This article was published in the Coventry Observer.

The summer break is underway and things are quiet down at the Westminster. This week, however, I have been kept busy in Coventry instead. At the weekend I went to the Willenhall festival, visiting a number of events including the impressive young firemen's display. I was struck by the show of community spirit in the area, and very much enjoyed their 50th anniversary celebrations.

On a more sombre note, the difficulties with the Massey Ferguson occupational pension scheme are of major concern to many of my constituents and others involved in the manufacturing industry; accordingly I met with the officials of the Transport and General Workers Union to discuss the situation.

Following the meeting I wrote to the Ministers of the Departments for Trade and Industry and for Works and Pensions to raise these worries with them, calling for legislation to be forthcoming on this matter. I also requested that they meet with local MPs and talk to Massey Ferguson itself.

The new President of Warwick University's Students Union came to see me regarding another topic that affects many people in Coventry ... top up fees. We discussed the consequences for less well off students; their future personal finances and lack of course choices or flexibility if top up fees are introduced. The SU president voiced particular concern for the future of Coventry University for whom a subsequent reduction in student numbers would have serious effects. This has been a highly contentious issue in the House, as well as outside, and I look forward to the forthcoming debate upon our return.

But for now, I am taking a break - Enjoy your holidays!