Like the Met office I am not sure what the weather will be like by the time you read this article but I hope my back has recovered from sledging a ‘black run’ at Oakhill Park today.

This has been a year of remembrance. 75 years since the outbreak of the 2nd World War, 65 years since the D Day landings and of course the loss of lives in Afghanistan this year. It is also 60 years ago since the opening of Broomfield Park’s memorial to Southgate’s servicemen and civilians who died in the 2nd World War.

The news has been dominated by the BNP gaining access to mainstream political debate through Nick Griffin’s appearance on Question Time.

This last month has seen the usual round of political party conference events.

On holiday it is hard to completely switch off from work mode.

Parliament is now in recess. Some may think at a time of crisis - the economy, swine flu, Afghanistan, expenses scandal - Parliament should not be on holiday.

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.

Last week I asked the Business Minister what he would tell small businesses whom I have been meeting throughout my constituency to help them through the recession. His reply was symptomatic of much Government action over the last few months: lots of frenetic announcements but precious little help actually reaching the small businesses that so desperately need it.

The last week has been historic. The US election is significant, not only for the election of the first black President but also for the mile long queues of Americans, with many voting for the first time. These voters were exercising the hard fought democratic values of freedom and respect for the rule of law. Last weekend we were remembering those men and women who have sacrificed their lives for the sake of our freedoms. I was pleased that we were able to reinstate the act of Remembrance on Tuesday at the ‘Cairn’ in Broomfield Park on the 90th anniversary of Armistice Day.

Parliament's attention has naturally been focused upon the financial crisis. However whilst we need to restore confidence in the banking system we should not forget the impact upon small businesses and individuals.