As 2014 draws to a close it’s inevitable that we will reflect on the events of the past year, whilst also looking ahead to what awaits us in 2015. One of the biggest positives of 2014 has been the continual fall in unemployment, with figures showing that fewer than 1000 people are claiming jobseekers allowance in Reading East. What’s more, figures last week showed a further fall of 51 for November alone - representing an annual fall of 440 claimants. These are not just vacuous statistics; they represent meaningful employment, security for hardworking families and the all benefits derived from a regular pay packet. My 7th and 8th Reading Job Fairs have helped to contribute this years positive trend and have again focused on bringing jobseekers face-to-face with employers offering real employment opportunities. Having visited a large number of businesses in the constituency the message from leaders and employees has been unanimous: Reading is economically strong at present and there are very positive signs for the future. The CBI says 50% of companies are looking to recruit next year! Nevertheless there is always room for improvement and one particular gripe this year has been the local transport system. Continual gridlock on the local road network is a recurring cause of great inconvenience for those who live and work in the town; this is compounded when the rail network also grinds to a halt. Rest assured that in 2015 I will continue to put pressure on the relevant authorities to bring about substantive change. Whether it’s urging Reading Borough Council to better co-ordinate the local road network, working with neighbouring authorities towards a Third Thames Bridge and Caversham bypass, or demanding increased efficiency and punctuality on the railways - I will endeavour to improve the transport situation for my constituents. This year I have helped 1000s of constituents on a range of issues. I ran a weekly advice surgery at venues across the constituency so that all had easy access, including a number of home visits. Despite becoming a Minister my local work has continued unaffected. One victory I’m particularly proud of is that of the Knives Cost Lives campaign, which has been fighting since 2006 for greater deterrents to carrying blades. It’s an important example of how tragic circumstances can stimulate positive and concerted action, eventually initiating meaningful change. Im also delighted to see the investment going into Woodley with Bulmershe School, the Leisure Centre and GP surgeries benefitting from concerted action from local Conservatives. Unfortunately it’s impossible to please all of the people all of the time, likewise I cannot always click my fingers and produce instant results. What I can do however is help constituents work towards common goals - to lend my support to important and improving causes. I’ve met with hundreds of inspirational organisations over the past year who are focused on improving the lives of millions and I will do all that is within my power to help them do even more. Reading East is heading in the right direction and I’d like to thank all those who live and work in the constituency for the tremendous contributions. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year. Finally, please note that my office will be closed from 23rd December to 2nd January, however if you have any urgent matters that require my attention please do not hesitate to contact me directly on [email protected]
Posted on: Wed, 24 Dec 2014 14:39:42 +0000
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