Every fortnight Kevin writes a “Kev’s Column” for the Herald Express and you can read the latest edition below:
Remembrance
Over the weekend I joined many others across our bay in pausing to remember those who have sacrificed their lives for the freedoms we enjoy today.
When standing at the War Memorials in Paignton or Torquay it is possible to picture the names immortalised there as faces in the crowd standing in silence around them. None wished to die as heroes, all wanted to be with those they loved and return to the life they had known pre-war, yet still they answered the call to serve.
Thankfully we have not seen a third war of the type experienced by our Grandparents and Great-Grandparents, yet recent conflicts in Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria remind us the brutality of war still exists. Many have given their lives or are suffering life changing injuries received in the defence of our freedoms and the rights we hold dear.
Just over a century ago no-one predicted the carnage which would follow at the Somme or Passchendaele as warfare on an industrial scale was unknown. The Poppy serves as a reminder of how history could repeat itself if we forget the lessons and sacrifices of it.
Brexit Bill
The European Union (Withdrawal) Bill entered its crucial committee stages this week with two days set aside for the House of Commons to discuss proposed amendments.
There is a large book of amendments, many of which will be debated at some length in the chamber. The Chairman of Ways & Means (Deputy Speaker) will play a key role as he selects which amendments are to be debated and how they should be grouped. This may sound dull procedure, but this is a key process in terms of determining which can be voted on by MPs.
I hope these debates will show parliament at its best, thoughtfully considering the most significant bill since the one which took us into the Common Market in 1973. Petty political rows, smokescreen arguments and using tricks of parliamentary procedure to frustrate the bill will only deepen public cynicism.
Time to Leave
Some people have queried why the Government has set 11pm (on Friday 29th March 2019) as the exact time for the UK to leave the EU.
The timing of Article 50 is based on the time in Brussels, which is one hour ahead of the UK, hence Midnight under the treaty is 11pm in the UK.
Paignton Academy
Dr Sarah Wollaston and I have been raising our concerns about the condition of decaying buildings at the Borough Road site of Paignton Community and Sports Academy.
Whilst most of the buildings on the site are modern, some date from the 1940’s and are becoming derelict. The main canteen for the site is within them and in desperate need of replacement, along with the remaining classrooms which are still in use.
Last week Education Ministers faced questions from MPs, so I took the chance to again raise this issue. In response the Secretary of State for Education, Justine Greening, agreed to meet for a discussion about it.
This meeting took place in the House of Commons last night and was a useful chance to highlight how funding for a solution is urgently needed.
Buzz About Pesticides Ban
One of the issues I get the most e-mails about is the future of the Bee, particularly the threat certain pesticides pose.
Last week the Environment Secretary, Michael Gove, backed new restrictions as further scientific evidence showed neonicotinoid pesticides are harmful to bees and other pollinators. It is great news the Government is taking this action to save our pollinator populations.
Herald Express readers can do their bit to help by joining the Torbay’s Buzzing Campaign run by the Charity Buglife which aims to create "Bee Roads" through our area. Just drop me a line at [email protected] or call 01803 214 989 and my team will happily give residents the details they need to get involved.
Cllr Roger Stringer
Last week I joined a large congregation at Riviera Life Church for a celebration of the life of Cllr Roger Stringer.
Roger and I were on different teams politically, but got on well and I was honoured to be asked to say a few words in tribute to him. Many will remember Roger from his time running Barton Post Office and his charity work. He also served on the Council for 14 years and was Chairman of the Council for 2012-13.
Roger was a man who cared deeply for our bay and its people, leaving a legacy which will continue even though he has now moved on from this life.
Surgery Times
My next surgeries will be on Saturday 18th November, 11am till 1pm at Torquay Library, Lymington Road, Torquay, TQ1 3DT and Friday 24th November 3pm till 5pm at Paignton Baptist Church, Winner St, TQ3 3BJ.
Just call 01803 214 989 or e-mail me at [email protected] to book a slot. You can drop in, but appointments are recommended to avoid a long wait or disappointment. My team also run drop in surgery sessions Mon to Friday 10am -1pm at 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD