It's clear that what is wanted right now is stability, strengthening the economy and getting the nation’s debt down and that is what the Chancellor delivered through his well-received Spring Budget.
The significant package on childcare was a key announcement, and I am pleased that my feedback from local nurseries, was heeded and greater support will be available for both parents and childcare providers. In addition, a range of other measures have been welcomed locally including the extension of the energy price cap and the almost £5m for tackling potholes in Somerset.
It's always a pleasure to visit primary schools in the constituency and Oake Bradford & Nynehead Primary School is no exception. In the Q and A I had with the students it was clear they had a deep-felt interest in our planet and caring for it and I congratulated the class on their entries into BRITA’s school sustainability competition which featured some wonderfully creative designs.
Still with a recycling theme I later visited the Somerset University Centre in Taunton to talk with catering students about the importance of reducing food waste to highlight Food Waste Action Week. Cutting down on food waste not only saves money, it saves time in terms of reusing leftovers and not starting from scratch, and makes an important contribution to reducing emissions which are needlessly given off when food waste goes to landfill.
Taunton Ambulance station was another port of call for me recently, where, at the request of local UNISON members I discussed the range of challenges facing staff at the station including issues of recruitment, retention and pay. I informed Health Ministers following the visit making the point that we owe a great deal to those working in our Ambulance service. The recent agreement between the Government and the Unions on NHS pay represents a fair and reasonable offer for NHS staff, as well as being a fair deal for taxpayers and I would urge union members to support this deal.
Finally, at last genuine progress is being made on the Firepool site in the heart of Taunton, it is exciting to see it changing by the day. I was pleased to secure funding for the walkway and cycleway that will link through it from Taunton station to the town centre as well as funding for the digital hub and I look forward to further developments here.
