Warwick & Leamington Liberal Democrats

A decision by the Prime Minister to adopt a Lib Dem plan to clamp down on executive pay has been welcomed by senior LibDem MP Lorely Burt. Responding to the Prime Minster's comments on executive pay, Solihull MP and Co-chair of the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Party Committee on Business, Innovation and Skills, Lorely Burt said: "I'm very pleased the Prime Minister has come on board with Liberal Democrats plans to clamp down on executive pay. Liberal Democrats have been calling for action against this explosion in salaries and bonuses for years. Now we are delivering on it in Government. "People who work hard, pay their taxes and play by the rules are rightly outraged that those at the top can pay themselves as much as they like, whether their company is doing well or not. It is unfair, unacceptable and has been allowed to continue under successive governments for too long. "Vince Cable has already made clear that he would like to see more action on this, such as giving shareholders a binding vote on pay packets. "We look forward to the Coalition doing the right thing and bringing forward concrete proposals to ensure an end to these unethical practices once and for all." Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Shropshire's ruling Conservatives are reeling after the Liberal Democrats won a second successive county council seat from them at a byelection. Liberal Democrat Andrew Bannerman seized the Quarry and Coton Hill Division of Shropshire Council with an 8.9% swing from the Conservatives. An actor and writer and longstanding transport campaigner, Cllr Bannerman won the election last week in the division which covers most of Shrewsbury's historic town centre with 356 votes (41.8%). The Conservatives, who beat Andrew by 73 votes in 2009, slumped to 268 (31.5%). Labour, who did not stand in 2009, fought hard but still finished third with 197 votes (23.1%). An independent candidate took 30 votes (3.5%). The victory is the second successive Liberal Democrat byelection win over Shropshire Conservatives since the general election. Last July, Liberal Democrat farmer Richard Huffer gained the very rural Clee Division. The most recent byelection was held just days after the Tory administration on Shropshire Council announced huge cuts including the closure of eight primary schools and the Wakeman secondary school serving Shrewsbury town centre. Andrew Bannerman attended his first group meeting as a county councillor on Monday. He said: "I'm delighted to have been elected to serve as councillor in a town I care passionately about. I want to avoid the slogans and get down to the nitty gritty of whats happening to our town. "Labour have tried to suggest that we are party to the way Shropshire Council are making these cuts. This is rubbish. "A lot of these decisions are being made in a way that is very painful to Shropshire people and we do not agree, we oppose it. Decisions are being made by the Conservative leaders in the Council and presented as a fait accompli with no alternative. There is a LIberal Democrat alternative in Shropshire and thats what people have voted for." Cllr Heather Kidd, who was byelection agent, said: "This is a massive boost to our campaign to make Shropshire Conservatives think again about their plans to axe schools and vital local services. Savings have to be made but not in this crude way without consulting people. "Andrew has lived in Coton Hill and the town centre for 40 years and has a deserved reputation as a local campaigner. But we are delighted by the swing to the Liberal Democrats in this election despite the decision by Labour to stand this time." Shropshire Council's opposition leader, Lib Dem Cllr Nigel Hartin said: "This is an important victory after a very hard fought campaign at a time when Shropshire Council is facing serious challenges. "Voters want to be consulted and to see essential services protected. They did not choose Labour's simple slogans. Once again as in the Clee byelection last year, voters decided to support the Liberal Democrats' community-based approach." Shrewsbury Parliamentary Spokesman Dr Charles West said: "This is another great result for the Liberal Democrats in Shrewsbury. "Andrew Bannerman cares passionately for the town and has campaigned on traffic issues, tourism and for better facilities for young people not just in this election but for decades. He is just the sort of councillor we need to see working for the local community and we are delighted to see that his contribution has been recognised." Turnout in the election was 30.47%. ENDS Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

It's high time European countries started delivering on commitments to help older people and disabled people in the job market, Lib Dem Euro MP Liz Lynne told the European Parliament in Strasbourg. In a debate on the implementation of the employment guidelines within the EU 2020 strategy, the West Midlands MEP, First Vice President of the Employment and Social Affairs Committee, warned that the strategy would be meaningless unless the months of introspection and debate led to concrete action by governments. In her speech in a debate yesterday, Liz Lynne MEP said: "If we want the EU 2020 Strategy to be a success, then the Employment Guidelines have to be implemented effectively and national reform programmes put in place and given the priority they actually deserve. "We have to make sure that no one is left behind. Unemployment rates among older people and disabled people are disgracefully high. "I am pleased that both texts refer to the need to implement anti-discrimination laws in the workplace so that jobs are open for all. "It is important that the targets we have agreed at EU level are actually achieved. "Yes, it is up to Member States to set specific targets and adhere to them, but the European Union has an important role to play in improving the exchange of best practice and experience. "We have had months of introspection and debates about what shape the EU 2020 Strategy should take, but we have the Employment Guidelines. Now is the time to start delivering on them." Parliament voted to accept the guidelines by a large majority this morning ENDS Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Shropshire Liberal Democrats have criticised German Railways (DB) for pulling the plug on Shropshire's hard won London rail link with just three days notice. Shrewsbury Parliamentary Spokesman Dr Charles West said: "This is a terrible blow for Shropshire's efforts to build its economic recovery after a deep recession and a very hard winter. Shropshire deserves better than this. "Its very bad news that German Railways, who now play an increasingly important role in running trains in the UK, have pulled the plug at such short notice. "The Shropshire service has a talented management team but the suddenness of this announcement suggests that the decision was ordered by DB bosses in Germany. "With DB also owning Arriva who run most of Shropshire bus services as well as Arriva Trains Wales, it is difficult not to feel the county has fallen victim to monopoly abuse. This sad situation is a legacy of the last Labour government who failed to introduce adequate safeguards when these takeovers were permitted. "At the very least DB should have waited to see how demand responded after some very hard months and record bad weather. They have let their customers down. "Wrexham and Shropshire trains have built up a loyal following for superb customer service but the business model always relied on demand building up over a long period to profitability. "Inevitably the recession would lengthen this process but every forecast is for massive growth for railways in Britain over the medium and long term and the coalition has protected rail investment from the worst of the cuts. "DB have swung the axe in a way which will disappoint those who used to regard German Railways as a model of excellence and long term thinking. "Subsidies are unlikely in the current climate, but I hope that another railway company will look seriously at launching a replacement London service from Shropshire and Cheshire as a long term commercial opportunity. Virgin and London Midland are the obvious candidates. "MPs and councillors from all parties in Shropshire need to unite to try and encourage another operator to step forward." Andrew Bannerman, Lib Dem activist and longstanding Shrewsbury campaigner who lives in the town centre, said: "Wrexham and Shropshire offered a new and valued service to the town which will be greatly missed. Shrewsbury deserves a direct rail link to London." ENDS Notes to Editors: Wrexham & Shropshire launched in April 2008 as an independent company, restoring direct train services between Wrexham, Shropshire and London Marylebone on an open access basis. The trains won a reputation for excellent customer service, reaching a 99% customer satisfaction score in the National Passenger Survey. Despite growth in passenger numbers, it is reported that revenues did not cover more than 65% of the operating cost and in 2010 the service suffered losses of £2.9 million. In 2009 the original service of five trains per day was reduced to four, while in December 2010 it dropped again to three trains per day. In addition, an agreement was reached with sister company Chiltern Railways to assist capacity and the company claims it has investigated opportunities for synergy between Wrexham & Shropshire and Arriva Trains Wales, which was also taken over by DB last year. Arriva Trains Wales was taken over by DB just days before the general election last year. Trains on the route have an opportunity to generate extra income by serving Wolverhampton after April 2012 when contractual restrictions are expected to be removed. A number of other rail companies including Virgin and Arriva (before the DB takeover), have proposed running alternative services on the Shrewsbury line to London in recent years. Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

MEPs have called on the EU Commission to propose binding energy efficiency targets as a cost-effective way to fight climate change, improve energy security and promote economic recovery. Local Lib Dem MEP Liz Lynne, who voted for the resolution at the Parliament in Strasbourg this week, said an EU move is vital to back up the Energy Secretary Chris Huhne's battle for tougher multilateral action at the recent Cancun summit. Liz Lynne said: "I believe the EU has a huge responsibility to lead the way on fighting climate change. We need to follow the spirit of Cancun by getting tough with energy efficiency targets. "Chris Huhne did a great job at Cancun showing what political will can achieve, but the summit also showed how much more international co-operation is needed. The EU has to play their part. "We have some progress on renewable energy and even on cutting greenhouse gas emissions, thanks to binding EU targets. "However, it is clear the voluntary target to reduce energy consumption by 20% in 2020 has failed abysmally. The best guess at the moment is that we are only on track for a 9% reduction despite the economic problems. "We need binding targets not as an end in themselves but to drive and focus innovation and policy implementation. We need to act without any further delays." "Energy efficiency is key to fighting fuel property, saving people money and creating local jobs. The potential is massive. "MEPs voted to ensure the EU plays its part in making funds available to help cut energy consumption in all areas from housing and transport to industry." Heads of government will be discussing energy efficiency at a special summit to follow up Cancun on 4th February 2011. ENDS Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Solihull MP Lorely Burt has paid a visit to the construction site at Birmingham New Street to see for herself how the new station is taking shape. Mrs Burt was shown around the former NCP car park which will become the first half of the new station concourse when it opens in Autumn 2012. Commenting, Mrs Burt said: "It is fantastic to see the new station taking shape already. Investment like this demonstrates the Government's commitment to regeneration in the West Midlands, and that is great news for our area "This new station will be the heartbeat of Birmingham and will ensure that we can attract further investment, growth and jobs into Solihull and the West Midlands." Mrs Burt also saw how Birmingham based engineers Coleman & Co have been carefully removing over 7,000 tonnes of concrete from the car park while passengers catch their train underneath. Lorely Burt said: "The logistics involved in rebuilding New Street are mind boggling, the Network Rail project team are successfully managing one of the largest construction sites in the West Midlands and it's in the heart of Birmingham city centre next to one of the busiest railway stations in the UK. It's a fantastic engineering achievement." Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Euro MP Liz Lynne and stalking abuse survivors are mounting a last minute drive to persuade MEPs to back EU-wide action against stalking. Liz Lynne's Written Declaration in the European Parliament is backed by stalking victim and former ITV presenter Alexis Bowater and the Network for Surviving Stalking. The Declaration has just five days left for additional signatures before the closing date on December 20th. Commenting Liz Lynne MEP said: "Stalking is a huge and hidden problem affecting at least 1.8 million people in the UK alone, men as well as women. "In England, we do have specific laws against stalking but Scotland still does not, and only 8 out of the 26 other EU countries have laws in place to tackle it. It's time the other EU countries followed our lead. "Stalking can be stopped with the right laws and a proper response by police and local authorities. The EU can sponsor research and encourage best practice between EU countries. "This declaration has cross party support and was drawn up in close consultation with the Network for Surviving Stalking and other victims groups. "This is not just a crime prevention issue, it is about taking on a huge abuse of human rights." Chief Executive of the Network for Surviving Stalking Alexis Bowater commented: "Stalkers are stealing lives and Liz's Written Declaration is our best opportunity yet to get EU governments to take stalking seriously. This is not just about good government and effective policing. It's about human rights and saving lives. "So far over 100 Euro MPs have signed up but we have just six days left before the declaration closes and need 369 to get it adopted." ENDS Notes: Liz Lynne's declaration supported by Network for Surviving Stalking, calls for all EU member states to recognise stalking as a criminal offence and back specific measures to support victims and train police forces to stamp it out. So far over 100 MEPs have signed but the measure needs 369 MEPs to support it to be adopted. In Britain , the Protection from Harassment Act applies to England and Wales but Scotland has so far not passed a similar law. Other countries with legislation include Ireland, Italy, Malta, Germany, Belgium, Austria, the Netherlands and Denmark but no other EU countries have protection for victims. A copy of Liz's declaration, similar to an Early Day Motion in the House of Commons, can be found here: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?pubRef=-//EP//NONSGML+WDECL+P7-DCL-2010-0072+0+DOC+PDF+V0//EN&language=EN Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Liz Lynne MEP with Sophie Lainé and Abdul Qadir of the West Midlands European Service who advised local bids for DAPHNE funding Euro MP Liz Lynne was guest speaker at the launch of a network of projects from all over the West Midlands region fighting violence in the community which together have won nearly £3 million support from the EU's DAPHNE programme. The move to set up a West Midlands DAPHNE project network follows the great success of local teams in the funding round this year, with 7 out of the 16 successful bids for DAPHNE support awarded in the UK this year coming from the West Midlands region. Staff from the West Midlands European Service (WMES), formerly West Midlands in Europe, provided help to the projects during the application phase earlier this year after a seminar at Newman College in Birmingham attracted a range of new project ideas. Now WMES staff and local Lib Dem MEP Liz Lynne have joined the winning project teams to launch a West Midlands regional DAPHNE network at Coventry University. Liz Lynne said: "It was great to celebrate the success of local projects in winning EU backing for their plans to tackle violence in local communities and share their expertise. "I must highlight the sterling support provided by Sophie Lainé, Abdul Qadir and the team at the West Midlands European Service. The fact that so many bids from our region were successful is a tribute to their hard work and expert advice. "These projects are pioneering innovative ways to tackle a range of situations where violence ruins the lives of women or vulnerable girls and boys. "The projects vary, from tackling the high number of women sleeping rough in Wolverhampton, to addressing the internal or cross-border trafficking of young girls and helping children cope with domestic violence via playground initiatives. "Another really innovative project led by Coventry University is a plan to develop a video roleplaying game to help teenage boys and girls confront 'date rape' and violence. This is so often a hidden problem, but we know it causes many young adolescents great trauma and sometimes dangerous injuries." "A key role of the DAPHNE programme is also to identify what works and share it with others facing the same problem. The new West Midlands DAPHNE network will share their best practice and use it to inform policy in councils, government and the EU and hopefully be a model of how to go about this effectively. "I always thought the DAPHNE programme was a fantastic use of quite small amounts of EU funds to help community projects fight a great social evil. Here in the West Midlands we are showing how the EU can make a real difference helping communities tackling violence against women and vulnerable young people." ENDS Notes: €2,789,580.96 in EU grant funding was secured for the West Midlands Lead Partners in new DAPHNE programmes, who include: Newman University College, University of Wolverhampton, Coventry University, Keele University, Telford & Wrekin Council, The Haven (Wolverhampton) and Coventry, Solihull and Warwickshire Partnership. The West Midlands European Service (formerly West Midlands in Europe and EU Connects) provided valuable one to one help for the applicants and Liz Lynne wrote letters of support. 77% of applications from the region were successful, compared to the average of 37%. Of the 16 successful projects in the UK in this round, seven were from the West Midlands. Successful project bids approved for DAPHNE funding in the round earlier this year include: · 'STREETWISE' European street violence project - Newman University College - fighting street and peer violence which is identified as an issue in Birmingham. Will work with 6 partner organisations across the EU - in part analysis & research to make street- based youth work more effective in preventing and combating street violence by working with young people. Peer research, training, DVDs documenting the research process and young people's experience. · CAVA: Changing Attitudes to dating Violence among adolescents - Coventry University Objective - an innovative approach to changing attitudes to violence and abuse in dating relationships among 12 to 16-year-olds. Use of a role playing video game as central learning tool, with scenarios of different stages of a relationship and role play of situations that sometimes lead to violence. The player can be the male or the female or a friend of the couple in the role playing game. Fun but also teaches children the consequences of violence. · 'READAPT' - Relationship Education and Domestic Abuse education - Keele University - best practice in education of teenagers and young people - the project aims to educate those who live with an abusive parent or who are entering romantic relationships of their own · 'Women rough sleepers' - University of Wolverhampton - a study relating to women who have suffered abuse and the development of policy strategy & knowledge transfer (sharing best practice) activities to support rough sleepers and help them into accommodation. Research study into needs of this group & organisation development such as access to services, hoping to create an EU network to support those dealing with vulnerable women sleeping rough. · SITEMAP - Stopping Internal Trafficking and Exploitation through multi-agency partnerships - Telford & Wrekin Council - aims to raise awareness of internal trafficking, effective identification of trafficking and measures to tackle it. Also looks to develop ways to safeguard those at risk. Working with public authorities. · COMBAT - Combining Against Trafficking - Coventry, Solihull & Warwickshire Partnership Aim - to raise awareness of trafficking at front-line/ grass roots level. Contributing to protection and safeguarding of vulnerable & at risk women and children. Training events in partner countries, leaflets, a film will be made on the reality of child trafficking. Resources also used to train professionals to be aware of the problem and how to fight it. Counselling Survivors - The Haven (Wolverhampton), A comparative study on counselling support approaches with victims of violence and how they are funded in the West Midlands with partners in Portugal, Germany, Italy and Bulgaria and other countries. Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Liz Lynne has been longstanding supporter of tough international police action to tackle human trafficking. She and Chief Constable Grahame Maxwell launched the EU wide Blue Blindfold campaign to report suspected human traffickers last year. The European Parliament has approved a new European directive to fight human trafficking and modern slavery, after MEPs including local Lib Dem Euro MP Liz Lynne and UK Conservative MEPs voted it through at Strasbourg this week. Through more effective EU cooperation and a wider definition of trafficking it aims to hit the cross-border criminal networks guilty of buying, selling and exploiting other people. It is estimated that hundreds of thousands of people are trafficked into or within the EU every year, mostly exploited for prostitution but also as slave labour, begging and an evil trade in stealing human organs. Since EU governments have also already given the legislation their approval the measures will now become EU law. The UK, which decided not to 'opt in' to this directive when it was first proposed, now has a second chance to decide to participate. Local MEP and longstanding campaigner against human trafficking Liz Lynne said: "This new EU-wide push to fight the illegal sex trade and modern-day slavery and put its perpetrators into jail is vital. Criminals who dehumanise vulnerable people and exploit them for profit must be stopped." "The law against this pernicious crime is much tougher, for instance a new maximum jail sentence of 10 years instead of 8, much better care for child victims and an EU anti-trafficking coordinator. Trafficking now covers selling a person as a beggar or pickpocket, or for adoption, forced marriage or harvesting of organs for transplant." "MEPs have also insisted that victims receive protection, maximising the chance that they will help with prosecutions of the gangsters. If the victims are immediately deported as illegal immigrants or punished for involuntary offences, the gangs will get away with it as getting successful prosecutions and evidence is almost impossible." "UK concerns about the text of the directive have been met and it meets the test in the coalition agreement. Cross-border cooperation is essential to combat people-trafficking and the UK should be leading the way in the international effort to stamp it out." ENDS Notes to Editors: 1. The UK only participates in EU justice & home affairs legislation when it chooses to, and there are two opportunities for the UK to 'opt in' on any measure. The UK government announced in June that it would not opt in at the beginning of negotiations to this new EU anti-trafficking law but would wait to see how the final text negotiated between MEPs and the other EU governments turned out before deciding whether to participate in the final version. 2. Regarding EU justice & home affairs, the UK coalition government agreement says: 'We will approach forthcoming legislation in the area of criminal justice on a case-by-case basis, with a view to maximising our country's security, protecting Britain's civil liberties and preserving the integrity of our criminal justice system Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

ST Anne's Well Cafe tenant John Redman has been offered a new lease on the building by its owners, Malvern Hills Conservators. The offer marks the end of a dispute between the Conservators and Mr Redman which has been going on for 14 months. Following his election in October as the board's new chairman, Cllr Clive Smith reopened direct negotiations with Mr Redman. Speaking this week to the Malvern Gazette, Cllr Smith said: "This was a situation I felt had been going on far too long, and it was time to resolve it." Mr Reedman said he was delighted with the move. "It's been causing me a lot of stress, so this is great news. I want to say thank you to all my supporters for what they've done. Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Solihull MP Lorely Burt has welcomed Solihull Planning Committee's decision to reject the controversial 'Parkgate' scheme that would have devastated local green spaces. Mrs Burt, who spoke against the proposals at the planning meeting last night, said: 'It is a great relief to me, and to the thousands of residents who didn't want to see their green spaces lost by this proposal. We would have been forced to destroy a ring of centuries old oak trees and many other mature trees and ancient hedgerows in the park to make way for an ASDA superstore. 'That isn't what we want for Shirley and, more importantly, it isn't what Shirley residents want for their area.' Lorely has now set her sights on putting together a fairer, greener and better deal to help regenerate Shirley. Mrs Burt commented: 'I've fought alongside residents for many years to make sure that this scheme is rejected. Now that this has happened, we can seriously look at a way to re-develop Shirley in a way that fits in with the needs and wishes of the people who actually live there.' Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Gaza's reconstruction work has barely begun due to continued restrictions on construction materials entering the territory. Euro MP Liz Lynne says the EU should take action after a joint appeal by an alliance of aid charities challenging Israel over the continued blockade of essential supplies to Gaza. The Israeli government promised an 'easing' of the blockade which kept out essential humanitarian supplies from the territory in June, after outrage followed an attack on a convoy of aid ships which left 10 dead. But charity workers say they are in despair as week after week, only half the essential goods Gaza needs to feed its 1.5 million people are being let through, while the absolute ban on exporting anything other than strawberries has been maintained. A long time campaigner on human rights issues, Liz Lynne is a member of the Delegation for Relations with the Palestinian Legislative Council in the European Parliament. Liz Lynne said: "Hopes rose earlier this year that as peace talks with the Palestinian government resumed and with apparently serious promises being made that the humanitarian crisis would begin to diminish. "But incredibly, after five months very little seems to have changed. Israel promised to allow in cement and construction materials to rebuild the ruins from the attack two years ago, but this has not happened. "They promised to open more crossings to process more goods, but this has not happened. "The statistics are grim - the UN estimates that the territory needs 670,000 truckloads of construction materials to rebuild the homes, shops and factories left in ruins, but only an average of 715 a month have been let in since this 'easing' was announced. "Of course Israel has a right to maintain her security and check that no weapons or dangerous materials are getting through, but the continued squeeze on basic goods and food does not help security. "It is bizarre and sad that Israel is behaving in this way, risking the support of her allies and friends. "The EU and its external action service should be stepping up diplomatic pressure on Israel to honour its obligations under international law - and encourage the Obama administration to be more assertive. "Renewed trade co-operation between the EU and Israel will be impossible until action is taken. "The conflict in Israel and Palestine is a huge engine for fundamentalism and terrorists around the world. Progress to a sustainable and genuine peace settlement could make such a difference. "The EU High Representative Baroness Ashton must put pressure on the Israeli government to answer the questions over the appalling suffering still being imposed on 1.5 million civilians in Gaza." ENDS Note: On June 20, after international pressure, Israel announced plans to 'ease' its illegal blockade of the Gaza Strip. This included: • Publishing a list of items not permitted into Gaza and allowing all other items to enter; • Expanding and accelerating the inflow of construction materials for international projects; • Expanding operations at the crossings and opening more crossings; • Streamlining entry/exit permits for medical and humanitarian reasons and for aid workers; • Facilitating the movement of people in additional ways as conditions and security allow. Many hoped this would lead to a major change and alleviate the plight of the Palestinian civilian population in Gaza. However, five months later, an alliance of charities including Amnesty, Oxfam and Cafod reports few signs of real improvement on the ground in these five areas. Israel has so far only approved only 7 per cent of the building plan for UNRWA's projects in Gaza, and of that 7 per cent only a small fraction of the necessary material has been allowed in. The UN says Gaza needs 670,000 truckloads of construction material, while only an average of 715 of these truckloads have been received per month since June. Liz Lynne's Lib Dem colleague Chris Davies MEP has been monitoring aid shipments into the Gaza strip. In one recent week, of 2540 trucks needed for food and consumables, only 1083 were let in. 1500 tonnes of cooking gas are needed weekly, but only 825 tonnes were let through. 4.9 million litres of diesel fuel are needed for Gaza's power stations, but less than 1.9 million litres were let in. In 2008, Liz Lynne MEP co-authored a Written Declaration in the European Parliament on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?pubRef=-//EP//NONSGML+WDECL+P6-DCL-2008-0047+0+DOC+WORD+V0//EN&language=EN Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

An Ofsted report has found that Worcestershire County Council is not doing enough to safeguard young people. The authority is one of 12 councils across England that has been condemned by the watchdog for its children's services department not meeting minimum requirements. In an annual assessment, published today, it was rated as performing poorly and not fulfilling its duties to safeguarding services and looked after children services. Liz Eyre, Conservative County Councillor for Broadway and lead member for children's services, stated: "Performing poorly is an understandable judgement in view of the recent safeguarding and looked after children inspection findings. We can assure residents that beneath this phrase, we are working with our partners to address the immediate, and longer-term issues highlighted through an effective Improvement Board. We recognise there is more work to do and are working hard to ensure we continue to move in the right direction." Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Survivors of terrifying stalking abuse and local MEP Liz Lynne are urging the Home Secretary to back a move in the European Parliament to support tougher action to stamp out stalking. Former ITV presenter and stalking victim Alexis Bowater has praised Theresa May for calling a summit with top police officers tomorrow. The talks follow the release of figures showing a huge response to the UK's National Stalking Helpline since it was launched in April. Now Alexis, the Chief Executive of Network for Surviving Stalking (NSS), is calling on the Tory Home Secretary to throw her weight behind efforts to get a Written Declaration through the European Parliament, calling for EU-wide action against stalking. Proposed by Lib Dem MEP Liz Lynne with all party support, Written Declaration 0072 calls for all EU member states to recognise stalking as a criminal offence and back specific measures to support the victims and train police officers. Liz Lynne MEP said: "It is encouraging to see how seriously Theresa May is taking this issue since she became Home Secretary, following up the pledges she made in opposition. "The first figures for the UK's stalking hotline show that there is a huge previously hidden problem of abuse. Millions of people like Alexis have been put through a terrible ordeal by stalkers, often over years. Tragically some have been attacked and even killed after the abuse escalated into violence. "England and Wales has the Protection from Harassment Act, but it does not apply in Scotland. Only 8 out of the other 26 countries in the EU have any laws against stalking." "My declaration, supported by the NSS, calls for all EU countries to make stalking a crime, with support for victims, more research on best practice and more training for police. "As well as helping their own people, it will also protect UK citizens travelling, studying or working elsewhere in the EU." Alexis Bowater and the NSS helped set up the stalking helpline in the UK and worked with Liz on the Declaration. She said: "This is a golden opportunity to change millions of lives by Christmas, not just in Britain but all over Europe. But time is running out. "My team has emailed every MEP and over 100 have now signed, but we need 369 in total to get it adopted by the closing date on December 20th. There is no reason for MEPs from the nine EU countries which have anti stalking laws not to sign. "This is not just about crime prevention, it is about human rights and in some cases it is about saving lives. In all cases stalkers are stealing lives." "I hope everyone lobbies their local MEPs from every party to sign declaration 0072." ENDS Notes: In Britain, the Protection from Harassment Act applies to England and Wales but Scotland has so far not passed a similar law. Other countries with legislation include Ireland, Italy, Malta, Germany, Belgium, Austria, the Netherlands and Denmark. Theresa May is due to meet police chiefs from 44 forces on Thursday to discuss an integrated approach to tackling stalking, after figures released on the National Stalking Helpline. Alexis Bowater, a former news anchorwoman on ITV news was the victim of a two year long campaign of graphic and threatening emails, which caused her to fear for her life. She is now Chief Executive of the Network for Surviving Stalking. Other recent high profile cases also include Clare Wood, the Manchester woman murdered by her ex-partner George Appleton after months of threats and assaults, despite many contacts with the local police. Liz Lynne MEP and the NSS are hoping to arrange a conference in the European Parliament in the New Year to look at how Member States are tackling stalking and have invited Theresa May to take part. 0072/2010 Written declaration on the fight against stalking - launched on September 20th at Strasbourg. The European Parliament, •having regard to Rule 123 of its Rules of Procedure, A. whereas stalking can be a terrifying experience; placing victims at risk of psychological trauma and physical harm, B. whereas 1.2 million women and 900 000 men are affected by stalking annually in the UK and it is estimated that similar rates exist in other EU Member States, C. whereas 7 Member States have now recognised the crime of stalking, but 20 Member States still have not, 1. urges all Member States to recognise stalking as a criminal offence and introduce anti-stalking legislation; 2. Calls on the Member States and the Commission to do more to raise awareness of this issue, and on the Member States to introduce more specific training for police officers and measures to support the victims of stalking; 3. Urges the Commission to do more research into levels of stalking, and propose measures to exchange best practice in this field and consider what further action it believes needs to be taken at EU level; 4. Instructs its President to forward this declaration, together with the names of the signatories, to the Council, the Commission, the Member States, the Council of Europe and the UN. Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Liz Lynne addressing the seminar at the European Parliament on alcohol and cancer, organised by MEPs Against Cancer The huge public health challenge to tackle preventable cancers caused by rising alcohol consumption needs more action by the EU and member governments, Lib Dem MEP Liz Lynne said today. The West Midlands MEP spoke out at a seminar hosted by MEPs Against Cancer at the European Parliament in Brussels, where experts said latest research findings showed alcohol was responsible for up to 6% of fatal cancers, especially in the mouth, throat, oesophagus (or food pipe), bowel and breast. The large increase in mouth cancers over the last ten years has been linked to the rise in drinking in most European countries. Up to 9,000 cancer deaths in the UK alone each year are believed to be caused by exposure to alcohol. Liz Lynne MEP, Vice President of MEPs Against Cancer said the event was an important chance to publicise the growing research evidence of a link between even moderate drinking and cancers. She said: "While many are now aware of the risks of smoking and cancer, research shows the links between drinking alcohol and cancer are still unknown to most people. "It is a worrying thought that drinking as little as three units of alcohol a day can increase the risk of mouth, throat, oesophagus, breast and bowel cancers. "That's the amount of alcohol in one pint of many premium lagers or a large glass of wine. And the more you drink the more the risk increases. "Following the launch of the EU's alcohol strategy in 2006, we do have some initiatives in place which seek to reduce the harmful effects of alcohol, but they didn't look at the link between alcohol consumption and cancer. "I believe the EU could do more. We need more research, more information campaigns following best practice and to look at whether labelling needs to be improved. "National Governments should be encouraged to get the message across that alcohol is linked to an increased risk of some forms of cancer." ENDS Notes: The MAC meeting highlighted the latest research from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) on an evaluation of alcoholic beverages and the risks to cancer. Policy implications for both national and European level and actions were considered with examples from the Danish Cancer Society and Eurocare. Cancer Research charities are warning that regular drinking can increase the risk of cancer at levels far too low to make an average person drunk. Three units a day can increase the risk of mouth, throat, oesophagus or food pipe, breast and bowel cancers. Alcohol along with smoking is now believed to be the leading cause of this form of cancer. The guideline safe drinking levels are lower for women because the liver in women produces less of an enzyme called alcohol dehydrogenase that breaks down alcohol, so allowing it to cause more damage. Liz Lynne MEP has actively supported efforts by health campaigners and charity alliances for a pro-active policy by the EU institutions and member states to beat cancer. Earlier this year Liz Lynne succeeded in winning Parliament's backing for a plan to evaluate universal cancer screening for women across the EU between the ages of 50 and 70. She has supported a number of other European Parliamentary Declarations on the issue. Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

The Malvern Gazette has reported that a decision will be made next week on how Wychavon will be governed in the future. Councillors will agree to adopt one of two new leader models at a special meeting next Tuesday in response to orders from central government. A public consultation on the matter ended on Friday and of 38 respondents, 23 were in favour of a strong leader who would be elected by the council at its first annual meeting after the 2011 elections to hold office for four years. The leader would appoint a cabinet of at least two other councillors, including a deputy leader, and together they would run the main services, with the full council continuing to set the budget and main policies. Meanwhile, 14 respondents preferred to have a directly elected mayor who would hold office for a four-year period, and would be elected in addition to Wychavon's 45 councillors. The mayor would be responsible for appointing at least two councillors to a cabinet and together they would run the council's services in accordance with the policies and budget agreed by the council. Currently Wychavon is run by a leader and an executive board, whose members are elected by sitting councillors annually. For more details, visit wychavon.gov.u Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

THE chairman of Upton's Tourism and Trade Association has slammed councillors for not supporting Christmas celebrations in the town. Peter Webb, who is also a member of the town council, addressed his fellow councillors at their latest meeting. He said the Tourism and Trade Association were "appalled" to receive a full invoice for using the Memorial Hall to host a children's Christmas party, Santa's grotto, carol service and blessing. He told them the matter 'impinged on the council's reputation and integrity'. "This council does nothing for the town to celebrate Christmas. If it were not for volunteers there would be no trees, no Santa's ride around town, no children's party, no carols and even no lights," he said. "The council even cut the budget for Christmas trees, meaning help had to be begged, and still is, to erect them." He added: "I can see the headline now - 'Scrooge council' leaves town in darkness." Town clerk Andrea Oliver told him: "We are not made of money, and any extra that we give out has to come back from our ratepayers." Mayor Andrea Morgan said: "It is a very difficult situation for everyone money-wise." She added that she would be delighted to offer her help to Coun Webb in organising festive events. "We do try," she told him. "You are a councillor yourself and I hope that you realise that we are certainly not 'Scrooge'. Unfortunately we cannot stretch every way. "I would be more than happy to help with Christmas things but, until now, have never been asked. Perhaps we can look forward to working together in the future." Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Projects in Malvern have received thousands to improve the health of residents young and old. The £500,000 Community Leadership for Health Fund, established by Worcestershire Primary Care Trust in September 2008, is championed by local county councillors who lend their support to different initiatives. Cllr Tom Wells and Cllr Clive Smith got more than £2,000 for Powick Primary School to enable a project aimed at getting the pupils to walk or cycle to school. Cllr Smith also got £3,710 for St Matthias Church of England Primary School, Malvern Link, for classes to teach parents and pupils how to cook nutritious meals. Cllr Beverley Nielsen received £2,850 for Somers Park Primary School to get pupils cycling. Dr Richard Harling, director of public health, said: "These projects will make a real difference to people's health." Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Liz Lynne MEP with disabled pupils at Trinity School in Hereford. She is calling for EU governments to honour their promises to disabled people. Lib Dem MEP Liz Lynne says the International Day of Persons with Disabilities today is a timely reminder to the EU Commission and member states to 'keep the promise' to disabled people and end discrimination against them once and for all. The UN's International Day of Persons with Disabilities has been held every year on December 3 since 1992. The theme of the event today is 'Keeping the promise: Mainstreaming disability in the Millennium Development Goals towards 2015 and beyond'. Liz Lynne, Euro MP for the West Midlands region, and First Vice President of the Employment and Social Affairs Committee, has been a lifelong campaigner for the rights of disabled people She says this year's event should be a wake up call to EU governments dragging their feet on laws to stop disabled people from discrimination in buying goods and services and the failure by some countries to implement the UN Convention for the Rights of Disabled People. Speaking at the European Parliament in Brussels, Liz Lynne said: "Disabled people, which make up at least 10 per cent of the population, need and deserve equal access not just to the job market but also to buying goods and accessing services. In some countries the level of discrimination is still appalling. "The theme of International Day of Persons with Disabilities this year is 'keeping the promise' to mainstream disabled people into the Millennium Goals at the UN. "This is an important objective, but in my view it is also high time that EU member states keep their promises to disabled people too. "A number of member states are currently blocking progress on the Equal Treatment Directive. "This was drawn up by the Commission after the European Parliament adopted my own-initiative report calling for new laws to stop discrimination in access to goods and services on the grounds of disability, age, religion or belief, and sexual orientation. "The text is currently being discussed by the Council of Ministers. I am afraid that despite much pressure from myself and other MEPs there has been no movement on this dossier as yet. "The main country blocking progress is Germany although it is believed that there are many other Member States who have reservations. "If this legislation goes through, it will go a long way to ensuring that people with disabilities can live work and access services equally in every EU country. We already have a legal framework in the UK but in some countries discrimination is still very widespread. "All EU governments have signed up to various declarations pledging to oppose discrimination against disabled people. Today is a timely reminder that millions of disabled people all over Europe are watching and waiting for them to keep their promise." ENDS Note to editors: Liz Lynne has been a fierce advocate of disabled people's equality since her youth. As Lib Dem MP for Rochdale she worked with William Hague on the Disability Discrimination Act, the seminal piece of UK legislation passed under the last Conservative government. As MEP for the West Midlands since 1999, Liz has been Vice President of the All Party Disability Intergroup and rapporteur for a 2003 European Parliament report on the UN Convention for Disabled People's Rights. She lobbied hard for Britain and other countries to sign and ratify the Convention and for the European Union to complete its legislation to outlaw discrimination not just in the field of employment but also in access to goods and services on all grounds. Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

Liz Lynne is Vice President of MEPs Against Cancer A campaign backed by local Lib Dem Euro MP Liz Lynne and many health experts calling for a major increase in colorectal or bowel cancer screening and health promotion drives has been adopted by the European Parliament. Health campaigners are delighted after a cross party Parliamentary Declaration on tackling the killer disease won the support of 411 MEPs, well over half. Bowel cancer kills 200,000 people every year across the EU and is the second most frequent cause of death from cancer, but treatment is more effective if diagnosed early. A switch to healthier lifestyles has been proven to reduce the incidence of the disease. The Declaration calls for nationwide colorectal cancer screening following best practice and more efforts to encourage young adults to change their lifestyles to cut their risk of developing the disease. Liz Lynne, MEP for the West Midlands and Vice President of MEPs Against Cancer, welcomed the adoption of the Declaration at the European Parliament in Brussels. Liz Lynne said: "It is good news that this proposal has been adopted by the European Parliament and now must be considered by the Commission and Member governments. "Colorectal cancer is one of the most dangerous forms of the disease but there is now massive evidence that earlier diagnosis not only saves lives but also cuts the long term cost of treatment. This declaration also again stresses the need to share best practice. Every health service in Europe is grappling with this challenge and we need to learn from experience. "It was successful pilot projects carried out in Warwickshire which led to the UK's national bowel cancer screening programme for people from 60 to 69. This has now been rolled out in England, with the last major screening hubs opening this year. "Many other EU member states have no organised bowel cancer screening. The scale of the NHS screening programme in England is impressive but it is also important that we keep up with best practice in both screening techniques and health promotion campaigns. "There is evidence from the USA and a city wide programme in Brussels that widespread provision of colonoscopies to at-risk groups is more effective than only offering it to those whose stool samples are abnormal. We also need more research on the safest way to carry out colonic examinations. "Cancer Research UK are calling for more use of flexible sigmoidoscopies to be offered by the NHS screening programme and have also highlighted the need for regional statistics on how the screening programme is being delivered in practice, to stop certain groups being left out." ENDS Note to editors: Earlier this year Liz Lynne succeeded in winning Parliament's backing for a plan to evaluate universal cancer screening for women across the EU between the ages of 50 and 70. The NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme in England followed a pilot scheme in Warwickshire and Scotland which showed that faecal occult blood testing (FOBT) every two years could reduce colorectal mortality by 15%. The programme was phased in over three years from 2006. Men and women aged between 60-69 are invited to participate every two years with FOBT kits in their own homes and return samples to labs for analysis. People over 70 can request a FOBT kit. Approximately 2% of tests are positive and further investigation, usually by colonoscopy, is offered. Most people with a positive test result will not have cancer and as colonoscopy is not without risks, other techniques are being looked at. A study this year suggests that a one-off test called flexible sigmoidoscopy (or 'flexi-scope') can reduce bowel cancer incidence by a third and reduce mortality from the disease by up to half. Another method is CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) which is a non-invasive method of visualising the bowel. For further information see: http://info.cancerresearchuk.org/cancerstats/types/bowel/screeningandprevention/ Other research has contributed new information about physical activity, weight control, diet, and other lifestyle choices that can help individuals reduce their risk of the disease. MEPs are also anxious to ensure that lessons are applied from other EU countries such as Poland where their 'Beat Cancer' awareness campaign showed a significant impact on lifestyles and diet. 0068/2010 Written declaration on fighting colorectal cancer in the European Union The European Parliament, having regard to Rule 123 of its Rules of Procedure, A. whereas in the EU there are over 400 000 new cases of colorectal cancer (CRC) and 200 000 deaths from it per annum, CRC being the second most frequent cause of death from cancer, B. whereas CRC is associated with lifestyle factors (obesity, lack of exercise, alcohol consumption and smoking) and tackling these factors will decrease CRC development, C. whereas screening in some EU countries has already lowered CRC mortality, while in others screening activities have not been initiated, D. whereas early detection of CRC will not only lead to a reduction in the 40% mortality rate, but will also significantly reduce treatment costs, E. whereas, according to the Commission, the fight against CRC should be a priority in public health, as death from CRC is preventable with the medical tools available in the EU, 1. Calls on the Commission and the Member States: to support awareness campaigns in the EU on lifestyle factors which cause CRC, aimed particularly at teenagers and young adults, to encourage implementation of CRC screening best practice in all EU countries and to publish progress reports every two years, to make dissemination of CRC screening-related research and knowledge a priority in upcoming work programmes of Research Framework Programme 7 and the EU Health Programme, to introduce nationwide CRC screening, in accordance with EU guidelines; 2. Instructs its President to forward this declaration, together with the names of the signatories, to the Council, the Commission and the parliaments of the Member States. Published and promoted by Lee Dargue on behalf of the West Midlands Liberal Democrats, 12 Ravensdale Drive, Muxton, Telford, Shropshire, TF28SB Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY