Over recent years I’ve spoken to many local people in Northfield who are struggling to find work, and many more who are struggling on low pay or feeling increasing insecure and in their jobs. Nothing is more symbolic of this in-work vulnerability than the rise of “zero-hours” contracts.
I have recently received lots of signatures to a petition opposing the Revised EU Directive on Tobacco Products, set to be adopted in 2014. I think it’s important – given the amount of time and money spent by tobacco company's to oppose this policy – that some concerns surrounding the Directive are clarified so people can have a balanced debate about the issue.
Today a £14 million fine was imposed on Deloitte & Touche for their advice to the MG Rover Group and the “Phoenix Four" directors.But as we watch another twist to the MG Rover drama unfold, it’s important to remember what was important then – and what is important now. That is the 6000+ MGR workers who lost their jobs in the collapse, and the communities whose identity “the Austin” factory …
The Labour Party wants your ideas on how the next Labour Government will tackle the challenges facing Britain in 2015. We are looking at every aspect of Labour's policy - from our international role to education - to support the development of our next manifesto. Today I was pleased to submit my response to the Policy Commissions on Work and Business and Living Standards and Sustainability - both …
Scores of local people have contacted me over the past week to share their concerns on the Transparency of Lobbying, Non-Party Campaigning and Trade Union Administration Bill, which received its second reading in the House of Commons on Tuesday 3 September.
This summer I was very pleased to welcome the start of over 100 new homes on Walkers Heath Road by the housebuilder Barratt Homes. In July I joined Barratt’s Managing Director Adrian Farr, as well as City Council Cabinet Member for Health & Wellbeing Steve Bedser and other local councillors to mark the start of construction.
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.