Word from Westminster - September 08

When the conference season is over it is the time for Parliament to return and it usually starts with a whimper, however with everything that has gone on in the past few weeks, I am sure it will be a very different story. The problems with the economy in the world will no doubt be at the top of the agenda and I am sure decisions taken in America will impact on what happens here and whilst much debate has been had on the question of Northern Rock and lately the Bradford and Bingley problem there is no doubt in my mind that the decision taken by the Prime Minister and Chancellor will prove in time to be the correct one. There is no doubting the difficulties that lay ahead and this has taken its toll on the popularity of Gordon Brown, however I genuinely believe he is the right person to take us through these times and disagree with some of my colleague’s views on the need to change leader. All his and the Government’s energies need to be put to seeing us through these difficult times.

Turning to some of the activities in and around Great Yarmouth during September, the main issues have been regarding the debate on the proposal for a new unitary authority. The proposals being put forward is to include the whole of Norfolk plus Lowestoft or Norwich, Great Yarmouth  and Lowestoft ( the wedge) For myself I have long been an advocate of the Yarmouth – Lowestoft option being the most desirable for our area and am still of that opinion. There is an awful lot that we have in common and I will continue with putting that view forward.

Once again it was a pleasure to attend the annual viewing of the Great Yarmouth and District Society of Artists exhibition at the library and I am always amazed at the quality of work being produced by our local artists and repeat my concerns that we still do not have anywhere to put permanent displays of the many pieces of art we have in the Borough. Well done to everyone involved in the society, you do a great job.

I had two engagements in September where I was asked to say a few words. The first was at the AGM of the local Citizens Advice Bureau where it was a pleasure to meet the new Chief Executive of the branch, which now encompasses Wymondham and the surrounding areas. The work they do in providing help and advice to thousands of people in and around Great Yarmouth is invaluable and the many volunteers and the few paid staff work under extreme pressure and I am in admiration of the commitment in their desire to help others.

The second was at an energy seminar organized by C-Mac and assisted by EEEGR (East of England Energy Group). The purpose of the seminar was to look at how the electronics industry can help in finding solutions to the energy needs of the future, with carbon fuels in more and more inaccessible places and the renewable sector ever changing with new technology and not forgetting the question of the possible new nuclear power stations. Indeed knowing the technical expertise we have at C Mac in Great Yarmouth they can indeed play a significant part in the energy sector.    

September is of course the time for our now annual maritime festival and despite the weather the crowds did come out and support this established event. I did take the opportunity to visit the Lydia Eva the day before and have a tour around the boat and was pleased that it had returned to the town. The exhibition and displays, the music and entertainment were all excellent and whilst we accept that it is there for two days we must not lose sight of the fact that it takes many months of planning and many hours of work from a committee of volunteers. Well done on another successful event. There were many other events and meetings I attended during September which included the East Norfolk Locality Group and compiling a quiz and acting as quizmaster for Crossroads Wednesday Club. Another enjoyable visit was to view the project at Brett’s on Howard Street North, this used to be what was the old Liberal Club to look at how many of the historic features have been kept in what will be an excellent use of the building with 16 units. All too often many buildings have been left to rot and decay and then be demolished but this is surely a wonderful example of how to transform some of our heritage and use it to help in creating new housing.

Finally it was good to see the Great Yarmouth and District Trades Council being set up again. For many years I was a member representing my union and it was pleasing to be invited to the inaugural meeting.