2013 has flown by, and it’s been quite a year. I'd like to take this opportunity to reflect on the last 12 months and to wish all my constituents, and everyone in the West Midlands, both a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year.
November's Newsletter gives an update on my work on Road Safety Week and HS2 as a Shadow Transport Minister, as well as Labour's pledges to scrap the Bedroom Tax and freeze your energy bills. There is also news about the campaign to boost the BBC's presence in the West Midlands and exciting new developments for cycling in Birmingham!
Last month, the Amnesty International Group in Bournville, South Birmingham, asked me to address them on my work as a member of the International Development Committee of the House of Commons. This article taken from what I said to the meeting. After 8 years on the International Development Select Committee (IDC), my appointment as Shadow Transport Minister means I have had to recently step down …
As the MP for Birmingham Northfield I welcome the development of a Cycle Charter for the West Midlands, which is open to public consultation. This response expresses support for the Charter’s key principles and goals, and proposes additional action to support greater cycling participation in the region – including through ambitious targets, local engagement and participation, better …
The City Council is considering the introduction of 20mph speed limits on the city’s roads to improve safety and reduce collisions. As their decision will affect everyone who lives, works, shops, visits or travels in the city, I welcome the opportunity to respond as the MP for Birmingham Northfield.
I’m something of a petrol-head. I love driving and I used to do a bit of motor racing. But I’m a regular public transport user too, and in London I usually walk to and from work. Cycling? Yes, but not as often as I should. All these things make me a “road user” – well, apart from the racing. However, when I’m moving about I want to feel safe on the roads, like everyone else. But like a lot of …
I was Labour Member of Parliament for Birmingham Northfield between 1992 and 2019 and a former Shadow Transport Minister. I now chair Healthwatch in Birmingham and Solihull, and the West Midlands Board of Remembering Srebrenica. I also work as a public affairs consultant. I am an effective community advocate and stakeholder alliance builder with a passion for human rights. I am a trustee of the Balfour Project charity and of Citizens Advice Birmingham, and a former Chair of Medical Aid for Palestinians.