Letter from Westminster

Since my last report back from Westminster I have had a number of meetings with different organisations to be briefed on opportunities arising from offshore renewable energy creation in the Waveney area. The Coalition Government remains committed to changes in our energy production, announcing a commitment to a green investment bank, which will help with funding renewable projects. Climate Change Minister Greg Barker said this week that by investing in offshore wind, wave and tidal sources, Britain could become the Saudi Arabia of renewable energy. This is all encouraging and presents tremendous opportunities for job creation in Waveney, but we need to ensure that there is adequate investment in infrastructure, particularly in education and training.

I have met with National Express to discuss their changes to rail services on the East Suffolk line that will come into effect in November 2010. The changes mean that passengers will no longer be able to travel directly from Lowestoft to London Liverpool Street. I have requested that extra staff be provided to help elderly, disabled and mothers with children to use the bridge to change platforms until a lift is provided at Ipswich Station. The longer term aim will be to have through trains between Lowestoft and London Liverpool Street reinstated, after completion of the Beccles Loop. This may have received a boost with the Department of Transport to consult on whether longer rail franchises would be able to offer investment in improvements to trains and services.

I was disappointed to hear that Lowestoft County Court is amongst the 157 Courts across the Country being considered for closure due to cost cutting measures. Whilst I understand the Government's urgent need to deal with the budget deficit, I am naturally against any move which distances justice from local people. I will be making a representation to the consultation which closes on 15 September and welcome your views and evidence in writing or by email to ensure I can best represent them.

We know that broadband creates jobs and fuels economic growth. Small firms need access if they are to be part of the supply chains for big business or the public sector; farmers need access if they are to sell to supermarkets; and home-workers need access to work at all. To give one example of efficiencies in health care; reliable access enables doctors, nurses, community workers and carers to spend more time with those in need, making bookings and updating records while at the community centre or visiting the patient. I will be meeting with representatives from local and regional initiatives likely to be key to bridging broadband 'not-spots' once BT's existing local infrastructure is opened up.