Have Your Say

If you have any comments or ideas that you'd like to share about local issues affecting the constituency of Wimbledon, please fill in the box below. Your message will be posted shortly afterwards, along with other recent submissions.

For help with individual cases or to send a message direct to Stephen Hammond MP please use the Contact Form.

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Added: 25 June 2009, 09:40

Dear Stephen

Looking through your expenses online, it appears that you are one of the more frugal MPs, with most claims seeming to be for stationery, web hosting, taxis and hall hire. After all the nonsense with people flipping houses and committing what amounts to fraud of the taxpayers, I'm pleased to be represented by someone we can trust.

I have got a couple of questions, however, about a few of your expenses, and I wondered if you could clarify a few things for me?

It appears that you tried to reclaim the cost of two Remembrance Day wreaths in November 2006. Is this correct? If so, could you explain the circumstances?

Likewise, could you please explain what the £493.50 claim you made in November 2005 was for? The invoice describes it as 2,000 'Birthday Cards'. I'm sure there was a good reason for this.

Finally, could you please explain who PLS ltd is, what services it provides and why you paid it nearly £15,000 over the last few years? It seems to be your biggest expense, but it wasn't clear from the invoices what the company does.

Many thanks and keep up the good work!

Dave

Dave Harrison

I am very happy to respond to your questions if you could confirm you are a Wimbledon constituent by giving me your postcode via the contacts page in my website.

Added: 24 June 2009, 10:15

Where can I find your expenses?

Robert Jones

A summary has been posted on this site - please see

http://www.stephenhammondmp.com/mp_expenses.asp

Added: 22 June 2009, 18:09

by the round about n morden there is a parking space there that makes alot of traffic

dave

I am aware that there are problems at the roundabout on the A297 (Morden Hall Road), and I assume this is the one you mean. Responsibility for this lies with Transport for London - I would get in touch with them, however this roundabout is actually outside my constituency. As it is in the Mitcham & Morden parliamentary constituency, may I suggest you either get in touch with TfL yourself, or contact the Mitcham & Morden MP. Thank you for your message.

 

Added: 19 June 2009, 21:52

Could you please clarify the date of the next general election?

Tracey Freeman

The Prime Minister decides on the date of the election. It can be no longer than five years after the previous one. The latest date for the next election is therefore May 2010.

 

Added: 18 June 2009, 16:59

Well done on your lobbying of First Capital Connect. There may have been some improvements since taking over from Thameslink but the service remains unreliable with many problems. As for the removal of the St Pancras service from Wimbledon, don't believe a word of the increased services to Blackfriars. This connection is poorly managed enough already.

Alex Coley

I am aware that this is an ongoing issue and I continue to lobby the relevant bodies on behalf of those in the Wimbledon area who use these services. I recently met with the new Chief Executive of First Capital Connect, and I also wrote again to the Transport Secretary Lord Adonis. I will update the campaigns section of this website with any developments. Thank you for your message.

 

Added: 18 June 2009, 15:45

Cameras are not the best method.

Give people back responsibility for their lives and sense of community.

Stop the big brother mentality where the goverment spies on us all and then preaches to us on how we should live out lives.

It's time for someone to stand up and say, you are responsible for your actions, and with those actions come outcomes - if you can't cope with the outcomes, chance your behaviour.

Increase the penalties for speeding in a 20mph zone, increase traffic police, but not cameras - i think we are watch far too much as it is.

Jason Dunlop

I do not think that cameras are always the best method - but they certainly are in some circumstances. The best approach is to leave local authorities to use the powers they already have to reduce speed limits where they consider this to be appropriate given local circumstances.

I would certainly caution against an over-reliance on cameras. An effective strategy on road safety must address a range of issues, rather then focussing exclusively on excessive speed. I believe that the Government's over-reliance on traditional fixed speed cameras has meant a neglect of key road safety issues that cameras can not address, for example the problems associated with rogue and uninsured drivers, drunk drivers and novice drivers.

Added: 07 June 2009, 13:53

The government is promising some sort of Constitutional legislation soon. Can you use your influence to ensure that the West Lothian question is settled? There is more than one component of this. 1. English constituencies (and, within these rural constituencies) have more voters on average. Boundaries should be set to roughly equalise the value of each vote to eliminate Scottish bias. 2. Non-English MPs should not vote on England-only affairs in the Commons. 3. London residents are doubly disadvantaged - not only do our taxes subsidise other areas of the country but the Barnett formula uses our money to allow eg the Scottish Executive to discriminate against us. The most heinous example is that only English (maybe Welsh, NI too) students in the whole of the EU have to pay higher university fees in Scottish universities - also that prescription charges only apply in England - which is where most of the tax base lives.

Andrew Dean

 

The current situation is that MPs who represent Scottish constituencies can vote on legislation relating to health, education and several other issues where that legislation applies only to England or to England and Wales but they cannot vote on the equivalent laws that apply to their own constituencies as laws on these issues are decided by the Scottish Parliament. Similarly, Welsh legislation is now heavily, and increasingly, influenced by the Welsh Assembly. There is therefore also the lesser unfairness presented by MPs from Welsh seats being able to vote on England-only legislation.

 

I firmly believe that is wrong that many MPs are in the position of legislating for those to whom they are not accountable, while being unable to legislate for those to whom they are accountable. This is an issue that Labour has, irresponsibly and perhaps not without self-interest, been determined to avoid. In contrast, the Conservatives have been committed to addressing it, ever since devolution was established in 1999. We said that leaving the West Lothian Question unanswered not only stood in the way of fully accountable and fair government for England but also put at risk the Union that exists between, and gives considerable benefits, to all the constituent countries of the UK.

 

It is for these reasons that the Conservative Party asked its Democracy Taskforce to devise an answer to the West Lothian Question. The Taskforce chairman, Rt. Hon. Kenneth Clarke MP, has now published its report. The report proposes restricting, to English MPs alone, the power to vote in the stages where the detail of England-only Bills is worked out. This was to protect England from having measures that a majority of English MPs found unacceptable being imposed upon it as a consequence of non-English votes. It is cases where this has happened that have created the resentment of devolution that exists in England. The Taskforce’s proposed solution would retain the ability of the whole House of Commons to vote on the final stages of the Bill (when its detail has already been decided), in order to give the UK Government the choice of accepting any amendments made by the English MPs alone or of having the Bill voted down and lost. This was to ensure that we can have a functioning Government, without intolerable political instability.

 

I believe that the Taskforce has presented a thoughtful and persuasive answer to the West Lothian Question, one which, crucially, seeks to ensure that legislation affecting England alone should have the consent of England’s representatives. The publication of the Taskforce report shows that the Conservatives are setting the agenda on this issue. The Shadow Cabinet is now examining the report as part of its consideration of the precise formulation of the answer to the West Lothian question that we are committed to giving in our manifesto.

Added: 04 June 2009, 19:53

I have recently read that it is becoming police policy to pre-emptively take DNA from children which is profoundly disturbing. I realise that this is not in your constituency, however I think my MP should find this as unacceptable as I do so I thought I would bring it to your attention. Thank you. My source is this http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/politics/lawandorder/5444332/Police-arrest-innocent-youths-for-their-DNA-officer-claims.html

Jo M

I am very concerned about the growth of the DNA Database. At the end of April 2009, there were 5.6 million DNA profiles on the National Database, making it the largest in the world.  The Government has previously admitted that around one million profiles were those of innocent people who were not convicted, cautioned, formally warned or reprimanded. Worryingly, it also includes the DNA of many tens of thousands of children. 

I do acknowledge the vital role that DNA evidence can play in modern criminal investigations, but the current system, by any standards, falls foul of natural justice and is in urgent need of reform.

Added: 01 June 2009, 16:24

Are there no alternatives to sleeping policemen to maintain reasonable traffic speeds? They damage private cars. We do not elect people to damage our private property. Let's have 000s of cameras if we must, but smooth roads please. And less notice taken of people in large houses trying to keep all traffic off "their" road.

Edward Vale

Thank you for your message. There are a number of calming measures that can be introduced. Cameras often are the most effective. At the last Council elections the Conservatives promised to introduce 20mph zones and to stop rat-running - any new measures are designed to counter this.

 

Added: 28 May 2009, 17:31

Your correspondent below is confused about the link between the Human Rights Act, the EU and the European Convention on Human Rights, that we signed in 1950 (and indeed, that British lawyers helped to draft).

Noting your support for a Bill of Rights; are you suggesting we should pull out of the ECHR? Your argument would seem to suggest so, as the "problems" you identify are caused by the Convention, not the mechanism with which it is given horizontal effect in the UK (the HRA 1998). Thanks

C. J. Fox

As you say, this is a complex matter. I do not propose withdrawing from the ECHR, partly because membership of the ECHR is a prerequisite to being a member of the European Council (EC) and being a member of that is a prerequisite of being a member of the EU.

Added: 28 May 2009, 13:42

Without receipts, Mr Hammond, it's hard to tell whether you're honest or not. You say most of your costs are on office and staffing. These costs are far higher than the maximum Additional Costs Allowance allowed, so there's more room for abuse there. Would you agree that MP's staff should be employed by the Parliamentary authorities rather than by MPs since there are a lot of MPs (including yourself) employing family members, which raises obvious questions as to the legitimacy of the arrangment.

James Dey

The vast majority of MPs’ staffing costs are much higher than their Additional Cost Allowance (ACA). The maximum possible yearly ACA is currently £24,000 (none of which I claim). The staffing allowance is much higher as it covers paying my staff (of which I have 3 members) – including all taxes and national insurance. Last year I claimed £92,000 to pay my staff.

You are mistaken to say that there is more room for abuse with the staffing allowance than the ACA. The ACA has a much greater discretionary element and the rules are currently much looser than for the staffing allowance. That needs to change.

 

I do agree that there should be a central register of people qualified to work in the House of Commons and that MPs should have to pick their staff from this register. There is no question of my arrangements being illegitimate. My wife, who works for me, has worked for MPs for 25 years, and knows Wimbledon inside out – she is extremely well qualified and the constituents she deals with are always telling me what a great job she does.

Added: 26 May 2009, 19:46

Increasing crime and anti social behaviour is a concern for many. Sentencing appears to be getting softer for offenders. This is not helped by the EU Human rights Act enacted in 1998 (largely replacing the Anglo-Saxon model of natural rights). This act appears to be a huge impediment to sentencing - it even drives some very strange outcomes. What is your view on this act and do you think it should be abolished to allow for tougher sentencing of criminals? Rights of victims should be restored.

SK, wimbledon

I completely understand your concerns about lenient sentencing. As a result of the failure to meet the growing demand and create new places within the prison system, many violent criminals are getting away with worryingly light sentences. Equally troubling is the fact that of those who received sentences, 34,000 prisoners were released early due to the inability to provide enough jail space.

I believe it is important that the punishment should fit the crime, not jail capacity. If we fail to plan for predicted rises in the prison population – partly due to a huge rise in violent crime – then we will see massive overcrowding, rising reoffending rates, and prisons that were fit to burst. I believe that artificially managing down the prison population with lenient sentences is the wrong approach and sends completely the wrong message to criminals.

 

As for the Human Rights Act, I believe that it has failed to protect our core freedoms while saddling public bodies with heavy liabilities. I think that in difficult times, we should be concentrating more on helping hard-pressed families rather than sowing more confusion in our legal system. I would replace the Human Rights Act with a new British Bill of Rights. 

 

The British Bill of Rights:

•      would be more sympathetic to the UK’s constitutional heritage than the Human Rights Act;

•      would better enable the United Kingdom to take advantage of the ‘margin of appreciation’ that states possess in deciding how to interpret and apply some of the rights;

•      would make for better decisions by making explicit the context of rights and responsibilities which should guide decision-making; and

•      would enable protection for traditional rights and freedoms that are not covered by the European Convention on Human Rights.

 

Thank you for your message.

Added: 20 May 2009, 10:57

when are we going to see the sacking of these dispicable MPS who have been on the fiddle for years. Do you think its time that Gordon Brown got on with the sacking of these naughty MPS like Jacqui Smith and Hazel Blears just to name a couple can someone inform your colleagues that the Public will not be satisfied with these MPS just paying back the money they have to go. At the end of the day there is nothing wrong with the rules its the people. Some one needs to tell all 650 MPs that the public are not going to forgive or forget and we will be looking at our local MPs expenses before we next cast a vote at the ballot box whenever that day might be.

Angela Harle

 I do believe that those who have broken the rules (in letter or in spirit) should be punished, and it appears that all the major party leaders are taking this seriously. But not every MP has broken the rules.

Although I have been entitled to claim the ACA (or second home allowance), I have never done so.

 

The rules need to change and they need to change now. As for the personnel, I think we need an immediate General Election to give the people of this country a chance to send a clear message that change is what is required.

Added: 20 May 2009, 09:01

Dear Mr Hammond,

Looking at the details of your expenses already publicly available I see that, unlike your predecessor, you do not take the Additional Costs Allowance. Does that mean that you do not make any claims for accommodation or food/subsistence?

However I note that you do take the London Supplement - is that a taxable benefit?

Yours sincerely

Old Central

Old Central

That is correct – as my family home is in my Wimbledon constituency, I have never seen the need to claim a second home in central London. Therefore I do not make any claims for accommodation or food.

The London Supplement is indeed taxable.

Added: 19 May 2009, 13:36

You say in your press release: " . . . I wrote an article about it in the Mail on Sunday in March 2008."

I'm pleased you wrote an article about MPs expenses, and I'm hoping that you will disclose your expenses on this website (sooner rather than later)?

Has your opinion on MPs salaries changed at all in the light of developments around MPs' expenses?

C. J. Fox

I have always said that the system needs to be overhauled and I still think that. The so-called Second Home Allowance needs to be replaced by something that is far more reasonable and that stands up to public scrutiny. MPs’ salaries need to reflect the work they do and the responsibility they bear. The level of the salary should be set by an independent body, and should be benchmarked against those earned by comparable public sector employees.

I am awaiting to receive all my receipts back from the House of Commons authorities in a format that can be published. When I receive them, I shall publish them.

Added: 19 May 2009, 10:03

All credit to you for having raised the abuse of MPs expenses in Parliament back in March 2008. I expect those who then accused you of a 'smear' now wish they had listened and cleaned up their act.

John White

Many thanks for your message.

Added: 18 May 2009, 16:46

Dear Mr Hammond,

As a resident of Wimbledon I have been much encouraged by your statements on transparency and openness with regards to MPs expenses. Would you agree that it is clear this Speaker is no position to restore trust in Parliament and must go as soon as possible? (Some defenders of the status quo see snobbery in the movement against him. His background is irrelevant; his past performance in the job is what makes it clear that he cannot be a standard bearer for constitutional reform).

After his statement today, are you willing to add your name to the EDM of no confidence in the Speaker (and any other appropriate instruments?)

I do hope so! Best regards, and many thanks for your hard work on our behalf.

Nick Rich

Nick Rich

You may have seen that today the Speaker announced his intention to stand down in June. I am sure this was the right decision.

Added: 15 May 2009, 16:57

Dear Stephen,

Equitable Life

I understand that David Davis has secured an Adjournment Debate for Tuesday 19th May in Westminster Hall to discuss the Government's response to Parliamentary Ombudsman's reports on Equitable Life. I do hope that you can be there in order to support ELAS policyholders' claims for compensation.

Yours sincerely

Roy England

Roy England

I shall certainly try and attend this debate tomorrow.

The Ombudsman has now taken the highly unusual step of publishing a special report as a result of her disappointment with the manner in which the Government is dealing with this crisis. The Ombudsman concluded: “The Government’s response to my report was deeply disappointing. It provided insufficient support for the rejection of my findings of maladministration and injustice.”

 

She attacks the Government's selective response to her findings and recommendations. She also criticises the lack of a clear timetable for payments to be made to policyholders.

 

The Ombudsman’s timetable for the establishment of a payment scheme has been torn up and there is no guarantee of when policyholders will receive any payments for the losses they have suffered. The highly unusual intervention by the Ombudsman means it is incumbent on the Government to set out, without further delay, how it intends to bring an end to this debacle.

Added: 15 May 2009, 09:30

Dear Mr Hammond

Would you be so kind as to explain why you have any expences? i travel to and from London Waterloo for work, Just a stones throw from parliment. I dont get any compensaton, and i imagine i earn much less then your good self in salary I.E £22K a year after tax.

I guess my main question is if i can do it with a lot less, why can't MP's?

Ad P

 I will be publishing my complete expenses, including receipts. I am completely happy that my claims can be scrutinised and equally so should anyone who is paid by the taxpayer. Like anyone in receipt of public money, MPs should be both transparent and accountable.

I make no personal gain at all from my allowances. The vast majority of my expenses go towards paying my staff. I have two full-time and one part-time member of staff. They help me deal with my parliamentary duties (I am a Shadow Transport Minister) and with constituency casework. On an average day I will receive two hundred emails and about thirty letters. I normally write and send about 30 letters a day to constituents. This is on top of meetings, seeing constituents, attending the Chamber and so on. I am often at work until past 10pm during the week, and I normally carry out constituency engagements on weekends too.

 

I also have expenses to run my website and to purchase essential stationary, computer equipment etc. This is all for use within the office – not personal use. I do not claim the ACA, or the "Second Home Allowance" as it is often referred to, as my predecessor did. I am entitled to a London Allowance, however, which I do claim.

 

The current rules are too lax and there is a clear problem between what the rules currently state and the spirit of the rules. Our rules need to be tightly and fairly drawn. I have been at the front line of the campaign to change the current expenses system for a number of years. The "Second Home Allowance" system needs either a complete reform or needs to be replaced by a system of provided accommodation.

Added: 28 April 2009, 10:15

Dear Mr Hammond,

The treatment of the Ghurkas is shameful. The Labour government allows foreign criminals, rapists and terrorists to remain in this country at taxpayer's expense while keeping out those who have risked their lives for our freedom.

It is so obviously unjust that we can believe only that the present leadership of the country has completely lost its understanding of the mood of the voters. This is the latest example of their ineptitude, coming after their mishandling of the economy, the NHS and the education system. It is time they went. We, who were for years Labour voters, hope and expect that the opposition will speed up the removal of Labour from office.

Andrew & Paula Aarons

The Government has set a new range of restrictive criteria for settlement, which would deny the vast majority of Gurkhas any chance of coming to the UK.

I think we need to be fair to the Gurkhas. I support proposals that would introduce a limit on visas allowed under the Points- Based System, to ensure that those who come here benefit British society. I believe that former Gurkhas, and other foreign-born ex-service personnel, have already contributed to our society, and have therefore earned the right to come here.

 

I think that pre-1997 Gurkhas should be allowed the right to settle in the UK. To enable this to happen, a new tier should be created within the Points-Based System, which each year would allow a specified number of visas for non-UK ex-servicemen.

 

This policy would be fair to our veterans, particularly the Gurkhas, consistent with proposals for a controlled immigration policy, and affordable within the welfare budget. The vast majority of those who have already come here from Nepal have proved exemplary workers and members of society, and we are sure that new arrivals of working age would prove the same. 

 

I believe there are some technical problems with the motion before the House today but nevertheless I shall be supporting it.

 

Added: 07 April 2009, 08:52

Dear Stephen

Following the recent outcry over MPs expenses, could I ask you to publish your full claims - not just category totals - on your website?

I agree with you that transparency is important, so much so that think it's time the honest MPs like yourself go far beyond the current reporting requirements and be completely open about how much they cost the taxpayer.

Now that the rules governing expenses have been so discredited, complying with them isn't enough.

So please, let's see a full spreadsheet or PDF of your claims for last year. L

et's clean this parliament up!

Ned B

 

Ned,

 

I have always said I am happy for details of my expenses to be published. The list of expense claims for the past 5 years is currently being prepared and will be ready in a few weeks. I would be happy to share it with constituents. So that I can ensure that you are a Wimbledon resident, please email me via the contacts page with your full postal address

Added: 03 April 2009, 21:39

Once again I have to report the third petty crime that has happened at one end of Beaford Grove this year. There is now graffiti on a number of fences near St James Church. I have reported it to Merton Council to clear up but am disappointed at the amount of petty crime that seems to be happening in what used to be a very safe area. The only time the police seem to walk the beat is during the day in this area, yet the petty crime tends to be carried out by children who are at school in the day. Therefore maybe the police could be around in the evenings to try and stop this.

Cerys Ledger

Thank you for your message and I am very concerned about what you have to say. I am taking this up with the police and I shall update this when they have answered my enquiries.

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I have now received a response from the Metropolitan Police. The leader of the Safer Neighbourhood Team in your area has been informed of this issue and would like to be put in touch with you to resolve it. Please email me or call my office on 020 7219 3401 with your contact details so that I can expedite this.

Added: 02 April 2009, 22:34

When will we as the British public get a break? I am 44 years old and a British citizen and absolutely sick to my stomach at the way this country is being led. I am also sick of waking up at 6am watching the news and being in floods of tears at the way this so called government is running this country, or how we the British public are being ripped off by this government. When will they listen to the British citizens? When will there be a conversation between the British citizens and the government? When will they do what is right by the British people? Will we ever get the feel good factor back? When will we want to stay here anymore, God knows I don't. This country, if this government stay in power will be, I believe, bankrupt. This current government is writing cheques it can't cash. It is obscene. The current government is telling us off for irresponsible borrowing and the banks for its old lending practises and yet ,the government, is doing the worst irresponsible borrowing I have ever seen! a billion here, 10 billion there...Who is going to pay for this? Is this the way Labour are saying to conservatives 'okay you want the government? then take it with THIS much debt?' We need a vote before things get even more out of control. Therefore I am petitioning for a public vote.

Tracey Freeman

I agree that maintaining a responsible level of government debt is at the heart of maintaining a sound and stable currency.  I support proposals for an independent Office for Budget Responsibility with the power to publish fiscal forecasts and hold governments to account.  I believe that this is the only way to restore credibility to the public finances and to minimise the possibility of a disastrous loss of international confidence.

Added: 02 April 2009, 21:59

I am writing to complain about tv license fees. Whilst I appreciate that the BBC were the 'fore fathers' of TV in the UK, I am questioning the need for the BBC to have a compulsory wage from the UK public. I pay £30 per month for 144 channels and rarely do I watch or listen to the BBC. I used to watch the breakfast BBC on the TV but found it quite monotinous and boring ( if you watched it for the first hour the next hour was a repeat). Given the amount of competition out there in the media world could you please explain why in this day and age of competition we the tax payers are still having to pay yet another tax on a broadcasting company and getting very little reward from it? We are subjected to endless repeats and Jonathan Ross who I am sure does not have the whole nation behind him and yet the BBC feel it necessary to allocate so much of our TV license to pay his salary. Surely it is time for the BBC to be made to work for their living, when you have ITV who have done so for a number of years and given us the quality of TV that is worth watching and don't have the luxury of 'live off the earnings of the UK citizens?'

Tracey Freeman

 

I recognise the importance of the BBC as a well respected, world-class broadcaster that drives up standards, and I want it to remain the cornerstone of UK public service broadcasting. 

 

I appreciate that the licence fee has some imperfections, but it is probably the least worst option for funding the BBC. I do not think the licence fee should be scrapped.

 

I would, however, make the following points:

 

·        Improving Accountability. The BBC needs a completely independent regulator. The corporation’s accounts should also be audited by the National Audit Office to ensure that licence fee payers are getting value for money.

 

·        The Licence Fee. This is currently at the top end of what it should be. Any licence fee money which is left over from paying for the digital switchover could be returned to licence fee-payers in the form of a cut in the licence fee cost.

 

·        Future Options for PSB. I am open-minded about a merger between Channel 4 or Five, or between Channel 4 and BBC Worldwide, but I would like to see a public service broadcaster providing an alternative to the BBC.

 

Added: 02 April 2009, 21:42
Thank you Mr Hammond for your reply and eagerly look forward to deveolpents on the petrol price scandal that this country has to endure.

Tracey Freeman

Added: 02 April 2009, 12:06

I'd like to draw your attention to my dissatisfaction at the home recycling collections from my street Haydons Road.

Apparently I am in a unique street where we have two types of recycling. The box scheme and the purple bag scheme. Even though I have been using the boxes for a few years, I was told some months back that as I live in a house that opens out onto the pavement with no front garden that I should only use the purple bags. This wasn't good as the majority of my recycling is glass which would no longer be collected. The purple bags (even though all the signage throughout the area says the new collection day is Thursday) is actually collected on a Monday. (But the council hasn't published anything to tell residents that).

But now a new turn. According to the leaflet through the door, I am now actually allowed to use the boxes again to put out mixed recycling. Good news.

However... the collection lorry on a Thursday for the last 4 weeks has ignored my side of the street (even though many others have put the boxes out). Just this morning I watched them collect from the other side of the street and the side streets but leave my side. It takes several calls to the council (each week) to get an ad hoc collection some days later to empty the boxes.

A Manager has not informed the collectors that both sides of the street need their boxes emptying (although common sense would tell you this and they shouldn't need such obvious instruction).

According to the Waste Call Centre at Merton they are getting no end of complaints from Haydons Road residents but 5 weeks in to the new scheme an unsatisfactory service is being provided. (Even the call centre staff are telling me that the situation is ridiculous... and I would expect them to be towing the Council line)!

Please help our side of the street Stephen. I have never been tempted to contact an MP before. But this is driving me mad every week. I am tempted to say "sod it to recycling" and just put my bottle and cans in the standard rubbish bag (which is collected more efficiently).

Nick Benjamin

 

I am sorry to hear about the problems you have experienced. I know that, overall, the new programme of collection in Wimbledon has been a success, although I am aware that in certain areas the move has not gone as smoothly as it could have. I am making some enquiries with the council as to the specific points you raise, and I shall update this post in due course.

-------------

The response I have just received from the Council includes the following paragraphs, which I hope are helpful:

"I can confirm that due to the layout of the road there are different recycling collection schedules being operated in Haydons Road. There are some properties whose front doors open directly onto the main road. We collect refuse and recycling from such properties where blue and purple bags are being used on Mondays and residents at these properties have received letters informing them of their collection schedules. They will also be sent leaflets reminding them of their schedule, as well as new blue and purple bags in May.

 

We, however, collect recycling from other single properties where residents leave black sacks and kerbside boxes for refuse and recycling respectively on Thursdays. Black and blue refuse sacks that are left out are also collected on Thursdays.

 

I also understand that there are confusing waste collection signs in Haydons Road. Following the recent correspondence we have arranged for the removal of all waste collection signs in the area to take place within a two week period."

 

 

Added: 19 March 2009, 10:00

This morning I called all the petrol stations within a 2 mile radius of my home in Raynes Park, requesting the price for unleaded petrol. All of the stations (BP Shell and Tesco) quoted the same price 90.9p per litre for unleaded petrol. Having seen this morning the price release of a barrel of crude now at $48 per barrel, instead of $68 per barrel, I was shocked to find out that the prices on the forecourt have not been dropped (we are still paying the same price at $68+ per barrel) thus adding to the fuel industry's ever increasing profits. I also asked if the prices were in fact going to be dropped today and was told no. Given the economy is practically 'driven' by both the fuel and banking industry could you please, therefore, tell me why the government are not forcing the fuel industry to pass on the savings and why there is a clear display of a cartel or price fixing between the fuel giants.

Tracey Freeman

 

I understand your frustration about fuel prices and know that it is one shared by millions of people up and down the country. Petrol prices remain high primarily because of the level of tax levied upon fuel. All across the UK, motorists are struggling to cope with heavy fuel taxes, with Vehicle Excise Duty, and, in many cases, with road pricing and congestion charges.

 

The UK has some of the highest taxes on fuel in Europe and I appreciate the strain that this places on motorists who rely on their vehicles. This is why my colleagues and I are looking at ways that we can soften the impact on motorists.

 

While the Chancellor plans to increase fuel tax and make the situation even worse for motorists, I believe we need to look into a Fair Fuel Stabiliser - reducing fuel duty when petrol prices go up.

 

On the question of price fixing, I have written to Lord Mandelson, the Business Secretary, to see what is being done to ensure that consumers pay a fair price for petrol - and I shall post his response on this page when I receive it.

----------- 

Further to my earlier posting, i have today received the following response from Mike O'Brien MP at the Department of Energy and Climate Change, dated 9 April: 

 

The Government is determined that consumers see the benefits of falls in wholesale oil prices. This is why the Government has taken an active stance in encouraging retailers to pass through savings in costs to consumers as quickly as possible.

 

Recent reductions in prices by retailers, primarily supermarkets, have shown that savings in costs are being passed onto the consumer. Overall, retail prices for petrol and diesel have fallen by around 18% from their nominal high of approximately 119.4 pence per litre for petrol and 132.9 pence per litre for diesel. By early December 2008, average diesel prices had fallen to around £1 per litre and in the case of petrol below that.

 

However we have to recognise that the relationship between crude oil prices and the retail price of petrol and diesel is complicated by a number of factors. Crude and wholesale prices fluctuate on a daily basis; however retailers typically change prices less frequently and respond to only sustained price movements.

 

This, combined with lags in supply arrangements between retailers and wholesalers, means that there is a time lag, often amounting to several weeks, before the impact of change in crude and then wholesale prices is fully reflected at the pumps. Not long ago the price of oil was still above $90 per barrel, hence it might take time for the most recent falls in the oil price to feed through.

 

The internationally traded price of petrol is also a major influence on the final price, but this does not always follow the international price of crude oil. For example recent supply disruptions in Northwest Europe have meant that the traded price of diesel is remaining high even while crude prices are falling.

 

The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has power to investigate allegations of anti-competitive agreements and abuse of a dominant market position. In the case of pricing the OFT can act if pricing appears to be the result of anti-competitive behaviour, but has no power to act in relation to rising prices alone.

Added: 18 March 2009, 11:39

Dear Mr Hammond, what are your views on the Sustainable Communities Act 2007, and whether Merton should "opt in" to the process?

J White

Thank you for your enquiry.

I supported the Sustainable Communities Act 2007 and am keen to encourage greater community involvement.

The London Borough of Merton have made an assessment of the cost and benefits and I hope that, if it is feasible, they will use the provisions of this act.

 

Added: 17 February 2009, 14:32

Please can you encourage FCC not to terminate all Wimbledon Loop trains at Blackfriars as part of the Thameslink upgrade. This would mean no direct access to City Thameslink and other very popular rush hour stations, or St Pancras International and beyond. There will be no additional services and no 12 car trains, so hard to see this as an improvement!

Mark Blackwell

I was extremely disappointed when I heard that direct trains from Wimbledon to St Pancras will terminate in 2015, and I am aware of the strength of feeling about this. I have had a private meeting with the Rail Minister Lord Adonis who pledged to have another look at this. I have also lobbied the Chief Executives of First Capital Connect and Network Rail on the issue.

Wimbledon will suffer considerably from this change, should it go ahead. Having lost international services from Waterloo, a large number of my constituents have come to rely upon Thameslink services direct to St Pancras. Despite assurances that the frequency of services to Blackfriars will increase, I believe that terminating this direct service would be a disaster

 

Added: 01 February 2009, 18:53

please can you do something about the poor service provided by First Capital Connect- ie get their franchise withdrawn. The sevice is unreliable and expensive . whenever a train is cancelled or 'curtailed' I complain to them but nothing ever seems to get better . Expensive and poor value for money!

Eamonn Morris

 

I am sorry to hear that you are disappointed by the service on First Capital Connect trains. Unfortunately it is not within my power to withdraw a train franchise from an operator, however I am very aware of the frustrations of passengers and I am in constant touch with senior management of FCC about the issues affecting my constituents. For example, I am currently running a campaign to convince FCC not to restrict the opening hours of the ticket office at Haydons Road.

 

I think that more could be done by the Government to ensure that rail franchises give better value for money to passengers. For example, franchises are far too short and prevent the investment and innovation that could lead to better and more affordable train services.

 

On the question of fares, I understand that people are frustrated that the Government is making rail travel so much more expensive at a time when ministers tell us that we should all be switching to public transport to lower emissions and reduce congestion. In my view, the Government’s mismanagement of our rail network over the last decade and its failure to get costs under control has meant that it has no strategy to cope with the increasing demand for rail travel, other than to price people off the railways by raising fares.

 

Rail needs to be placed at the heart of a sustainable transport system. I can understand people’s resentment that they are faced with fare increases that far outstrip inflation and yet are forced to travel in hugely overcrowded trains – with some services running at 170 per cent capacity.

 

Please do email me via the contacts page of this website if you have any specific points you would like me to take up with FCC on your behalf.

Added: 26 January 2009, 15:51

Dear Please sign this Early Day Motion calling for an immediate Ceasefire in Sri Lanka: http://edmi.parliament.uk/EDMi/EDMDetails.aspx?EDMID=37413&SESSION=899 Aerial bombing and intense shelling are taking lives in their scores daily in Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu districts. Human beings are in an abottoir. Journalists have been barred from Northeast for nearly three years. It is not difficult to guess the genocide going on there. Gas chambers are not the only form of wreaking havoc. Northeast Sri Lanka Tamils has been oppressed politically, economically and militarily for decades, but most cruelly in the last three years, being prevented from moving in and out of the various districts. William Clarance in his book, Ethnic Warfare in Sri Lanka and the UN Crisis, said that the world has bnot been heeding the storm signals from Sri Lanka from the time of its independence in 1948. Three years ago Prof Alston, UN Rapporteur for Extrajudicial Killings and Disappearances in his report after his fact-finding mission to sri Lanka urged for UN human rights monitoring for Sri Lanka which has been resisted ferociously by Sri Lanka in spite of the appeals by international human rights bodies like AI, HRW, ICJ, ICG and others. Alston has been reiterating it at UN General Assembly and UN Human Rights Council ever since. But killings, abductions, economic embargo and restrictions on entry for humanitarian agencies have been going on in Northeast Sri Lanka from which journalists have been barred for more than thirty months. Fact-finding missions to the Northeast by civil societies and religious groups have been reporting the fear and hopelessness of the people and their appeal for sending messages to the outside world to take action on their behalf. Please ask your colleagues also to sign the EDM. Thanking you Yours sincerely K.Nages Polesden Gardens, Raynes Park London

K.Nages

 

I remain deeply concerned about the ongoing situation in Sri Lanka. I visited the country to see for myself the problems experienced by the population. I visited the East and Jaffna as well as meeting politicians and industrialists in Colombo. I am convinced that a political solution must be sought by both sides, as well as a commitment to end the violence by both sides. I support the Government in its representations to the Sri Lankan authorities to set out a credible framework for a negotiated settlement that can satisfy the legitimate aspirations of all Sri Lankans.

 

We continue to raise our concerns about the human rights situation in Sri Lanka, most recently in the 2007 Conservative Human Rights Commission Report. There are continued reports of serious abuses by Government forces as well as by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam. Addressing human rights violations is a central part of our approach to finding a long-term solution to the conflict. We believe it is vital that reports of human rights violations in Sri Lanka are investigated fully and that those responsible are brought to justice. We call for the Sri Lankan Government to allow the UN-backed Human Rights Monitoring mission to continue its work as a matter of urgency.

 

Added: 22 January 2009, 21:07

I'm pleased to see that you would have voted against the changes to freedom of Information laws (although I notice that you don't give an answer to why you won't sign EDM 492 - I presume it's because it was laid by someone from another party). However, last time this issue raised its head, you didn't vote against it. You were very careful not to vote "for" it, but you voted in an interesting way. The Public Whip website rates you as "strongly against transparency in parliament" because of the way you voted last time. Quite simply, I don't believe your assertions below.

J White

My voting record clearly shows that I have always argued for full transparency. I have no problem with publishing my expenses and I don’t see why all MPs should not do so.

If you would rather believe a third party website and its author’s interpretation of transparency, that is your choice. I have told The Public Whip that I don't accept their subjective rating. However anyone who considers my voting record, my public pronouncements and the article I wrote in the Mail on Sunday, could only reach the conclusion I am for reform and transparency  

I have not signed EDM 492 because – following the decision by the Government not to push the order through Parliament – it is no longer applicable.

Added: 21 January 2009, 11:46

Mr Hammond, do you plan to sign up to EDM 492? (this is MPs expenses and the Freedom of Information again) Thank you.

Jo M

The most effective way MPs can tackle this issue is to defeat the Government in the vote tomorrow.

I believe that MPs should be accountable to their constituents and be open to public scrutiny including their expenses. Parliament made the law and it should apply to MPs as it does to other citizens. I will therfore be voting against the order tomorrow and I hope the Government will be defeated.

 

Since 1997 there has been a huge increase in public sector jobs, salaries and expenses. I believe everyone in the public sector should be subject to the same scrutiny be it MPs, the BBC, doctors, judges, nurses, local government etc.

Added: 20 January 2009, 16:57

Is it your intention to vote to ensure that MP's expenses are kept available for scrutiny and do not become cloaked in secrecy again?

old central

I shall vote against the Government’s plan to restrict information about MPs' expenses.

I believe that the whole system should be transparent and MPs accountable.

Added: 19 January 2009, 13:52

Dear Mr Hammond, On the 16th of May 2008 the High Court ruled that MPs' expenses must be published under the Freedom of Information Act. This Thursday, 22nd January, MPs are voting to change the law to keep their expenses secret after all, just before publication was due and after spending nearly £1 million of taxpayers money and taking seven months compiling the data. I am keen to know your opinion on this matter? With this in mind, do you think it would be acceptable if other public servants didn't have to account for their expenses?

Dan

I shall vote against the Government’s plan to restrict information about MPs' expenses.

I believe that the whole system should be transparent and MPs accountable.

Added: 19 January 2009, 13:45

I've just seen on the Evening Standard's website that South West trains are planning to cut 500 staff and reduce the length of 100 trains a day. 12 carriage trains to be reduced to 8 and 8 car trains to 4. Trains are already terribly overcrowded from Wimbledon, and I'm concerned about station safety as well as being transported in dangerously overcrowded trains. All this on the back of train fare increases. Can anything be done to stop this happening? Thanks

Laura Bogard

I am aware of this story and have already written to the Chief Executive of South West Trains. I will need to see the details of the proposals - but please rest assured that I shall resist any moves by South West Trains that have a negative impact on the daily commute of my constituents in Wimbledon.

In general, Wimbledon is well served by South West Trains. However, if this move jeopardises the services we rely upon, I shall do all I can to fight it.

 

Added: 07 January 2009, 19:27

Is there any comment on the plans to site a huge industrial waste disposal site in the middle of Raynes Park? Due to work I have not been able to attend the recent meeting.

Julian Evans

 

Thank you for your message about the Rainbow Eco Park proposal.

 

On Saturday, 6 December I chaired a public meeting at St Saviours Church Hall which some 150 local residents attended and many expressed their thoughts on the proposal.

 

The key points arising from the meeting are as follows:-

 

Cllr Rod Scott outlined the objections to the proposals, amongst other things the size of development, traffic, noise and smell, lack of co-ordination with South London Waste Partnership proposals and the impact on Raynes Park.

 

The application is unlikely to be submitted until March. The Council will then take approximately thirteen weeks to determine the application.

 

Workspace Glebe have confirmed to me that they intend to hold a further exhibition with some revision to their proposals following the first exhibition.

 

I have proposed an Action Plan which involves local people writing to various organisations to express their views.

 

Pre Planning Application Submission to

 

1      South London Waste Consultation, The Project Manager, South London Waste Plan, Royal Borough of Kingston-upon-Thames, High Street, Kingston-upon-Thames, KT1 1EU, to express disappointment that this project is not being looked at in conjunction with the overall waste and recycling plan for South West London.

 

2      Workspace Glebe Ltd, 63a South Audley Street, London W1K 2QS, to say this is not an appropriate site for this proposal.

 

Post Planning Application Submission to

 

1      The Planning Department, London Borough of Merton, Civic Centre, London Road, Morden, Surrey, SM4 5DX to oppose the application. At the appropriate time a template and information sheet will be provided.

 

The final point of the Action Plan is that the local councillors, residents’ associations and I are gong to seek a further meeting with Workspace Glebe.

Added: 07 January 2009, 19:26

I have watched Israel's increasingly disproportionate use of force against Gaza with concern. For every Israeli killed by Hamas, Israel kills something like 200 Palestinians. I would be interested to know what your stance is on this terrible situation.

Amelia Bennett

I am gravely concerned about the continuing violence and the number of civilians injured and killed, both Palestinian and Israeli. It is imperative that further loss of life is avoided.

I support the Security Council’s call for an immediate ceasefire. I also support the call on Arab leaders to use their influence to stop the Hamas rocket attacks on Israel.

I note that President Obama said in July, ‘If someone were sending rockets into my house where my two daughters sleep at night, I would do everything to stop that and would expect Israel to do the same’. Just a few days ago the Foreign Minister of Egypt, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, said this to the Hamas leadership, ‘We have been urging you to renew the ceasefire with Israel but you refused. You are responsible for what is happening to the people of Gaza’.

I believe the only long-term solution is for a political settlement – a negotiated two state agreement that achieves a secure and internationally recognised and accepted Israel alongside a viable and secure Palestinian state. We want to see an early return to negotiations in 2009.

 

Added: 03 December 2008, 21:42

Very pleased to see article in Guardian freepaper re Wimbledon jobcentre. As a concerned resident and constituent, thank you for speaking up.

You campaigned - with some success - to save our sub-post offices. The jobcentre also provides an important local service and a place with the size, networks and status of Wimbledon needs one. We want to get more of our local people into work and give those being made redundant the assistance needed to find a way back. However it is dressed up there must surely be serious CAPACITY problems at Mitcham and Kingston JCs for customers and staff. Where is THE SPACE AND THE TIME for jobseekers with a shrinking and increasingly detached and remote service? Maybe the Broadway site is still available on reasonable terms if a flat conversion is now less lucrative , if an alternate site cannot be found.

Please continue to fight Wimbledon's corner and add the campaign to your praiseworthy list on this website.

Ms A. Jandu

 

Thank you for your message. I am still awaiting a response from the Government on this issue. It is my intention to continue to press them to reopen the Job Centre in Wimbledon, whether it be at the original suite or another. You are correct to say that in these worrying times, it is likely that the centres in Mitcham and Kingston will be stretched – and that is why we need this facility in Wimbledon.

Added: 02 December 2008, 21:42

Thank you for your interest and investigations into the 'Eco Park' behind Raynes Park Station. It appears that no one really knows how this will work or how successful it might be.

For this reason alone we should not be placing the recycling dump so near to residential housing.

We are about to have the other new development started which includes Waitrose and many flats (with balconies giving access to out of doors) which will also be affected by this risky unknown quantity. I hope that you will be able to influence Merton Council to be extremely careful and well informed before giving permission.

There is no visual image for this project. And no mention of a chimney.

Many thanks for listening.

Julia B

Julie Blackwater

 

Please see above.

 

 

Added: 16 November 2008, 21:42

Do yo have a separate email address for issues of national rather than local interest?

David Powell-Evans

 

No. Please get in touch with me via the Contact page of this website for all issues.

 

 

 

Added: 05 November 2008, 21:42
Dear Stephen, As a resident in the centre of Wimbledon I have very limited outside space, but long to grow vegetables for my own consumption. This is born from a growing need to eat healthier and also battle the rising costs of food. Allotments in the area are subject to up to a 10 year waiting list, with the quickest being 3-6 months but in remote locations. What can be done to provide more allotments in the Wimbledon central area.

Phil Geraghty

The provision of allotments is really a matter for the local council. Having read your message I have written to the council on this issue and will update this page as soon as I have had a response. If you would like to contact the relevant department in the meantime, please call 020 8545 3665.

 

Added: 29 October 2008, 12:58
By chance I have noticed on the council website that Merton council are looking at planning to allow a "Goals" to be built in Morden Park. This is a loss of community land to the public and with two goals already existing within a 5 mile radius is it actually needed. It's appalling that I only found out about it by chance and it seems that local residents are being kept in the dark rather than informed by the council. I agree that Morden needs development and improvement as it appears to be the forgotten child of the borough with money always spent elsewhere but I do not believe that building a facility which will operate under floodlight until 11:00pm each night is a residential area is the correct approach. Please can you tell me your opinion on the building of "Goals" in Morden Park.

Richard Inwards

I agree that Morden Park is an excellent local park. Whilst sports facilities in the area do need upgrading, these need to be for local people and I am not convinced that a ‘Goals’ type development is appropriate. I am working hard to ensure that local people’s views and wishes are respected.

Added: 27 October 2008, 12:20
Dear Mr Hammond, I wonder to what extend you are aware of the plans for the 'Rainbow Eco Park' which is intended to replace the industrial estate next to Raynes Park Station? I attended the Public Exhibition (Sat 25 Nov) and while this was informative, I fear, given the short time-scale involved, there may not be an opportunity for the public to fully investigate the potential impact on their local area, before planning permission is granted. While in principle, I am not against the concept, I would be keen to have the companies claims independently verified or investigated. Kind regards.

Dan W

I have been aware of these plans for some time now. The planning application has not even been submitted yet. When this is done, the public will have the opportunity to respond to the application before any decision is reached.

I am taking a keen interest in this issue, and I am listening to the views of residents about this project. There appears to be many concerns about the Eco Park, and I will represent those to the Council. I have met the company and have listened to their plans, and I am attempting to verify all the claims that are being made by the company. I have also had meetings with local councillors regarding the details of the project.

 

Added: 25 September 2008, 13:31
I see the item in your Westminster Report about future timetable proposals for the Thameslink service. These should be aired more publicly so that passengers can see the exact detail. Then we will know exactly what is proposed. Are the plans to which you refer on any public website? A root problem is that the Wimbledon Loop generates little off-peak traffic, partly due to its tortuous route and slow journey times. Without cross-Thames destinations it will go into a downward spiral of low usage and decline.

Andrew Dean

The proposals are indeed public – they are part of Network Rail’s South London RUS (Route Utilisation Strategy), which was published in March and is available on Network Rail’s website.

I am campaigning for optimal services for Wimbledon passengers. At present, Network Rail plans to terminate all Thameslink trains from Wimbledon at Blackfriars after 2012 or 2015. This is unacceptable and will cause considerable disruption for passengers wishing to travel from Wimbledon to St Pancras.

I have met with the management of Network Rail and First Capital Connect to discuss this matter, and will continue to press these organisations – and the Government – to show flexibility.

Added: 25 September 2008, 13:24
I agree with your remarks on the District Line on this site. The views given in your distributed Westminster Report were an imperfectly edited version which did not make such sense. Certainly, the City service (D stock) is not frequent enough in the rush hours. Also this service (D stock) stops running too early in the evening leading to rush-hour-style crowding at eg 2300. A problem might be shortage of stock. If the District Line can spare a couple of extra units they could run a High St Ken/Wimbledon service (C or D stock)to back up the present service. Also, by stationing a relief driver at termini, trains could be turned around faster (ie a new driver takes out an incoming train almost immediately, the incoming driver then taking out the succeeding train etc).

Andrew Dean

Thank you for your comments. I certainly agree with the first two points you make about the District Line. However, I do not believe the problem is entirely down to lack of stock - it is also because of management failure to allocate the stock according to demand profiles.

I also agree with your point about turning trains around.

We also need to ensure that the signalling upgrades promised under the Metronet contract are delivered. This will improve capacity throughout the city.

Added: 19 September 2008, 13:16
Dear Mr Hammond I heard a report on the "Today" programme that there was a rumour that a deal had been done between Lloyds TSB and the government whereby Scottish jobs would be protected at the expense of English jobs following the merger. What if anything can be done to ensure that any redundancies are spread fairly across the entire country?

Madeleine Cox

It is my understanding that the chief executive of Lloyds TSB has made no firm commitments about job numbers or locations following the merger of Lloyds TSB and HBOS. This will surely become clear in the coming months. I share your concerns and believe that the Government needs to do all it can to protect jobs all over the UK. I would be very concerned if these rumours of a deal are indeed true.

Added: 14 September 2008, 11:11

Dear Mr Hammond,

Many of your constituents in Wimbledon use the Eurostar to travel to the continent. However, we're being held back by the UK's paranoid failure to join the Schengen Agreement and thus Eurostar (and indeed other European train operators come the open lines agreement) will not invest in the draconian border controls needed for a truly continental train service to other destinations beyond Paris/Brussels.

Despite terrorist threats from the IRA, we've never had passport controls for travel to/from ROI. So what exactly do we have against our European neighbours who would never be denied travel here anyway?

Can you please explain your stance on the Schengen Agreement and if, as I hope, you believe the UK should be a part of it, that you might raise a question in government about reassessing the UK's case for Schengen?

Robert Lawson

As you know the Schengen Agreement allows for the removal of border controls between signatory countries. However, Schengen Countries still require travellers to carry either a passport or identity card when crossing ‘internal’ borders and to produce identity cards or passports when registering in hotels. In addition some EU countries also require identity cards to be carried at all times by their own and other EU citizens. We in the Conservative party have consistently opposed the Governments attempts to introduce compulsory identity cards into the UK.

With regards to Ireland there is a long standing agreement dating back to Irish independence that allows for free travel across the land border in Northern Ireland.

In the Conservative party we are not convinced that removing our own border controls in order to rely on common external controls will help in the fight against illegal immigration and terrorism. We do however support some aspects of Schengen relating to data sharing.

Given that if we did join Schengen British travellers would still be required to carry passports, including on the Eurostar, (and show them at airports), and that our only land border in Northern Ireland is currently free of border controls there would also seem to be little practical benefit to be gained from joining.

Added: 18 August 2008, 13:15
Dear Mr Hammond, I note your press release stating: "Stephen Hammond said: "I was first informed of rumours to locate a bail hostel in Nursery Road by local residents about a month ago. I immediately wrote to the Home Secretary expressing my outrage."" I wondered what your views on the location of bail hostels in the borough were? You mention consultation, but I suspect that one could predict the outcome of consultation without doing it!

Mr Patterson

At the heart of this issue is the need to tighten bail laws and ensure public safety is put first. New research has revealed that when criminal suspects breach bail, they face weak penalties or none at all. The latest figures show that almost half of all those who breach bail are let off with a fine, the average amount being just £60 – less than a typical town hall fine for a householder who puts out their rubbish on the wrong day.

In addition - and of most concern to residents in Merton - there is growing public disquiet over the use of bail hostels to accommodate early release prisoners and criminal suspects. Hundreds of private bail hostels for criminals and suspects are being imposed on residential areas without consultation. They house offenders released before the end of their sentences or people on bail awaiting trial who would otherwise be remanded in custody. The private contractor ClearSprings has already opened around 160 hostels this year.

Local authorities are being given little or no say in where the hostels are located. Local residents and neighbours of the properties are excluded too. I believe the ClearSprings scheme should be suspended. It also fails to provide adequate support for, and supervision of, suspects and offenders.

The current system is not working. Bail is too easily granted, frequently breached and weakly enforced. Public confidence is undermined when bail conditions are routinely breached, and offenders now hold the criminal justice system in contempt. New victims of crime are created unnecessarily.

Added: 10 August 2008, 16:03
Dear Mr Hammond, I would like to express my opposition to faith schools and specifically to those that are funded by the state. Whilst i recognise and uphold the right of everyone to practice their own beliefs i strongly oppose that they should have exclusive schools that are funded by the taxpayer. It is not the job of publicly funded schools to instil a religious faith in children. The state has an interest to ensure that it's children grow up to be responsible and tolerant citizens. However, faith schools are spiritual ghettos and teach children in a religious apartheid that does little to prepare them for the realities of a multi-cultural society. I believe that religion should be taught as a curriculum subject but that it should never be the governing ethos of a school. With it's claims of absolute truths it skews impressionable young minds with a delusional view of life and death and perpetuates the prejudice and bigotry of earlier generations. Yours sincerely Guy Wilkins

Guy Wilkins

I respect and understand the views that you express. Clearly historically there are a number of schools - both Church of England and Roman Catholic - which are part Diocesan funded and part State funded. There is no intention, I believe, to increase the number of schools funded in such a way.

 

As to new faith schools, the majority are wholly non-State funded, and/ or have to hold open a certain percentage of their places to non-adherents of their faith.

Added: 23 July 2008, 11:08

Dear Mr Hammond, Thank you for such a detailed and thorough response. On the basis of what you say, I wonder if you will be signing and supporting the Early Day Motion (EDM 2105), introduced by John McDonnell MP, which asks for an independent public inquiry into the Governments consultation process? According to evidence obtained by the BBC's 'Panorama' program through the Freedom of Information Act, BAA used doctored information during the consultation process to present false information on carbon emissions and noise pollution.

Dan W

I am deeply worried that the Government has already made up its mind on this and that the consultation is just a sham. They have already made it very clear that they want a third runway. However, I do not believe that signing that EDM is the most effective way of holding Ministers to account for this. My colleagues in the Shadow Transport Team and I are working hard to compel the Government to answer some very tough environmental questions on Heathrow. And we shall continue to do so.

As a local MP and resident, I am extremely concerned about the possibility of additional flights over Wimbledon that would result from expansion, and the resulting increase in pollution. It is essential that the Government recognises the impact of an extra runway at Heathrow.

Added: 14 July 2008, 11:13
Dear Mr Hammond, Business Secretary John Hutton has indicated today that there will be a third runway at Heathrow, claiming that: "...ultimately the British people, would not forgive us if we shirked our responsibility to do what's right because we wanted an easy ride from green lobby groups." Pending the governments decision later this year can you advise what your position, and that of the Conservative Party is regarding the Heathrow expansion? I would like to add that I'm personally disgusted with the way in which the government are pushing this agenda in the name of "the public". I for one would rather see such "difficult decisions" being made with the environment (both globally and locally) as the central concern - rather than money. The noise pollution and frequency of flights is already quite astounding - even in Wimbledon and while many of us may be able to 'block this out', not all of us are able to do so.

Dan W

I understand the economic importance of our airports both for passengers and for freight. I also recognise that Heathrow in particular contributes significantly to the UK economy. However, I do not believe that the Government has made the case for expansion. The analysis of the economic case in their consultation document “Adding Capacity at Heathrow” and the Oxford Economic Forecasting report on Heathrow is inadequate in a number of respects, not least of which is that it pays insufficient regard to the costs of pollution and noise in the areas around the airport.

The Government’s consultation document fails to make the economic case, fails to make the environmental case, and fails to give proper consideration to the alternatives to expansion. It is vital that we carry out a much more effective assessment of the environmental costs of expansion before any final decision is made.

I am deeply concerned that both Gordon Brown and his Secretary of State for Transport, Ruth Kelly, have completely closed minds on this issue. They are determined to press ahead with a third runway and sixth terminal at Heathrow, without proper consideration of the environmental issues, and have been relaying too heavily on data supplied by BAA. As the company that owns Heathrow, BAA has a direct and obvious commercial interest in pushing the case for expansion. It seems to me that the Government’s whole consultation exercise has been little more than a sham since Mr Brown’s mind is already made up, and it is very worrying that the Government has not produced the objective and trustworthy data the country needs to make a proper assessment on the important economic and environmental issues at stake here.

By contrast, we believe that before any government can be in a position to make a responsible and properly informed decision on the future of Heathrow, four key environmental tests must be satisfied.

1. Is expansion consistent with meeting EU rules on Nox emissions binding from 2010?

2. Is expansion consistent with ensuring there is no increase in the overall noise footprint of Heathrow and a progressive reduction of that footprint in the medium term?

3. Is expansion consistent with meeting our climate change targets for cutting carbon emissions?

4. Has full consideration been given to other means of dealing with capacity constraints at Heathrow, including progress towards more high speed rail in this country?

Thank you for your message.

Added: 25 June 2008, 23:42
I just want to thank you very much for replying to my e-mail i sent last weekend so promptly. It feels great to know that someone is actually listening and taking this seriously. You said that you will be writing to Mrs Wilkes. I just wanted to let you know that she is leaving the school this term and so her last day will be the 11th of July. Many thanks Amber Sorrell

Amber Sorrell

Thank you for your message and for letting me know about Mrs Wilkes.

Added: 24 June 2008, 15:48
Theyworkforyou.com is an independent website, and it assessed the effect of your votes and decided that you opposed transparency in parliament. You were strangely absent from the vote for or against the bill (despite being there to vote on the earlier procedural motions). You didn't vote in favour of it, but you voted for procedural things that made it more likely to pass - a view which is backed up by Theyworkforyou.com. Given that you're so keen to say that you didn't vote in favour of it; tell me this, why didn't you vote against it?

Frank Witney

As you say, theyworkforyou is an independent website - it does not have a monopoly on wisdom. I did not vote for the Bill and therefore theyworkforyou is wrong to say I am against transparency. I am in favour of transparency. The procedural motion could have just as easily allowed the Bill to fail.

Added: 15 June 2008, 12:35
Stephen Can you confirm that you will be supporting an Early Day Motion calling on government to issue those who served in bomber command with a campaign medal?

CHRIS

I am very supportive of the Bomber Command Association's campaign for a proper BC memorial and my colleagues continue to be in close touch with their President and their Chairman in relation to assisting their fund-raising endeavours.
However the Conservative Party has a clear policy that we will not endorse any new medals until we return to office, at which point we will have a chance to review all the current claims.

Added: 08 June 2008, 21:14
Dear Mr Hammond, Why have you voted strongly against a transparent Parliament? Something to hide? http://www.theyworkforyou.com/mp/stephen_hammond/wimbledon#votingrecord

Frank Witney

I have absolutely nothing to hide. The link you provided refers to the Freedom of Information (Amendment) Bill. As I have previously said, I did NOT vote for the Bill to exempt MPs from the Freedom of Information Act. I voted for the closure motion which enabled a vote to be taken - I did not support the Bill.

Added: 04 June 2008, 14:22
1. Thank you for the "local survey" which is a good developement. 2. The local parks are generally well maintained and although graffiti is less than it was there are still signs of litter deposits such as bottles, food wrappers, cigarette ends, etc left by groups of young people at certain times of the day. The local community police should be aware when and when this is likely to be happening but never seem to do anything about it. 3. Road surfaces, even newly laid ones, are being dug up by cabel layers followed by totally inadequate re surfacing repairs which quickly detoriate. Why do the local authority not monitor and control this work and perhaps insist those responsible repair the whole width of the road to an acceptable standard that will last as well as the surface thy destroy ?4. Why is it the police never catch burgalers of domestic properties or seem to do anythig at all about it ? 5. Despite numerous phone calls to Merton Waste Removal the collectors always leave bin lids open. Closing them would be helpful and keep out the rain ! But the lids are ALWAYS carelessly left open when it would be so easy to close them. Drying out heavy wheelie bins full of water is'nt easy !

Richard Ingham

Thank you for your comment about the survey, I believe it is important to hear the views of local residents.

I agree that many local parks are very well maintained. But I also agree that more can be done. Both park rangers and the police need to police more rigorously and enforce a zero-tolerance policy on graffiti. Park management is an area that is in need of improvement.

I recognise your point about the re-surfacing of roads and shall follow it up with the London Borough of Merton. I shall also ask them about this issue of leaving bin lids open following refuse collections.

Added: 02 June 2008, 19:27
i am so fed up with the housing situation in west lothian i am a single mum two children and hard worker and my children have to still share a room at ten and twelve years old boy and girl it is redicoulous because i have been fighting this issue for a number of years now and because i dont have alot of points but it is a priority they dont have a house for me and there have been numerous houses available within the area but because i dont have medical points not an alcoholic healthy working person i am moving nowhere i cant afford to buy because i only workl partime but im a single mum as well noone to help me and i am really fed up with it outsiders are coming into the area not even on a housing list5 and they are getting a;ll the houses.

ellen mitchell

Under strict parliamentary convention, I am only supposed to deal with my own constituents. Please contact your local MP.

Added: 28 May 2008, 21:23
Mr Hammond, I noticed in the Evening Standard that you were calling for a change in allowances for second homes for London MPs - which is a good thing - however, it seemed to suggest that you supported paying MPs a higher salary. Is this true?

Roy Patterson

I believe that the whole system of allowances and remuneration needs reform. The allowances are all too often open to misinterpretation, and they are misunderstood by the public.

I could claim the Additional Costs Allowance of £24,000 but I believe it would be morally wrong for me to do so. My predecessor Roger Casale claimed it, but I think it is very difficult to sustain the view that any Greater London MP needs a second home in London.

I believe the Additional Costs Allowance and Communications Allowance should be done away with. I believe that office expenses should be shown as such and not as MPs’ allowances – after all I need an office and staff to carry out my parliamentary duties and my duties on behalf of my constituents.

I believe that MPs’ allowances, expenses and salary should be completely transparent, as should our employment of staff. All staff should meet criteria set for the job by the House of Commons and their salaries must conform to House of Commons pay scales. I employ my wife – however she has been a House of Commons secretary for over twenty years!

I believe that MPs should neither set their own salaries, nor vote on them. I believe that once every Parliament, the Review Board on Senior Salaries should compare MPs’ salaries with other comparable public sector jobs and then it should be indexed by wage inflation or RPI.

In the last three years I have taken sub-inflation pay increases and the London Allowance has not risen in line with its previous comparator. I work up to 80 hours a week including weekends. I deal with up to 500 letters each month that each need a reply. In addition I have my activities in the House - I am a Shadow Transport Minister - which take up a lot of time.

According to the previous Civil Service comparator we used, a similar grade Civil Servant now earns £107,000 a year. I recognise that the public would not initially be happy with this – but an initial rise to at least £75,000 is appropriate. Please remember that the average GP earns £118,000 and works fewer hours and hardly ever at weekends!

Added: 27 May 2008, 23:08
Dear Mr Hammond, I'm a Wimbledon College Pupil (I've officially left but still doing exams), and along with every sixth form pupil, I'm very concerned to hear we have a very serious funding problem. Fr Porter, as well as the local paper informed us this was due to government policy, which means successful schools don't get as much funding as they used to. However, I was delighted to hear as a governer, (although I've never seen you at an event/concert, but accepted, you are very busy) that you were "very concerned" and doing your upmost to campaign to ensure we get enough funding. Fr porter did mention that the Jesuits would step in and ensure we would scrape enough funding for September, although this still questions the long term survival of the sixth form.Finally, he mentioned you were going to try and get a question asked regarding us at PMQs. I commend you for trying to stand up for us, and was wondering if you could inform me what the current situation is, and what is being done by yourself to ensure Wimbledon College has a sixth form next September; furthermore, how soon will you be able to get a question at PMQs as we were told you would. I look forward to your response, Wimbledon College's sixth form is an important element of a great school, please do what you can to keep it going; all the best

Rory J

Thank you for contacting me about the funding problems at Wimbledon College and its Sixth Form. I have had a meeting with Father Porter and with Andrew Kennedy, Chairman of the Governors, as well as the local authority. I have also written to the Learning and Skills Council and to the Government – I would happily provide you with a copy of their replies if you give me your address.

The crisis has arisen due to two factors. Firstly there are some issues with how the College has submitted funding requests in the past, and standards. Secondly and more importantly, the LSC has changed its funding arrangements this year without any transitional arrangements.

As a result of my meeting with the local authority, I am convinced that both a short-term and a long-term solution can be found to the financial problems. I shall continue to work of a solution which is both acceptable and sustainable.

Added: 27 May 2008, 00:24

Dear Stephen This is a follow up to the message Added: 23 January 2007, 11:39 regarding the atmosphere and safety of Wimbledon central. It seems as if the situation is worsening rather than getting better, The city centre is not the most pleasant of places to be at many times during the week be it around school closing time or Fridays/Saturday nights. I witness shouting, abuse, youths running amok frequently and very little seems to be helping the situation. It's very intimidating and I really never thought I would see the day when I had to pick up my wife from the station on a Friday night after work in case she gets shouted at or abused by the numerous drunks or kids 'hanging' around. Only last night a friend commented that Wimbledon seemed a nice place to live a few years ago but it seems to have gone downhill. I'm sure there are many extra police on the streets etc etc but it doesn't look like that's helping all that much. My question is, what will/can you do about the problem? You only need to speak to any cab driver that works from the station to hear numerous stories of kids especially causing damage and frightening people on a daily basis. Surely the problem hasn't passed your radar?

John Williams

This problem certainly has not passed under my radar. The issue of Wimbledon Town Centre is one of the primary concerns of residents and is one on which I am working closely with the Council and relevant bodies.

I think one of the biggest problems is the position of the bus stops outside Centre Court which results in large gatherings of school children waiting for buses. I think the exits and the bus stops need to be staggered, but unfortunately Transport for London has so far resisted my efforts on this front.

It is also important that there is more for children to do after school and during their lunch break. We also need a larger police presence.

As for anti-social behaviour in the evenings, this is another issue I am aware of. I intend to work closely with the Mayor and the Borough Commander to ensure Wimbledon Town Centre is a safe place for everybody.

Added: 21 April 2008, 20:19
The Buses are absolutely packed in the mornings from 7.30 to 8.00 on weekdays. I a constantly pushed around on the bus surrounded by people with nowhere to sit or stand comfortably. Many people complain about buses i am sure however i am also sure that the majority of these people are adults. I am 14 and in year 10 and found i am looked done on by the community and seen as a person who doesn't have the right to be on a bus. I have a oyster card, which i also use and yet the communities opinion of me as an individual does not vary from people who do not own or use their oyster cards. I don't think the oyster card system works, all it does is make buses unbearably packed with students who do not need the bus to make their journey. Saying this, many adults to the same. Consistently adults flood on to the bus in hope to get to work and stay on for a mere 2 to 3 stops until the flood of again. I walk to school during the summer as i don't live to far from my school Ricards Lodge. However many live minutes away and feel the constant need to get on a bus when they could get some exercise and fresh air by walking the two feet it would take for them to arrive at school. It infuriates me when and adult or an other child gets told they can get onto a bus when i have been waiting much longer than they have, or another person has. It is also not fair for drivers to pick and choose who deserves to get to where they need to be on time. I leave my home in Raynes Park with plenty of time to spare before i go on my journey to school. However I find if i am a minute passed 7.40 the buses either just drive straight past you ignoring your presence or there are just so many others waiting that the pushing and shoving to squeeze on becomes ridiculous. I do not believe that the transport system, oyster card system or the common believe that adults should go on before children are fair or that they work. Perhaps there could be a ticket machine that shows when we got to the stop so that queuing is fair and that the people who really did get there first get the fairness of not having to wait 45 minuted to embark on a 15 minute journey. I look forward to seeing your response and hope you take my points into consideration as these issues and been settling for a long time with nobody taking action to see the end to them.

Meghan Peterson

As a daily commuter myself, I can sympathise with your frustrations. In many ways London buses have been a success story – patronage has increased by 75 per cent since 1985/86, up from 1,141 million journeys to 1,993 million in 2006/07. The consequence of this, however, is overcrowding, delays and inefficiency – especially during the morning rush hour.

I am sorry you feel looked down upon by other members of the community. I agree that one of the effects of free Oyster travel for young people is that people are making journeys that are not strictly necessary, leading to more overcrowding and discomfort for other passengers. If you have any specific complaints about drivers not picking you up at bus stops, you should address your complaints to Transport for London or London Travelwatch, the Watchdog for London’s passengers.

As a national politician, I have little power to influence London’s transport policy as it is managed by Transport for London. However, I have been working very closely with the new Mayor Boris Johnson on transport issues, and will continue to press him to make improvements to local bus services in Wimbledon and elsewhere. I am also involved in a project that is looking into the improvements that can be made to school transport in this country.

Thanks for getting in touch.

Added: 01 April 2008, 06:13
Dear Stephen - Can you see your way clear to signing up to Early Day Motion 658 dated 8th January 2008 which calls for "the Government to mark the centenary of the state pension in 2008 by raising the basic state pension for all pensioners above the official poverty level and restoring its link with earnings or prices, whichever is the greater"?. Regards RE

Roy England

I am very concerned about the serious plight of today’s pensioners. It is disgraceful that over two million pensioners are living in poverty.

Despite Labour’s promises, 5 million pensioners are now suffering from complex and degrading means-testing. The pension credit is so complicated and unpopular that up to 1.6 million pensioners are failing to claim the benefits they are entitled to.

You may be aware that Parliament has recently passed the 2007 Pensions Act. I support the Government’s aspiration of restoring the link between the State Pension and earnings, funded by an increase in the retirement age. Re-linking the Basic State Pension to earnings was our policy at the last election and we are delighted that the Government has adopted this.

Conservatives are now considering the best way in which to build on these reforms. As such, I cannot at present sign EDM 658. I will, however, make sure your views are considered as we look to creating a fair and sustainable pensions system.

Added: 14 March 2008, 14:43
THE CLOCK AT THE PRINCE OF WALES IS NOW WORKING

DONALD PAUL WILIAM DEANS

I am delighted the clock is ticking again.  I have been working for a long time with the Council and Punch Taverns to get the clock working again, and I welcome this positive outome.

Added: 07 March 2008, 15:15
Dear Stephen, I am a Northern Rock Shareholder. do you have a stance on this subject. I only have £500 worth of shares, i.e. not a lot, but it does seem to me blatant robbery that the government should just assume ownership, and I get nothing. I understand Parliament is to debate compensation for Northern Rock shareholders. Can you let me know what your views are please. Yours ever, Guy Hoogewerf

Guy Hoogewerf

I appreciate the concerns of Northern Rock shareholders who are faced with the prospect of their shares having little or no value. This is the consequence of both the flawed strategy pursued by Northern Rock’s management and the way in which the Government has handled the crisis over the last six months.

From the moment that the Government botched the announcement that the Bank of England was providing support, Northern Rock’s value deteriorated and made it more difficult for there to be a successful private sector solution to its problems. Indeed, although the bids by Virgin and Northern Rock’s own management would have given existing shareholders some hope for the future, both bids would have reduced the value of your shares.

Now that Northern Rock has been nationalised, a move that the Conservatives opposed, the Government has set out plans for the compensation of shareholders. In the debate on the Compensation Order, Shadow Treasury Minister, Mark Hoban MP, responded to the concerns of shareholders and demanded that the Government offer a clear explanation as to why the Order assumed that Northern Rock was in administration and not a going concern.

However, the reality of the situation is that Northern Rock has only continued to trade because of Bank of England and Treasury support and that has to be recognised in establishing the value of the business.

I believe that the Government has to take responsibility for the way it has dealt with the problems at Northern Rock over the last six months.

Added: 28 February 2008, 22:49
Will anything be done to discourage young people from buying "trophy" dogs eg pitbulls to match their image, it is becoming dangerous and unerving walking my own dog now incase i am attacked by one of these dogs as they seem to be growing in numbers, i say bring back the dog licence!!!

gary marshall gleghorn

I recently took up the issue of dangerous dogs with the Government. The DEFRA Minister responsible for animal health and welfare issues in England, Jeff Rooker, told me that all dog owners need to be aware of their responsibilities and the need to keep their dogs under control. There is robust legislation in place to deal with any individual dog that is considered to be dangerously out of control, regardless of its breed. Section 3 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 (as amended, 1997) makes it an offence for any dog to be dangerously out of control in a public place, or a place it has no right to be, whether or not it actually attacks someone. The maximum penalty is two years’ imprisonment, or a fine, or both.

The Minister went on to say that all owners need to be aware of their responsibilities and to this end his officials are working with the police and others involved with issues relating to dangerous dogs to provide guidance to those enforcing the law that is easy to understand and makes it clear what the responsibilities of law enforcers are. Simple guidance will also be made available to the public as to what the law is. It will be targeted at those most likely to be at risk from dog attacks. The Minister wished to stress that the Government remains committed to the vigorous enforcement of the law relating to dog attacks.

Only this week I have again written to the Minister regarding the question of bringing back dog licences, and will keep you informed.

Added: 02 February 2008, 17:32
Dear Mr Hammond. I am concerned to hear that the job centre in Wimbledon is going to close, rather than move, later this year. Are you aware of this?

Steven Bird

I too am concerned to hear this news. I am having a meeting tomorrow (6 February) with a representative from Jobcentre Plus on the subject of the Wimbledon centre, and I will post an update on this page afterwards.

------------

Further to my earlier posting, I have now met with a senior representative from Jobcentre Plus.

The disappointing news is that is seems inevitable that the Jobcentre in Wimbledon will close. The lease on the current premises has expired, and it has proved impossible to find a suitable alternative site.

It is likely that Wimbledon clients will be able to use the Jobcentres in Kingston, Sutton and Mitcham. There is also a Jobcentre in Wandsworth Town Centre.

I am extremely disappointed by this development, but please rest assured that I intend to work extremely hard to ensure that an adequate solution is found, and that the people of Wimbledon continue to have the access to Jobcentre services they require.

Added: 02 February 2008, 08:57
I note, from various news sources, that you employ your wife, who according to one newspaper has worked in the House of Commons for much longer than you have been an MP. Why did you choose to do that and do you employ any other members of your family?

Old Central

My wife has worked for Members of Parliament since 1984. The Hertfordshire MP for whom she was working before the last General Election retired and she was offered a job by his successor. However, when I was successful at the General Election, after much discussion, we decided that she would be more useful working for me than for another MP. We have lived in Wimbledon for nine years and felt that her local knowledge would be helpful, and this has indeed been the case.

I do not employ any other family members.

Added: 02 January 2008, 14:35
Mr Hammond, I used to live in Kingston - the Conservative candidate for MP there, Kevin Davies, was sceptical about the true effect of climate change. I wondered if you could tell me what you think about climate change and what we should do about it?

John

Climate change is a very serious global issue, which is why we put pressure on the Government to introduce a Climate Change Bill in 2006. 

I share the Conservative Party's thorough commitment to tackling climate change and we will continue to press the Government to include rolling annual carbon reduction targets and the establishment of an independent body to set targets and monitor the UK’s progress in reducing carbon emissions.

Added: 09 December 2007, 10:39
Dear Mr Hammond What is your opinion on the following: 1. The fact that Scottish MPs may vote on matters that concern only England and Wales and do not apply to Scotland whereas English and Welsh MPs may not vote on Scottish matters. 2. The fact that Residents of the UK (except Scotland) must pay tuition fees to go to university in Scotland whereas Scottish and EU students do not have to pay tuition fees. Do you find this system unfair?

R Baker

I do agree that there is an innate anomaly here – the so-called ‘West Lothian Question’.

I support the Union, which serves all four parts of the United Kingdom well and enables us to achieve much more together than would be the case if we were separate nations. However, the Government’s failure to address the unfinished business of devolution has created a constitutional imbalance which, if ignored, could create tensions that would result in a fracturing of the United Kingdom itself.

I think that English MPs, elected by English constituents, should have exclusive say on English legislation. Something must be done to remedy the inconsistency whereby MPs elected for English constituencies cannot vote on Scottish issues, yet Scottish MPs can vote on everyone else’s laws but their own.

With this in mind, I think it would be hypocritical of me to comment on tuition fees in Scotland, which is a matter for the devolved administration in Edinburgh.

Added: 03 October 2007, 18:04
Dear Sir, The Merton-Hackney Tube ("Crossrail 2") not only stands to relieve overcrowding at more London termini than Crossrail 1, but it will also offer more relief on the tube as well (particularly as the proposed alignment will take over part of the Central Line). Crossrail 2 will also be able to link up to Heathrow airport using South West Train's existing tracks and building onwards from Feltham. All these benefits plus finally a link between SW and NE London! What are your personal opinions in terms of the Government favouring Crossrail 1 over The Merton-Hackney tube given the benefits of Crossrail 2 are far more apparent? Why is Wimbledon missing out on yet another transport project despite being one the most overcrowded and busiest railway junctions in the country?

John Havern

Wimbledon faces several transport issues. Firstly, the problem of overcrowding on the trains into Waterloo and I will try to ensure that the ex Eurostar platforms are used to expand capacity.

Secondly, the Northern Line is all too often a dismal experience for passengers. We need an upgrade to South Wimbledon tube station and a signalling upgrade.

Thirdly, the District Line is going to suffer from the Metronet fiasco and the possibility that the sub-surface line improvements might not happen. I will continue to press the Mayor for reassurance. The operational managers of the line are extremely poor and need to be replaced.

Finally, I am entirely supportive of the Merton-Hackney line. I agree it could bring huge benefits. I also support Crossrail. I see no reason why they both cannot occur- if Livingstone did not waste so much of tax payers’ money!

I recognise the need for excellent transport links for Wimbledon and will continue to fight for it.

Added: 24 September 2007, 09:15
Dear Sir, Firstly may I congratulate you on cleaning up Raynes Park station. As a frequent user it always upset me how graffiti would spring up overnight - and I do not exaggerate here, in the morning I would notice graffiti being cleaned away or painted over and by the following morning a new set of graffiti had appeaedin its place. Would it not be prudent to try to deal with the problem at the root? It seems to me that it is easy to gain access to the station at night thus resulting in graffiti popping up like rabbits. Logically if it were harder to gain access at night we'll see a reduction in graffiti. My second point is also linked with the station and the transport costs. I have witnessed huge price hikes over the last 5 or 6 years with very little improvement to the service. I have noted that certain stations, such as Raynes Park and Norbiton, do not have ticket barriers. What many people do is take a free ride to a station. Norbiton station is only 5 minutes walk away from Kingston, and so many school children simply get off at Norbiton and walk, without paying for their journey, or in some cases no doubt buying a ticket to get through the barriers at their home station (if it has any) which is only valid for one station. If we were to introduce barriers at these stations, more people would be forced to pay for using public transport and perhaps some may be deterred from using what seems to be a freebie service. This would inevitably leave more money for reinvestment into the stations and into the service itself. And maybe, just maybe, we could see a halt in the ever rising prices of our public transport. Can you promise me that you will at least look into these ideas and using your powers as Shadow Minister for Transport actually take these views to parliament and generate a real debate? Thank you very much for taking the time to read this, and I wish you good luck for the future.

Konrad Bukowski

Thank you for your comments about the clean-up of Raynes Park Station. The state of the station has improved noticeably, but I recognise the need to be ever vigilant. Graffiti is still a problem and I will continue to do all I can to combat it.

In general, I agree that we must put a stop to passengers getting free rides on our trains and we need to have a serious look at station security and revenue protection.

South West Trains, which operates the station, has a responsibility to make its stations better. I have therefore written to South West Trains with regards the specific proposals you make.

 ---

 I have now received a response from the Managing Director of South West Trains. On the question of graffiti, he says that part of the current franchise commitment is to place CCTVs at every station managed by South West Trains, in an effort to deter vandals and to provide a safer travelling environment. Raynes Park currently has CCTV and the local Police Community Liaison Officers regularly patrol the station.

 As for ticket barriers, you will be pleased to hear that South West Trains intends to install barriers over the coming months at both Norbiton and Raynes Park. Like you, I hope this will help reduce the number of people travelling without buying tickets.

 

 

Added: 21 September 2007, 21:43
Having recently checked the Breastfeeding Manifesto MP supporters, as published on their site, I was surprised to see that you were not on it. Is this a case of you not being in support of it, or have just not signed your name?

E Dar

I have read the Breastfeeding Manifesto with interest.

I find the arguments in favour of breastfeeding compelling. There is strong evidence that babies do best if they have nothing but breast milk for the first four to six months of life, and that this is particularly important if there is a history of diabetes or allergies in the mother’s family. Moreover, breastfeeding babies protects them from infections and illnesses including diarrhoea, ear infections and chest infections, and for many babies this protection from infection persists even after breastfeeding has ceased. In addition, mothers who breastfeed are less at risk from pre-menopausal breast cancer, ovarian cancer and broken bones due to osteoporosis in later life.

I fully agree that the government should do all it can to promote breastfeeding. I would be concerned, however, at any suggestion that legislation should be the means of achieving this.

I do though support the sentiment behind the Manifesto and many of its recommendations. I will follow its progress closely.