Ian McCartney MP

Crewe and Nantwich Labour Party welcomed former cabinet minister Ian McCartney to a fundraising dinner at the Crewe Arms on tonight.

David Williams, Labour's Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich, said:

"I was delighted to welcome Ian, particularly with this week being the 10th anniversary of the introduction of the National Minimum Wage. Ian was the Minister who took the Act through the House of Commons in the face of very intense Tory opposition. They did not want British workers to have basic pay protection and did everything they could frustrate Labour delivering our manifesto promise.

"I firmly believe that the minimum wage will be a lasting legacy of the Blair Government, in the same way that health and safety legislation introduced by Wilson's Government transformed British workplaces."

Rt Hon Ian McCartney MP told Labour Party members as he addressed a packed restaurant:

"We are living in unprecedented global economic circumstances and we have to ensure that working people are supported. They must not be left to sink or swim as the Tories did in the 1980s and 90s.

"No other world leader has ever made the efforts made by Gordon Brown to achieve global agreement on the economy, to defend working people and families, to invest in welfare and the creation of new employment.

"The Conservatives cannot be trusted and will take advantage of the global economic crisis to drive down wages. They will defend privilege, take no international action and cut public services. The Tories will cap increases in the National Minimum Wage and introduce exemptions that will make it meaningless.

"Only Labour is looking out for working people."


Pictured: Ian McCartney, David Williams and Cllr Mo Grant, Chair of Crewe and Nantwich Labour Party.

Rt Hon Ian McCartney MP

Tory priority is a tax cut for millionaires

David Williams challenges MP on inheritance tax plans

David Williams has today challenged his Tory opponent on whether he supports David Cameron's policy that does nothing for 96 per cent of families. At a time when the Tories have also called for cuts in police, Sure Start, housing and apprenticeships, this shows where their true instincts really lie.

David Williams, Labour’s Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich said:

"The Tories say they want to help ordinary families but their priority during the downturn is to give on average a £200,000 tax cut to 3,000 millionaires. It’s a policy that does nothing for 96 per cent of families in this country.

"They have confirmed that they will be campaigning in the next election on a manifesto which so far has only one definite pledge – an inheritance tax cut for millionaires.

"If the Conservatives meant what they said then they'd drop their tax cuts for the wealthiest estates and support the £145 tax cut that Labour are giving to basic rate taxpayers. My challenge to Mr Timpson is simple - at this tough time does he support an inheritance tax cut for millionaires that will do nothing to help the majority of people in Crewe and Nantwich?"

The vast majority of families in Crewe and Nantwich pay no inheritance tax. From 2010 the inheritance tax allowance will rise to £350,000 per person, or £700,000 for married couples. Below this amount families pay no inheritance tax at all.

TORIES LET DOWN LOCAL LONE PARENTS

Tories Repeating Mistakes of Last Recession says Labour Candidate

David Williams has attacked Edward Timpson MP for uniting with the Lib Dems in opposition to Labour’s Welfare Reform Bill. The Bill will help parents on benefits to get back to work. But while David Williams supports the plans he says the opposition of the Tories meant they were repeating the mistakes they made in last recession.

David Williams, Labour’s Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich, said:

“No one should spend their lives living off the taxpayer and these new laws will see everyone on benefits expected to do something to prepare for a return to work. I challenge Mr Timpson to stand up for the people of Crewe and Nantwich and tell his leader that we want a fairer benefits system.

“There are over 1100 lone parents on benefits in Crewe and Nantwich who could be better off thanks to this extra help. The Tories bang on about people being trapped on benefits but when the opportunity came to do something about it they opposed Labour’s action.

“The Tories opposition to this Bill is bad news for people on benefits and for taxpayers in Crewe and Nantwich. The Tories would leave parents on benefits and do nothing to stop children growing up in poverty.”

DAVID WILLIAMS WELCOMES TIGHTER REGULATIONS FOR BAILIFFS

David Williams has greeted plans for tighter regulation of bailiffs, announced by the Government today, as an important new protection for people in Crewe and Nantwich facing economic difficulties.

To safeguard the public from cowboy bailiffs Labour is introducing:

- an on-line certificated bailiff register allowing debtors to check bailiffs’ certification status;

- an extension to the certification process to ensure that all bailiffs provide a Criminal Records Bureau check with their application;

- minimum training requirements and competences for inclusion in the certification process.

These measures will contribute to the development of a more permanent solution of independent regulation in 2012. This will form the basis of a code which will govern the industry and require tougher checks on who can be a bailiff, as well as clearer guidelines on what they can and can’t do.

David Williams, Labour's Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich, said:

“People have a right to recover their debts, but no-one should have the right to threaten, bully or intimidate people just to collect cash they are owed.

"Regulation of bailiffs is an important part of protecting householders in disputes over debts and fines.

"Labour’s action will raise the level of professionalism among bailiffs by ensuring they are trained and know their legal limits. It will also ensure the public in Crewe and Nantwich is protected by having a properly regulated sector.”

UK travellers facing hefty medical bills for treatment in Europe

David Williams has urged Crewe and Nantwich residents who are travelling in Europe to check the renewal date on their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). The Department of Health has warned that 3.3 million will have expired by end of March. The warning comes as new figures show that only 292,089 people have renewed their EHIC to date, leaving more than 3 million people with an out-of-date card.

David Williams, Labour's Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich said:

"Anyone travelling with an expired EHIC is putting themselves at risk - they will not be covered for basic medical care. It is vital that UK residents holidaying in Europe carry their EHIC and take out adequate travel insurance to avoid having to pay out unnecessarily for medical costs that could be covered by a valid EHIC."

The EHIC, which replaced the E111 form in 2005, entitles people to reduced costs or free state-provided healthcare in most European countries should they fall ill or have an accident. The EHIC can be renewed online or over the phone and will be delivered within ten days; it can also be renewed up to six months in advance of expiry.

To renew or obtain an EHIC, click here or call 0845 606 2030. For further information call the EHIC enquiries line on 0845 605 0707.

David Williams welcomes victory for local blind people

Labour proposals mean weekly cash boost on way for blind people.

David Williams, Labour’s Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich, has welcomed more support for local blind people. Under the changes backed in the Welfare Reform Bill, 20,000 blind people nationally will be entitled to receive the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance.

The intention is to support visually impaired people with their additional mobility costs, allowing them greater freedom to get out and about either socially or to find work. At current rates this will mean an additional payment worth £29 a week to those who qualify (£1,508 per year).

David Williams said:

“I know many severely blind people have been waiting to hear this good news and will be very happy with the outcome. The Labour Government has been working closely with the RNIB to make this possible.

“It is shameful that the Tories have refused to say whether they would pay this money to blind people if they were to win an election.”

The Welfare Reform Bill has passed third reading stage today in the face of Tory opposition. The Bill will provide the additional powers to ensure that people make use of the help made available to them and maximise their employment prospects for the future.

Royal National Institute for the Blind

Real help for consumers

The Government today set out a package of real help to benefit consumers during the downturn:

Fair rules for debt enforcement – new measures will be introduced to provide clarity for debtors and certainty for creditors in advance of full independent regulation of the bailiff industry. Bailiffs’ powers of entry and force will not be extended and reforms to charging orders will not be introduced. There will be consultation which will set out the new rules and the way forward.

Credit cards – the Government will stop lenders from raising credit card borrowing limits where customer have not requested the increase, and it will end the practice of firms sending unsolicited credit card cheques. The Government will legislate at the earliest opportunity.

National Fraud Strategy – later this week the Government will set out the action it will take to tackle fraud which costs the UK £14 billion a year, and protect consumers from mass marketed frauds such as bogus lotteries, get rich quick schemes and investment scams.

Debt Relief Orders – from April, people on low incomes with limited debts who could not previously afford to go bankrupt will able to write off their debts and start again after a period of 12 months. This is not an easy option for people in debt – the insolvency will be a matter of public record and creditors will be able to apply to have the order revoked. But it will help those trapped in poverty.

The Money Guidance pathfinder - impartial sales-free advice on money issues will be available in the North West and North East of England from next month. It will help people stay in control of their finances, help them cope with income shocks and avoid the distress of problem debt.

Debt advice - the Government is currently reviewing the provision of debt advice to tackle any gap between capacity and demand and ensure we get the most out of the existing network of providers. This work will conclude before the summer. The Government invested £15.85 million in the debt advice sector at the last Pre-Budget Report in addition to the £130 million invested since 2006.

Mortgage advice - making £2.5m available for advice agencies to support the delivery of the new Homeowners Mortgage Support scheme.

St Patrick’s Day

Best wishes for a very happy and peaceful St Patrick’s Day. I know that today Britain’s Irish community will join with people in Ireland and all across the world in celebrating all that is best in Ireland’s past, present and future. The sheer size and number of parades and parties today, and the diversity of the participants, is testament to the role that Irish communities play in countries throughout the world. Whether in the arts, business, media, sport, politics, the voluntary sector or faith communities, Britain simply wouldn’t be Britain without the energy and excellence of the Irish contribution.

Ivan Cameron - Rest In Peace

It is with great sadness that I learnt of the death of Ivan Cameron, eldest son of the Conservative Party Leader David Cameron.

Any loss of life is tragic, but to lose a child is a loss that no parent should have to bear.

My thoughts are with David, Samantha, Arthur and Nancy at this difficult time.

TORY CUTS COULD CLOSE ONE OF CREWE AND NANTWICH'S CHILDREN’S CENTRES

David Williams has challenged Edward Timpson MP to name which Sure Start Children's Centre he would close.

Labour's Parliamentary Candidate, David Williams, today warned that Conservative Party plans to cut £200 million each year from the Sure Start budget, could see a Crewe and Nantwich Children’s Centre forced to close its doors.

There are currently five Children’s Centres in Crewe and Nantwich. But the £200 million cut proposed by David Cameron’s Conservatives means cutting almost 20 per cent of the Sure Start budget – the equivalent of closing one in five Children’s Centres.

David Williams said:

“Parents in Crewe & Nantwich regularly tell me how much they value their local Sure Start Children’s Centre and the real help they offer with childcare, healthcare and other services for their children.

“Ten years ago there were no Children’s Centres in our area, but now there are five across Crewe and Nantwich. But if the Tories get their way and slash the Sure Start budget by £200 million one of these Children’s Centres would have to close, just at the time when families in our area need them most.

"I can only assume Mr Cameron has asked Mr Timpson which Children's Centre should close to fund the Tories' policy. It is only fair that Crewe and Nantwich parents are told as well.

“The Labour Government will keep investing in Sure Start because the early years of a child’s life are so important. We don’t want to put that at risk by letting the Conservatives cut Sure Start."

In Conservative's ‘Helping new families’ policy document published on 15 March 2008, the Conservatives committed to cutting “£200 million per year…from Children’s Centres” to spend elsewhere. This would mean cutting 19.5% from Sure Start budgets – the equivalent of one in five Children’s Centres being forced to close.

On top of this the Conservative Party is committed to restricting the Department for Children, Schools and Families budget to a 1% real terms increase from April this year - representing a £300 million cut. As yet, they have not come clean about where these cuts would fall, but this could represent further cuts to Sure Start.

There are five Sure Start Children's Centres in Crewe and Nantwich: Monks Coppenhall; Underwood West; Pebble Brook; Nantwich, and Crewe Rural.

Please click here for more information on Sure Start.

Mobile Surgery: Davenport Avenue (Crewe)

I did my mobile surgery on Davenport Avenue in Crewe this morning (I haven't done the Nantwich Davenport Avenue yet). I was joined on the knocker by Peter Kent, Pam Minshall, Steve Hogben and Jules Hornbrook who was ably assisted by young master Crewe Blog!

Jules (Crewe Blog) very kindly supplied the above picture of the Labour team talking to the Jeff Smith and another David Williams, who are Chair and Secretary of Gresty Community Group respectively.

They both told me that neighbourhood policing is working well and they have a good working relationship with local officers. I am pleased to hear this because you see so much criticism of PCSOs and police officers in the media. They get a bad press that isn't deserved.

The issue of starlings was also raised with me by residents. The birds that used to entertain us at the Alex have now been moved from Waverly Court and they've decided to roost in the conifers next to Mornflake Oats. The consequent bird droppings means that those living on the south side of Davenport Avenue are constantly washing cars and hosing down driveways.

I spoke to my mate who runs a wildlife hospital and has great expertise in these matters. He says that the residents have about another month of this before the starlings start pairing up and making chicks. They will start roosting again in October, but may not return to the same site. So the Davenport Avenue people might get away with it in the Autumn?

Please click here to visit the Gresty Community Group website.

Stand up for hope, not hate

On March 14th the BNP is planning to hold their first ever mass rally in a UK city. But the anti-fascist group Searchlight is going to stop them. They've launched a petition which demands that Merseyside Police turns down the BNP's application and stands up to racism.

A delegation of Liverpool's community champions will hand in the petition directly to the Police on February 27th. Help Searchlight build the pressure - sign the petition and then get your friends to do the same.

Please click here to sign the petition.

David Williams welcomes crackdown on debt scams

David Williams, Labour's Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich has welcomed action by the Labour Government to clamp down on businesses which are exploiting people in financial difficulty by making misleading claims about arranging for debts to be written off.

Labour’s Ministry of Justice has produced new guidance aimed at firms who deal in debt advice and counselling. They have been warned that if their adverts make dubious claims or leave out important information which might breach consumer protection regulations, they could face enforcement action that might ultimately result in authorisations being removed.

Supporting this action, David Williams said:

“Vulnerable people in Crewe and Nantwich facing debt problems need help and support. I am pleased that Labour is cracking down on businesses who falsely claim they can write off debt. The new guidance which the Government is producing will protect innocent customers from being misled by irresponsible firms.”

“We urge anyone in who is considering using a business offering debt help to think carefully before entering an arrangement and seek independent advice before making any final decisions. Our new guidance is also an important reminder to local businesses about the need to comply with rules on advertising and marketing and provide an effective service to their customers.”

Rules

Authorised businesses have to follow strict rules which govern the way they conduct their activities, including advertising and selling:

- They must not ‘cold call’ in person or engage in any form of high pressure selling;

- They must give written information on how to pursue a claim and the costs involved before a contract is agreed;

- They must allow a ‘cooling off’ period of at least 14 days after signing a contract in case the consumer changes their mind;

- They must operate a customer complaints scheme that meets relevant criteria.

Concerns

The Governemt has recently become aware of a problem whereby certain companies specialising in debt advice and counselling have been making misleading advertising statements. These statements include:

Scale of unenforceability market “80% of credit agreements are unenforceable”; “50 million credit agreements are created every year, at least 25 million are unenforceable”.

Volume of cases handled “We are currently handling over 5,000 cases!”; “We are currently managing £30m of claims!”

Timescales “We’ll get your credit cards written off within 6 weeks!”; “Fast results guaranteed!”

Success rates “We have a 100% success rate”; “A positive outcome is guaranteed”

Potential outcomes “We can write off all your outstanding debt, all previous payments could be returned, and you could keep any goods purchased.”

Affect on consumer's credit rating “Making a claim will not affect your credit rating or your ability to get credit in future”

Unqualified use of “No win, no fee”-type statements “It is FREE to claim”; “It costs nothing to claim – what do you have to lose?”

Testimonials “Fantastic service!”; “Wow, what a brilliant service, thank you very much!!”

Please click here to vitist the Citizens' Advice Bureau debt advice website

Letter to the Chronicle

Dear Sir

If they ever relocate the TV show Shameless to Crewe, I'm sure Edward Timpson MP will be cast in a leading role.

I could not believe his desperate attempt to claim some credit for the station staying put, when he hadn't done a tap to campaign for that outcome.

The only position Mr Timpson took on Crewe railway station was to sit on the fence. He did not recognise the economic impact of moving the station to Basford and he did not stand up for Crewe and Nantwich.

CREAM were farsighted enough to see the devastating consequences for the Town of losing its railway station. I congratulate CREAM on their success and I was more than happy to give them my wholehearted support and help with the campaigning work. I was delighted that the Secretary of State for Transport accepted my invitation to meet with CREAM, giving them the opportunity to make their case directly.

The challenge now is not to settle for the £1 million sticking plaster on offer and campaign for a full redevelopment of the station on its existing site and make it a facility we are proud of. I hope that Mr Timpson will not be behind the curve this time and he will join me in this important campaign.

But most importantly, Mr Timpson, stop taking the credit for other people's work and start telling the people of Crewe and Nantwich exactly what you and the Conservative Party stand for. Tell us about how your Party would stand back and do nothing to help people through the global recession. Tell us about your Party's cuts in spending on police, children's services, apprenticeships and many other important services the people of Crewe and Nantwich rely on.

And don't bother deploying your cronies to abuse me in anonymous letters. Come into the open and debate with me in your own name.

Yours faithfully

David Williams
Labour's Parliamentary Candidate
For Crewe and Nantwich

David Williams calls for lessons to be learnt from M6 crash

Portugese lorry driver, Paulo Jorge Nogueira da Silva, was today found guilty of death by careless driving, which resulted in the tragic death of Michelle and David Statham and their four children.

David Williams, Labour's Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich, said:

"I can understand why the relatives and friends of the Statham family feel like justice has not been served.

"Lessons must be learnt, the main lesson being one we can all learn. How many times do we see drivers not giving the road their full attention: talking on mobile phones, texting and other distractions.

"In future drivers should spare a moment to think about the Statham family before they take their mind off the road in front.

"I have contacted the Secretary of State for Transport and asked him to look at a Government awareness campaign about careless driving."

Think Road Safety

Mobile Surgeries: Nantwich and Maw Green

I've just come in from today's mobile surgeries. We were caught out by the rain in Nantwich this morning, but still received a good reception from constituents.

I had a nice surprise this afternoon when I met up with one of my old instructors from when I was an apprentice in Rolls-Royce's Trim Shop.

We had a long discussion about the situation at Bentley's and how things in the factory had changed since the days we had worked together over 20 years ago.

One of the big differences is the owners. We both agreed that had Vickers still been in charge there would have been many more redundancies by now. The current owners seem to be much more committed to the workforce.

Despite that, it is very worrying times for all there and we need a global recovery to help promote sales. Bentley shows how much we are so reliant on a strong global economy. The age old adage has never been so true; when America sneezes the world catches a cold.

Thank goodness we have a strong Prime Minister who is leading the world in providing solutions to the global recession. What we do know is that the Tory ‘do nothing’ approach that would just make matters much worse.

Mobile Surgeries: Wistaston Green and Queens Park

I was out talking to constituents in Wistaston Green and Queens Park today. Lots of issues were raised on the doorstep, but crime is a recurrent theme. I am particularly concerned that people are being misled by the Tories, so I thought I would tell it like it really is.

Labour's commitment to fighting crime – and the progress we are making – is in stark contrast with the Conservatives, who have no credibility on law and order.

They have continually tried to block Labour's investment in law and order and the tough measures we have taken against crime, including voting against tougher sentences for serious, violent and persistent offenders, and they repeatedly dismiss our anti-social behaviour measures as gimmicks. The Tories talk tough but vote soft.

Britain is safer with Labour. Crime is down 32 per cent since 1997 - the chance of being a victim of crime is at its lowest for 27 years - and we have provided over 14,000 more police and 16,000 Police Community Support Officers, giving every community in England and Wales its own Neighbourhood Police Team.

And we will go further: our ambition is to reduce violent crime, theft and burglary so that the average chance of being a victim of crime will be the lowest in nearly 30 years. We will provide 7,000 more prison places by 2010 through the largest ever prison-building programme.

The Tories will cut the Home Office budget, which will mean fewer police officers on the beat.

GLOBAL RECESSION - THE FACTS

It is now clear that David Cameron's strategy is to talk down Britain and present the current financial crisis as unique to Britain. That is a Tory lie.

Today the major European economies published their latest figures and it is now clear that countries, such as Germany, are feeling the effects of the global recession more severely than Britain.

Despite what the Tories say, when it comes to debt we are the second-best placed in the G7. That is why we have been able to give the economy a shot in the arm with tax cuts for hard working families and extra support for small businesses.

What is also clear is that the answer to our problems is not to retreat into isolation, as the Tories would do, but to work together across borders to tackle the challenges we face. That is why the Prime Minister will use the G20 to seek greater co-ordination between countries as we plan for recovery.

The plan for recovery

1. We recapitalised the banks to save savers.

2. We gave the economy a shot in the arm with increased and focussed spending delivered by a fiscal and monetary stimulus. Making sure that we at all times invest in the future.

3. To get lending going to the people and businesses who need it with our loan guarantee schemes.

4. We are now beginning the fourth stage of the plan to rebalance our economy and increase our exports to the world through key sectors of our economy: low carbon technology; high value added manufacturing; and the digital and creative industries.

This national plan for recovery and jobs will not work overnight but it will make the difference in ensuring that we come through this recession stronger and sooner.

International perspective on the global financial crisis

Today’s figures confirm the recession is being felt more severely in Germany and Italy:
• Germany: GDP contracted 2.1% in Q4 2008, compared with the previous quarter.
• Italy: contracted 1.8%
• UK: contracted 1.5%
• France: contracted 1.2%
• US: contracted 1.0%
(Source: Eurostat, 13/02/09)

The UK has the second lowest national debt in the G7:
IMF Net Debt(% GDP)2009
Canada 20.4
UK 38.5
France 57.8
Germany 56.8
Italy 102.5
Japan 97.6
USA 50.7
Euro 57.1
(Source: IMF World Economic Outlook – October 2008)

So next time you see David Cameron, ask him why he thinks doing nothing is the right approach?

David Williams concerned for the future of Crewe Works

David Williams, Labour's Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich, has responded to news that the preferred bidder for the new £7.5 billion contract to build super express trains is not Bombardier.

David Williams said: "It is very welcome that the Government is continuing to invest in our railways, despite the current economic difficulties. However I am very concerned that Bombardier has not landed the contract for the largest UK investment in new rolling stock. This creates or safeguards 12,000 jobs in UK manufacturing, which is very good news for our economy, but my concern is for jobs in Crewe and Nantwich.

"Crewe has a proud railway history, but I want the Town to have a railway future.

"I have been in touch with the Unite Works Convenor to express my full support and I am contacting the Secretary of State for Transport. I was delighted to welcome Geoff Hoon to Crewe a few weeks ago and I made the point then that Crewe and Nantwich has many highly skilled and experienced railway engineers who have a lot to offer the industry. We must not allow those skills to go to waste. I will be reminding the Minister of that conversation and calling on him to act.

"When I helped Gwyneth with her campaign to try to stop the Tories from privatising BREL, our worse fear was that this would be the beginning of the end for Crewe Works. More than twenty years later a much smaller Crewe Works is still there and I expect a Labour Government to safeguard those jobs and give the business the opportunity to expand and grow."

The Holocaust remains a horrific scar on humanity's conscience - but the Nazi message of hate still remains a corrosive force within our society. Over the past few years, Nick Griffin has made a series of disgusting and damaging statements about the Holocaust.

Please click here to sign the petition to demand a retraction and public apology from the BNP Leader.

The theme of this Holocaust Memorial Day is Standing up to Hatred. We all like to think that we know what we would do in the face of hatred – that in a moment of decision we would honour our obligations to resist brutality and to stand with its victims. In studying the Holocaust, however, one thing becomes painfully clear: that the full barbarity of Hitler’s death camps was the end point of many acts of cruelty and discrimination, each injustice feeding on the last.

The murder of six million Jews and countless Roma, Poles and other Eastern Europeans, gay men and lesbians, trade unionists, disabled people and political and religious opponents of the Nazis was not a sudden and frenzied explosion of hate, but a horror that had been methodically and carefully planned.

Hatred may begin with small acts of prejudice or bigotry – but it rarely ends with them. That is why we all have an obligation to stand up to hatred. This Holocaust Memorial Day I hope that people all across Britain will join me in renewing a personal commitment to resisting hatred wherever it is found today.

Holocaust Memorial Day Trust

Chinese New Year

At this special time of year I would like to extend the hand of friendship to all Chinese people in Crewe and Nantwich. All across the world Chinese communities are celebrating New Year and marking this important festival the Chinese way – surrounded by family and friends.

This year is the Year of the Ox, representing a focus on hard work and determination. We know that this year will not be an easy one, but in challenging times we know that success can only be achieved through honouring the values symbolised by the Ox and which have characterised the Chinese contribution to Britain.

The Chinese community has had many successes – across education, research, science, the creative industries, the health service and the hospitality and catering industries. In each field, the Chinese population brings a resilience and industriousness that is truly inspiring and which will contribute to Britain’s long term prosperity.

I hope you enjoy a wonderful and successful year and please do pass on my warm best wishes to your family and friends.

David Williams welcomes UK aid to help rebuild Gaza

David Williams, Labour's Propsective Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich, today welcomed the Government’s announcement of a further £20 million to help rebuild Gaza and to provide humanitarian assistance. David said the extra funding would be crucial to help provide food, water, shelter and medical supplies for ordinary Palestinians.

David Williams said:

“I have been appalled by the violence and suffering we have witnessed on our TV screens during the last three weeks. It is vital that the ceasefire holds, so that the UN can use this latest funding from the British Government. Fuel is desperately needed for power stations so that hospitals can function again, peoples homes can be heated and lit, and access to safe water can be re-established.”

International Development Secretary, Douglas Alexander, said:

"An enduring ceasefire is crucial to allow us to get vital aid in to thousands of people who desperately need it. The humanitarian situation will be dire for some time to come. UN and non-governmental aid agencies are doing heroic work under extremely difficult conditions and we want to support their efforts further. This additional funding will help the United Nations, aid agencies and other humanitarian organisations working in Gaza to rebuild the lives of 1.4 million people who have suffered in the conflict."

The additional £20 million contribution will be used to allocate funds to emerging humanitarian priorities, making them available to UN agencies and non-governmental organisations working in Gaza.

The £20m in humanitarian assistance to Gaza is in addition to the £6.8 million announced on 31 December. This supports the UK Department for International Development’s (DFID) humanitarian strategy to address humanitarian needs in Gaza. This brings the total UK response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza to nearly £27 million this year which is in addition to the UK’s pledge to provide up to £243 million in aid to the Palestinian people made in Paris in 2007.

Get involved - make a difference

Today is an historic day for the United States of America - the inauguration of Barack Obama. It is another step in a movement of progressive change, both here as in America.

A movement like this is only ever possible with the support of the many over the interests of the few. For instance, you may have heard that most of Obama's donors were ordinary people giving whatever they could afford as early as possible - helping increase the impact of their donations.

By giving whatever you can afford right now you will immediately help us in this year's elections.

In America, almost 70 million ordinary people have been inspired by a belief - a belief at the core of the Labour Party - that we should try to be the change that we want to see in the world. In Britain more and more people are joining us and you can see why.

Stephen from Maw Green said: I feel inspired by what the Americans and Barack Obama have done and I strongly believe I can make a difference but realise I can only do so by actually getting involved.

Amanda from Nantwich wrote: There's more to democracy than just voting! Deeply inspired by the renewed enthusiasm for politics in America to get out and help fight for a political vision I believe in.

Please match David and Rose's words with action - just £5 will make an immediate difference.

Our next challenge will be this year's elections - a crucial electoral test after the first crisis of the global age. We must be in no doubt that during these challenging times only our beliefs will avoid the mistakes of the Conservative conviction to ‘do nothing'. We can see beyond the economic statistics, which are in reality a family, a community or a business that needs our help.

Britain today faces a clear choice between a 'do nothing' Tory Party and a Labour Government that is doing everything it can to offer real help now and real hope for the future.

Donate £5 to the Labour Party today.

Your donation will show a belief in providing real help for families and businesses affected by the downturn.

Every penny you donate will help us to campaign to stop a ‘do nothing' Conservative party set on repeating the mistakes of previous recessions by leaving people to fend for themselves.

Please support the millions of ordinary people supporting our belief by giving whatever you can afford as early as possible.

David Williams urges cancer patients to apply for free prescriptions

David Williams, Labour’s prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich, urges all those undergoing cancer treatment to apply for free prescriptions.

From today people being treated for cancer can apply for their medical exemption certificate, which means that they will eligible for free prescriptions from 1st April.

The new scheme, announced by the Prime Minister in September last year, extends exemption from NHS prescription charges for everyone undergoing treatment for cancer, the effects of cancer, or the effects of cancer treatment.

Patients can collect an application form from their GP surgery or oncology clinics. The form must be countersigned by their GP, hospital doctor or service doctor.

This new scheme gives people living with cancer and related conditions one less worry at such a difficult time.

David Williams said, “Labour's investment in and reform of the NHS has delivered real improvements in cancer care. Our tough targets have driven waiting lists down and standards up. Labour is investing more than ever before in cancer services.

“The earlier a cancer is detected, the better the chance of curing it. Labour is expanding the NHS Breast Screening Programme to help detect breast cancer earlier. The Programme now accounts for a third of all breast cancers detected.

“Under Labour cancer death rates are down by nearly 20%, saving nearly 9,000 lives in 2007 alone. Almost all people with suspected cancer are seen by a specialist within two weeks – in 1997, less than two-thirds were seen this quickly. Almost everyone is treated within a month of diagnosis.

“The Conservatives say they would scrap Labour’s tough targets and patient guarantees. That means Labour’s guarantee that if you are suspected of having cancer, you will be seen by a specialist within two weeks, and Labour’s guarantee that if you are diagnosed with cancer you will start treatment within one month.

“Only Labour will deliver continued improvements in treating cancer.”

David Williams quizzes the Prime Minister on immigration

Today David Williams, Labour's Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich, met the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street. David had asked Chronicle readers to suggest a question to ask Gordon Brown.

Chronicle readers came up with questions on a range of issues, including the future of Crewe town centre; job security, help for those struggling to pay their mortgage and many more. David will answer all the questions received personally, but he knew there would only be the opportunity to ask one question to the PM, so he chose the subject that came up most often - immigration.

David Williams said, "Prime Minister, people in Crewe and Nantwich often raise with me the issue of immigration. A number of Chronicle readers have asked me to raise this with you and it comes up regularly on the doorstep. They are concerned, particularly in the current economic downturn, that the Labour Government has a firm but fair immigration system?"

The Rt Hon Gordon Brown MP responded, "I understand the concerns and that is why, last week, we introduced a Bill in Parliament to deal with many of the issues that worry people.

"Labour is taking action to strengthen our borders and to shut down the causes of illegal immigration. We are holding newcomers to account when they break the rules, and deporting rule breakers where necessary.

"Immigration contributed some £6 billion to our economy in 2006. We have announced that we will be using a new Points Based System to require employers to offer British jobs through Job Centre plus before recruiting foreign workers.

"We are delivering a compassionate system, that makes and enforces decisions quickly when we have asylum obligations to honour. The number of asylum seekers coming to Britain is the lowest since 1992, and our systems for processing asylum applications are quicker and clearer. We remove someone from Britain every 8.5 minutes and last year we deported 4,200 foreign national prisoners.

"The Conservatives are not serious about tackling immigration. They may talk tough, but they vote soft. Among the immigration measures the Conservatives have opposed are: limits to benefits for asylum seekers; refusing asylum to convicted criminals sentenced to 2 years in prison, and reducing the time failed asylum seekers have to appeal.

"Migration only works if it brings benefits and these measures will ensure that only those migrants that make a positive impact on their local community will be able to stay in the UK."

David Willams welcomes Government mortgage rescue scheme

David Williams said, “Labour is acting to help homeowners through the global economic downturn, when the Tories would do nothing.”

A mortgage rescue scheme to help vulnerable families at risk of repossession to stay in their homes is being rolled out today.

The £200 million scheme is one of a range of measures the Government is putting in place to help ensure repossession is always a last resort.

The scheme is targeted at the most vulnerable households who would be eligible for homelessness assistance if their home was repossessed, such as the elderly, disabled or those with children, with a household income under £60,000 a year.

Households will be able to apply for this support from their local authority, and will be offered two options to help them remain in their homes, depending on their circumstances.

They will either be able to sell a share of the equity in their home to a housing association, enabling their monthly mortgage payments to be significantly reduced, or they can sell the entire home to a housing association and remain in the property as tenants paying a subsidised rent.

In addition to mortgage rescue, the Government has taken a number of measures to support households at risk of repossession. Last week, changes came into effect on Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI), cutting by two thirds – from 39 to 13 weeks - the time before homeowners who lose their jobs receive financial help with the interest payments on their mortgage. The Homeowner Mortgage Support Scheme, which will allow households who suffer an income shock to defer part of their payments for up to two years, is being urgently developed with lenders.

David Williams, Labour’s Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich, said:

"I know that some families are worried about their mortgage payments right now and the Government is determined to do everything possible to ensure repossession is always a last resort. For the most vulnerable households, the mortgage rescue scheme will be available across England to help ensure they can remain in their homes.

“This is part of a range of measures the Government is putting in place to help households at risk of repossession in the current climate. As well as expanding free debt and legal advice, Labour has increased the support available for people who lose their jobs, and are introducing the option for homeowners to defer part of the loan to give them the time they need to get back on their feet.

“Whatever the situation, the clear message for households struggling with their payments is to speak to their lender as soon as possible.”

ENDS

For further information please contact David Williams on 07798 696 603.

David Williams to meet PM

David Williams, Labour's Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich, is going to 10 Downing Street to meet the Prime Minister on Monday 19th January 2009. David is offering readers of this blog the opportunity to suggest a question for him to ask Gordon Brown. Please e-mail your suggestions to david@davidwilliams.org.uk

David Williams said, "I am aware that there are many issues in the constituency that people will want me to raise with the Prime Minister and I have lots of my own questions to ask, but I wanted to give Chronicle readers the opportunity to make their suggestions. I know from the many constituents I have spoken to in Crewe and Nantwich that jobs and issues around the global economic downturn, the future of Crewe town centre and coping with the current freezing temperatures are high on people's agenda. However, I am open to all suggestions of what to ask Gordon Brown."

Labour invests in apprenticeships for Crewe and Nantwich

David Williams, Labour’s Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich, has welcomed a funding boost which could see more apprenticeship places available for young people and adults in Crewe and Nantwich.

The number of people completing an apprenticeship in Cheshire has risen by 83% over the last three years from 793 in 2002/03 to 1,454 in 2005/06.

The Prime Minister Gordon Brown has now announced £140 million of extra funding for an additional 35,000 apprentices across the country in the next twelve months.

David Williams said:

“In the current economic downturn, it’s vital that we continue to invest in the economy and make sure people in Crewe and Nantwich have the skills they need to succeed in the future.

“In Cheshire we’ve already seen a revival of apprenticeships with an 83% increase in just three years. The funding announced by Gordon Brown today means we can have even more apprenticeships in the coming year.

“Not only will this investment help us get through the economic downturn, it will also ensure we have more skilled workers for the future so our area can benefit from the upturn.

“I was an apprentice at Bentley and I know that it is one of the best starts to working life anyone could ask for. I am personally delighted that the Labour Government is investing in skills through apprenticeships.

“But while the Labour Government is expanding apprenticeships, Tory plans to cut spending next year could actually see over 220,000 apprenticeship places slashed across the country. That would be a disaster for our area.”

New Year message from David Williams

David Williams, Labour’s Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich said, “I would like to give my best wishes to you for the new year.”

“It is clear that 2009 is going to be very challenging for us all and it is very important that the Government continues to act positively to help people through these difficult times. That is why I am backing the exceptional measures that Gordon Brown is taking. The mistakes of the 1980s and early 1990s must not be repeated.

“As an Usdaw official helping our members working in shops, I fear that the retail sector is going to take a big hit in the new year. That is why I am campaigning for the completion of the redevelopment of Crewe town centre and bus station. If local traders are to stand any chance they need an environment that welcomes shoppers to the Town, unfortunately we don’t have that at the moment. Retailers and shopworkers must not be let down on this important issue.

“In this global economic downturn it is vital that our Government continues to invest in employment and public services. Now is not the time to abandon people, putting jobs and homes at risk.”

David in your street - Wistaston and Nantwich

The team took my mobile surgery around Wistaston and Nantwich today and we had some good discussions with local residents.

The future of British manufacturing was raised by a few people. There are clearly difficult times ahead and two of our major engineering employers are currently experiencing difficulties. Bentley's are on an extended Christmas break and short-time working. Bombardier is shedding some jobs. However both are showing a commitment to the future, with Bentley's investing in up-skilling the workforce and Bombardier taking on apprentices. Let's hope these signs of better things to come.

We arrived in Nantwich to find homemade signs attached to lampposts, advertising a tattoo service for £1 per go. Some young entrepreneurs had set a stall outside their house. However, by the time we turned up, a lady informed that they'd gone to play upstairs because it was too cold outside. Perhaps they'll give it another go in the summer. Who knows, we might be seeing them on Dragon’s Den in the future.

Panto at the Lyceum

We have just come back from our annual trip to the Pantomime at the Lyceum Theatre in Crewe. I have to say that this year's production was excellent.

We were all very impressed with the SiSiTV. I won't give it away for those who haven't been yet, but I wish I'd been in Wilkinson’s on the day they filmed that part of the show, looked like great fun.

There were three generations of our family there and everyone thoroughly enjoyed an excellent evening’s entertainment.

The Lyceum Theatre is a facility we should all be very proud of and it is very deserving of our support.

But it also needs political support and I hope that the new Cheshire East unitary authority commits to the theatre in the same way that Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council has over many years.

To see what's on at the Lyceum please click here.

David in your street - Maw Green and Marshfield Bank

The team were out doing a double session of mobile surgery today in Maw Green and Marshfield Bank today.

We were also collecting signatures on the petition for a town council for Crewe, giving local residents a strong voice.

There were a number of issues raised including:

- Pub closures, I too am worried about the number of pubs closing. This afternoon's session met at The George, which is currently closed. This morning we met at the Cross Keys, which thankfully has just reopened. I think the Government has to do more to support local pubs, they are a very important part of our community.

- Job losses, one guy I spoke to had recently been made redundant and we had a long chat about the support the Government has implemented to help him get back to work as soon as possible.

For information on how Job Centre Plus can help please click here.

Boxing Day leafleting

The family went out leafleting today ahead of tomorrow's mobile surgeries.

We all felt we had plenty of turkey to walk-off.

What a beautiful day, bright, sunny but nippy.

My son was showing-off his amateur photography skills with his new digital camera.

Seasons Greetings from David Williams

David Williams, Labour's Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich, said:

"Today is a very special day and I hope everyone enjoys themselves. It is particularly special for children and a chance for families to take a well earned breather from the daily grind.

"My thoughts are with those who have to work on Christmas Day and, particularly our emergency service workers, my thanks go out to them.

"There are of course people across the world who are living in much poorer circumstances than us. It is important that we remember them and direct some of our seasonal generosity towards tackling worldwide poverty. Political solutions are also crucial and it is incumbent upon all politicians to work towards a lasting worldwide settlement on conflict, famine, poverty and other humanitarian issues.

"Many families face an uncertain future with the current economic crisis. I have been working with Usdaw members in struggling retail companies, like Woolworths and MFI, to deal with the problems of redundancy. The true test of politicians is dealing with difficult circumstances and I am working with our Government to help protect jobs and homes for UK workers.

"Please accept my sincere best wishes and season’s greetings."

Make a difference today on world poverty, please visit the War On Want website

DAVID CAMERON'S ECONOMICS HOMEWORK (UPDATED)

Christmas cracker for Crewe and Nantwich

David Williams, Labour's Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich, has welcomed a new cash boost for 24,250 people living in Crewe and Nantwich as part of the Labour Government's financial help.

Following the coldest start to winter in thirty years, the Government this week formally ordered a special one-off payment of £60 to pensioners, carers, disabled people and those in receipt of bereavement benefits.

David Williams said, "I'm pleased that the Government has helped the most vulnerable and its right that they've invested this extra cash. The Christmas bonus will be a real winter warmer for all who get it."

This help is in addition to the extra £4bn which will be spent on pensioners next year, announced by the Chancellor in the pre-budget report. This means the biggest increase in the State Pension since 2001, bringing it from £90 to £95 a week, and the biggest increase in Pension Credit since it was introduced, so that no pensioner need live on less than £130 a week from April 2009.

David Williams added, "The Tories say we should do nothing to help people in Crewe and Nantwich. Thankfully the Government has ignored the Tories and is putting an extra £60 in every pensioners’ pockets, alongside their increased Winter Fuel Payments.

“This is real help going to 19,460 pensioners and 450 kids and 4,240 working age people, all living in Crewe and Nantwich.

“I hope that this cash, alongside extra Winter Fuel Payments and Cold Weather Payments, means that no one need worry about turning up the heat this winter, thanks to a Labour Government.”

The Christmas Bonus will be paid in two instalments - recipients will get £10 in December, as in previous years, with the additional £60 to be paid between January and March in the New Year.

The majority of State Pensioners should receive the £60 payment in January 2009 in addition to their pension. The remaining three million people will get their £60 in February or March 2009.

The Labour government is spending £575m on increased Winter Fuel Payments this year, with someone aged between 60 and 79 will receiving £250, and £400 for households with someone 80 and over. The Tories never made Winter Fuel Payments.

Labour has made it easier and quicker for those eligible for Pensions Credit to get the help they are entitled to, without the need to fill in any forms. They can also be assessed for Council Tax Benefit and Housing Benefit at the same time.

Cold Weather Payments have also been increased from £8.50 to £25 per week for winter 2008/09. They are paid out when the average temperature where the recipient lives is recorded as, or forecast to be, zero degrees Celsius or below over seven consecutive days during the period from 1 November to 31 March.

Please click here for more information on cold weather payements.

David Williams welcomes the saving of the pint and the mile

The future of the pint of beer and the mile have been secured, after the Government's victory in removing European legislation that would have required the UK to sell beer in litres and measure road traffic distances in kilometres.

Legislation agreed by the European Parliament will allow the UK to continue its use of the mile for roads, the pint for draught beer, cider and bottled milk, and the troy ounce for precious metals. The opt out has been granted indefinitely.

The Government has also secured the future use of imperial units for all other uses, provided they are used alongside metric equivalents - in the form of dual labelling.

David Williams, Labour's Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich, said, "We like our pint and our mile. We should be able to use the measures we are most familiar with, and now we can be sure that we will continue to do so.

"The Government made strong arguments for the UK's right to carry on using pints and miles and maintaining dual metric and imperial labelling. I know how important this is to the British people and businesses and we are grateful for the Commission's support".

The European Parliament has agreed a proposal to update the Directive on Units of Measurement (Directive 80/181/EC) to remove the 2009 deadline for the end of supplementary indications (i.e. the use of imperial alongside metric) and to allow the UK to decide the future use of the mile for road traffic, the pint for draught beer and cider and bottled milk and the troy ounce for precious metals.

The European Council agreed this text on 18th November. The new Directive is expected to be formally signed early next year.

The UK took the decision in 1965 to adopt the metric system in stages, in response to the adoption of metric as the international system of measurement worldwide. The country is now substantially metric - the vast majority of goods are subject to the Weights and Measures Act 1985 so must be sold in metric - the only exceptions are doorstep milk, draught beer/cider and precious metals.

Dual labelling in both metric and imperial is permitted, in recognition that there remain a number of people in the UK who are more familiar with or prefer to use the imperial system of measurement.

Letter to the Chronicle

Dear Sir

I read with some disappointment the comments of Cllr Arthur Moran (Letters, 26/11/08), who chose to misrepresent the views I expressed in my letter to the Chronicle the week before.

What I actually said was that Mr Timpson, "has failed to speak [in Parliament] on important issues from the constituency like...Nantwich’s First Responders Service". I stand by that comment. If Arthur can quote a speech made by Mr Timpson in Parliament on this issue, then I will gladly withdraw my remarks.


The point of my letter was to say that Mr Timpson’s unique and privileged position allows him to use Parliament to run campaigns and question the Government on any issue he chooses. But he also has the responsibility of representing the views and concerns of constituents.


In the case of Nantwich First Responders he has not done that. Anyone can present a petition to No. 10 and attend a protest march, but only one person can stand up for Crewe and Nantwich by speaking in Parliament and that one person is our MP. Unfortunately we don't appear to have a MP who is either willing or able to do that on the issues that matter most to local people.

If I had the honour of being the Member of Parliament for Crewe and Nantwich, you can rest assured that I would be a full-time MP who stood up and spoke out in Parliament on behalf of local people.


Yours faithfully

David Williams
Labour's Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich
david@davidwilliams.org.uk

David's campaign on parking charges is working

David Williams, Labour's PPC for Crewe and Nantwich has responded to the today's announcement by Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council on parking charges:

"I am delighted that the Borough Council has listened to my campaign and finally recognised Labour's tax break for motorists, which was announced by the Chancellor two weeks ago. If the Council passes on the VAT reduction in parking charges that will help local drivers and traders as intended by Alastair Darling.

"However I would like to see the detail of what the Council proposes and I am very concerned that further assistance before Christmas has been dismissed. Have the traders in Crewe and Nantwich been asked what they need? Bearing mind that many retailers make a substantial part of their profits in the month of December, wouldn't more free parking before Christmas be the best solution for local businesses?"


In response to questions which have been raised in respect of the impact of VAT changes on car parking charges, Leader of the Council, Councillor John Hammond, has commented as follows:

“The Chancellor’s VAT announcement came after the Borough Council had agreed to support traders in the run-up to Christmas by introducing periods of free parking. The VAT reduction is, however, most welcome, and, whilst the level of savings it realises will be less than the £34,000 which has been suggested, it will enable the Council to consider further support to traders in the New Year. The period post-Christmas and the January sales is likely to be a difficult one and the Council wishes to do whatever it can to maintain support. On a technical point, this Council, in common with others around the Country, is unable to make changes to the car park ticket machines which reflect the VAT change. The savings will however be achieved and reused in the best way possible to help our local businesses.”

It's all being debated on Crewe Blog

David Williams condemns Scrooge council

“We want the full 2.5% VAT saving passed on to motorists”, says David Williams, Labour’s Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Crewe and Nantwich.

Tory Council Leader, John Hammond, this week announced limited free parking, claiming it would cost the Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council £17,000 in lost income.

David Williams said, “The Borough Council have been given over £34,000 VAT relief in car parking charges by the Chancellor of the Exchequer. Last week’s announcement means that the Council is pocketing over half that money. They are not passing the full benefit on to motorists and they have given no commitment to do so.

“Labour made the cut in VAT to give a stimulus to the economy during the current global downturn. In the same way that we expect retailers to pass on the tax cut and banks to pass on the interest rate cut, we also expect local authorities to their bit.

“Crewe and Nantwich traders have been let down by the Tory controlled council. The council could make a real difference by providing much more free parking in both towns, attracting shoppers from around the area and helping retailers in what could be a difficult Christmas.

“Local businesses, particularly those in Crewe must be pulling their hair out with this Tory run Council. First we had their dithering on the Crewe town centre redevelopment, which has lead to the project being shelved with no firm start date in sight. Then we have seen three increases in parking charges in 18 months, when Labour used to only apply increases every two years. Finally they are pocketing money from Government aimed at helping traders through these difficult times.

“I am calling on the council to do the right thing and pass on the full benefits of the Labour Government’s tax break for the benefot of local traders and hard-working families.”

Drive Safe says David Williams

As the holiday season approaches, David Williams, Labour PPC, is urging people in Crewe and Nantwich to ensure that they leave their cars at home if they plan to drink this Christmas.

In Crewe and Nantwich people are killed and seriously injured every year because of drink driving and 60 died on North West roads in 2006.

That’s why David Williams is backing the Government’s THINK! Campaign, which is raising awareness of the devastating consequences of drink driving.

David Williams said: “Drink driving can ruin lives. Last year 460 people died as a result of this recklessness and families across Britain were shattered by the menace of drink driving. My message to drivers in Crewe and Nantwich is clear. If you get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol you risk wrecking your own and other people’s lives – don’t do it.”

“It is critical that people understand the destruction they could cause. With this in mind, the Government has launched a national TV and radio campaign to remind people of the consequences of drinking and driving.”

Hard-hitting adverts will be running throughout the festive period to help get this message home: TV advertising: 1st - 31st December 2008; Cinema advertising: w/c 12th & w/c 26th Dec 2008; Radio advertising: 1st - 31st December 2008; Ambient advertising (in-pub): 8th Dec - 13th Jan.

Think! road safety

Usdaw's North West Conference

David Williams, Labour's PPC for Crewe and Nantwich, addressed Usdaw's North West Conference today. Also on the platform was Steve Carter (pictured).

Steve is number four on Labour's list of Euro candidates and spoke to delegates about the importance of maximising Labour representation in next June's European elections. Many rights for working people come from Europe and we are dependent on our European trading partners for jobs. Steve also warned of the threat from the BNP, particularly in the North West. Only complacency will let the fascists win.

David told delegates that a Tory victory was a major threat to Usdaw members and all workers. The top five threats from the Tories are:

1. National Minimum Wage frozen. If you earn on or close to £5.73 per hour then the next election is about whether you want a pay rise or not. With Labour you get a rise, with the Tories you don't.

2. Tax credits abolished. The Tories will take money aimed at helping work pay from hard working families and low-paid workers. Their tax priorities are to give the families of every multi-millionaire a massive inheritance tax break.

3. Deregulation of shop trading hours. The Tories will attack the family friendly Sunday trading hours, a compromise agreed in 1994 that helps millions of shopworkers balance their home and family life and allows retailers to trade.

4. Attack trade unions' ability to represent workers. The Tories will try to finish the job they started in the 1980s and stop trade unions from standing up for hard working people.

5. Opt out of the social chapter. The Tories are still committed to reversing Labour's basic employment rights. These rights create a level playing and stop rogue employers undercutting good employers. The Tories will end the right to paid holidays, proper breaks at work, equal treatment of part-time, fixed term and agency worker and much more.

We cannot afford for the Tories to drive Britain into a low pay and low skill economy again, as they did in the 1980s.

New flexible working right is ‘big boost for busy parents’

Families in Crewe and Nantwich received a big boost today with the news that the right to request flexible working will be extended.

The right to request flexible working will be extended to working parents who have children up to the age of 16 helping many families balance their work and family life much more easily. The current right only applies to parents of children aged up to 6.

David Williams, Labour PPC, encouraged parents in Crewe and Nanntwich to be fully aware of their new rights:

“Extending the right to request to the parents of older children will give a big boost to busy parents in Crewe and Nantwich who need more help balancing work and family life.

“Whether its managing the school run or being able to work from home these new rights will make life much easier for many parents.

“Employers will benefit too. They will still have the control to do what is best for their business, but many increasingly find that working flexibly allows people to get the best out of their employees.”

"I am particulalrly pleased that this right has been extended because it is something I have been campaigning for with my union Usdaw. Flexible working has proved to be extremely successful. It has allowed many parents to access work, where traditional hours would have made it impossible. This in turn has helped employers recruit and retain experienced staff.

"I urge all employers to look favourably on requests for a change in working hours to help people stay in work."

Today’s announcement builds on the right to request flexible working given to parents of children up to the age of six and the parents of disabled children. Despite their warm words now, David Cameron and the Tories actually opposed flexible working. Around six million employees currently have the right to request flexible working but over 14 million employees, including part-time workers, actually work flexibly. Flexible working arrangements include working from home, part-time work, compressed hours, flexi-time or other arrangements agreed with employers.

Please click here for more information on the right to request flexible working

LET’S KEEP UP THE CAMPAIGN ON WORLD AIDS DAY

On World AIDS Day on December 1st, David Williams has welcomed the UK’s global leadership on the global fight against HIV and AIDS.

David Williams said, “I know that many people in Crewe and Nantwich are concerned about action on the global scourge of HIV and AIDS. They want the UK Government to maintain its global leadership on this issue and meet its commitments to the world’s poorest people. With 33 million people still living with HIV and AIDS worldwide, we must continue to act."

The most recent joint UNAIDS-World Health Organisation report showed that in 2007 over 33 million people live with HIV and AIDS worldwide. UNAIDS estimates that every day, over 6,800 people become infected with HIV, and over 5,700 people die from AIDS. That’s a death from AIDS every 15 seconds. In June 2008, the UK Government launched Achieving Universal Access: the UK’s strategy for halting and reversing the spread of HIV in the developing world. This sets out the UK’s strategy between 2008-2015, it will:
- Help bring down the cost of treatment to enable more people to access life saving drugs
- Increase funding for research and development of AIDS vaccines and microbicides
- Meet the needs of orphans and vulnerable children, including those affected by AIDS
- Prevent the transmission of HIV from mothers to their children
- Increase the availability of family planning, including male and female condoms
- Increase the coverage of services for injecting drug users – HIV infections amongst injecting drug users are driving the fastest growing epidemics in the world

The last UK strategy Taking Action the UK Government’s strategy for tackling HIV and AIDS in the developing world helped deliver real results:
- In most of sub-Saharan Africa, national HIV prevalence has either stabilised or is showing signs of decline.
- Since 2004, 20 times more people have access to life-saving treatment and the price of first line AIDS drugs has fallen consistently.

David Williams concluded, "I am proud that the UK Government remains so committed to tackling poverty at home and abroad."

Please click here to visit the World Aids Day 2008 website