John Penrose
Campaigns - Other Issues
As an active local constituency MP, John is always being asked to help resolve problems and residents' concerns. Whether it's championing problems with speeding traffic, housing, tax credits, mobile phone masts, benefits, the CSA, or a host of other issues John is always working on someone's behalf.
Updates
A cause in a coffee cupProject is positive step, PenroseA stepSevern barrage plan attacked on green credentialsFight for Post OfficeSports clubs miss out on funding helpMP's entry 'sabotaged'MP backs inquiry into internet fraudHead of OAPs' group wants EU referendumSports clubs' cash is going to wasteNew nets provide boost for youth developmentPenrose raises queries on video games and epilepsyForgotten cashComputer games warning from mpTennis club lightens upRewarded for their qualityMissing moneyRegional assembly may be scrappedMP Penrose questions government on hip jobsPenrose hails victory as a 'golden opportunity'Fair survives bad weatherMP loses business prize voteGetting into character for villages' may celebrationsA day walking the halls of powerPriced out of homesCricketMP is spending four days with homelessThink again on CSA reform, says MPPitch in to help cricketersPosters target weaponsMP's visit packed with varietyCricketBlomfield pitches officially openedCommit to Barcode say lottery bossesGovernment's new cheesy policyOut by October?MP takes on child support agencyCard designs win Westminster tripDiana's trip pays offMP calls for action on bailiff reformsPenrose pitches in to help local brewYouth council at commons debateMP takes a taste of the south west to westminsterParliament pitches inSpecial guest in the commonsMPs’ bar to stock West beerMP's shock as Nazi party targets townCouncil Refutes MPs CriticismsFeeling the HeatGreen response as MP turns up the heatMassage parlour to shut downMP Backs Concerns Over New Flood WallInnocent Children;s DNA StoredExpansion PlanThank YouSell Out For Visit By Ann WiddecombeMP Meets Competition WinnersLast Minute Plans By Massage ParlourNew job rules led to suicide bidsMinister's Action After Gravestones OutrageTopple test law changeTop Tory In Waste VisitVictory Over Grave TopplingPetition bid to close massage parlour downMP's SupportShadow Minister Due To Visit FirmDon't Chip In For ID Cards, Council ToldNew Job For JohnLow-Flying Aircraft Raise Noise LevelsMP Joins Drive For FairtradeTown’s MP PromotedClimate Change Campaign Wins Backing From MPTown’s MP is promotedBlakehay To Host Film FestivalGuantanamo ConcernCrisis In JobcentresMP Incensed By Torture ClaimsFeeding tubes 'violate laws'MP for FairtradeInjection For Heart ServicesCardiac CashMP Receives Website AwardGoing PostalMid-Somerset Tory MPs Welcome New LeaderMP Delivers Message Of Support To Mail OfficeTax Credit 'Shambles' Sees Family In DistressActivists Join Mass Lobby For Fair TradeMP Backs Boozing Law RepealMP: ‘24hr boozing is a bad law’Grave work to be checkedFamilies call in MP over churchyard ‘distress’Council Will Investigate Claims Of InsensitivityMP blasts gravestone safety issueMP Launches Investigation Into Incapacity Benefit ReformMP Joins Rail Line Danger WarningMP Champions The Cause Of Lottery BidsNominations Wanted For Top Curry HouseTeens Get Their Cafe Hang-OutPub To Become Café For Resort’s Youth'It's Good To Talk' - But Not From A PayphoneFund Our Youth Café PleaPayphones To Get PipCouncil Unveils £120k Bid To Open Youth CafeNew MP Backs Fair Pint BattleAle’s Fair In Beer WarReaching For The Sky
Fair survives bad weather
17 May 2007 Cheddar Valley Gazette
Looming clouds threatening to rain on Winscombe did not put off those attending this year's May Fair on the Green.
The threat of bad weather in no way deterred the enthusiasm of Lois Brenchley, the chairman of the Millennium Green Trust, who adopted the show-business maxim that the show must go on.
Despite a dark sky, the Green was amass with colour and music and it seemed that the whole village had turned out, determined to enjoy themselves at the annual May Fair on the Green held at the Old Station Millennium Green in Winscombe.
The signal to start proceedings was given by John Penrose MP, who said that he had spoken with Mike Slade, the village vicar, who in turn had spoken to his "boss" regarding the weather, and as the afternoon progressed it was evident that the "boss" was sympathetic to the cause.
The Weston-super-Mare town crier, Pluto Venn, assisted throughout the afternoon, and Pirate Captain Barnacle, the puppeteer and entertainer, fascinated the children and adults.
The Winscombe School maypole dancers provided a colourful spectacle swirling around the maypole.
And the Winscombe fire engine and crew proved a big attraction and added to the enjoyment of the afternoon.
These and many other attractions made the afternoon one of the most popular social events in the Winscombe calendar.
MP loses business prize vote
18 May 2007 Bristol Evening Post
Weston Mp John Penrose has missed out on a top business award.
The Forum of Private Business (FPB) has given its business-friendly MP 2007 award to Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans..
Mr Evans beat competition from seven other politicians, including Mr Penrose, to scoop the accolade.
The award, sponsored by England's Regional Development Agencies (RDAs), recognises the work of politicians who have excelled in understanding and representing the needs of smaller businesses.
Politicians were nominated by the FPB's 25,000 small and medium-sized businesses across the UK, who they believed have fought on their behalf. A shortlist was drawn up and a panel of five judges decided the winner on the basis of the work each politician has done.
The award was presented on Wednesday by Len Collinson, national chairman of the FPB, who said: "Owners and managers of smaller businesses play an integral part in the economy, creating wealth and job opportunities. That is why we have chosen to encourage politicians to engage with them and to represent them by creating the business-friendly MP/MEP Award.
"Mr Evans has drawn upon his own experience of working in and owning a small business in representing not just his own constituents but businesses across the country. He is to be congratulated."
The other nominees for the award were: last year's winner, Malcolm Harbour, MEP for the West Midlands; Oliver Heald, MP for North East Hertfordshire; Philip Hollobone, MP for Kettering; Jeremy Hunt, MP for South West Surrey; Gillian Merron, MP for Lincoln; and Graham Stuart, MP for Beverley and Holderness.
Getting into character for villages' may celebrations
31 May 2007 Weston & Worle News
All the fun of the fair was enjoyed at three May Day events held in Weston villages.
Villagers donned fancy dress including elves, Dr Who, cider makers and Whacky Race characters for Hutton May Day parade.
Games and stalls were the order of the day at Bleadon May fair, which raised £5,500 for various charities, nominated by the Friends Of Bleadon Church.
Spokesman Brian Drinkwater said: "It was a wonderful day, although numbers were down because of the rain.
"When the sun came out more people turned up and, in all, it was a very successful day."
The children of Winscombe Woodborough Primary School enthralled the crowds with the ever-popular Maypole dancing at Winscombe May fair, despite the rain.
Weston MP John Penrose , who lives in the village, and town crier Pluto Venn opened the event, which drew hundreds of visitors to the Millennium Green.
Organiser Lois Brentry said: "It was a good crowd, despite the terrible weather, and was a real community event.
"Mr Penrose said how pleased he was to be in his own community and Captain Barnacle riveted the children with his pirate puppet theatre.
"We also had a fire engine, which the children loved climbing on, and trying on the crew's jackets."
A day walking the halls of power
28 June 2007 Weston & Worle News
It is not everyday you get the chance to rub shoulders with the most powerful people in the country.
So I jumped at the chance when Weston MP John Penrose invited me to spend the day with him in Parliament - giving me a fascinating insight into his life and what it is like working behind the heavily-fortified environs of Westminster.
I also witnessed what I am sure can be termed as an historic occasion - the, as we go to press, former Prime Minister Tony Blair's penultimate Prime Minister's Questions.
Arriving in Westminster, I was brimming with the excitement that only entering the inner sanctum of UK democracy can generate.
I kicked off the day with a brief and entertaining tour from John's researcher Ben Davies.
Ben, a former Churchill School pupil who interned in London for several months before gaining a full-time job in October, guided me through the power-oozing corridors of the Palace of Westminster.
He took me through some of the two miles of passages, showed me several of the 1,200 rooms, and let me peek at the Gothic Palace.
He also warned me not to be taken in by the official tour guides who compete with each other to tell the most outlandish stories to the hoards of unwitting US tourists - but promised me the tale of workers finding a tennis ball dating back to the reign of Henry VIII in the roof's rafters was completely true.
After the tour, it was up a never-ending spiral staircase, past copious amount of security and metal detectors, and into the public gallery to get my first glimpse of the House of Commons.
The first thing I noticed was the ridiculously thick glass barrier - I was not sure whether it was there to protect the MPs from us, or to protect us from them.
I took my seat alongside 300 other guests, anxious to watch Blair and Cameron do verbal battle for one final time.
As it was not quite midday, which is when Blair steps up, I watched deputy Prime Minister John Prescott fielding questions from the other MPs.
Prescott is as larger-than-life in the flesh as when he appears on television.
The big man quipped about the 'feral beasts' and 'penny scribblers' in the media, cited Greek mythology to compare David Cameron to Narcissus, and touted the leader of the opposition as not being 'the heir to Blair' but to be 'a prophet of Prezza'.
All in all, a truly outstanding repertoire, as I'm sure you'll agree.
At the stroke of noon, Tony Blair strutted to his seat to start the main event.
In an interview with The Times, he has since labelled the whole affair of PMQs as 'utter b*****ks', but as a spectator it was simply fascinating.
The House itself is a lot smaller, and noisier, than projected on television. There's only room for 400 of the 600-odd MPs so there's a lot of people standing around and waving their arms when a point is being debated.
Blair and Cameron addressed the house on the issue of the early release of prisoners, an argument which I think Cameron won hands down.
Then Blair paid tribute to his Government, citing, as usual, the various successes his team has been responsible for during the past 10 years.
Once PMQs finished, John and Ben whisked me off to the Terrace for lunch.
Under the blazing sun we talked about politics, social networking websites, Big Brother and Weston's endurance running race The Tough Ten, which John completed in 2001.
Then it was off to Portcullis House, via an underground tunnel, for coffee and a tour of John's office.
John's researchers share their fourth-floor unit with another MP, who John says is very useful to have around to bounce ideas off.
Given the location, I was expecting magnificent Thames riverside views, a panoramic vista towering across Westminster, or at least a view of the road.
But it actually looks out onto a brick wall - which admittedly is clean, but nonetheless not the most inspiring view.
John leads a stressful life, one I am not so sure I would like. His phone is constantly buzzing and when I slip away for a toilet-break I return to find him answering a horde of e-mails.
He works a six-day week, travelling up to London by train on Monday and returning to Weston Thursday evenings so he can spend Fridays and Saturdays meeting residents, opening fetes and conducting his surgeries.
He receives six inches of mail every day, with the majority from residents who have reached the end of their tether over some issue or other and come to him for help.
That mail is prioritised, and once it has been dealt with he sets to work on the post from pressure groups or charities who lobby him for help or support.
His mornings are usually given to working on select committees, while the afternoons are spent writing letters to ministers pushing his point, and badgering bureaucrats to get things done.
He says the House is a very strange place to be, with its complex sets of rules sitting uncomfortably alongside the modern décor of the offices.
He said: "We don't want to lose traditions but we also want to make the place more approachable and relevant.
"It's very odd, as you have got something which, at times, resembles a fusty old-fashioned gentleman's club located inside a modern office block."
But he did hint that should the Conservatives win the next general election, the modernising ways of David Cameron may slightly change it.
And with books on his shelf bearing the words 'after Blair' in their titles, I can see this generation of new Tories is serious about mounting a challenge in the next election.
I enjoyed my day in London and, contrary to what my colleagues say, it was all about work and definitely not a 'jolly'.
Having the chance to see where decisions which ultimately filter down to our daily life are made was intriguing. And it was lovely to wave goodbye to Mr Blair.
MP is spending four days with homeless
24 March 2007
A Tory MP is to spend four days experiencing life as lived by homeless people.
John Penrose , MP for Weston- super-Mare, has cleared time from his diary to volunteer at Emmaus Bristol, a hostel for 18 men in St Philip's.
It is part of a worldwide network of hostels that provide a bed and support for men that the charity describes as "companions".
The men stay at Shaftesbury House hostel while the nearby Barton Manor is used as a workshop and showroom where restored furniture and other items can be bought
Emmaus residents have to work for 40 hours at the charity's workshop, or in the community, to "pay" for their accommodation. Residents come off benefits and are paid £32 a week, while £5 is saved for them.
From Monday, Mr Penrose will work with residents in the workshop or showroom, cook meals and go out to collect donated furniture.
He said: "I can't wait to see how the project works and the remarkable people that are attempting to piece their lives back together again."
Richard Pendlebury, the hostel director, said: "This is a great idea. We're looking forward to receiving John Penrose and showing him how tough life can be for some."
Shaftesbury House, the home of Emmaus Bristol, was completed in October 2003 at a cost of £1 million and was opened by Terry Waite.
It has been visited by the Duchess of Cornwall, its Royal patron, and Body Shop founder Anita Roddick, the charity's ambassador.
Residents renovate and recycle about £10,000 worth of household items a month at Barton Manor. Some items are sold at the charity's Clevedon saleroom or on eBay. There are 11 Emmaus communities in Britain and more than 400 worldwide.
Barton Manor is open Monday to Saturday, 10am-5pm. For more information, call 954 0886 or go to http://www.emmausbristol.org.uk/ .
Think again on CSA reform, says MP
22 March 2007
The Government must think again about some of its proposals for replacing the Child Support Agency with a new body, the Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission (C-MEC), according to Weston MP John Penrose .
Mr Penrose was a member of the Work and Pensions Select Committee which published its report last week on the Government's reform of the CSA.
He said the CSA had been a nightmare and it was absolutely right to shut it down and to establish the C-MEC.
"It will do a far better job of pursuing parents who won't shoulder their parenting responsibilities," he said.
"But we believe that the Government must think again about some of its proposals."
One of the biggest worries was the planned new IT system.
"The CSA built one, realised it didn't work, and built another.
"That one was a disaster too, and now they're planning a third," he said.
"No one has produced any evidence to show why this third attempt will be any better than the first two."
He said the Government was also considering whether to charge parents to use C-MEC.
"Given the awful experience of most parents with the CSA, it would be an insult to demand payment for having their lives ruined by a Government bureaucracy."
Pitch in to help cricketers
21 March 2007
Players at Weston-super- Mare Cricket Club are staging an event to help improve their ground.
A NatWest Cricket Force event is being held at the club's Devonshire Road headquarters this weekend.
The event, organised by the club in conjunction with the England and Wales Cricket Board, will be officially opened by Weston's MP John Penrose and the Mayor Paula Howell.
The primary aim of the weekend is to carry out improvements to the club's ground and facilities. In addition, a beer festival will help raise funds for the club, which provides coaching and matches for more than 100 youngsters.
The club is keen to get local businesses involved in the event and is looking for offers of DIY materials and equipment, expert help or sponsorship.
Organiser Sharon Baxter said: "We are looking for as many club members and volunteers as possible to get involved, come along to the club, enjoy what's on offer and help with some of the work.
"We are also keen to hear from any local businesses who may be able to help."
Posters target weapons
Weston MP John Penrose will be tackling the 16 March 2007 Weston Mercury
A Greenpeace member has collected more than 200 names of people who are against the renewal of trident, Britain’s nuclear deterrent.
Monica Rafferty, aged 57, of Wyvern Road, Weston, asked people to sign four posters which she then handed to Weston MP John Penrose, ahead of a vote on the issue in the House of Commons last week.
Mps were asked to choose between delaying a decision or pressing ahead with keeping the country’s nuclear deterrent. Mr Penrose said: “I understand and respect the opinion of Greenpeace, but because countries such as North Korea and Iran are trying to get nuclear weapons, Britain sadly still requires Trident.”
MP's visit packed with variety
15 March 2007 Cheddar Valley Gazette
John Penrose, the MP for Weston-super-Mare, has spent a day in the Winscombe and Churchill area of his constituency.
His first visit was to Winscombe Primary School, where he spoke to all the pupils at their Friday morning school assembly.
He thanked them for their enthusiasm and presented a highly commended certificate to Mirilla Willmot and certificates of appreciation to Jessica Chapman, Candice Gunning, Nat Gunning and Thomas Amer for helping to design his Christmas card to the residents of his constituency.
The MP then visited St John the Baptist Church at Churchill.
As a former chorister, the MP met members of the Laudibus Octet and Churchill Community School Chamber Choir.
The eight young singers, who are all former members of the National Youth Choirs of Great Britain, are now making careers as professional singers. They helped to carry out workshops with the chamber choir and, under the baton of Mike Brewer, they delighted a packed church at a concert on the Saturday night.
This represents another ambition of Churchill Music to link, whereever possible, the talents of performers with those of the students of the Churchill Community School.
Finally, Mr Penrose visited The Old Vicarage Care Home at Churchill where he met the owner, William Jackson, together with staff and residents when he was able to engage in a broad range of subjects."
Cricket
8 March 2007 Weston & Worle News
As Weston Cricket Club's players prepare for life back in the West of England Premier League, much activity is taking place off the field to ensure everything is ready for the new season.
The focal point of will be a Nat West Cricket Force event at the club's Devonshire Road headquarters over the weekend of March 24 and 25.
The event, organised by the club in conjunction with the England and Wales Cricket Board, will be officially opened on the Saturday by Weston's MP John Penrose and Mayor Paula Howell.
The primary aim of the weekend is to carry out improvements to the club's ground and facilities.
In addition, a beer festival will help raise funds for the club which provides cricket coaching and matches for more than 100 youngsters from under-11 to under-17.
Organiser Sharon Baxter said the club is keen to get local businesses involved in the event and is particularly looking for offers of DIY materials and equipment, expert help or sponsorship.
She said: "We are looking for as many club members and volunteers as possible to get involved, come along to the club, enjoy what's on offer and help with some of the work that needs doing.
"We are also keen to hear from any local businesses who may be able to help. This could range from offers of materials such as paint or wood, supplying food and drink for the volunteer workers, providing expert help for some of the DIY tasks, sponsoring the beer festival or discussing other sponsorship opportunities."
Any individuals or businesses who would like to get involved should call Sharon Bsxter on 07919 014550 or Mike Fry on 07796 676047."
Blomfield pitches officially opened
8 March 2007 Weston & Worle News
Winscombe's new rugby pitches were officially opened on Saturday before their game against Martock.
Named after George Blomfield, the club's treasurer for many years who died last year, the new sign was attended by his widow Stephanie, son Ian and other family members.
Guests at the opening ceremony included Weston MP John Penrose, North Somerset councillors Alan Hockridge, Anne Harley and Tony Lake, Somerset RFU chairman Brian Saunders, and Robert Berry, representing his father Dick Berry who, along with Alan Hockridge, raised funds over a 20-year period to purchase the grounds.
The ceremony took place after a vice-presidents' lunch at the Woodborough Inn, where the club president Steve Bridges emphasised the work and effort that George Blomfield had put in over the many years he was involved with the club."
He went on to praise the work of past and present committee members for their commitment, enthusiasm and ability which has developed Winscombe Rugby Club into one of the prime clubs in Somerset for mini, junior and senior teams, while still maintaining a friendly, family and sociable atmosphere at grass roots level.
Commit to Barcode say lottery bosses
Weston Mercury 2nd March 2007
A MASSIVE lottery grant which would help secure the future of Weston's youth cafe will only be considered if councillors vote to keep it open for at least 10 years.
Barcode in South Parade is in the running for a £320,000 grant from the Lottery Commission but, because town councillors are currently debating its future, it says it will only stand a chance of getting the cash if they commit to the South Parade venue for 10 years. A decision is due to be made at a full council meeting on March 13.
This week it was revealed that Barcode has been used as a case study for best practice on youth involvement within town and parish councils. A nationally distributed leaflet entitled 'All About Parish and Town Councils' states: "Barcode has become a hub of activity in the town endorsed by the Home Office and the Prince's Trust as an example of an excellent youth facility."
The NALC represents more than 10,000 parish and town councils across the UK.
Support has also been building on the Back Barcode website set up by Cllr Mike Bell at www.backbarcode.co.uk
Hundreds of messages calling for the venue to stay open have been received from as far afield as Australia.
Aussie Paul Radford left the following message on the website: "Keep it going you tight b*****ds!"
However, Tory councillors and Conservative MP John Penrose are still voicing concerns over how much Barcode costs and dispute the official town council accounts saying it costs more than the £2 a year per taxpayer stated.
Mr Penrose said: "It's a brilliant success in a great location, and I'd like to see it extended to cover other parts of town like Worle as well. But success comes at a cost and, like anything else, Barcode needs reliable finances to survive.
"The bill for local taxpayers might be £650,000, or as much as £1m over the life of the proposed 10-year lease. The figures are far too woolly for a decision of this size and importance. Councillors must make their decision on the basis of costs which have been properly identified and independently audited."
Government's new cheesy policy
Weston Mercury 18th January 2007
WESTON MP John Penrose says he is cheesed off at a new Government strategy to ban Cheddar's famous dairy product.
Adverts promoting cheese are to be banned during children's television programmes, it was revealed last week.
Mr Penrose said: "Under the criteria used by the Food Standards Agency, if human breast milk was measured under this formula, it would be banned as well."
The FSH assesses fat, sugar and salt content in 100g or 100ml servings, but as the British Cheese Board points out, a typical serving of cheese is 30-40g.
Mr Penrose said: "I simply couldn't believe it when I heard that high quality Cheddar cheese was going to be reclassified as a junk food.
"Of course you shouldn't eat too much of it, like anything else, but it's ludicrous to lump it in with crisps, sugary cereals and burgers."
The Food Standards Agency uses a Nutritional Profiling Model to assess food and drink. It advises the advertising watchdog Ofcom about junk foods such as chocolate, cola, Jaffa Cakes and now cheese.
Mr Penrose added: "I fully support the campaign encouraging a healthier diet for our children. What sane parent wouldn't? I welcome what the Government is trying to do, but it is in danger of making the whole campaign a laughing stock."
Out by October?
18 January 2007 Weston & Worle News
Prime Minister Tony Blair gave the clearest indication yet that he will not be in the top job for much longer during a chat with a Weston head teacher, we can exclusively reveal.
Mr Blair, who has refused to announce when he will hand over his prime ministerial reins to right-hand man Gordon Brown, disclosed the information to Wyvern Community School head Andrew Russell at a party in Downing Street on Monday.
Mr Russell attended the shindig at the premier's house, alongside 150 other head teachers from across the country, to celebrate the success of the pioneering Full Service Extended Schools Partnership.
The Prime Minister had organised the party to thank all those involved in the scheme, which aims to ensure that schools can provide for four- to 16-year-olds between 7am-7pm every weekday.
Mr Russell said the Prime Minister had been 'working the room' saying thank you to various people when he had his opportunity to speak to him.
After a firm handshake, Mr Russell asked the PM whether he would be able to come and give a speech to parents at Wyvern's annual awards in October.
Mr Russell said: "I asked Tony, tongue-in-cheek, whether or not he could come in October.
"He replied that he might be able to as he didn't think he would have much on then.
"It wasn't the answer I was expecting and is something I am definitely going to pursue.
"It would be brilliant to get him here."
News of the possible visit was also welcomed by Weston MP John Penrose, whose invitation to Mr Blair to visit Weston Hospital in April 2006 was turned down because of his 'unaccountably busy schedule'.
Mr Penrose said: "I am sure everyone welcomes the fact he might be coming to Weston in recognition of the superb achievements of Wyvern and other local schools in North Somerset.
"Maybe, while he is here, we can persuade him to pop along the road to Weston Hospital to take up my offer of last year to see the incredibly hard working and efficient staff, who have had to face redundancies and cuts because of delays in implementing a fairer funding system for local healthcare."
MP takes on child support agency
18 January 2007 Weston & Worle News
Weston MP John Penrose will be tackling the problems of child maintenance and the Child Support Agency in the next fortnight.
Mr Penrose will be helping the Parliamentary Work and Pensions Committee carry out a detailed investigation into the reform of the existing child support system.
He said: "The current system simply isn't working. Virtually every week I am being asked to help sort out a parent's problems with child maintenance.
"The CSA has £3.5 billion arrears to chase, and 250,000 un-cleared cases, with an average waiting time of approaching 500 days.
"I have seen, at first hand, that far too many parents are being driven to breaking point by the failings of the CSA and disputes over custody and access.
"That can be devastating for the children caught in the middle.
"This investigation will allow us to recommend some serious changes."
Card designs win Westminster trip
28 December 2006
Weston & Worle News
A pupil at Hutton Moor Primary School has been invited to meet Weston MP John Penrose at the House of Commons after winning a Christmas card competition.
Lucy Taylor, a Year 2 pupil, was among 250 children who took part in the competition to design the 2006 Christmas card for Weston based on the theme of Christmas in Weston and the surrounding area.
The competition was split into two educational key stages. The winner of Key Stage 2, eight-year-old Ollie Willis, of Locking Primary School will also go to London.
Nine schools from the MP's constituency took part, each receiving a package of educational materials about the Houses of Parliament, their history and their role in our democracy.
Each entry will also receive a special commendation certificate from Mr Penrose.
Mr Penrose said picking the winners was difficult because all the entries were of such high quality.
He said: "I thought Lucy's design was really bright and colourful and completely captured the theme of Christmas in the area.
Ollie's design made everyone in my office laugh.
"Lucy's design is now on the front of my Christmas card and it really does look great.
"There are hundreds of people on my Chr istmas list who got cards from me this year, including Conservative leader David Cameron MP.
"I will be doing my best to now get round and thank all the pupils for taking part"
Diana's trip pays off
9 December 2006
Bristol Evening Post
Former Blue Peter star and presenter of Songs of Praise, Diana Louise Jordan, has officially opened a money advice centre in Weston-super-Mare.
The service is a partnership between the North Somerset Citizens Advice Bureau, the Weston and District Credit Union and North Somerset Housing.
It offers advice and training on financial planning, as well as giving residents access to affordable loans, savings accounts and other services.
The opening of the service on the Bournville Estate follows an early-day motion from a wide range of MPs concerned about financial exclusion.
Ms Jordan was joined at the centre by Jeremy Hunt MP, shadow minister for disabled people, and Weston MP John Penrose"
MP calls for action on bailiff reforms
7 December 2006
Weston & Worle News
The behaviour of bailiffs in this country is a national scandal says Weston MP John Penrose.
Mr Penrose's comments were made as he co-sponsored a Parliamentary motion calling on the Government to introduce a framework to control the work and attitude of bailiffs.
He said: "I am regularly contacted by people who have been harassed, intimidated and overcharged by bailiffs.
"There are some real horror stories and our local Citizens' Advice Bureau has exactly the same problem.
"But their behaviour is not unique to Weston or North Somerset. It is a national scandal."
Mr Penrose revealed he had been raising specific cases with council tax collection agency Liberata and North Somerset Council but that more action was needed on a national level.
He said: "The Government must introduce an enforceable and effective set of regulations for bailiffs.
"The Government's latest proposals increase bailiffs' powers of entry but they do nothing to establish a national code of conduct or set up a watchdog with some proper teeth and decent investigative powers.
"There are plenty of well-run and reputable bailiff firms but voluntary codes of conduct and industry guidelines don't work on the cowboy operators.
"Many of those who come to my surgery in debt are in a desperately vulnerable state and they need the chance to sort out and repay their debts without fear of bullying and harassment.
"The Government said it was thinking about including bailiff regulation in its new Bill but it had vanished when the draft came out.
"That was a mistake and it needs to be put right"
Penrose pitches in to help local brew
Weston & Worle News: 23 November 2006
Weston MP John Penrose is pictured pulling pints of local beer Pitchfork in the heart of Parliament - and hopes the local tipple will bring together opposite numbers Tony Blair and David Cameron.
Mr Penrose has arranged for the popular Hewish-produced beer to be served as a guest ale in the famous Strangers Bar in the House of Commons.
He said: "When I discovered that the Strangers Bar would take guest beers, I thought it was about time they had a taste of heaven from here in Weston.
"Pitchfork is a real treat. I'm delighted that we will be bringing civilisation from Weston to Westminster. Who knows, it might even improve some of the debates. I might even get David Cameron and Tony Blair together over a pint of Pitchfork. Then, we can rightly say that the Strangers Bar has seen it all!"
Youth council at commons debate
Weston & Worle News: 23 November 2006
Weston MP John Penrose showed members of Weston Youth Council around the Houses of Parliament.
Council members went on a tour of the Palace of Westminster and in the afternoon saw a live Commons debate on defence.
They also grilled Mr Penrose for half an hour in a questions and answers session.
Mr Penrose said: "They were all pleased that they got to see the Commons in action, especially on such a lively topic as defence.
"They asked plenty of searching questions and I was struck by their enthusiasm and their determination to make a difference.
"It would be great to think that there is a potential future Prime Minister in their ranks."
MP TAKES A TASTE OF THE SOUTH WEST TO WESTMINSTER
Cheddar Valley Gazette 23rd November 2006
Behind-the-scenes work from Winscombe-based MP John Penrose has brought a new beer to the Strangers Bar in the House of Commons.
Weston-super-Mare MP Mr Penrose has arranged for the local beer, Pitchfork, brewed by RCH Breweries in Hewish, to be served in the heart of Parliament.
On Thursday, November 16, Mr Penrose welcomed directors of RCH Breweries, Mr and Mrs Davey, and representatives from the local branches of the Campaign for Real Ale to Westminster to mark the occasion.
Mr Penrose said: "It was great to pull a pint of Pitchfork in Parliament. I might even get David Cameron and Tony Blair together over a pint of Pitchfork. Then we could rightly say that the Strangers Bar has seen it all.
"When I discovered that the Strangers Bar would take guest beers I thought it was about time they had a taste of heaven from Somerset.
"Pitchfork is a real treat. I'm delighted that we will be bringing civilisation to Westminster. Who knows, it might even improve some of the debates."
Parliament pitches in
Weston Mercury 17th November 2006
Tony Blair, David Cameron and Min Campbell can all now get a taste of the West when they go for a pint in Parliament.
Weston’s MP John Penrose has arranged for pitchfork beer, brewed by RCH Breweries in West Hewish, to be served at the stranger’s bar in the House of Commons.
Mr Penrose said: “I saw the bar had guest beers and thought ‘Why not one from Weston?’ I’m delighted we will be bringing civilisation from Weston to Westminster.”
Established in the early 1980s at the Royal Clarence hotel in Burnham, the brewery rapidly expanded and new premises were necessary to cope with demand. Pitchfork, the brewery’s top seller, sells around 500,000 pints annually.
The beer’s name comes from the pitchfork rebellion of 1685 which engaged the residents of Somerset, Dorset and Devon in a battle to overthrow the King, which ended in defeat at the battle of Sedgemoor.
RCH managing director Paul Davey is delighted the beer, which is said to have a floral, citric aroma and hoppy taste, will be available in Westminster. He said: “We hope Pitchfork will be no ‘stranger’ to the politicians."
SPECIAL GUEST IN THE COMMONS
Weston & Worle News 16th November 2006
A special guest was being welcomed by MPs in Parliament today - a pint of local beer.Weston MP John Penrose has arranged for the popular Hewish-produced beer Pitchfork to become a guest ale in the famous Strangers Bar in the House of Commons.
Pitchfork is brewed by the RCH brewery, and named after the Pitchfork Rebellion of 1685, the culmination of which was the Battle of Sedgemoor in Somerset, the last battle to be fought on English soil.
Paul Brady, director of RCH Brewery, was attending the Commons with his wife and local members of the CAMRA real ale society.
Once installed in the Strangers Bar, MPs will be able to enjoy the 4.3 per cent Pitchfork, which is described as having a hoppy, sweet and fruity taste."
MPs’ bar to stock West beer
Bristol Evening Post 10th November 2006
Over the centuries, Mps have been known for enjoying a pint or two when they’ve finished the day’s work.
And now traditional beer drinkers at the House of Commons – such as Chancellor Gordon Brown – are about to get a taste of the west’s best.
For Pitchfork ale, produced by Somerset-based RCH Brewery, is going on sale in Westminster’s famous Strangers’ Bar.
Politicians and their guests will soon be able to debate the issues over a pint made in Hewish, near Weston-super-Mare.
Extra spice is added by the fact that the beer’s name comes from the 1685 Pitchfork Rebellion, which was fuelled by residents of Somerset, Dorset and Devon.
Their fight to overthrow the King ended in failure at the Battle of Sedgemoor, near Bridgewater – but more than 300 years later a beer named in their honour will be drunk by Britain’s top politicians.
The beer is becoming available in the Strangers’ Bar after some behind-the-scenes work by Weston MP John Penrose.
“I saw they had guest beers and thought ‘Why not one from Weston?’ I’m delighted we will be bringing civilisation from Weston to Westminster,” he said.
The beer is the top seller for RCH, which has produced it for the past 12 years. About 500,000 pints are quaffed annually.
Paul Davey, 44, the firm’s managing director, said: “We’ve had a beer in there before, but it was a good few years ago,” he said “I think it’s going to go down a treat.”
MP's shock as Nazi party targets town
Weston Mercury 10th November 2006
POLITICIANS have slammed a neo-Nazi party which has been canvassing in Weston.
Leaflets and posters for the November 9th Society (N9S) were found on car windscreens and lamp posts in Madeira Road and along the seafront.
N9S, also known as Britain's Nazi Party, campaigns against Jews, immigrants and homosexuality in Britain and on its website states it is fighting 'to make Britain, then Europe, a completely Aryan Society.'
One poster being distributed in Weston shows a picture of the party's hero, Adolf Hitler, and reads: "We are national socialists - we will not abandon the Fuhrer. Ever!"
The extremist group is named after a date in 1923 when 16 Nazis lost their lives as part of the Beer Hall Putsch.
Weston MP John Penrose and prospective MP Mike Bell have condemned the party's policies as 'horrifying.'
Mr Penrose said: "Thankfully local people are far too sensible and level headed to take this sort of ridiculous and dangerous material seriously, but it's up to all of us to voice our disgust at people who peddle hate.
"I'm extremely concerned and determined to make sure that this sort of racist rubbish doesn't gain a foothold in Weston."
Cllr Bell said: "At this time of year particularly, our thoughts turn to those who fought and died for our country in two world wars and in many conflicts before and since.
"Hitler and Nazi fanaticism was defeated 60 years ago. The deluded few who idolise Hitler and seek to emulate his policies today through the pathetic medium of an anonymous poster campaign will find that Weston people will leave them where they belong - in the dustbin of history."
The Weston & Somerset Mercury attempted to contact party members for a comment but the society is renowned for its secrecy and the only way to get in touch was via an email, which was not answered.
According to the party's website, members are on a recruiting campaign delivering thousands of leaflets in various parts of the country.
A police spokesman said any reported incidents will be investigated.
COUNCIL REFUTES MP'S CRITICISMS
Weston & Worle News 26th October 2006
Weston MP John Penrose has criticised North Somerset Council for setting a bad example when it comes to energy efficiency.
Mr Penrose has written to the council to highlight his concerns that, despite last week's mild weather, the heating in council offices was turned on and staff were forced to leave windows and doors open to cool the buildings.
He said: "There are two issues. The council has a responsibility to make sure it is not wasting taxpayers' money.
"It also has a wider responsibility to take the threat of climate change seriously by introducing sustainable best practice."
Mr Penrose said he had asked the council to tell him what measures were in place to conserve energy within council owned and maintained property, and to outline what proposals it had for introducing greener and more sustainable forms of heat and energy generation.
He added: "I am frequently contacted by constituents concerned about the perceived waste of financial and physical resources at North Somerset Council.
"We need to ensure that the council has an effective green audit, monitor the authority's energy consumption and cut out unnecessary costs, and ensure energy efficiency."
But the council dismissed Mr Penrose's fears, saying it was committed to being energy efficient and reducing carbon dioxide emissions in buildings, and has invited the MP to a meeting to discuss the energy and cost saving measures it is working on.
A spokesman said: "We do monitor our energy use and we have already carried out a number of measures designed to save energy and money.
"The town hall, Somerset House, the Winter Gardens and The Playhouse all use 100 per cent green electricity.
"The town hall also has a building management system for its heating that ensures efficiency.
"All hot water in the town hall is produced using a solar hot water generator, and a wind turbine has recently been installed on the roof to generate free electricity.
"Council-run buildings across North Somerset save energy, with all public conveniences fitted with water saving devices, and schools are reducing energy usage and saving water.
"We also use bio-fuel in many of our vehicles, which reduces particulates in emissions and improves mileage."
FEELING THE HEAT
Weston Mercury 20th October 2006
An audit of the council’s energy efficiency has been called for after staff had to open doors and window to keep cool when the heating was turned on last week.
Weston MP John Penrose wants to monitor the green sustainability of North Somerset Council after staff raised problems with the heating at North Somerset House.
Mr Penrose said: “The council has a responsibility to make sure it is not wasting taxpayers' money.
“It’s important for public bodies to lead the way, not set a bad example.”
A spokesman for North Somerset Council said: “We do monitor our energy use and have carried out a number of measures designed to save energy and money.
“We invite Mr Penrose to come into the Town hall and speak to our energy efficiency officer, who can outline the energy and cost saving measures we are working on.”
GREEN RESPONSE AS MP TURNS UP THE HEAT
Cheddar Valley Gazette 19th Oct 2006
North Somerset Council has responded to calls from MP John Penrose to carry out a green audit to monitor the authority's energy efficiency and green sustainability.Mr Penrose wrote to the authority to highlight concerns that, despite the mild weather, the heating in council offices was turned on last week and staff were forced to leave windows and doors open to cool the buildings.
Mr Penrose said: "I have asked the council to confirm what practical measures are currently in place to conserve energy within council-owned and maintained property.
"I have also asked them to outline what proposals they have for plans for introducing greener and more sustainable forms of heat and energy generation.
"We need to ensure that the council has an effective green audit and monitor the authority's energy consumption and cut out unnecessary costs and ensure energy efficiency."
A spokesman for the council said: "We are committed to being energy efficient and to reduce CO2 emissions in our buildings.
"The town hall, Somerset House, Winter Gardens and The Playhouse in Weston-super- Mare all use 100 per cent green electricity that produces no C02.
"The town hall operates a building management system for its heating that is pre-programmed with maximum and minimum temperatures, zone controls and times of use.
"All hot water in the town hall is produced using a solar hot water generator - in fact, we are the first town hall in the UK to use solar-powered hot water.
"A wind turbine has recently been installed on the roof to generate free electricity as well."
The council has invited Mr Penrose to come into the town hall to speak to its energy efficiency officer, who will outline the energy- and cost-saving measures in place.
MASSAGE PARLOUR TO SHUT DOWN
Bristol Evening Post 2nd October 2006
Residents who protested against a new massage parlour operating near a school in Weston-super-Mare have won their battle.The Emmanuelle's parlour in Baker Street has been given three months to shut down by North Somerset Council.
More than 200 residents signed a petition opposing Emmanuelle's after it opened in the resort without getting prior planning permission.
The premises had formerly been used as a dog grooming salon.
The first neighbours knew of what was going on inside the premises was when they saw beds and linen being delivered, followed by an advertisement.
Avonia Knight, who lives two doors away, was one of the instigators of the petition, which gained 225 signatures.
She said: "At the end of the day I think it is disgusting and we have weird blokes coming into the street knocking on doors. I've a six-year-old son who goes to Christ Church Primary School and it is not the sort of establishment I want him growing up next to."
Weston MP John Penrose said: "Residents have been experiencing a lot of disturbance in the area by people visiting the parlour and this needs to be dealt with urgently."
In May the council gave Emmanuelle's 28 days to submit a retrospective planning application for a change of use. Following a planning application the council has now refused it permission, and has ordered it to shut down in three months.
The council said the business was unsuitable for the area. It is understood the operators may lodge an appeal.
MP BACKS CONCERNS OVER NEW FLOOD WALL
North Somerset Evening Post 28th September 2006
Traders in Weston-super-Mare have been backed by the town’s MP over criticisms of new flood defence plans. John Penrose, pictured, said fears over the commercial impact of a second sea wall along the promenade must be addressed.
He said: “It’s critical we get this right. Weston needs an attractive design for visitors and local residents alike. We know it has to be safe and affordable, but it must make the seafront look good too.
“If the council gets it wrong, it risks becoming a massive concrete eyesore. If we get it right, it could become a landmark for the seafront – a flagship development that will promote the tourist trade and enhance the town’s regeneration.”
Mr Penrose also revealed that he had been given reassurances that the Government could afford to fund the scheme.
He said Ian Pearson, Minister for Climate Change and Environment, had said there was money available in the next financial year.
North Somerset Council wants to build a second sea wall running along the promenade. It would be one metre high by the Grand Pier, rising to 1.5m by Knightstone Causeway. The sea wall from the Grand Pier to the Royal Sands will also be raised to 0.8m, but no secondary wall is proposed, as the flood risk is less.
But traders have said it will have a detrimental impact on their businesses and ruin the views out into the bay.
Councillor Elfan ap Rees (Con, Hutton and Locking) wants the authority to reconsider its plans, and says there is new technology available as an alternative to an inner stone wall. Mr Ap Rees claims large metal flaps, similar to ones used by aeroplanes for landing, could be placed along the sea front and raised to 90 degrees ahead of a flooding risk.
Another suggested alternative to the second sea wall was made by businessman Jim Scott, who has just bought the Royal Pier Hotel in the resort. He wants to build a barrage across Weston bay so the tide would never go in or out and would protect the town from flooding.
John Crockford-Hawley, executive councillor for planning, has urged people in Weston to back the council’s plans, saying there was no time to waste.
INNOCENT CHILDREN'S DNA STORED
Weston and Worle News 23rd September 2006
The practice of keeping innocent children's DNA data on police record needs to be urgently reviewed, says a West MP. Weston-super-Mare MP John Penrose has written to the Chief Constable of Avon and Somerset constabulary, Colin Port, about the practice.
He says a parliamentary question revealed that the DNA data of at least 1,200 children from the Avon and Somerset area, who had not been convicted of a crime, is being kept on file.
DNA is automatically taken by police and retained whenever someone is arrested, even if they are never cautioned, charged or convicted of an offence. Information is held on both the National DNA Database and Avon and Somerset Police computer system.
Mr Penrose said: "I am particularly concerned about the retention of children's DNA.
"I want our local force to consider notifying innocent people that their genetic information is on the database. They also need to be told what to do if they want the Chief Constable to authorise deletion."
A spokeswoman for Avon and Somerset Police said: "The concerns and questions Mr Penrose has raised are currently being looked into and a response will be sent to him direct in due course."
EXPANSION PLAN
Weston & Somerset Mercury 22nd September 2006
Members of Business Network International (BNI) in Weston are looking for more people to join their group.
The Botham Chapter of the BNI meets for breakfast every week to help generate new business for its members.
Last week Weston MP John Penrose joined the group’s members for breakfast at the Commodore Hotel in Sand Bay.
At each weekly breakfast meeting, held from 6.45-8.30am, one local business representative is given the opportunity to talk about their plans for expansion.
Since the chapter was created three and a half years ago the group has made over 4,000 business referrals to help other members.
BNI has chapters around the world and the Botham Chapter holds visitors’ days once a month so people can go along to find out more about its role. To find out more call Will Collins on 07973 381251.
THANK YOU
Weston and Worle News 16th September 2006
The Don't Sound The Last Post campaign has passed the 10,000 milestone for signatures of support thanks to you... our fantastic readers. Over the past few weeks our offices have been flooded with petitions signed by people sticking up for their local branches. But as we reach a landmark in our fight to save a great British institution, we're calling for more support.
Thousands of people, including customers, postmasters, celebrities and politicians, have backed our call to secure a future for sub-post offices under threat from the Government - and we want you to help add more names to the list.
General secretary of the National Federation of Sub Postmasters, Colin Baker, said: "I would like to congratulate the Western Daily Press on reaching the amazing number of 10,000 signatures in such a short space of time.
"I wish the Daily Press continued success and thank the newspaper for its support for the network of sub-post offices and its millions of customers.
"I hope readers of the Western Daily Press will continue to get behind the Don't Sound The Last Post campaign."
Postmaster Graham Kennedy, who runs branches in Watchet and Alcombe, in Somerset, said: "It's very impressive the Daily Press has received so many signatures so far. But in our society it's a case of 'he who shouts loudest gets heard' so we need to get as many signatures as possible.
"There's no leadership from the Government on this issue and as we sit in limbo it's damaging to the post offices.
"Neglecting them puts old and vulnerable people in a very difficult position. We need to throw everything we have behind this campaign."
Weston-super-Mare Tory MP John Penrose said: "Local post offices are often the heart of a village or neighbourhood. They can be the difference between a dormitory and a community. For the good of the community, we need them to stay in business and, if necessary, to find new services they can offer to replace those that are going."
Bureaucrats are slowly stripping the post office network of its lucrative services and funding. The future looks bleak, with up to 10,000 out of 14,000 sub-post offices across the country in the firing line.
Matters were made worse when the Government recently decided to scrap the Post Office Card Account system - an electronic way of collecting pensions from post offices - that was worth £1billion for branches.
To help save the network we need as much support as possible, so keep sending in the petitions and we can stop the Government wrecking a cornerstone of British life.
Sell Out For Visit By Ann Widdecombe
29th June 2006
Ann Widdecombe paid a visit to Weston today.
She attended a private Conservative Party event in the afternoon before addressing a Women’s Institute event at the Winter Gardens in the evening
John Penrose said “We’re delighted to be welcoming Ann back to Weston. She is such a strong favourite with both party members and the general public.
“It says something about her popularity that the Weston-super-Mare Conservative Association event sold out almost instantly and there is a waiting list for any returned tickets.”
MP MEETS COMPETITION WINNERS
29th June 2006
Local MP John Penrose met Edge into Space competition winners Amber Hartley Watts, Joseph Plumb, Rebecca Voisey and Thomas Watson-Follett from Churchill Community School to give them his congratulations on winning once-in-a-lifetime visits to NASA space centres in the US.
Edge into Space, run by the vocational and practical-learning foundation, Edge, and the International Space School Education Trust (ISSET), is a competition where teams of students aged from 13 to 17 were asked to submit ideas that could be developed in space to improve life on earth or developed on earth to improve life in space.
The competition encouraged students to take a very "hands on" approach to science, vocational and practical learning.
The Churchill Community School team, known as Team Gravity, were the winners of the South West section of the competition.
Team Gravity, along with nine other teams from across the UK, will travel to Kennedy Space Centre in Florida and Johnson Space Centre in Houston in July. Amber, Joseph, Rebecca and Thomas will meet astronauts, participate in simulations and explore hardware at the forefront of today's space exploration.
Edge chief executive, Andy Powell, said: "With over 4,000 children entering the competition, it's clear that their enthusiasm for learning in science is stimulated by adventure and discovery, not just reading from text books.
"There is a whole generation of school leavers who are turned off by science, according to a recent YouGov survey, but 60 per cent say more hands-on activity would inspire them to learn.
"Edge into Space has been about giving young people the chance to participate and experience the fun side of science and vocational and practical learning."
Last Minute Plans By Massage Parlour
1st June 2006
A controversial massage parlour in Weston-super-Mare which opened only yards from a primary school has submitted an 11th-hour planning application.
Emmanuelles, based in a former dog-grooming salon in Baker Street, opened in April without planning consent. More than 200 residents of the resort signed a petition to stop the parlour operating only yards from Christ Church primary school.
Neighbours said the first they knew of what was going on inside the premises was when they saw beds and linen being delivered followed by an advertisement.
They complained that "weird blokes" were coming into their street and knocking on doors.
Campaigners enlisted the support of Weston MP John Penrose who passed the petition on to North Somerset Council.
The council gave Emmanuelles 28 days to submit a retrospective planning application for an official change of use from a pet-grooming salon.
The owners had until yesterday to put in for retrospective planning consent - otherwise they faced enforcement action by the council which could have led to the business premises being closed down.
The application has now been handed and it will be discussed by councillors at a planning committee on a date to be fixed.
Ward councillor, Liberal Democrat John Crockford-Hawley said today: "I shall be doing everything I can to force the closure of these premises.
"None of us are naive, we all know these kind of places exist.
"But this is wholly the wrong place in a tightly-knit residential community."
Mr Crockford-Hawley, who represents Weston Central, is the cabinet councillor in charge of strategic planning and transport and immediate past chairman of the planning committee that will decide whether to grant a change of use certificate.
A spokesman for North Somerset Council said: "An application has been submitted but we have no other details at this stage."
New job rules led to suicide bids
18th May 2006
Two Alzheimer’s disease sufferers tried to commit suicide after facing a 37-page government form encouraging them to get a job, according to Weston’s MP.
John Penrose has called for more sensitivity in dealing with sick and disabled people following a review of government proposals to shake up the way incapacity benefits are given out
The review, examining proposals to replace incapacity benefits, paid to 2.7million people, with a new employment and support allowance was carried out by the influential Work and Pensions Committee, of which Mr Penrose is a member.
He became concerned with the handling of the new proposals when he received letters from two families of Alzheimer’s patients who had become so distressed by the new forms sent to them that they had tried to take their own lives
He said: “Clearly, there has to be something badly wrong with the current system.
“It doesn’t help people who want to work, but pressures people who can’t.
“The new proposals should be a positive step forward, providing better support for people who should be able to work if they’re given the right help.
“At the same time, I hope the system will care for people who are so ill that it’s not fair to expect them to hold down a job.
Mr Penrose also expressed concerns that the proposals only affect new claimants.
“The extra support to help disabled people into jobs must be made available to people who are already on incapacity benefits, not just new claimants,” he continued
“No one must be left behind.
“The new system can force people to look for a job.
“While that may be needed for a few chancers, it must only be used very carefully and sensitively to avoid problems like the two gentlemen with Alzheimers.
“We need clearer rules which are evidence based, sensitive and constructive, so that people with varying conditions like depression or multiple sclerosis aren’t mistreated.”
He also said the proposals didn’t go far enough to de-stigmatise disabled people
He said:”Disabled people experience a range of barriers to finding work including employer attitudes and concerns about their continuing entitlement to benefits.
“We must ensure that the talents of disabled people are recognised and brought to the fore.”
MINISTER'S ACTION AFTER GRAVESTONES OUTRAGE
11th May 2006
The distress caused to families whose loved ones' gravestones were damaged by North Somerset Council in the name of health and safety will be taken into account as the Government draws up new national guidelines.
A number of families were outraged when the council carried out "topple tests" on memorials at Hutton graveyard last year.
Steve Benham and his family regularly attend a historic family memorial at the site, that dates back more than 100 years.
Last September his mum had the shock of her life when she went to lay flowers and clean the grave, only to find the tombstones had been knocked over in what looked like vandalism.
Weston MP John Penrose has now persuaded Government minister Harriet Harman MP to reconsider Government policy on toppling family gravestones.
Mr Penrose wrote to the minister in December, asking for the guidelines to be reviewed, and in her reply Ms Harman said the problems in Hutton churchyard would be taken into consideration.
In her letter she said: "There seems to be a growing consensus that laying down unsafe gravestones should be a matter of last resort, especially since, as Mr Penrose says, this can create its own hazard.
"In the circumstances, it was disappointing to hear that some families were unaware of and distressed by the action taken, and that in some instances memorials were apparently laid down in a way that created further hazards.
"I am sure that, if there are lessons to be learned from the way the work has been undertaken in this case, the follow-up discussions will be an effective way to ensure that problems of this kind can be avoided in future.
"In the meantime, I have asked my officials involved in producing new national guidelines to take the experience of this case into account as the work proceeds."
Topple test law change
5th May 2006
THE uproar over gravestones flattened in a village churchyard has persuaded the Government to change the national rules on topple testing in cemeteries.
Last year, North Somerset Council was accused of vandalism and desecration when it removed more than 50 gravestones in a closed churchyard in Hutton. The work was carried out under a European health and safety directive.
After a campaign led by Hutton parish councillors and Weston MP John Penrose, the Government has declared that laying memorial stones flat 'should be a matter of last resort'.
Parish councillors were outraged that families were not properly informed of the planned works at Hutton's St Mary's Church before it took place.
Weston MP John Penrose wrote to the constitutional affairs minister Harriet Harman asking for the guidelines to be reviewed.