'ACCOUNTABLE TO YOU'

13 MARCH 2002

"You only see them at election time". It's the complaint every politician dreads, and it is one of the most depressing aspects of politics. Despite all the speeches, debates and media coverage there is a danger that declining election turnout signifies that people don't care about the future, or don't think anyone can do anything about it.

I believe people care passionately about the community and the country. But too much of politics is conducted inside the 'Westminster Village', with people talking jargon about media tittle-tattle that doesn't affect anyone's life. That is why people get switched off and say to hell with it. But our electoral system means every citizen has an MP who is their representative - whether they voted for them or not.

That is one of the reasons I have recently sent a copy of my Annual Report to every household in South Shields (if you have not received one please call 0191 456 8910). And it is why I am holding a public meeting this Saturday at 11am at the Central Library, Prince Georg Square, to answer questions about what I have been up to since my election last June.

The last year has seen a lot of change. The drama of the receivership at ViaSystems, and its rebirth as Circatex. The aftermath of September 11th, the realisation that our multicultural community held together, with all the foreign students from the College coming back. The campaign to save the Old Smithy. The struggle of the South Shields Mariners to get into the promotion race!

With so much going on, it is very important that politicians stay in touch with people. That is why I have spent the last year getting out to meet people - whether residents in the constituency, voluntary and community groups, public service professionals like teachers and doctors or private businesses. It is also why I am delighted that so many people have used the feedback form on the back of my Annual Report.

Your views matter because I am clear that while there are some things we should be demanding from Government, other things depend on us. Change will never happen if we just rely on Tony Blair to do it for us. With the South Tyneside Transformation Commission thinking about the future of the Borough, now is the time to get all our ideas together so that we develop a clear and shared vision for the future. The next year is vital for the town and we all have a role to play.

So whether you care about employment or the environment, foreign policy or fox hunting, I hope to see you on Saturday. I promise not to talk for too long, and to answer your questions as best I can. And don't let me hear you say that you haven't had your chance to make your point!