The Challenges for Richmond Park

Written by Jenny Tonge MP and published in Richmond Informer on Wed 15th Oct 2003

Some of you may have heard that I have stepped down from my post as Shadow Secretary of State for International Development. I asked to be released from this duty because, with less than two years to go before the next General Election, when I shall not be standing, it is important for another MP to work up the position.

It does not mean I lose interest in all those issues I have been promoting. I am still pushing for fair trade and debt relief and more aid for developing countries in the health and education fields. I remain Vice Chairman of the Sudan Group, where a peace agreement is being negotiated and the African Great Lakes Group.

I am determined to continue to press the Government on the crisis in the Middle East - Tony Blair seems more and more inclined to support George Bush on policy in that area too, which is depressing.

However, there are many challenges in Richmond Park.

We must keep on fighting the expansion of Heathrow, however gloomy the outlook and I intend to ensure that every household is consulted on the Crossrail proposals and their effect on our public transport. Your views will be welcome on this.

I am also concerned that despite some new nurseries opening recently, we still do not have enough childcare in the area for parents who need it, and our Secondary Schools are still not as successful as they should be.

And finally, I am determined to put as much wind as possible behind the "Axe the Tax" Campaign. Council tax has risen so much in recent years it has pushed many pensioners beyond their financial limits. It is time to replace Council tax with a fair local tax, based on ability to pay.