Easter message
6th April 2009
The Council's pledge of 6 free car parking days as part of our Back Local Businesses campaign seems to be going down well if the reception from Green Lanes businesses is any indication. Saturday April 11th will be a good day to make the most of the free parking and an Easter Egg Hunt in Palmers Green!
There is though only so much that the Council can do for local businesses. Over these last few months I have met with businesses throughout my constituency and the problems of lack of credit and high business rates are regularly mentioned. I and my colleagues have called on the Government to do more to get credit flowing to the high street. The forthcoming budget gives the opportunity also to lessen the impact of an inflation busting increase to rates. A more radical and welcome step would be to give local Councils' discretion over the level of business rates and accountability for the services provided rather than than presently just being a collection agent.
I have had my attention fixed on a house this last week. Not I hasten to add an MP's second home (which should be scrapped for London MPs as soon as possible) but Broomfield House. Boris' decision to grant £6 million towards the restoration of the House and the Council's commitment to provide additional investment in the Park and House is great news. I have been pressing for the restoration of Broomfield and am pleased that for the first time since the fire which ravaged the House we have a firm funding commitment. Coupled with me convincing Boris to go ahead with the A406 road improvement scheme, despite TfL's budgetary pressures, it has been a significant week for my constituency.
For many Christian constituents and those of other traditions the next two weeks are the most significant of the year. The Easter eggs and bunnies don't come near appreciating the life transforming event of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Happy Easter! And for my Jewish constituents, wishing you a Pesach filled with happiness.
David Burrowes MP
Member of Parliament for Enfield Southgate
