Why I'm backing fines for credit card firms over child porn

I am backing a bill which will penalise credit card companies who enable the downloading of child pornography, in particular, through the use of pre-paid credit cards.

Pre-paid cards are available from local retailers without the need for the purchaser to provide details of their name and address allowing images of child abuse to be downloaded anonymously. The Credit Regulation (Child Pornography) Bill 2010 has received support from the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP).

CEOP is dedicated to eradicating the sexual abuse of children. That means they are part of UK policing and very much about tracking and bringing offenders to account either directly or in partnership with local and international forces.

The bill will require government support if it is to have any chance of getting onto the statute book. According to the International Business Times ‘child pornography is one of the fastest growing businesses online’.

The simple fact is that, under current legislation, no proof of identity is required for card values below £100 so all the buyer has to do is make up a name and address and they have instant access to these vile websites.

In addition to fines imposed on the credit card companies the bill would require proof of identity in order to purchase pre-paid credit cards.

I have also signed Early Day Motion 529 in support of legislation.

EDM 529 - CREDIT REGULATION AND CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

That this House calls upon the Government to bring forward legislative proposals to impose penalties upon credit card and debit card providers for the facilitation of the downloading of child pornography from the internet.

Proud of Pubs Week - Here's to pubs!

The leading pub trade magazine, The Publican ran its 4th annual Proud of Pubs Week (16th – 25th July) and pubs across the country have come up with a diary of events to make sure that local communities can celebrate the pub.

Pubs inject an average of £80,000 into their local communities and pay over £100,000 in tax. The industry employs over 540,000 people directly and 380,000 in associated trades and account for 35% of the ‘eating out’ market (Source: The Publican).

I joined Lisa Nandy MP, Wigan Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) Branch Chair, Ken Worthington at the Caledonian Hotel, Bolton Rd, Ashton in Makerfield.

Landlady Paula Rock and her partner Allan Prior welcomed us and spoke with Lisa, Ken and myself about the unique challenges facing the industry, including over regulation, alcohol tax hikes and the effect cheap booze sold by the off licence trade has on the pub. Paula also talked about their involvement in local community activities including the help they provided in creating a community park for the benefit of local residents and the people of Ashton.

During the general election campaign both Lisa and I signed the CAMRA pledge to speak up for real ale, community pubs and consumers.

I believe that well-run pubs are the bedrock of community life – they are part of the solution to the problem of alcohol misuse and not part of the problem. They deserve support and government needs to urgently look at rebalancing alcohol taxation to support pubs and reform the beer tie to deliver a fairer deal for consumers.

Lisa Nandy MP said, “Wigan boasts some top class pubs which provide a vital social and leisure service to the town. As a fan of real ale I was delighted to be able to sample some of the brews on offer at the Cale.”

Chair of Wigan CAMRA, Ken Worthington said, “Well run pubs provide the vibrant heart of many communities offering an invaluable meeting place and centre for countless local activities. The loss of such pubs can be devastating to community spirit and identity. CAMRA is asking all our members to write to their local MPs asking them to support an Early Day Motion which calls on the Government to implement a package of policies which will help secure the future of viable and well-run community pubs. I am glad to see that both Yvonne Fovargue and Lisa Nandy will be offering their full support.”

EDM 210 - That this House recognises the social, economic and cultural importance of well-run community pubs, which provide a safe and sociable environment for the consumption of alcohol among friends and are an essential community meeting place; notes the ideas put forward in the Campaign for Real Ale's Beer Drinkers and Pub Goers Charter which received support from 670 candidates at the last election, 150 of whom were elected; welcomes the genuine cross party consensus on the need to support and protect well-run community pubs; and so urges the Government to implement a package of policies which will help secure the future of viable and well-run community pubs.

MP’s raise stakes on future of Tote

Yvonne Fovargue MP and Lisa Nandy MP have sponsored a parliamentary motion to protect the future of The Tote in Wigan.

The Tote is one of the principal betting organisations in Britain, with more than 3,500 employees (600 in Wigan), over 500 shops, a major presence on all of the 60 racecourses in Britain, as well as internet and telephone betting facilities.

In 2008 the then Sports Minister, Gerry Sutcliffe MP announced that the Tote would be sold on the open market and paid tribute to the ‘fortitude and professionalism’ of Tote staff based in Wigan. This followed discussions on a possible sale of the Tote to a consortium of racing interests, the staff and management of the Tote which risked being denied approval under European state aid and competition rules, because it would have been below open market value.

In a written parliamentary answer the coalition government are currently considering a range of options for the future of the Tote with the aim of resolving its future within the next 12 months.
MPs from across the political spectrum have now joined forces with Yvonne and Lisa in supporting the retention and continued investment of the Tote HQ in Wigan.

Lisa Nandy MP said, “The Tote is an important employer in Wigan and its staff have lived with uncertainty about its future for too long. I have demanded a meeting with the Minister to ensure we protect jobs and keep the Tote in Wigan.”

Yvonne added, “It is of crucial importance to the future prosperity of the borough that we retain and seek to take advantage of the potential expanding market that the Tote could enter."

“Under the leadership of Peter Smith, Neil Turner and Ian McCartney played pivotal roles in bringing the Tote to Wigan. The Tote is a major player in the local economy and at a time when the borough is suffering job losses and cuts imposed by central government the retention of the business in Wigan is of paramount importance.”

EDM 578 - The Future of the Tote

That this House is concerned that any decision involving the future of The Tote should, at the very least, encompass the principle of its assets being used to guarantee the future of horse racing in the UK and those who work within it or are dependent upon its activities and should not involve the closure or running down of its headquarters at Wigan.

Child Poverty pledge

The charity Child Poverty Action Group has praised Yvonne Fovargue, the Member of Parliament for Makerfield for pledging to become a ‘Child Poverty Champion’ working in her constituency to end child poverty by 2020. Yvonne has also pledged to work in parliament on national action that will held end child poverty for all UK children.

Yvonne said, “I have signed a personal pledge to commit to action against child poverty in Makerfield and across the UK. "

“In Government, Labour enshrined into law the commitment to eradicate child poverty by 2020. Tax Credits, Sure Start and action to help parents back into work saw big improvements in tackling child poverty in local communities. This goal will be harder to meet now that the Tory/Lib Dem Government has cut Child Tax Credits and frozen Child Benefit.”

Yvonne’s comments came after a parliamentary question tabled by the Makerfield MP confirmed that:

• Over 41,000 families across the borough will see Child Benefit frozen for the next three years from April 2011
• Over 37,000 families will be hit by changes announced in the June Budget to Tax Credits

Shan Nicholas, Chief Executive of Child Poverty Action Group said, “All the main parties have committed to ending child poverty by 2020, but Yvonne Fovargue MP stands out as one of the first to have signed a personal pledge committing to action. It is important MPs understand the leadership role they can take in their area to bring partners together like local councils, schools, service providers and the voluntary sector, as well as showing public leadership by raising public understanding of child poverty in their constituency.”

“Britain has one of the highest child poverty rates in Europe and this has an appalling impact on the life chances of many children. There is no reason why British children should suffer more than our neighbours and we are delighted that Yvonne Fovargue MP is so strongly committed to ending child poverty.”

The Child Poverty Champions Pledge says:

“I promise to keep the commitments my party voted for in the Child Poverty Act and to work in parliament and in Makerfield to end child poverty by 2020”

Fovargue slams Liberal Democrat and Tory betrayal of local pensioners

Local Labour MP, Yvonne Fovargue has slammed the Liberal Democrats and Tories for voting against a plan to protect local pensioners from the VAT hike. The Commons vote came as new research showed Britain's pensioners will be stung by an £8 billion VAT bill over the course of this Parliament.

There are over 59,000 pensioners in the Wigan Borough, all of whom could be affected.

Worse, figures hidden in the Budget show that local pensioners will be hit every year by changes that hit them in the pocket.

From January, pensioners will face a £400 million VAT tax bill which they will have to start paying months before any increase in the Basic State Pension. Pensioners face paying nearly £8 billion in VAT over the parliament.

In 2011, weekly pension increases fall behind VAT-fuelled price rises. In 2012, pension rises fall behind price rises again, after the Treasury quietly changed the way the so-called ‘triple lock’ up-rates pensions in practice. By 2013, pensioners face cuts to Disability Living Allowance benefits, which may total £350 million a year by the end of the Parliament, alongside cuts to Housing Benefit and the lower uprating of public service pensions and benefits.

This week Yvonne sought to protect local pensioners by supporting an amendment to the Finance Bill which would have delayed the VAT increase until a proper plan for shielding pensioners was in place.

But Liberal Democrat and Tory MPs ganged up to block the move.

The Borough's 59,000 pensioners will now start paying £33 million extra in VAT a month starting in January.

Yvonne said, "This is a betrayal of our local pensioners by the Tory-Liberal government. Our retired community has paid in for a life-time and is now being hit hard in the pocket."

"I wanted a plan in place to protect local pensioners from the £8 billion VAT bill but the Liberal Democrats refused to help.The Liberal Democrats should be ashamed of helping the Tories push these changes through."

"I can't believe the Tories and Liberals are trying to disguise the tax bill with a few promises which on closer inspection just don't add up."

New passenger facilities at Bryn Station

Work will soon commence to improve Bryn Station thanks to a capital investment by Greater Manchester Integrated Transport Authority (GMITA).

Yvonne Fovargue MP alongside fellow Greater Manchester MPs met with GMPTE at a meeting in parliament (16th June) to discuss rail infratructure improvements and pressed the case for improvements to stations in Makerfield.

The Makerfield MP contends that the Metro is a net contributor to GMITA and a greater share of resources should be allocated to rail infrastructure improvements in the area.

The investment will deliver CCTV, help points, customer information screens and public address systems as part of a rail improvement strategy. Orrell Station has already benefited from a similar investment.

Yvonne said, “Bryn Station needs this investment and this is good news for passengers, but there is still much more work required to make Bryn Station a more welcoming and pleasant experience for rail users.”

Yvonne is backing Bryn Ward Councillor Ann Rampling and local rail passenger advocate Trevor Allen who have started a petition for greater investment in Ashton and Bryn’s local rail station.

Cllr Ann Rampling said, “During the recent local election many people told me that the station is an eyesore crying out for major investment and were particularly unhappy with access for people with disabilities so I want local people to get behind the petition that Trevor Allen and I have organised.”

Petition forms can be obtained from Cllr Rampling on 01942 730794. Yvonne is pictured with Cllr Ann Rampling, Cllr Nigel Ash and Bryn resident and rail campaigner Trevor Allen.

New school's programme axed by Con Dem Government

Yvonne Fovargue has blasted the coalition government's announcement that Hindley High School's planned rebuild under the Building Schools for the Future programme has been axed.

The Wigan Borough stood to benefit from a total of £230M worth of investment in new secondary school buildings over a series of phases, as part of the wider national £45BN programme.

The first phase, worth £80M, would have seen secondary schools in the east of the borough, including Lowton and Golborne, Hesketh Fletcher, Bedford, Hindley and Westleigh’s, transformed with either new buildings or major refurbishments.

But Michael Gove's announcement means that the authority’s plans have now been shelved.

Yvonne said, "I am outraged at the Government's decision to cut this much needed investment in our borough's schools without any consultation with parents, pupils, governors, teachers or councillors. We've seen the difference new school facilities such as those at Abraham Guest High School make - and I wanted those resources for every child in our borough. Time, money and energy has gone into putting together plans to rebuild schools like Hindley High School in my constituency. Now with the swing of Michael Gove's axe that's all wasted and a once in a generation opportunity has been lost. Today's announcement raises questions about fairness in education as this Government channels funding into proposals for academies and free schools. This is the same old Tories backed by their new Liberal Democrat friends."

MP joins local Opticians to stress importance of regular eye checks

Yvonne Fovargue MP joined local eye health professionals and patients at Gore & Hepworth Opticians in Ashton today, to raise awareness of the crucial importance that early detection through regular eye tests is in reducing the number of people with avoidable sight loss.

The Makerfield MP attaches great importance to eye health. She is short-sighted and has suffered from Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD) causing tears to the retina in both eyes. She required laser treatment to correct the PVD.

The Borough has a low uptake of free NHS eye examinations for children under 16 and uptake amongst the adult population is low compared with the national average. Furthermore the Local Optical Committee is pressing for better provision for services for the visually impaired, more cameras for diabetic retinopathy screening and to utilise the skills of Optometrists to provide enhanced eyecare services in the community, reducing the need for hospital care.

Yvonne said, “I know from my personal experience just how important it is to take care of your eyes. Avoidable sight loss is a tragedy both for patients and the NHS, yet it can so easily be prevented through regular eye tests. A sight test can detect the early signs of conditions like glaucoma and, if diagnosed early, the right type of treatment could safeguard your sight. Eye examinations can also detect other conditions such as diabetes. Everyone should get their eyes tested every two years, and for some people this check-up is free, so ask your optometrist."

“I am grateful to Janet Green and the Local Optical Committee for the dedicated work they do and I will work with them to promote eye care in the Borough.”

“My message today is prevention is better than cure, so book an eye test today with a local optician and ensure you have an eye test at least once every two years.”

Janet Green, Chair of the Local Optical Committee said, “I can not stress enough the importance of a regular eye test for both good vision and health for all age groups. Half of all sight loss is preventable. With support, many of the experienced Optometrists in our Borough could ensure our community has eye care close to their home and an early appointment at the hospital if needed.”

You are entitled to a free sight test, paid for by the NHS, if:

• you are under 16 years of age,
• you are 16, 17, or 18, and in full-time education,
• you are 60 or over,
• you have been diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma,
• you are 40 or over, and your mother, father, brother, sister, son or daughter has been diagnosed with glaucoma,
• an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) has advised you that you’re at risk of glaucoma,
• you are registered as blind or
partially sighted,
• you are prescribed complex lenses – these are lenses with a power of 10 dioptres or more, or prism controlled bifocal lenses,
• your sight tests are usually done through a hospital eye department, as part of your care for an existing eye condition, or
• you are a war pensioner and you need the sight test because of a disability for which you get a war pension.

You are entitled to full help with health costs, including sight tests, if you or your partner receive:
• Income Support,
• Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance,
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, or
• Pension Credit Guarantee Credit.

You can also get a free NHS sight test if you’re entitled to, or named on, a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate. If you’re eligible for help with NHS costs under the NHS Low Income Scheme, you can claim some or all of the cost of sight tests for you, your partner and your children.

MP champions Deaf Awareness Week

To mark Deaf Awareness Week (28 June – 4 July 2010), Yvonne Fovargue MP is supporting leading charities and calling on her constituents to help remove communication barriers faced by people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Yvonne attended a deaf awareness reception in the House of Commons organised by the UK Council on Deafness (UKCoD) and supported by RNID and the National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS). The event highlighted important ‘dos and don’ts to help improve communication with adults and children who are deaf or hard of hearing including:

• Do learn some basic signs and fingerspelling
• Do repeat yourself or rephrase until you’re understood
• Do face me when you speak
• Do think about communication support
• Don’t have lots of background noise
• Don’t shout
• Don’t avoid conversation.

Yvonne said, “Many shops, services and residents across Wigan may not realise the barriers faced by people who are deaf or hard of hearing and how small changes, such as holding face-to-face conversations in well lit places, can significantly improve communication. I encourage others to join me in learning about the communication needs of people who are deaf or hard of hearing.”

Chair of UKCoD, Susan Daniels said, “Adults and children who are deaf or hard of hearing face communication barriers due to a lack of awareness in the community which can lead to issues such as isolation and exclusion from society.”

UKCoD, RNID and NDCS are encouraging everyone to get involved in the discussion on ‘do’s and don’t’s’ of communication by uploading a photo of their top communication tips and sharing their thoughts at www.flickr.com/groups/daw2010/.

One in seven people in the UK are deaf or hard of hearing, and of those, over 45,000 are deaf children.

Yvonne is pictured with William Morton and Rebecca French, a 19 year old deaf person at the reception in parliament.

Yvonne's Maiden Speech - Thursday, 10th June 2010

Yvonne backs 'Getting It Right' Charter

Yvonne Fovargue MP showed her commitment to ensure that people with a learning disability get the healthcare they have a right to by signing Mencap’s Getting it right charter.


The MP for Makerfield signed the charter at a Parliamentary Reception which was part of the launch of Mencap’s Getting it right campaign, the focus of this year’s Learning Disability Week. The charter calls on health professionals to commit to a nine-point pledge that will help make real changes and save lives.

Speaking at the Getting it right Parliamentary Reception, Yvonne said, “This is a hugely important campaign that sets a benchmark of practice to ensure that people with a learning disability have the same access to good healthcare as everyone else. I pledge my commitment and support to help ‘Get it right’ for people with a learning disability from across Makerfield.”

For more information on the Getting it right campaign and charter, and to show your support, www.mencap.org.uk/gettingitright

‘We are definitely not all in this together,’ says Fovargue as ConDem budget breaks promise not to increase VAT

“A budget that will put recovery at risk and hit people on modest incomes,” was the verdict of Yvonne Fovargue MP today.

The Makerfield MP blasted the ConDem coalition government for implementing larger and quicker reductions in the deficit that risk jobs and growth as well as implementing a regressive VAT hike that will ‘off-set’ the rise in personal allowances designed to help poorer income groups.

Yvonne said, “David Cameron was very keen to say during the general election campaign that he had no plans to raise VAT but today we saw the same old Tories penalising the poorest in Makerfield and at the same time signalling cuts in benefits."

“Today’s announcements are a double whammy for the borough coming on top of the axing of the Future Jobs Fund, Child Trust Fund and the already announced £3.5million of cuts to council funding with further cuts on the horizon.”

The new MP attacked the Tories for making the same mistakes which decimated northern towns and communities in the 1980s. She added, “We know what happens when you cut with impunity. These cuts will put jobs at risk in both the public and private sectors. My fear is that they will happen at such a rate that new jobs will not be created in the economy to take their place.”

Yvonne Fovargue MP calls for a fair deal for working carers

Yvonne Fovargue MP is calling for a fair deal for Makerfield’s army of working carers in next week’s emergency budget.

Yvonne has signed an Early Day Motion (EDM) tabled by Rosie Cooper, MP for West Lancashire that celebrates the £87 billion contribution made to the economy by the UK’s 6 million carers and calls on the government to help the 3 million carers who have to juggle their caring commitments with full or part-time work.

The motion also backs calls from the shopworkers union Usdaw for changes in the benefit system to allow working carers to earn more money before losing entitlement to Carers Allowance.

Yvonne said, “Both the Tories and Lib Dems promised to support carers in their election manifestos and I want them to make good on those promises by upholding the commitment of the National Carers Strategy that no carer should face financial hardship as a result of their caring role."

“The Government should also stand by the recommendation of the Work and Pensions Select Committee and ensure the DWP supports those adults who want or need to combine work with their caring commitments."

“Carers who look after someone for more than 35 hours a week are entitled to a Carers Allowance of £53.90 a week, but if the carer works and earns a penny over £97 a week, all that Carers Allowance is withdrawn."

“To withdraw all the allowance is simply not fair and this cliff-edge benefit is a massive disincentive to the many working carers who need or want to work more hours or find a better paid job.

“That’s why I’m also supporting Usdaw’s call for both an increase in Carers Allowance and an increase in the amount carers can earn before their Carers Allowance is withdrawn.”

John Hannett, Usdaw General Secretary is delighted that Yvonne is backing the union campaign. He added, “Usdaw is calling for Carers Allowance to be increased to £65.45 a week, the same rate as Job Seekers Allowance and for the £97 earnings limit to be increased to £150 a week."

“In addition we’d like to see a tapered decrease of the allowance meaning that all full-time carers earning up to £300 would be provided with some assistance."

“Thousands of Usdaw members combine their caring responsibilities with work yet many remain in severe financial hardship."

“Because of the existing rules, many Usdaw members who want to work more hours to make ends meet have to keep their hours deliberately low or risk losing carers allowance."

“Usdaw understands that there needs to be rules about who qualifies for carers allowance but when you do qualify then those who care should not be penalised for going out to work to provide a better life for themselves or their families.”

Early Day Motion 246 says:

That this House celebrates the valuable role performed by over six million carers in the UK, in the majority of cases without any financial recognition from the state, saving the country an estimated £87 billion per year; congratulates Carers UK for the valuable work they do in supporting carers and highlighting their needs during Carers Week; further congratulates the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers (Usdaw) for their continued campaigning for a better deal for working carers; recognises that many carers need to work to make ends meet because Carer's Allowance only pays £53.90 a week for a minimum of 35 hours caring, urges the Government to match the commitment of the 2008 National Carers Strategy to ensure that carers are not forced into financial hardship by their caring role, and support the recommendation of the House of Commons Work & Pensions Committee 2008 report that ‘DWP should support adults who become carers during their working lives to combine work and care’; therefore calls on the Government to remove the disincentive to work represented by the cliff-edge earnings threshold of £97 per week that prevents many carers from working at all and stops those in working from fulfilling their full working potential.

Credit Union expertise recognised as Makerfield MP elected secretary of parliamentary group

Yvonne Fovargue MP has been elected secretary of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Credit Unions at its AGM held this week in Westminster. Yvonne’s interest and knowledge of the credit union sector, developed through her working life, has been recognised by fellow parliamentarians.

The group will provide a forum for discussing the future role of credit unions as well as seeking to persuade the government that a flexible legislative framework is the best way for local credit unions like Unify and Welcome to flourish and provide financial services to people.

Yvonne said, “Credit Unions offer a safe and reliable way to save and they play a vital role in helping people through difficult financial circumstances."

“Too many low income borrowers face extortionate rates of interest, but credit unions provide loans at low cost and help to keep the loan sharks away from the doorstep."

“Credit Unions also support the growing appetite amongst the public for mutual alternatives to banks."

“One step that I will take is to lobby the government to allow full credit union services to be available through the post office network.”

Local MP calls for greater recognition for the UK’s six million carers

Local MP Yvonne Fovargue has teamed up with ITV’s This Morning celebrity GP, Dr Chris Steele MBE, to support this year’s Carers Week (14 - 20 June) and celebrate the contribution made by people in Makerfield, and throughout the UK, who provide unpaid care for someone who is ill, frail or disabled.

The theme of Carers Week is ‘A Life of My Own’ with calls for greater understanding and support for the army of carers who provide vital care for their families, friends and communities. In doing so, many sacrifice much in their own lives, unable to do the little things that most of us take for granted. All too often, these unsung heroes also suffer ill health.

Yvonne met up with Dr Chris at the House of Commons to pay tribute to carers, and to urge that they receive more support in their caring roles.

Yvonne Fovargue MP said, “A trip to the cinema, or even a full night’s sleep – these are luxuries for many of the thousands of carers in Makerfield. I am supporting Carers Week and all those helping to raise awareness of carers, and their priceless contribution they make to our local community. I hope that as a result of Carers Week, many more carers will find out about services and support that exist to help them.”

Dr Chris, who has long been a champion for the health and wellbeing of the country’s millions of carers said, “I am delighted to give my continuing support for Carers Week and its focus on a carer’s right to ‘A life of my own’. Many non-carers take their free-time for granted, whether it’s going to the cinema or meeting with family and friends. As a GP I have met many carers who have never received any help or respite.”

“I know how carers’ own health and well-being has suffered as a consequence and just how isolated they can feel. Who is caring for the carers? Change is needed at grassroots level and Carers Week is vital in raising awareness and promoting carers’ issues.”

Other celebrities supporting Carers Week, all of whom have had experience of caring, include: Lynda Bellingham, Cilla Black, Jonathan Dimbleby, Gloria Hunniford, Sir David Jason, Claire King, Phyllida Law, Miriam Margolyes, Esther Rantzen, Angela Rippon and Tony Robinson.

Carers Week is organised by a partnership of 7 national charities: Carers UK, Counsel and Care, Crossroads Care, Help the Hospices, Macmillan Cancer Support, Parkinson’s UK and The Princess Royal Trust for Carers.

For information about Carers Week, including local events and activities, and where carers can find information and assistance, call 0845 241 2582. Carers Week 2010 takes place from 14-20 June.

Yvonne Fovargue MP finds out what it's like to live without sight

Yvonne Fovargue MP met with RNIB at a parliamentary reception designed to give MPs a first hand experience of the everyday challenges faced by blind and partially sighted people.

Wearing a blindfold, Yvonne tried to carry out some everyday tasks, like making a cup of tea and using a cash machine, within the kitchen and bank areas that had been set up in the House of Commons.

Yvonne Fovargue MP said, "It was a real challenge to carry out these simple everyday tasks without the use of sight. It made me aware of the need for support to be in place when someone loses their sight and is struggling to adjust, trying to remain independent in their own local area and home."

There are nearly 2 million people living in the UK with sight loss, and every day another 100 people start to lose their sight. A shocking 23 per cent of people losing their sight leave the eye clinic without even being certain of the name of the condition that caused their sight loss. The majority are getting no support when they lose their sight - most receive no counselling and are left to cope with their diagnosis alone.

Steve Winyard, Head of Campaigns at RNIB, said, "Every week in the UK hundreds of people begin to lose their sight. You might think that support services would be waiting to step in and help, but that's not the reality many people experience. For example, we know that in the weeks after being registered as blind or partially sighted many people will not be visited by social services. A year after losing their sight only about a quarter of people will be offered mobility training to get out and about independently. RNIB is campaigning to ensure that everyone diagnosed with sight loss gets the practical and emotional support that they need to rebuild their lives."

Makerfield Constituency MP Yvonne Fovargue strikes a ‘whale tail’ pose and calls for greater protection for whales

Yvonne Fovargue MP has shown her support for whales by striking a ‘whale tail’ pose with the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW).

Yvonne is taking part in IFAW’s ‘Tails for Whales’ online photo petition, which raises awareness of the need for greater whale protection. IFAW is encouraging people from all walks of life to be photographed making the whale tail hands symbol. Model and presenter Twiggy and comedienne Jo Brand are among celebrities taking part and this week almost 40 MPs also struck a whale tail pose for whales.

IFAW works year-round to protect whales from the many threats they face including commercial whaling, ship strikes, entanglement in fishing gear, pollution, climate change and man-made ocean noise.

The worldwide ban on commercial whaling is currently under threat with a compromise deal due to be discussed at the next International Whaling Commission (IWC) meeting in Agadir, Morocco, later this month. If passed, the deal would legitimise commercial whaling for the first time in more than 20 years.

Robbie Marsland, UK Director of IFAW said, “We are very grateful to Yvonne Fovargue for showing her support for whales at such a critical time. IFAW opposes commercial or so-called ‘scientific’ whaling because it is cruel and unnecessary and we believe these magnificent and intelligent creatures should be protected for future generations to enjoy. Support for this project demonstrates that many people feel the same.”

“I am pleased to be taking part in ‘Tails for Whales’, says Yvonne. She added, "Whales face more threats today than ever before and this project sends out a positive message that we should all be working to protect the ban on whaling and safeguard whale populations. I encourage my constituents to take part by submitting their photos for inclusion.”

Whale tail images can be uploaded to the website www.tailsforwhales.org (JPEG format, minimum 1024x768pix). Please take part and email your friends and family asking them to do the same.

The aim is to collect as many of these positive images as possible on the website, particularly in the run-up to the next meeting of the IWC, to urge all member countries to use their votes to protect, not weaken, the worldwide ban on commercial whaling.

Despite a worldwide ban on commercial whaling coming into effect in 1986, more than 30,000 whales have been killed for commercial reasons since that time.

Japan hunts whales under a loophole for so-called “scientific” whaling, which IFAW believes is really commercial whaling by another name. Iceland has killed whales both commercially and under the “scientific” clause and Norway has continued to hunt commercially under an objection to the ban.

Andy Burnham MP nominated

Yvonne has today welcomed confirmation that Andy Burnham MP has secured the necessary nominations from fellow Labour MPs to go forward onto the ballot to be the next leader of the Labour Party.

Yvonne said, "This is great news for party members and trade unionists who want to be able to back Andy in the forthcoming leadership campaign. I am really pleased that Andy's campaign has resonated with fellow MPs and that he can now take his message to the wider Labour movement and the country."

Yvonne pledges to vote against attempts to repeal Hunting Act

Makerfield MP Yvonne Fovargue has today confirmed that she will vote against any attempt to repeal the Hunting Act 2004.

Yvonne has added her signature to the following parliamentary motion:

EDM 116 – Hunting Act 2004

‘That this House reaffirms its support for the Hunting Act 2004 and notes that there have been almost 140 convictions under the Act; recognises that the vast majority of the public support the Act across all regional, political, social and religious divides; and therefore believes that any attempt to repeal the Act would be a retrograde step and out of keeping with a civilised society.’

However, despite the consigning of their 'sport' to the history books, the hunting lobby are now stepping up their efforts to have the Hunting Act repealed. Moreover, some politicians want to repeal the hunting ban despite 75% (League against Cruel Sports Polling) of the public being in favour of keeping it.

In her first few weeks in parliament Yvonne has received emails from outraged constituents concerned that the Hunting Act 2004 may face repeal.

Yvonne said, “It was a historic achievement when the Hunting Act became law in 2005 but just five years later we face the threat of repeal backed by a powerful pro-hunting lobby."

“Like the vast majority of the public, I believe that cruelty to animals in the name of sport has no place in our society and I will vote against any attempts to repeal the Hunting Act.”

A rainforest free lunch and support for planet friendly farming

Yvonne Fovargue MP joined Friends of the Earth to show her support for rainforest-free meat and dairy. She is one of more than 160 MPs to back calls for farm animals to be born, bred and fed British, instead of being reared on imported animal feed grown on deforested land.

The green campaigning charity’s Fix the Food Chain campaign is striving to reduce the impact of the UK’s factory farms which are wiping out rainforests and wildlife to grow animal feed.

Yvonne Fovargue MP said, “Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a rainforest-free lunch if you’re eating meat and dairy, but it is possible to farm animals without trashing the planet."

“I back Friends of the Earth’s call for policies that will help farmers to rear animals that are born, bred and fed British.”

Friends of the Earth’s Senior Food Campaigner Vicki Hird said, “It’s great that MPs like Yvonne Fovargue are waking up to the impact of factory farming and supporting the switch to planet-friendly meat and dairy farming."

“Friends of the Earth is campaigning for a new law that will cut the meat and dairy industry’s impact and will support farmers and consumers to make greener choices.”

Friends of the Earth’s Fix the Food Chain campaign highlights some shocking facts:

• On current trends animal feed production and cattle ranching alone will destroy 40% of the Amazon rainforest by 2050.

• The meat and dairy industry is responsible for a fifth of global climate-changing gases.

‘Rape case anonymity for defendants would be insult to victims,’ says Yvonne Fovargue MP

Plans to ban identification of defendants accused of rape suggests victims of sexual violence do not matter.

People accused of rape in England and Wales are to be granted anonymity under proposals announced by the coalition government.

The proposal was not in the Liberal Democrat or Conservative manifesto but the plan angered anti-rape campaigners who said it would do nothing to improve the conviction rate.

At present, there are no restrictions on naming defendants who are over 18 years old. The government's proposal for anonymity would only affect England and Wales.

Yvonne Fovargue has signed a parliamentary motion (EDM 105) calling on the Government to withdraw its proposal. She said the changes would "send a damaging message" and may discourage victims from coming forward.

Yvonne Fovargue MP said, “People accused of breaking the law would rather remain anonymous, but that is not how justice in this country works."

“Rape victims need encouragement to report the crimes, and a system which assumes the victim is lying is not the way to achieve that. Of course it is atrocious that anyone could be accused of a crime they didn’t commit, but the law already allows people to be prosecuted for a false accusation.”

Campaigners assert that false allegations of rape are extremely rare but receive disproportionate media coverage. Rape law campaigner Jill Saward said she is "horrified" by the news and accused politicians of turning their backs on victims of sexual violence.

Ms Saward, who has spoken out on tackling rape since being attacked at her Ealing vicarage home in 1986, said she completely opposes anonymity for defendants. She said the changes may discourage genuine victims from coming forward.

The full text of the Early Day Motion follows:

EDM 105 - ANONYMITY FOR DEFENDANTS IN RAPE CASES

'That this House believes that the Government's proposal to grant anonymity to defendants in rape cases sends a message to juries and rape victims that the victim is not to be believed; fears that this could inhibit the effective prosecution of serial rapists; is further concerned that this will reverse the progress made on the prosecution of rape cases noted in the independent Stern Review; is further concerned that the Government has put forward the proposal without any research, evidence or examination of these issues; and calls on the Government to withdraw its proposal.'

Yvonne Fovargue MP attacks Tory broken promise to poorest children

Yvonne Fovargue MP attacked the Government’s plans to scrap the Child Trust Fund, which helps families save for their children’s future – even for the poorest families who the Tories promised to protect.

Yvonne Fovargue MP said, “I'm proud that Labour introduced the Child Trust Fund to help families save for their children. It’s outrageous that it has been stopped – even for the poorest families who need the most help. We need to see more saving in the years ahead, so families need more support and encouragement to save for their children's future, not less.”

“It is shocking that one of the very first promises the Tories choose to break is their promise to protect Child Trust Funds for the lowest-income families and disabled children in Makerfield. If this is the Tories starting as they mean to go on it is a grim sign."

“Families in Makerfield are starting to find out what it means to have a Government that’s not on their side.”

The plans are part of the Conservative-Lib Dem coalition’s cuts of £6.2 billion this year. During the election campaign, the Conservatives promised to keep the Child Trust Fund for the poorest one third of families and for families with disabled children – but they have broken this promise and chosen to scrap it entirely.

In the North West, 73,000 Child Trust Fund accounts were opened during the tax year 2007/08. Families can also make their own payments into the account, which the child will be able to access when they are 18. From next year, the coalition Con-Dem Government has announced that the Child Trust Fund will be scrapped, so no more children in the North West will benefit from it – and children under the age of seven will get no more government top-up.

Yvonne backs Andy Burnham in Labour Leadership race

Yvonne Fovargue MP has today backed Andy Burnham MP to be the next leader of the Labour Party.

The boost to the Leigh MP comes ahead of his leadership launch at Leigh Sports Village on Wednesday, 26th May.

Yvonne Fovargue MP said, “Andy is down to earth, approachable, rooted in Labour Party values and I believe can reach out and reconnect with Labour’s supporters."

“He is always willing to listen and take up issues and is best placed to inspire and re-build support for Labour. His candidacy is good for the future prosperity of the North West and the Wigan borough.”

Yvonne is calling on local people across the borough to back Andy’s campaign by visiting his website at http://www.andy4leader.com/

First Advice Surgery details announced

Yvonne will be pleased to meet constituents at her first advice surgeries to be held at Platt Bridge Community First School, Rivington Ave on Friday, 4th June (6.30pm-8pm) and Ashton Town Hall, Bryn St on Saturday, 19th June (10am-12noon).

Details of further advice surgeries across the constituency will be announced shortly.

Makerfield General Election Result

Yvonne Fovargue                    Labour                 20,700
Itrat Ali                                   Conservative           8,210
David Crowther                      Lib Dem                  7,082
Bob Brierley                           Independent             3,424
Ken Haslam                            BNP                        3,229
John Mather                           Independent              1,126

Majority 12,490
Turnout 59.4%

The Tories are a risk to the recovery as secret memo to raise VAT leaked

Conservative economic plans pose a great risk to the recovery according to Yvonne Fovargue following the leaking of a secret memo detailing plans to raise VAT to 19.5% in a future Tory budget.

Yvonne Fovargue said, “The Tories got it consistently wrong during the recession and they are now getting it wrong on the recovery."

“The Tories are committed to an emergency budget within 50 days of the election immediately taking £6 billion out of the economy putting the recovery at risk."

“Today we have learned of a Tory secret plan to raise VAT to 19.5% at that budget and hitting hard working local families and pensioners.”

Yvonne Fovargue believes this demonstrates Tory values and instincts. She added, “Underneath the glossy poster adverts lie the real values of the Tory party. A VAT increase that would hit local people hard in the pocket but a £200,000 tax giveaway to the 3,000 richest estates in the country.”

One-week cancer diagnosis with Labour

At the heart of Labour’s vision for the future of the NHS is our policy of guarantees. People know they have a right to be treated by the NHS fast – or the NHS will pay for you to go private. One of Labour’s key commitments on the NHS is to guarantee a 1 week cancer diagnosis.

As a result of Labour’s plans, more than 1.5 million people will be seen more quickly and get their cancer test results more quickly. Independent experts have identified that between 5,000 and 10,000 lives could be saved each year through a greater focus on early diagnosis and rapid treatment.

Labour’s Yvonne Fovargue has called on her Tory opponent in Makerfield to back Labour’s one week cancer guarantee. Yvonne said, “With Labour, the NHS already guarantees that if your GP thinks you may have cancer, you will see a specialist within two weeks, and that you will get hospital treatment within 18 weeks. Now, we will go further, and guarantee access to diagnostic tests for cancer, with results, within just one week. That means that 1.5million people will be guaranteed faster access to cancer tests under Labour. Experts say that this will save up to 10,000 lives a year."

“The Tories say they are the party of the NHS but in fact they will scrap all of Labour’s targets and guarantees in the NHS.”

Brilliant Britain

Minister hails ground breaking scheme for the joiners and bricklayers of the future

Yvonne Fovargue and Housing Minister John Healey MP visited the Western Skills Centre based in Bryn which will train the construction workers of the future in the trades of Joinery and Brickwork.

Pupils from local secondary schools walking through the Skills Centre’s doors receive specialised training thanks to a unique collaboration between five Wigan High Schools, Wigan Council and Mears, the leading social housing repairs and maintenance provider in the country. At its opening it was believed that this partnership was a first both locally and nationally.

Yvonne Fovargue said, “The Skill Centre is a wonderful achievement and an excellent example of local schools working together. Again Wigan leads the way, providing opportunities for pupils to learn a trade and equipping them with the skills to gain employment in the future.”

John Healey MP said, “No one can afford to overlook young people’s talent and the UK of tomorrow will need the young joiners and bricklayers here today to build the homes of the future."

“Labour is making sure the Tory mistakes in the recessions of the 80s and 90s do not happen again. In the teeth of recession, we supported hard working businesses and struggling families alike. Now with our eyes firmly on growth and economic recovery, it is vital that we keep up investment to create new jobs and pay for apprenticeships for young people. That's why with Labour every 18 - 24 year old who has been out of work for more than six months will be guaranteed a job, training or college place.”

Yvonne is pictured with Housing Minister John Healey, Ian McCartney and Labour's candidate for Bryn Ward, Ann Rampling.

I remember....

A lovely day for a street stall in Winstanley

Yvonne joined Clive Morgan, Labour's local election candidate for Winstanley and Labour Party members today at the shopping precinct on Holmes House Ave.

Armed with balloons, leaflets and stickers a plenty it was a warm, sunny spring day to talk to voters about Labour's plans to protect frontline public services and secure the recovery.

With important local elections on Thursday, 6th May coinciding with an as yet unconfimed general election on the same date, the election is not just about what happens in Westminster, of equal importance are the issues raised about our local area too.