the Government should also consider introducing a second home premium similar to the empty home premium. She highlighted that an astounding 7.29% of homes in part of Purbeck are second homes. Annette believes that by tackling both second homes and empty homes, we can help deal with the housing supply shortage for local people. After the debate Annette said: "I am very positive about giving local authorities the freedom and resources to help local communities and grow local economies. If we can get the detail right on this bill it will be a big step forward for localism. I will keep focusing on the important issues and pushing for a fair and flexible system of local government finance." To read the debate in full visit: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm120110/debtext/120110-0003.htm Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Dec 20, 2011:
- Annette Brooke MP Backs Campaign to Raise Awareness of Meningitis
  Annette Brooke MP is backing Meningitis Research Foundation's campaign 'Meningitis Matters' - to raise awareness of meningitis and septicaemia, and to ensure that tackling the diseases remains a top public health priority while the current NHS reforms are implemented. Meningitis is still a serious and life-threatening disease, affecting around 3,400 people in the UK each year. Infants and young people are at greatest risk: meningitis causes the largest number of deaths amongst children under five - more than any other infectious disease. The Meningitis Matters campaign aims to raise awareness of the disease and ensure that the NHS reforms do not have a destabilising effect on meningitis research, surveillance and immunisation rates. Supporting the campaign, Annette Brooke MP met with Nicky and Matt McClure, local constituents and parents of meningitis survivor Megan, in Parliament this week, to find out more about the diseases, and how the lives and outcomes of those affected could be improved. Along with other MPs, Annette Brooke MP has signed an Early Day Motion (EDM 2476) calling on the Government to introduce new meningitis vaccines as soon as readily available. Many deadly strains of meningitis remain uncontrolled, and vaccination is still the most effective way to prevent and control it. Annette Brooke MP said: "Meningitis hasn't gone away - it still kills far too many children in the UK. Although real progress has been made over the last decade, more needs to be done to tackle this terrible disease and to improve survival rates and save lives." Meningitis Matters calls on the Government to ensure that: Vaccines that prevent meningitis are introduced into the immunisation schedule as soon as they become available Healthcare professionals have sufficient training to enable them to identify and manage meningitis Adequate follow-up, care and support are provided to those left with after-effects of meningitis and septicaemia. Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Dec 16, 2011:
- Annette Brooke MP Presses Minister on the Provision of Health Services for Children with Disabilities
  Yesterday, Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset & North Poole, spoke on the provision of health services for disabled children in an adjournment debate she called in the House of Commons. Annette highlighted to the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Public Health Anne Milton MP the fact that disabled children and those with complex health needs are disproportionate users of health services, but they face long-standing barriers to accessing both universal and specialist health services. Annette called on the Department of Health to set out a clear vision for the way in which the reformed system will meet the needs of these children. Annette accepted that given the coalition's proposed policy changes, there are some potentially amazing opportunities-specifically within the Health and Social Care Bill, but added that the Government needs to grasp those opportunities and address the issues that are seen as threats. Among the concerns she raised, Annette pressed the Minister on the need for measures to ensure that the Secretary of State, the NHS Commissioning Board, clinical networks and senates, health and wellbeing boards, clinical commissioning groups and HealthWatch or monitoring bodies will prioritise child health. Annette argued that the Secretary of State should to be required to set priorities for child health as part of his mandate to the NHS Commissioning Board. Annette pressed the need for integrated services. She pointed out that there are many concerns about the fact that although there is currently a statutory duty to provide education services identified in a statement, there is not the same statutory duty for the provision of health services. The Bill also does not provide a platform for education providers to take part in local decision making at health and wellbeing board level, which will make integrated commissioning more difficult. Annette pointed out that specific attention must be given to the health processes and professionals who work within child health, or the modernisation of the NHS could perpetuate a system that fails children, particularly disabled children and those with complex and/or palliative care needs. The Minister assured Annette that the Government are doing what they can to improve the availability and quality of health care for all children and young people, including those with disabilities, as she acknowledged that the NHS, as it currently works, does not get everything right for children and young people. In her response Mrs Milton set out the goals of the Government, including the right start to life in the foundation years, improved support for mental health and well-being, more co-operative and joined-up services for children with disabilities, and improved health in adolescence. She added that the Government are moving towards a service in which the use of evidence-based treatment is adopted consistently and to the best effect; in which promoting good health is of equal importance to caring for the sick; and in which children, young people and their families are always involved in decisions about their care. To read the full debate visit: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm111215/debtext/111215-0004.htm#11121581000232 Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
- A CHRISTMAS 'TAIL': ANNETTE BROOKE MP PUTS DOG LAW REFORM ON HER CHRISTMAS LIST
  Annette Brooke MP joined leading animal welfare and veterinary organisations, trade unions and canine companions in a Christmas wish list on Wednesday 14th December appealing for urgent government action on the issue of irresponsible dog ownership and dog law reform. MPs from all major political parties were joined by representatives from twenty organisations who are calling on the coalition government to deliver on their agreement that enforcement agencies should "target irresponsible owners of dangerous dogs." Those present are hoping to successfully introduce a government Bill in the Queen's Speech next year updating current dog control legislation to improve public and worker safety as well as animal welfare and reduce the costs of enforcement to the public purse. The issue of irresponsible dog ownership covers many different areas, from allowing dogs to foul or stray, to encouraging them to be dangerously out of control, contributing to anti-social behaviour or even using them as a weapon. There is much evidence that dog ownership has a benefit to society when the dog is well trained and the owner is responsible. Organisations behind today's Christmas wish list and the petition include: Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, The Blue Cross, British Telecom, British Veterinary Association, Communication Workers Union, Dogs Trust, GMB, Guide Dogs, IIRSM, Kennel Club, National Dog Wardens Association, Police Federation, Prospect, Royal Mail Group, Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, RSPCA, UNISON, USDAW, Unite, Wood Green, The Animal Charity and Virgin Media. Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Dec 14, 2011:
- Annette Brooke MP says 'Happy Birthday' to Disabled Persons Railcard
  Local MP Annette Brooke joined disability rights campaigners, train company staff, and rail passengers to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Disabled Persons Railcard at a reception in the Houses of Parliament. The reception heard from Transport Minister Norman Baker MP; Sir Bert Massie, one of the founders of the Railcard; and Chief Executive of the Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC), Michael Roberts. Annette also welcomed new figures released by ATOC, which manages the Railcard, showing that record numbers of people with disabilities are getting about by train, with 3.5 million trips made last year. Launched in 1981, the Railcard was the first of its kind in Europe and offers cardholders and a friend or companion travelling with them 1/3 off the cost of most train tickets on the National Rail network. Journeys made using the Railcard have more than doubled in the last 15 years. On average last year, Disabled Persons Railcard holders made 29 journeys and saved £99 on rail travel. If they had held a Railcard since 1981, on average they would have saved almost £2,500 and travelled more than 40,000 miles. As well as the savings offered for disabled passengers, train companies attribute the continuing rise in numbers to significant improvements in facilities and services on trains. Examples of major changes and developments include: - In 2009, ATOC launched Stations Made Easy, an interactive web guide showing access facilities and layouts of all 2,500 stations in Britain, the first such tool of its kind for a railway network. - A national training DVD to improve the quality and delivery of disability awareness training for rail staff - 'Everything you wanted to know about disability but were afraid to ask'. - An improved system for booking and delivering support to passengers who need help when travelling - Passenger Assist - which takes advantage of improvements in technology and delivers booking confirmations to passengers. - Collaboration with Department for Transport and Network Rail to secure major improvements to station access across the rail network. Annette said: "With more than three and a half million trips made using the Disabled Persons Railcard last year, it's clear what an important contribution it makes to the lives of so many people with disabilities. "I know that many people in Mid Dorset and North Poole rely on their Railcard. That's why I was delighted to wish it a happy 30th birthday and to congratulate ATOC and train companies on their record breaking year." Michael Roberts, ATOC Chief Executive, said: "I was very pleased Annette was able to join us to celebrate this occasion. Train companies are committed to responding to passengers' needs and will continue to work closely with Annette, disability charities and support groups to improve services even further in Mid Dorset and North Poole and across the country. "Accessible public transport plays a key role in allowing disabled people to lead an independent life, so it's good news that more and more people are taking advantage of the Disabled Persons Railcard." Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
- Annette Brooke MP Supports Launch of APPG Report Calling for Better Financial Education in Schools
  Annette Brooke MP provided her support for better financial education in schools on Monday by attending the launch of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Financial Education for Young People report on Financial Education and the Curriculum. The report recommends the Government should promote the provision of high quality financial education in schools in England. Around one in four economically active adults is functionally innumerate. A survey by the UK Payments Council has found a notable lack of knowledge around the meaning of some of the most common financial terms, for example, only 36% of people understand that the term APR relates to payments. Moreover, lack of financial education has cost Brits nearly £250 million in charges and penalties alone, with almost a quarter (24%) having been hit by charges because they don't understand the terms and conditions of financial products, according to research from uSwitch.com. A survey carried out by the inquiry found that in schools across England the existing provision of personal finance education is ad hoc, with only 45% of teachers reporting that they have ever taught the subject. The report recommends that: Financial education should be compulsory in every school's curriculum and assessed. Every school should have a dedicated 'champion' to coordinate financial education drawn from the senior leadership team. Banks and businesses can play an important role, particularly the British Bankers Association. Primary schools should continue to teach financial education using a cross-curriculum approach, but teachers must be able teach basic maths and money skills. Secondary schools should use a cross-curriculum approach grounded in maths and personal social health and economic (PSHE) education. PSHE should cover finance education as one of four strands with clear outcomes, and improved training and assessment. All teaching materials should be quality marked by a trusted body. Annette Brooke MP said."In an ever increasingly complex financial world it is important that young people are fully equipped to make informed financial decisions. I support the improvement of the provision of personal finance in schools and call on the Government to include these recommendations as part of their review of the National Curriculum." Carol Vorderman says: '"About half of 16 year olds fail their GCSE Maths. Of those who gain a Grade C, many still find it difficult to calculate percentages. It is time for the skills that everybody needs to juggle an ever complicated world are taught fully and properly through the Maths curriculum. At the moment, the young people who fail Maths are taught a watered down version of what the top 15% need: this includes levels of trigonometry and algebra, which they will never use again, if they ever get to understand it in the first place. They need the fundamentals of arithmetic and its applications as a priority. it's time for change." Martin Lewis of MoneySavingExpert.com, whose e-petition has now had the magic 100,000 sign it, says: "For once, thankfully, we have a bunch of politicians who aren't pussy-footing around. They're actually using the C word - compulsory. We need compulsory financial education in our schools. Our nation is financially illiterate, for over 20 years we've educated our youth into debt when they go to university, but never about debt. Breaking this cycle will mean less mis-selling, fewer bad debts, better consumers and could save the public coffers a fortune." Wendy van den Hende, Chief Executive of pfeg says: "Young people want to learn how to manage their money, and school is an excellent place for this to happen. Teachers clearly want it to be part of the curriculum, so that it is taken seriously and has the support it deserves to be taught effectively." Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Dec 8, 2011:
- Mobile Homes APPG Holds Successful Meeting on Park Home Injustices
  Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, chaired a well attended and productive meeting of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Mobile Homes yesterday in the Palace of Westminster. The session brought MPs together with a member of the police force, the consumer rights agency Consumer Focus and various park home stakeholders to discuss the pressing issues that surround the industry. Consensus among the independent experts met with willingness from MPs and the group agreed upon a number of specific actions to take forward. MPs agreed to contact the Association of Chief Police Officers to call for a single officer to lead on park home issues within the police force. They also agreed to invite Grant Shapps MP, a Minister at the Department of Communities and Local Government, to attend the next meeting of the APPG - importantly his department will be publishing a consultation on the park homes industry in the New Year. The MPs also agreed to keep pressure up on the Government over park home energy issues. After the meeting had finished Annette said, "I am so pleased at the high level of interest and agreement we saw today over tackling park home issues. Today we saw clear evidence, from independent experts, about the extent and severity of the problems that affect park home residents across the country. We can now push on in Parliament in the hope of making a real difference." Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Dec 6, 2011:
- Annette Brooke MP Presses for Better Adult Care in the South West
  Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, yesterday pressed the Government on its policy towards adult social care funding in the House of Commons. She raised the issue with Bob Neill MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, during Department of Communities and Local Government questions. Annette's question focused on the reduced spending on services for those with lesser needs. Annette pointed out that this may prove a false economy as smaller interventions today may prevent the need for more serious interventions in the future. She also highlighted the difficult situation being faced by many councils across the southwest region in trying to fund increasingly expensive social care bills. Specifically, Annette sought more freedom for councils to act proactively. She asked if Mr Neill would, "consider making it easier to invest to save, so that we can have important interventions now rather than later?" In his response Mr Neill highlighted the need to give councils proper flexibility to manage their budgets to meet local needs. He also offered to meet with Annette to discuss the issue in more detail. After leaving the chamber Annette said, "I am glad to hear the Government talk about increasing the autonomy of local authorities and councils. I am a firm believer that a local, tailored approach to this issue is the way forward. We need to give councils all the support we can in order to ensure the best possible quality of social care, especially when it comes to adult social care. " Question and Answer: Annette Brooke (Mid Dorset and North Poole) (LD): Notwithstanding the very welcome move to bring health and social care funding together and the extra money this year, councils across the south-west are struggling with the increasing burden of social services funding, particularly for adult care. Does the Minister share my concern that services to those with lesser needs is being cut, but that that is storing up more problems for the future? Will he consider making it easier to invest to save, so that we can have important interventions now rather than later? Robert Neill: I understand my hon. Friend's point and I would be happy to meet her to discuss those matters in more detail. On the other hand, we need to give adequate flexibility to local authorities to prioritise their spend to reflect local needs and pressures, but I will happily discuss the matter further with her. To read DCLG questions in the full visit: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm111205/debtext/111205-0001.htm#1112057000485 Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Dec 1, 2011:
- Annette Brooke MP Seeks Fairer Energy Deal For Park Home Residents
  Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, today sought assurances from Chris Huhne MP, the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, that park home owners will receive equitable treatment in the provision of energy discount schemes. She also sought to raise the profile of the Green Deal in relation to park home owners. During Department of Energy and Climate Change Oral Questions in the House of Commons, Annette asked whether schemes designed to help struggling households pay their fuel bills could be made available to those in park homes, as many park home owners had previously been ineligible for assistance. Site owners are likely to buy in bulk and then resell, perhaps at quite a high price, meaning park home owners cannot apply for assistance. In his answer Mr Huhne both acknowledged the extent of the problem and promised action to "get to the bottom of this." Annette also pressed Mr Huhne to better promote the benefits of the Green Deal on offer to park home owners, and she called for a specific information campaign targeted at park home owners. The Green Deal offers households the chance to make energy efficient improvements cheaper by paying costs from future energy bill savings. Annette wanted to stress that park homes will be eligible for these improvements as long as they meet the general baseline criteria. The Secretary of State agreed that: "It is crucial that we have the dialogue that she asks for to ensure that we help those people as far as we can." Annette said: "Increasing the rights and protections of park home owners, many of whom are elderly or vulnerable, is an incredibly important issue and one that we must keep pressing the Government on. We must get the word out that the Green Deal can offer substantive benefits to park home owners who were often unfairly frozen out of other schemes." Question and Answer: 6. Annette Brooke (Mid Dorset and North Poole) (LD): What recent assessment he has made of the effects of Government policy on household energy bills. [83966] The Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change (Chris Huhne): I am delighted to say, Mr Speaker, that I do have the answer to this question. On 23 November, DECC published its updated assessment of the impact of energy and climate change policies on energy prices and bills. The latest estimates show that the average household dual fuel bill is currently 2% higher than it would have been if energy and climate change policies were not introduced. By 2020, these policies will mean that the average household dual fuel bill will be 7% lower than it would have been in the same year in the absence of our policies. Annette Brooke: I thank the Secretary of State for that answer. Would he be prepared to work with the Department for Communities and Local Government to see how the benefits of the discount schemes for people on low incomes could be extended to park homes, where the site owner is likely to buy in bulk and then resell, perhaps at quite a high price? To help the very vulnerable people in park homes, could there be a specific campaign to tell park home owners that they are eligible for the green deal? Chris Huhne: I am grateful to my hon. Friend for that question. As a long-standing campaigner for people who live in park homes, she knows that they are far too often overlooked in schemes that benefit people who live in substantial and ordinary properties. It is crucial that we have the dialogue that she asks for to ensure that we help those people as far as we can. There are obviously practical issues that we need to address. We will try to get to the bottom of this. For DECC questions in full visit: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm111129/halltext/111129h0002.htm#11112943000325 Published and promoted by Mid Dorset and North Poole Liberal Democrats on behalf of Annette Brooke, 14 York Road, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8ET Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

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