Lib Dem Minister’s £5M Boost For Transport Welcomed

Cllr Susan van de Ven
(LD, Melbourn)

A £5 million boost for Cambridgeshire Transport from Lib Dem Minister, Norman Baker has been welcomed by the county’s Liberal Democrats and Cambridge MP, Julian Huppert.

The funding will boost cycling, opening up new routes and improving cycle parking, and encourage people onto public transport in key areas of employment and growth across the county.

Julian said: “It is great to see a Lib Dem minister in government delivering on public and sustainable transport for Cambridge and the county generally.

“Norman Baker has shown time and time again that he genuinely understands the problems faced by years of neglect of our transport systems and infrastructure under the previous Labour government.

“In a short time, he has worked to put this right and we are seeing funding for real improvements on the ground. This money will make a big difference to the lives of people in Cambridge and across the county.”

Susan van de Ven, Lib Dem Shadow Cabinet Member for Transport on Cambridgeshire County Council said: “This funding is very welcome, badly needed and desperately important in a fast growing county where we need to avoid congestion and enable people to take up job opportunities.

"I hope that a strengthened public transport network in the county's more populated areas could also have a knock-on effect to more rural areas."

The Local Sustainable Transport Fund grant is designed to encourage people onto public transport, in key areas of employment and growth such as between Huntington  and Cambridge, Northstowe and the Guided Busway and the Cambridge to Ely rail corridor.

The fund allows improvement to a whole range of transport interchanges and practical support for Travel for Work schemes.

It will support cycle parking at Cambridge and Ely rail stations and  the Guided Busway and there will be some new cycle routes

“I hope the fund sees a bigger take-up of public transport as the best way of moving around the county,” added Cllr van de Ven.

More Successful Prosecutions For Truancy

Three more parents have been prosecuted for failing to ensure their children attend Thomas Clarkson Community College in Wisbech.

All three pleaded guilty to the charges at Peterborough Magistrates' Court. One was given a 6-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £100 costs and a £15 victim surcharge, while the other two were each given a 12-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £100 costs and a £15 victim surcharge.

The prosecutions were brought by Cambridgeshire County Council.

Education welfare officers, who are conducting regular truancy sweeps in the area, thanked local shops and supermarkets for their support.

Thomas Clarkson Community College Vice-Principal David Gray said: "Children need to go to school.  The courts play an important role in ensuring parents take their responsibilities regarding school attendance, seriously.  Schools work closely with parents to help them do their best but sadly in some cases court action like this is necessary in the best interests of our young people."

Huppert Backs TV Chef To Ensure Academies Don't Serve Junk Food

Television celebrity chef, Jamie Oliver’s fight to get the government to make sure new academies and free schools don’t serve junk food to their pupils has been backed by Cambridge MP Julian Huppert.

Julian raised the issue with Education Minister, Michael Gove after he received a letter from Jamie and an email from a resident both expressing their concerns.

He has also signed a Commons’ Early Day Motion welcoming Jamie’s campaign and calling on Mr Gove to change the law to make academies and free schools serve food that meets nutritional regulations.

Julian said: “It is vital that our children receive good, nutritional meals, not only to promote healthy living now but also to teach them how to eat well for the future.

“We have children across the country who are obese because of poor diets and lack of exercise. We cannot afford to take any chances that this problem will be compounded by poor nutritional standards in our schools when we have introduced laws to protect against it.

“All schools teaching our children should be bound by the regulations put in place to safeguard the health of pupils in their care; there should be no exceptions.”

Mr Gove told Julian: “Free schools and new academies which have been set up from September 2010 are not required to comply with the school food standards.

“Studies by the School Food Trust now provide good evidence of the benefits of a balanced meal on pupils’ concentration, behaviour and ability to learn. Given this evidence we expect that free schools and academies will still want to promote healthy eating and good nutrition through the provision of high quality lunch services.

“We have asked the School Food Trust to survey the quality of food in a sample of academies in response to concerns raised by Jamie Oliver and we expect the trust to report to us within the next few months.”

The full wording of the EDM is as follows:

That this House recognises the impact of unhealthy eating and obesity on children's health and well-being; expresses its concern that academies and free schools opened since September 2010 are not required to adhere to the mandatory standards for school food; welcomes the joint Jamie Oliver Children's Food Campaign, Food for Life Partnership, LACA and School Food Matters Save Our School Food Standards campaign; and calls on the Secretary of State to amend the Education (Nutritional Standards and Requirements for School Food) (England) Regulations 2007 to require academies and free schools to adhere to the standards for school food so that the one million children now attending these schools can benefit from this commitment to their health and well-being.

MP Told Of £4M Station Ticket Hall Improvement After Complaint

MP Julian Huppert has received assurances from train operator Greater Anglia that £4 million worth of improvement work is planned at Cambridge railway station’s booking hall after he received a complaint.

The number of entry gates is to be increased to improve the flow of customers to platforms and the ticket hall will be opened up to create more space for additional ticket machines.

Julian was given news of the planned improvements after a complaint about the length of queues as customers waited to use ticket machines.

He was told that on one occasion the queue stretched out of the building across the road in front of the taxis to the car park.

After passengers complained, a railway station worker came out with a portable ticket machine and started selling tickets.

At the same time, a train arrived and the ticket hall was jammed with customers and there were fears that someone could be seriously injured in the crush.

Julian said: “This whole scenario was extremely worrying. Clearly, the ticket hall is inadequate for the amount of passengers using the station.

“I am pleased, therefore, that Greater Anglia is planning major works which will open up the ticket hall providing more space for passengers moving through and an increased number of machines.

“Cambridge station is very busy with commuters and passengers and priority has to be to get these people to and from their destinations safely and efficiently.”

Greater Anglia Customer Relations Manager, Lynsey Flack told Julian: “The booking hall at Cambridge station is due for considerable improvement during the lifetime of our current, short rail franchise. This is part of the Cambridge redevelopment plan.”

And she acknowledged that the experience relayed to Julian was “far from acceptable”.

Cut Fire Service Senior Management Costs To Protect Front-Line

Cllr Nigel Bell
(LD, Ely North And East)

Savings should be made from the fire service’s senior management costs so that the county’s front-line can be protected, claim Cambridgeshire Liberal Democrats.

They will remind Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Fire Authority tomorrow (Thursday, May 24) that the safety of the public and staff is their primary responsibility as they meet to discuss cuts of over £5 million.

"Support services and fire-fighters have faced the brunt of the cuts agreed so far but senior management have so far seemed immune from this austerity,” said Nigel Bell, Lib Dem leader on the fire authority.

“Fire-fighters have reluctantly agreed shift changes and staff reductions that create £900k of annual savings and it's time that the senior management team costs were included in the savings review.

“We cannot support cuts to the front-line, they are unacceptable and could cost lives, and we must pursue all other options.”

The Lib Dem Members proposed council tax rises of 3.5 per cent for four years, instead of the proposed 2.5 per cent for three years, to fill the estimated funding gap, an increase of 1p a week or 58p a year for Band D properties. This would have meant frontline cuts on the current predictions for government grant settlement levels could have been avoided.

They will tell the authority tomorrow to:

• Reject many of the Phase One cuts (numbered four to 12 in the table in the fire authority papers attached) and the Phase Two cuts;
• Review all the fire service’s senior management costs, including the 'Silver Fleet' vehicles, with a view to achieving savings:
• Examine all opportunities for closer working with other Fire Services to achieve potential savings;
• Consider the prudent use of reserves to offset short-term shortfalls in funding levels;
• Continue to press the case with MPs and the Fire Minister for a fair grant settlement for the county’s fire service.
• Review the level of Council Tax rise for future years.

The fire authority papers can be found here:

http://www.cambsfire.gov.uk/fireauthority/9127.php

Huppert Learns How To Cut His Energy Bills

MP Julian Huppert is to find out more about how he could save up to 30 per cent on his household energy bills when he meets representatives from a new company on Friday (May 25).

Collective Power UK promises to aim to lower gas and electricity prices by collective buying for customers across the Eastern region.

By collecting together the details of a large pool of consumers, the company, based in Haslingfield Road, Harston, will negotiate with the energy companies to cut bills.

The service is free to customers and could save between 10 and 30 per cent on household fuel costs.

Julian said: “I am interested to find out more about this idea. We have all noticed how energy prices have soared in recent months and any idea which could help us to save money has to be worthwhile.

“Collective purchasing already seems to be working well in Holland so there is no reason why it shouldn’t take off here. And it is time that we made the big energy suppliers realised that if they want to keep us loyal they have to be compete for our business in the same way as any other company.”

Ed Davey: A Clean Energy Revolution

Over the next decade, around a fifth of existing power plants are due to close, against a background of increased energy demand and increasing prices. We need new investment simply to keep the lights on.

But more than that, we need a clean energy revolution to meet our ambitious climate change goals and make this the greenest government ever.

That’s why I am bringing forward a new Energy Bill today.

You can read more about our clean energy revolution here.

We also need to transform our energy market to reduce the risk and cost of low carbon technologies.

That’s what our Bill does.

The UK is fast becoming a world leader in renewable energy, especially in off shore wind. I want us to lead the world in Carbon Capture and Storage too.

And we are also tackling rising energy bills. Without reforming the energy market bills will rise by around £200 in the coming years. Our reforms will mean bills are around 4% lower than they otherwise would have been.

Going green is good for the economy, good for Britain and good for you.

Yours,

Ed Davey MP

Two-Way Cycling On One-Way Streets

As part of the European Bike Friendly Cities project Cambridgeshire County Council is looking at increasing the number of one-way streets in Cambridge City that allow two-way cycling. This has recently been made a lot easier to do in that a new plate, "except cycles", can now be added to the standard no-entry signs.

Here is a list of the streets involved;

Panton Street
Brookside
Norwich Street
Coronation Street
Mercers Row
Swanns Road
New Square (south)
St Eligius Street
Mount Pleasant
Shelley Row
Albion Row
Perowne Street
Emery Road
Emery Street
Argyll Street (west)
Cockburn Street
Sedgewick Street
Catherine Street
Thoday Street
Ross Street
Hemingford Road
Belgrave Road
Vinery Road (north)
Harvest Way
Fitzwilliam Street
Park Terrace
Springfield Road
Albert Street
Adam and Eve Street at Burleigh St*
Hope St*

*- These two require additional work. The removal of signage as well as removal of island blocks.

King's Hedges isn't blessed with any specific one-way streets which we could ask for this change to be applied to but if you cycle into the City Centre and would like me to add any other roads to the project please let me know.

Unlock Democracy: Lobbying Campaign Progress

Yesterday, the minister in charge of government policy to introduce a lobbying register gave evidence to the House of Commons’ political and constitutional reform committee. You can watch the evidence session here:

http://www.unlockdemocracy.org.uk/mark-harper-evidence

In the meeting, he acknowledged that most of the responses to the recent consultation demanded stronger rules on transparency than the ones he had proposed. This accords with Mark Harper’s comments at our own public meeting in Birmingham last month where he admitted that he had united both transparency campaigners and the lobbying industry in demanding the regulations cover a wider range of lobbying activities!

The government is now due to publish a white paper and draft legislation for the lobbying register in this session of parliament - alongside a second consultation process. We welcome this but are concerned by the minister’s repeated assertions that the government intends to “take its time” over the proposed rules, although he insisted that the register would be created by 2015 at the latest. Of course it is crucial the government gets the rules right, and the proposals in its initial consultation were so poor it is clear it will have to go back to first principles. But it doesn’t take years to get the legislation right; it requires political will.

Unlock Democracy: Lobbying Campaign Progress

Thank you to everyone who took part in our campaign in response to the consultation. Last month we handed the Cabinet Office a letter signed by more than 7,000 people (as well as a similar letter, pictured, signed by 28 organisations). As a result of this pressure, it is clear the government now accepts that its initial proposals were unacceptably weak and it has had to go back to the drawing board. You can be assured that we will be continuing to monitor the situation very closely and will alert you the next time an opportunity to influence the process arises.

Yours sincerely,

Peter Facey
Director, Unlock Democracy

PS Help us to ensure we only send you emails you’re interested in. Let us know your preferences here:http://www.unlockdemocracy.org.uk/preferences

MP And Lib Dems Answer Call For Blood Platelet Donors

Cambridge MP, Julian Huppert and Liberal Democrat councillors answered a call for more blood platelet donors on Friday, May 18.

Julian and the five city and county councillors supported a campaign by the NHS Blood and Transplant service to find more platelet donors for the Cambridge Blood Donor Centre.

Cambridge City Councillors, Susannah Kerr, Sarah Brown and Paul Saunders and Cambridgeshire County Councillors, Sarah Whitebread and Ian Manning joined Julian at the mobile blood unit for a one-off testing session at the Star Radio studios in Cambridge’s Mercer’s Row.

They were tested to see if they could donate platelets – tiny cells in the blood which enable clotting and help to step blood loss. These crucial supplies have only a seven day shelf-life and are used to treat patients whose bone marrow isn’t working properly, including cancer and leukaemia patients undergoing chemotherapy.

The Cambridge Blood Donor Centre, on the Addenbrooke’s Hospital site, is one of only two in the East of England to collect platelets and supplies hospitals across East Anglia.

Julian said: “This was such a simple process which took just 15 minutes but if any or all of us are able to donate platelets we will be able to help some very sick people.

“I hope more people will be encouraged to take this test because clearly with such a short shelf-life and the fact that only around one in four people will have a high enough platelet count to make a donation, supplies are needed regularly.

“None of us knows what the future holds but we could find ourselves in the position where we desperately need this service.”  

Platelet donors are encouraged to donate regularly, at least once a month and more if possible.

 Anyone aged between 17 and 65 can be tested to become a donor along with those aged between 66 and 70 who have given blood before. Those over 70 need to have given a full blood donation in the last two years.

Julian is joined by (from left) Sarah Whitebread, Paul Saunders,
Sarah Brown, Ian Manning and Susannah Kerr stand
up to be counted at the mobile blood unit

NOTE: Platelet donation is a specialised process and can only be done at a handful of centres across the country – including a donor suite at Addenbrookes Hospital. Blood group A negative donors are particularly needed, as their platelets can also be given to patients with other blood groups

Chemotherapy or radiotherapy can destroy healthy as well as diseased cells in the blood. A patient with a low platelet count may be at risk of severe bleeding problems, so they can need many transfusions over the course of their recovery period

Platelets are collected in two ways. A donation of platelets given using a machine which separates the platelets and returns the rest of the blood can give enough for three transfusions. Alternatively, the platelets from four donations of whole blood can give enough for one transfusion. It takes around one and a half hours to make a platelet donation.

Huppert Receives Assurances On Green Deal's Credentials

Cambridge MP Julian Huppert

MP Julian Huppert has received assurances from the government that its new Green Deal will give investors long-term confidence to invest in companies tackling climate change, such as the newly-launched Cambridge Retrofit scheme.

Energy and Climate Change Minister, Gregory Barker paid tribute to the organisation which is working to retrofit buildings throughout the City to help make Cambridge the first UK city to meet national carbon reduction targets.

“My department is already working with Cambridge Retrofit which is just the sort of ambitious city-wide retrofit programme the Green Deal is designed to support,” he said during Questions in the House of Commons.

Julian welcomed Mr Barker’s endorsement saying: “Cambridge Retrofit is indeed an excellent programme which will make a huge difference.”

And he asked the Minister: “How will the government ensure there is the stability of energy and climate policies in the long term so investors are willing to put finance into major schemes such as Cambridge Retrofit?”

Mr Barker replied: “We know what investors want; they want TLC, transparency, longevity and certainty and unlike previous short term or stop go policies, the Green Deal is designed to run well into the 2020s giving investors exactly the sort of longevity and certainty they need.”

Later Julian said: “This is very welcome news. I am delighted that the government has shown this commitment to the Green Deal and the fight to tackle climate change.

“For major programmes such as the one run by Cambridge Retrofit, the confidence of investors to put their money into green, carbon reduction companies is vital. These companies rely on the government having a strong, green agenda and that has been clearly demonstrated today.”

Cambridge Retrofit 40-Year Venture Website

Huppert Pushes Government To Put Life-Saving On School Timetables

Julian at the Westminster
launch of the Red Cross
campaign

MP Julian Huppert joined forces with a leading national charity today (Tuesday, May 15) to push the government to include life-saving skills on school timetables.

Julian and members of the British Heart Foundation met Education Minister, Nick Gibb following the charity’s high profile campaign for emergency life support to be taught in biology lessons.

The meeting came after Julian led on an open letter signed by 44 MPs to Education Minister, Michael Gove last month calling for schoolchildren to be taught CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation).

And he visited the British Heart Foundation shop in Cambridge’s Burleigh Street in January to support the campaign.

Julian has also give his backing to a similar campaign, Pupil, Citizen, Lifesaver being run by the Red Cross which was launched in Westminster last week with politicians, pupils and teachers.

“Teaching our children basic life-saving skills would put hundreds of thousands of potential lifesavers out on the streets every year,” said Julian, who used to volunteer with Cambridge’s St John Ambulance.

“We made a strong case to Nick Gibb for including life saving skills on the National Curriculum and he took on board the huge benefits that it could bring to society as a whole.

“Only a handful of primary schools offer this teaching at the moment. Putting it on school timetables across the country would mean that the next generation would be equipped to tackle an emergency situation calmly and efficiently and more lives could be saved as a result.”  

Utility Companies Could Face Daily Charges To Close Roads

Cllr Sarah Whitebread (LD, Market)

Utility companies could be charged a daily fee for road closures while they carry out work across Cambridgeshire.

The idea has been put forward by Liberal Democrat Councillor Sarah Whitebread and would apply to companies laying new gas or water mains or carrying out similar work in the county.

Cllr Whitebread, who represents Cambridge’s Market Ward on Cambridgeshire County Council, claims the move could prevent lengthy closures such as the one which brought the city’s East Road to a virtual halt for weeks while new gas mains were laid.

She made her suggestion during Question Time at the county council meeting today (Tuesday, May 15) and it was agreed to look into such a scheme.

A similar idea, approved by the Department of Transport, will allow Transport for London to charge companies in the capital up to £2,500 a day for closing major roads. Companies will face lower charges if they carry out work outside of peak times.

"The county system at the moment has no incentive for speedy work, or to encourage work outside peak times" said Cllr Whitebread. "Given the frequency with which utilities companies need to carry out road works in Cambridge, I think a charging scheme of this type needs serious consideration.

"I also pushed the council to look at ways to encourage utility companies, when carrying out works, to keep roads open for cyclists. Often there is road space around the works that could be made available, but instead cyclists told to wait with cars or dismount and walk.  In a city where so many people travel to school and work by bike, this clearly needs addressing."

The county council’s Cabinet Member for Community Infrastructure, Tony Orgee, agreed to look into such a scheme.

Nick Clegg: A Deal With Teachers (Guest Post)

For me, nothing better illustrates the Liberal Democrat mission to make Britain a fairer place than our Pupil Premium: extra money for the most disadvantaged children in our schools.

We are letting schools decide the best way to spend this money.  I want to strike a deal with our schools and teachers: we’ll give you the cash, the freedom, and we’ll reward and celebrate your success.  But in return, we want you to redouble your efforts to close the gap between your poorer pupils and everyone else.  We won’t be telling you what to do; but we will be watching what you achieve.

Click here To View Video

It is shameful that, despite all the promise on a four or five year old’s first day at school, or the passion of their teachers, you can all too often plot that child’s path just by asking how much their parents earn.

The £2.5billion Pupil Premium was one of the four pledges on the front page of our manifesto.  And now, with Liberal Democrats in government, schools are using the money for things like breakfast clubs; homework clubs; or to provide one-to-one-tuition. These are the sort of experiences many middle class children take for granted but a poorer child might rarely enjoy.
 
Yesterday I visited a fantastic primary school to see how they are spending their Pupil Premium, highlight our new Summer Schools to ease the transition from primary to secondary, and to set out our plans to reward teachers and hold schools to account.

The Pupil Premium shows that, in tough times, we are implementing Liberal Democrat values and prioritising help for those pupils who need it most.

Best wishes,

Nick Clegg MP
Leader of the Liberal Democrats and Deputy Prime Minister

BHA: Dying Matters Awareness Week 14-20 May 2012

Next week is Dying Matter Awareness Week, a week of events and activities that aim to encourage people to talk openly about dying, death and bereavement. Organised by the Dying Matters Coalition, a national coalition of more than 15,000 members that work to change public knowledge, attitudes and behaviours towards death, dying and bereavement, the theme of this year's awareness week is 'Small Actions, Big Difference’.

Events during the week aim to encourage individuals and organisations to take the simple steps that can make a big difference to people when they are dying or bereaved. Whether it is through sharing their wishes with someone close to them, registering to become an organ donor, writing a will, considering taking out a funeral plan, or making an effort to speak to someone who has been recently bereaved, members of the public can take small actions that make a real difference.

To find out more about Dying Matters Awareness Week or to find out how you can get involved visit the website here.

Cambridge Liberal Democrats Elect New Leader And Front Line Team

Cllr Tim Bick
(LD, Market)

Cambridge Liberal Democrats have today (Monday, May 14) announced that Councillor Tim Bick will be taking over from Councillor Sian Reid as the group’s new leader.

Sian has decided to step down following surgery earlier this year and the need to take some time to fully recover.

The Lib Dems have also elected their front line team for the coming year with Cllr Catherine Smart continuing as the group’s deputy leader. They propose she will continue to have responsibility for housing, Cllr Tim Ward with the planning and sustainable transport portfolio,

Cllr Rod Cantrill with arts, sport and public places and Cllr Jean Swanson with the waste and recycling portfolio.

They will be joined by newly re-elected Cllr Mike Pitt who they propose to take responsibility for community development and health and Cllr Julie Smith for customer services and resources. Both have experience as executive councillors.

Tim will be proposed as Cambridge City Council Leader at the council’s annual meeting on May 24 when councillors will also vote on the nominations for executive councillors.

The Lib Dems will also be nominating Cllr Sheila Stuart as Mayor and Cllr Paul Saunders as Deputy Mayor for the coming year.

Tim said: “I am delighted to be given this opportunity but at the same time we are all sorry that Sian has decided not to re-stand. She has been a formidable leader of the group and the council and we are sorry that she wanted to step down."

Tim has represented Market Ward on Cambridge City Council for the past four years and served as Executive Councillor for Community Development for the last two. He has worked in human resources in the local technology sector for over 10 years and lives in the city centre. He brings experience of leading his party in local government in Warwickshire.
 
The Lib Dems are the largest party on the city council with half the seats and will propose a full Lib Dem administration at next week’s annual council meeting.

“We have a strong vision for this city and have far from run out of energy and ideas,” said Tim. “The council has work to do and needs to satisfy. There is no other party or collection of parties that is in a position to deliver sound, consistent government to the city.

“It is good for the city that the council's procedures envisage close results and help to avoid deadlock. The same procedures will give voice to the stronger Labour representation and we hope this will add richness to the council's decisions."

Sian’s two year leadership saw the city council through hard economic times. She faced tough decisions setting the council’s budget while at the same time making sure that basic services and those for the vulnerable were protected.

Before taking the leadership, she was Executive Councillor for Climate Change and Growth for four years.

During this time she worked hard to get the city council national recognition for its policy requiring developers of new homes to meet the highest levels of sustainable building.

One of her greatest achievements was the recognition for Cambridge in the Centre for Cities report which named it as one of the top cities in the UK to lead the country to economic recovery.

“I am delighted to hand over to Tim,” she said. “He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role and I have every confidence that, together with his new front line team, the Liberal Democrats will continue to work hard for the people of Cambridge.

"I have been part of a fantastic team of people through extremely challenging times, and very much remain part of that team.”

Music Under Threat For Hundreds Of Vulnerable Youngsters

Cllr Lucy Nethsingha (LD, Newnham)

Fears that hundreds of schoolchildren could lose their free music lessons following changes to the way they are funded have been expressed by Cambridgeshire Liberal Democrats.

Cash-strapped schools across the county could be expected to pick up the bill for music lessons for children in local authority care and those on free school meals.

But the Lib Dems fear that their budgets won’t stretch to the extra expense and are calling on the Tory-run Cambridgeshire County Council to step in and provide the money.

The change comes after the government, which used to send money for music lessons direct to the county council, decided to send it to Art Council England; now organisations across the country must bid for a share.

The newly-formed Cambridgeshire Music Partnership had made a bid for funding to lead the music education service in the county.

But Cambridgeshire Music Service, which provided the money for lessons for the 500 youngsters, is aiming  to become self-funding leaving schools to fund these lessons instead.

Cambridgeshire Lib Dem Deputy Leader, Lucy Nethsingha is worried that the move could lead to youngsters missing out.

She is calling on the county council to provide funding to the Cambridgeshire Music Service during the transitional period while the new changes take effect.

Cllr Nethsingha, who will put a motion to full council tomorrow (Tuesday, May 15) said: “Music can provide a hugely important positive element in the lives of some vulnerable children. It is imperative that we find a way to make sure these children can still have their lessons.

“Educational outcomes for children in care and those on free school meals tend to be worse than average. Music can be one way to improve educational achievement, so it is particularly important that this group of children get access to the educational benefits music lessons can bring.”

Cambridge MP Julian Huppert, who played in the Cambridgeshire Youth Orchestra said: “Music has been a big part of my life and all children regardless of their background or circumstances should have this chance.

"Music gives young people the opportunity to socialise, meet new friends and it has been proved that children who take part in music do better at school. I hope the county council can find a way to fund these lessons.”

Strawberry Fair Launch First Slam Poetry Competition For Age 13 - 25 Across Cambridgeshire

STRAWBERRY SLAM POETRY COMPETITION:
www.strawberry-slam.org.uk

Strawberry Fair has launched the first poetry slam competition for young people age 13 - 25 from across Cambridgeshire.  The competition is free to enter and prizes include a prime performance slot at the Fair and opportunities to be mentored by critically acclaimed poets.

If you write poetry, love poetry and want to share your poetry, then we would love to hear from you.  You can use beatbox, rap, mc-ing, polyvocal or acapella, as well as poetry and spoken word.  All you need to do to enter is:

1. Go to www.strawberry-slam.org.uk
2. Follow the instructions to post a clip of yourself reading or reciting your poem.
3. Wait to hear whether you have been selected as one of 12 finalists to go through to compete in the Strawberry Slam final on Saturday 2 June.

Deadline for entries: Saturday 26 May 2012

The entries will be judged by five professional poets from London’s Point Blank Poets Collective and the 12 finalists will be announced on Tuesday 29 May.  The final will be held in the brand new Strawberry Slam stage at the Fair on Saturday 2 June, 7 - 10pm.  The Slam will be hosted by the formidable Hollie McNish (a former UK Slam Poetry Champion) and emcee Inja, with guest performances from renowned spoken word artists Bridget Minamore, Sabrina Mahfouz, Dean Atta and Deanna Rodger.

Competition Rules:    

• Entrants must be aged 13 – 25 years
• Poems must be your own work.
• Poems must be no longer than 2 minutes in length when read aloud
• You can enter in groups / crews as well as on your own (up to five people allowed in a group)
• You can use beatbox, rap, mc-ing, polyvocal and acapella, as well as poetry and spoken word
• You can read your poetry from the page or recite it from heart
• You must be available on 2 June 2010, 7 – 8.30pm to compete in the final Strawberry Slam.

To find out more visit www.strawberry-slam.org.uk or get in touch with amy@strawberry-fair.org.uk

North Area Committee 17th May @ The Manor

The next North Area Committee will be at the Manor on Thursday 17th May.

The planning part of the meeting will start at 6.30; there are two applications on the agenda but the one that will probably be of the most interest is the application to convert the Grove Pub (opposite the Manor) into a Sikh temple.

The main meeting starts at 7.30 and the agenda is available on the City Councils website (see here). The main agenda items are:

• Community Development and Leisure grants*
• Engagement with Young People
• Primary School places in North Cambridge
• Northern Corridor Area Transport plan
• Policing and Safer Neighbourhoods

And, of course, the usual open forum where you can ask questions.

* (see here for report) There are two grants specific to King's Hedges in the list; Cambridge Music Festival (requesting 2,000), and Cambridge Carbon Footprint (requesting the very precise 2,323). The Cambridge Carbon Footprint event is targeted at both King's Hedges and Arbury.

Telecom Giants Told To Repair City Grass Verges

Cllr Geoff Heathcock
(LD, Queen Ediths)

Telecom giants, BT and Virgin Media are to be asked to pay for repairs to grass verges in Cambridge’s Mowbray Road after residents complained that their companies’ vans damaged them.

Workers parked on the verges during the recent wet weather and drove off leaving them churned up say residents.

They complained to Cambridge City Councillor, George Pippas, who represents Queen Edith’s, saying that drivers are prohibited from parking on verges under a council by-law which these companies appear to have ignored.

Cllr Pippas took their complaints to city council enforcement officers who told him that both companies would be contacted to either pay for the damage or carry out the repairs and the area would be photographed as evidence.

“The grass verges have been devastated by these vehicles parking on them,” said Cllr Pippas, “and residents are understandably furious. The destruction spoils the area and residents are left living with it once companies have finished their work.  

“I am pleased that the city council is going to contact these companies asking them to repair the damage. We have a by-law which prevents drivers parking on the verges so that they are protected and this should apply to everyone.”

Geoff Heathcock, Cambridge City Councillor for Queen Edith’s added: “Anything we can do to ensure the utilities put right what they have damaged is absolutely right and sets a good example to others who constantly damage our verges"

Cambridge City Council Enforcement Officer for Streets and Open Spaces, Lisa Munro told Cllr Pippas in a letter that she was taking up the matter with Cambridgeshire County Council Highways Department.

And she added: “I will be contacting both BT and Virgin Media with the view to recovering costs or to repair the damage themselves. I will be photographing the area to use as evidence.

“BT have an obligation to inform County Council Highways Department as to when works will be carried out and subsequently when repairs will be made to any damage caused. I believe that County Council therefore have already been in contact with BT but this is the information that I am waiting for.

“We would of course support County Council with the verge parking byelaw and will enforce against anyone seen parking on the grass verges.”

More Pupils Offered School Places Of Their Choice

Cllr Andy Pellew

The vast majority of children in Cambridgeshire will be starting Reception in September in their first choice primary school, according to new figures.

A total of 91.57% of children applying for a place in Reception this September by the deadline have been allocated a place at their first choice school. This is an increase on last year's 90.6%.

A further 6.06% have been offered a place at their second or third choice primary school, while fewer than 2.5% could not be offered any of their preferences.

This increase has been achieved by Cambridgeshire County Council's Admissions Team, despite the continuing pressure on primary school places throughout the county.

These latest figures come after it was revealed that 94.7% of students had been offered a place at their first choice secondary school in September; a rise of 5.3% on the previous year. A further 3.45% were offered a place at their second or third choice, while just 1.85% could not be offered any of their preferences.

A total of 6704 children requested places at Cambridgeshire primary schools this year, with 5715 applying for secondary school. The number of applications made online also increased.

Local County Councillor Andy Pellew said: "It's a credit to the hard work the County Councils' Admissions Team have put in that this years numbers show such an improvement over the previous year especially given the emerging demographic pressures across the County and specifically here in Cambridge City".

Huppert Secures Key Legislation In Queen's Speech

Cambridge MP Julian Huppert

Cambridge MP Julian Huppert has welcomed key legislation on libel reform in the Queen’s Speech, which he fought for and which will promote free speech and free up academic and scientific debate.

He has also welcomed other Liberal Democrat victories, including tougher regulations on the giant supermarkets, major reform of the House of Lords and moves to break up the banks.

But he has again expressed his grave concerns about new powers to allow the police and intelligence services to snoop on texts and emails.

“The Lib Dems have achieved key legislation addressing major issues which have stifled freedom of speech and led to unfair competition,” said Julian. “I am delighted that we have been able to get these recognised by the government and action taken to tackle them.”

Julian worked on the draft libel reform bill and pushed it on many occasions, including at the Lib Dem Conference, for it to be in this year's legislative programme.

He also received assurances in the House of Commons from the Lord Chancellor, Kenneth Clarke earlier this year that the government would ensure that research could be published freely without fear of defamation, after cases such as that of Simon Singh and Peter Wilmshurst led to great concern.

And today (Wednesday, May 9) the new Bill, which prevents scientific and academic debate from being stifled by fear of legal action, was announced in the Queen’s Speech.

“This is a huge step forward,” said Julian. “It gives academics and scientists the opportunity to publish their research findings freely and openly without the risk of being sued.

“Now we can give them the freedom to speak out when their work makes discoveries that challenge ideas and concepts even if that research is controversial.”

He also welcomed the Groceries Code Adjudicator Bill to enforce the Groceries Code. This makes sure the largest retailers, such as the big name supermarkets, treat their suppliers fairly.

“We have seen the giant supermarkets such as Tesco and Sainsbury moving into Cambridge and threatening the smaller, independent traders,” said Julian. “This new Bill will provide tougher regulation, promote fair competition and give everyone a fighting chance.”

Julian also welcomed the reform of the House of Lords – a key Liberal Democrat election pledge.

He said: “This move will substantially cut the number of peers and allow the people to elect 80 per cent of the second chamber. I firmly believe that those making the laws should be accountable to the people and not given a seat by some ancient right.”

But Julian has again expressed his concerns about extra powers to allow the surveillance of internet communication, although he welcomed the decision to publish a draft of the bill.

He said: “I cannot support any plans which allow the state to view the content of private emails, telephone calls, text messages or any electronic communications without a warrant,” he said. “The police and the security services should not be given a free pass to snoop on the private lives of my constituents.

“There can be no justification for this and I will do everything in my power to stop this happening. We need greater protections and safeguards so our private data stays ours. The Home office has refused to say publicly exactly what it intends to do, and it must do so urgently before we can sensible discuss their proposals.”

Your Life Your Choice: Book Your Place As Advice Service Hits The Road To Libraries

An information service which helps people stay safe, well and independent, is taking to the road to spread the word across Cambridgeshire with a series of events in Libraries.

The Your Life, Your Choice service provides online information for people who need information or support to enable them to live an independent life. It also provides details of assistance for such things as social and health care and aids and home adaptations which make life easier for people in their own home.

The roadshows will visit the library in Cambourne and Cambridge Central Library from mid May, and will feature:

• Leaflets and information about staying independent, safe and well
• Information on aids and devices to help people remain independent
• Trading Standards advice on how to Buy With Confidence and avoid rogue traders
• Demonstrations of The Your Life, Your Choice online information service
• Opportunities to book a session with the libraries' Computer Buddies to help less experienced computer users access online information. 

County Council Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Councillor Martin Curtis, said: "The Your Life, Your Choice website was developed with the support of service users, carers and our partners in the public, private and voluntary sectors, to encourage people to think more widely than just traditional care services when planning the support they need.

"These roadshows, in addition to promoting Your Life, Your Choice, are focused on providing preventative and self-help information to people who may need it and telling them about the support and services available in their local community. Hopefully they will show people what is available and the difference it can make to them, their carers and families, whilst helping them to stay safe and independent for as long as possible," added Councillor Curtis.

Roadshow schedule:

• May 14-June 9 Cambourne Library
• June 11-July 7 Central Library (Cambridge)
• July 10-August 4 Ely Library
• August 6-September 1 Chatteris Library
• September 3-September 29 Wisbech Library
• October 1-October 27 March Library
• October 29-November 24 St Neots Library 

The roadshow will also be visiting Whittlesey Library in January 2013.

Access to the Your Life, Your Choice website together with help to find the information you are looking for is already available in your local library or you can access information and advice directly at: www.yourlifeyourchoice.org.uk

Improvements To Cottenham To Histon Cycleway Complete

Improvements to Cottenham to Histon cycleway have now been completed at a cost of £450,000 funded through the Housing Growth Fund.

The work included purchasing extra land to allow the cycleway to be widened and piping a watercourse.

Local cyclists have also complimented been impressed the smooth asphalt surface and solar powered cats eyes which light the way at night and the route is already attracting extra commuter to cyclists helping to reduce traffic congestion in Cambridge.

To mark the official opening of the route a free Cyclists' Breakfast, sponsored by Station Cycles, will be held on Cottenham Village Green on Tuesday, May 8, between 7.30-8.30am, and staff from Station Cycles will be on hand to undertake free cycle safety checks.

Councillor Martin Curtis, the County Council's Cycling Champion, said: "This new improved, safer route provides an excellent, high quality cycle link, which will encourage more people to get pedalling. Cycling represents an affordable and enjoyable way to keep active whist contributing to reduced traffic congestion in and around Cambridge."

Councillor Sue Gymer, County Councillor for Cottenham, Histon and Impington said: "Residents have been eagerly awaiting the completion of the improvement works, and are keen to consider cycling as an option for commuting to Cambridge."

Councillor David Jenkins, Councillor Gymer's local colleague, said: "It is pleasing to see the completion of the improvements and there is already evidence of increased cycling along this route."

Unlock Democracy: Kick Start Cambridge!

We want get Cambridge demanding an end to secretive lobbying. It is a critical issue. After years of seeing scandals surrounding Westminster and lobbyists, both the public and government agree that something needs to change. But how?

Unlock Democracy and Spinwatch have teamed up to host public meetings with local MPs to bring the lobbying debate to Cambridge and we’d like to invite you to help us. We want to hold a public meeting with your local Cambridgeshire MPs later this year and we’d like you to be part of making this happen.

Can you join us for a campaigns meeting?
With Unlock Democracy’s Director Peter Facey
Thursday 31st May – 7pm
Friends Meeting House, 12 Jesus Lane, Cambridge, CB5 8BA.
http://action.unlockdemocracy.org.uk/page/event/detail/general/jtx

Rather than decide everything ourselves, we want to encourage local Cambridge people to take a lead and make it their public meeting.

The government's consultation on their proposals to reform lobbying formally ended a few weeks ago but the controversies surrounding lobbyists have continued to dominate the press with the recent revelations surrounding Jeremy Hunt coming out of the Leveson inquiry. The government appears to now recognise that its own proposals are too weak, with the minister in charge Mark Harper distancing himself from them at our meeting in Birmingham last month. They are now promising to produce a new set of proposals in the autumn.

Our Director, Peter Facey, will be giving a talk on campaigning for the lobbying register and how secret lobbying is eroding our democracy. We will follow this with a workshop on organising the campaign at a local level.

We have to campaign for a strong and transparent register of lobbying, so we know who is trying to influence whom. We need to be ready for the government’s new proposals later this year. We won't put up with people paying for policy. Whether you are already interested in getting involved or need convincing, please come to our meeting to find out more information..

Let’s make sure Cambridge plays its part in ensuring we open up lobbying!

With best wishes,

Emily Randall
Campaigns and Outreach Officer

Community Workshops: Healthy Living and Well Being in the Community - 10th May

Thank you

Over the past four years, I have served as your local councillor in Kings Hedges. Unfortunately last night, I failed to retain my seat on the City Council.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone in the ward, those who voted for me, and those who didn't for making it an amazing four years. It has been a honour and a pleasure to serve as your Councillor, one which I will never forget.

I am confident that Cllrs Andy Pellew and Simon Brierly will continue to work hard for the ward, and will champion Liberal Democracy where it matters most - not in the corridors of Westminster or even the Guildhall, but on the streets and doorsteps of our communities.

I came into the Liberal Democrats to build a fair, free and open society, in which no one shall be enslaved by poverty, ignorance or conformity. I shall continue this, when times are good as well as difficult.

Thank you.
Neil

King's Hedges Election Results

Well now the election results across most of the Country are known it's been pretty clear that the Liberal Democrats haven't had a good night, the fact that the Conservatives haven't had a good night either isn't really that much of a consolation.

Here in Cambridge City we lost several good Councillors including my ward colleague Cllr Neil McGovern who was part of the Cambridge City Executive and who has worked very hard for King's Hedges residents but unfortunately it wasn't enough to turn back the Labour Tide.

The full results for the City elections are available on the City Councils website here. From the website;

"Before the elections, the composition of the 42 seats on the council was 25 Liberal Democrats, 14 Labour, 2 Green and 1 Independent. 


Labour gained four seats and the Conservatives gained one, while the Liberal Democrat party lost four seats and the Green party lost one. 


A Green councillor announced on election day that he was switching his allegiance to the Labour party, so after the elections the composition of the council was 21 Liberal Democrats, 19 Labour, 1 Conservative and 1 Independent."

The result in King's Hedges was;

• Gawthrope, Nigel Peter (Labour) - ELECTED 827
• Karimi, Arnette (Conservative) 199
• McGovern, Neil Michael (Liberal Democrat) 576
• Tyes, Ian (United People's Party) 105

Here is a quick diagram showing how the vote was shared out;

King's Hedges Share of Vote

Phil Rodgers has done an excellent visualisation of the last two elections on his blog (available here) which shows that both the Liberal Democrat and Labour share of the vote have increased over last year at the expense of the Conservatives but that the Labour share of the vote has increased both by more and from a higher base.

Congratulations to Nigel on his election victory, I look forward to meeting him at the next North Area Committee meeting.

Cambridge City-wide Tree Works

A large tree-work order spanning the whole city has just been published for comments. Let me know if you have anything you would like to add, the consultation closes on the 9th May.

The full document is available here (via Google Docs).

The consultation has been extended to allow Councillors to consider the schemes after tomorrows election.

The following streets are included in the work order for King's Hedges;

• Caledon Way
• Ramsden Square

Lib Dems Urge Get Tough On Enterprise Zone To Protect Communities

Cllr Kevin Wilkins
(LD, West Chesterton)

Cambridgeshire Liberal Democrats have called for tough guidance on letting space at Alconbury’s new Enterprise Zone to prevent companies “boundary hopping” for tax advantages.

They want to give priority to new and existing businesses that will bring new investment and jobs to the area.

And they want manufacturing and production businesses to be encouraged to complement the Cambridgeshire research companies.

Under the Tory Thatcher and Major governments, the creation of enterprise zones often led to “boundary hopping” – the relocation of businesses to take advantage of the benefit of reduced business rates – claim the Lib Dems.

This harmed the economy of existing towns and communities while at the same time bringing no real benefits, they say.

The Lib Dems acknowledge that property group, Urban and Civic will have the final say in letting the site to companies, but they want the Greater Cambridge and Greater Peterborough Local Enterprise Partnership to guide the lettings process to protect the economies of Huntingdonshire and Peterborough.

Liberal Democrat Shadow Cabinet Member for Planning, Enterprise and Environment Kevin Wilkins will raise the issue in a motion to Cambridgeshire County Council on May 15.

Cllr Wilkins said: “It's important not to repeat the government's mistakes of the 1980s and 1990s.

"The enterprise zone at Alconbury Airfield needs to improve the local economy by getting local businesses to expand what they do – not simply steal business from elsewhere in the county.

"The zone mustn't be allowed to become a route for the Conservatives to give some business people a way to avoid paying their fair share of tax."

Huntingdonshire District Councillor, Mike Shellens said, “Local Lib Dems welcome the arrival of the local Enterprise Zone. The concerns identified here will go far towards ensuring that the benefits will not be restricted to the balance sheet of a boundary-hopper company, but will flow to the economy as a whole including wider Huntingdonshire.”

Trading Standards: Buy With Confidence Approved Trader Scheme (Guest Post)

At Cambridgeshire Trading Standards we have just introduced a new approved trader scheme, ‘Buy with Confidence’.  The scheme is designed to provide Cambridgeshire residents with a choice of traders, all of which have demonstrated a commitment to providing a high quality service and have been thoroughly checked by us.

To expand our list of current members we are currently undertaking a recruitment drive.  If you are, or know of, a reliable trader in Cambridgeshire we want to hear from you!

How does a business join the scheme?

You can access further information and application forms at www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk. Alternatively you can ring Cambridgeshire Direct on 0345 0455206 to be sent an information pack.

Nominating a trader to join the scheme

If you know a trader that you would recommend, you can nominate them by emailing bwc@cambridgeshire.gov.uk or by calling Cambridgeshire Direct on 0345 0455206. We will do the rest.

How to use the scheme

There are a number of ways you can find traders on the scheme:

• Visit www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk. 
• Telephone the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 08454 040506. 
• Visit your local library where staff can look up traders for you.

Our checking procedure ensures the quality of our members but does not provide a price guarantee. We recommend that you still get three quotes to ensure you are happy with the price.

To find out more about the scheme, visit www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk or contact Cambridgeshire Direct.

Trading Standards: Borrowing Money From Illegal Money Lenders (Guest Post)

If you are having financial difficulties or wish to borrow money quickly, it may be tempting to borrow money from illegal money lenders,  known as ‘loan sharks’, who lend cash without asking questions about your financial situation.  Trading Standards urge you to avoid such lenders and assure you that there are safe, reliable lenders that you can use.

Loan sharks may call at your door or you might hear about them from other people. At first they seem friendly and helpful and it might seem like a quick and easy way to borrow money. The trouble is that these people usually charge huge interest on their loan, meaning you have to pay back much more than you borrowed and far more than you can afford. With no paperwork to record what you are expected to repay, a loan of a few hundred pounds can soon lead to a demand to repay thousands of pounds - and the debt can quickly become too much to ever repay. If you struggle to keep up the repayments, loan sharks may use intimidation, threats and even violence to ensure you find the money somehow. It is believed that around 310,000 households in the UK currently owe money to loan sharks.

Luckily there are safe places you can borrow money from, even if you have financial difficulties. These lenders stick to the law, make it clear from the start the total amount you will need to repay and collect your repayments in a lawful way. Your local Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) can advise you which lenders are most suitable for you. You can find your nearest Bureau by visiting www.citizensadvice.org.uk or by calling 08444 111 444.

The England Illegal Money Lending Team was set up because of the misery and fear that loan sharks cause. Cambridgeshire County Council are working with this team and local District Councils, to tackle loan sharks in the county, raise awareness of them and to support their victims.

If you know of any loan sharks operating in the area, the England Illegal Money Lending Team wants to hear from you. Call 0300 555 2222, text 'loan shark + a message' to 60003 or email reportaloanshark@stoploansharks.gov.uk. Lines are open 24/7 and your details will be kept confidential.

If you already owe money to a loan shark the Illegal Money Lending team can offer advice and support. So don’t suffer in silence, contact the team using the details above.

Greater Protection For Holidaymakers Welcomed By Huppert

Government reforms, providing greater protection for Cambridge holidaymakers booking overseas holidays, have been welcomed by city MP, Julian Huppert.

The changes to the Air Travel Organisers Licensing (ATOL) scheme, which at present covers only package holidays, will extend it to cover ‘flight plus’ holidays sold by a tour operator or travel agent.

This means that when holidaymakers book a flight and other key elements such as hotel accommodation or car hire within two consecutive days of each other, they will be offered the same ATOL protection.

Further reforms to the ATOL scheme, to possibly include holidays sold by airlines, are contained in the Civil Aviation Bill currently making its way through Parliament.

Julian, Co-Chair of the Liberal Democrat Transport Committee welcomed the move to make air travel more passenger focused and offer holidaymakers more protection.

He said: “Until now, we have had an absurd situation where travellers have been left unsure as to whether their holidays are covered. This gives them little peace of mind should their tour operator become insolvent before they travel or while they are on holiday.

“And the rise in internet shopping for holidays means that more and more people are choosing to book trips on line rather than take package holidays. We need a system which recognises this trend and responds to this new found freedom and flexibility. The latest reforms go some way to addressing this and I hope the government will go further.”    

Huppert Demands Greater Government Clarity On Fire Funding

Cambridge MP Julian Huppert

Cambridge MP, Julian Huppert has demanded greater clarity from the government over its future funding plans for the county’s cash-strapped fire service.

He has asked for a meeting with Bob Neill, Minister for Communities and Local Government to which he intends to invite Cambridgeshire and Peterborough MPs in a bid to get information which will allow informed decisions to be made about resources.

And on Monday (April 30) Julian will ask Mr Neill, during Questions in the House of Commons ‘what discussions he has had on funding for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Fire Authority’.

He is worried that emergency fire cover could be at risk over the next four years if more than the already planned £4.2 million savings are required.

Julian visited Cambridge Fire Station recently and met with firefighters on White Watch. He also discussed the planned changes in government funding with the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Chief Fire Officer.

He told Mr Neill in a letter that there are specific concerns over the impact of the cuts on the county’s large retained service and warned that costs may not be able to be reduced without significant fire station closures.

“In particular, this could result in a significant reduction of services in rural areas,” he told Mr Neill. “As a result, just a few hundred thousand pounds could make the difference between large station closures now, and the retention of adequate services in the long term.”

Julian added later: “It is absolutely crucial that the fire service has a clear idea of the government’s funding plans over the next few years but, at the moment that information is not coming through. Without being able to take a broader view of this issue it is extremely difficult to make decisions on the ground.

“I am very worried that long-term plans to reduce funding could lead to the downgrading or closure of fire stations, a reduction in fire-fighters and fire appliances and increase in emergency response times. This could have a serious impact in rural areas and the city resulting in a loss of service.”