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Friday, 23rd October 2009

One of the great things about my constituency days is that I speak with lots of people about issues – both national and local – they are concerned about.   I think one of the most important jobs of an MP is to listen to their constituents’ concerns.

I began my day with a surgery in Woodstock where I discussed among other issues our local police force, our local economy and the protection of teachers against malicious complaints. 

I then joined the Probus Club of Charlbury as their Guest Speaker where the members and their guests raised concerns which included our local roads, my proposals for all women shortlists, support for older people and stealth taxes.

Opening the new National Farmers’ Union office in Witney was next on the agenda.    After cutting the ribbon I then had an invaluable opportunity to discuss local farming maters with local members.   Farming and rural life is a big part of West Oxfordshire:   we have some of the most beautiful countryside in England but need to recognise that a healthy farming industry is essential for its future.

Following this, several home educator parents came to see me at my office in Witney and discuss their serious concerns about potential changes to home education regulations.  I am deeply committed to respecting individual choice and there are many reasons, some very personal, which may incline families to opt for home education.    Then I had to dash across the road to visit Base 33 and film an interview for Songs of Praise which will come from Witney and be broadcast on BBC1 on Sunday 13 November.

A car ride up to Chipping Norton was next as I met with the local Amnesty International Group to talk about Afghanistan, asylum seekers, the Middle East and the Human Rights Act.   As always their meetings were thought provoking and very interesting.

Then it was off to Broadwell to meet with Parish Chairmen in the Alvescot and Filkins area where they raised with me issues of their local concerns over a glass of wine.

Finally, my day ended by speaking on the importance of rural churches in the community at a fundraiser for my local church in Spelsbury.  It was a great evening, successfully raised funds (over 30k!) and, I hope, was enjoyed by one and all.