Every week my office receives correspondence from constituents covering all manner of subjects. This week has been no different with queries covering a wide range of varied issues.
One subject that has become a matter of concern for many of my constituents is the Planning Reform Bill. On face value the streamlining of planning applications is something to be welcomed, but then you realise the devil is in the detail. There must be a check and consultation process on ‘major infrastructure projects’ (which have yet to be properly defined) and it is an issue the Liberal Democrats have long campaigned on. I welcome methods to simplify and streamline planning processes provided there are proper safeguards for those adversely affected to make their voice heard.
The Climate Change Bill is another issue which has received widespread attention. There are many people concerned that the Government’s approach, while welcome, doesn’t go quite far enough and I am minded to agree. More must be done to tackle the serious threat of climate change and annual targets with accountability and reporting is a necessary inclusion.
Finally the Governments decision to withdraw funding from institutions for equivalent or lower qualification students has caused great concern with the public and indeed amongst many MPs here in Westminster. I have added my name to Early Day Motion 317, signed by 127 MPs to date, calling on the Government to consider ways in which to minimise the damage such a measure would do to institutions like the Open University.
Mark Oaten