Mobiles and Peerages

Following a meeting I had recently with the Mobile Operators Association. I was surprised to learn that some local authorities hold roll-out meetings to discuss the appropriateness of proposed sites before planning applications begin. However, this does not currently take place in Enfield.

I have written to the Assistant Director of Planning and Transportation in Enfield to ask that an annual roll-out meeting be established here so that residents, councillors, operators and health agencies can discuss proposed masts.

Our house is increasingly turning into a small symphony orchestra with the children learning the flute, violin and piano. This week I felt the need to join in, so I have been beating the drum! It started with a visit to Tottenhall School where I joined an African drumming class and danced with the head teacher.
But all my drum beating is not purely musical…I was beating a significant drum on Monday by raising the example of Chase Farm Hospital in the Commons debate on NHS deficits. I challenged the Government to bring in the Audit Commission to establish why an increase in taxpayer’s money has led to a substantial deficit and pressure to dismantle the A&E at Chase Farm. My suspicion is that the Government is reluctant to acknowledge that their own targets and directives are largely responsible for the financial crisis in many NHS trusts.

There were no drummer boys to be found on my recent visit to troops on the front line in Iraq. I did meet many young recruits doing a professional job in very difficult circumstances. Sadly, it is becoming evident that their
presence is part of the problem, rather than the solution.

I am heavily involved in select committee work at the moment. As a member of the Armed Forces Bill Select Committee which is considering changes to the military justice system and discipline procedures. Do you have a view about whether military justice sould be more like civilian justice?

The other drum that is beating in Westminster is the furore over the peerages for loans debacle. I will be investigating the honours list as a member of the Public Administration Committee, which is conducting an inquiry into standards in public life.

Another drum to beat locally is the growing concern about the proposed partnership of a retail outlet and Palmers Green Post Office. My family use this busy post office and we welcome the prospect of increased opening hours. However, I am seeking assurances from Post Office Ltd. that there will be no loss of counters or current service.