Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
WORKING FOR YOU So much to do as parliament returns
As the summer comes to a close and we reach for our brollies, and after a good few weeks with friends and family out in our community, I’m heading back down to London for the next session of parliament.
And I will be armed with a long shopping list of issues and campaigns that have been raised with me by local people.
I say it often, because it is true; it’s a great honour to represent the people of Coatbridge, Chryston and Bellshill in Parliament – and there is a lot to do.
Theresa May continues to lead a government that has no plan for our relations with the European Union.
A reckless Tory Brexit will do nothing for the people of our area, and I will continue to fight against it in Parliament.
It is vital we get this right – vital for jobs, livelihoods and the futures of our children and young people.
And, as the Shadow Secretary of State for Brexit Keir Starmer, said, “all options remain on the table”.
Another important issue on my agenda is the government’s approach to welfare.
I’ve written to the Tory Work and Pensions Secretary, Esther McVey, about my concerns about the rumoured scrapping of the Pensions Dashboard and also worries around PIP and Universal Credit.
I have had so many residents come to my surgery, or email me, with their issues around PIP and I will be applying for a debate on PIP in Parliament; there are too many questions and I want the minister to give us the answers.
The Westminster recess gave me a chance to get out and about in our wonderful area.
I had meetings with councillors and two important pop-up surgeries; one on WASPI women and the other on benefits.
I was really pleased that we had good turnouts for discussions on these important issues.
Please let me know of any pressing issues you have in your part of the community.
We will be going back to a fractious Westminster, but there is no time for games; every day I travel down there, I work in the interests of our area – and will continue doing so.
Finally, I was very sorry to hear of the death of my friend Gordon Encinias, the Labour Councillor for Coatbridge South.
It was a privilege to know Gordon, to campaign with him and to fight for our area together.
His commitment and passion will be sorely missed by all who knew him and those he represented.
As ever, if you need me or my office to help with any issue, please email me at Hugh.Gaffney.MP@ parliament.uk
It was a privilege to know Gordon, to campaign with him and to fight for our area together