Staines Swimming Club

Staines Swimming Club has secured £50,000 of Olympic legacy funding from Sport England's Inspired Facilities fund. The fund is part of the £135 million Places People Play legacy programme that is bringing the magic of a home Olympic and Paralympic Games into communities across the country.

The money will enable the Club to rebuild the structure covering the existing swimming pool at Saxon Primary School in Shepperton: a local venue used by the Club and pupils at the School. Kwasi went along to the School to present the cheque.

Kwasi said:

"With the Olympic and Paralympic Games just around the corner, this investment is terrific news for Spelthorne. It not only adds to the growing sense of anticipation ahead of this summer, but will leave a lasting sporting legacy. This funding can help inspire participation and achievement for years to come."

Kwasi talks about the British Empire

Kwasi went to Bishop Wand to talk to a group of Sixth Form history students about their studies on the British Empire. He talked about his book on the subject, Ghosts of Empire, and this period in history more generally. He answered questions, had a good chat, and there was some good debate.

Kwasi commented:

"I really enjoyed talking to the students about the British Empire. Their focus is on the last hundred and fifty or so years of this period in history, and they clearly knew their subject well. They asked me plenty of thoughtful questions and were very engaging. I wish them all the best in their exams this summer; I think they should do very well."

Queen Mary Sailing Club

Queen Mary Sailing Club has secured £44,439 of Olympic legacy funding from Sport England's Inspired Facilities fund. Kwasi went along to the Club to present the cheque.

In an article for the Surrey Herald & News, Kwasi commented:

This money is terrific news and is already being used to refurbish and modernise facilities.

After a photo or two were taken, I had an opportunity to look around and chat to members, who were in good spirits.

The Sailing Club was established in 1972. It caters for all standards and hosts a full range of racing events. It is situated at a fantastic venue too, atop the Queen Mary Reservoir, a huge expanse of open water which experiences uninterrupted wind flows.

Of course, once the place would have looked very different. From what I understand, before the reservoir was built in 1925, a hamlet named Astlam once stood there. It was home to a small number of buildings and, interestingly, to Astlam Manor Cottage, where King Henry VIII is said to have stayed many times when hunting in the area.

Before the reservoir was constructed, the Cottage was moved, brick by brick, to Shepperton. The building fell into disrepair, and in the 90s was donated to Chiltern Open Air Museum, in Chalfont St. Giles, Buckinghamshire, where this small bit of Spelthorne's history now stands.

The reservoir is home to other fascinating stories too. Members of the Sailing Club keenly explained that the reservoir served as a secret military testing site during WWII. They showed me a photo display inside the clubhouse that reveals how a one-man British midget submarine and a motorised submersible canoe nicknamed 'Sleeping Beauty' were trialled there.

In this Olympic year, and with the investment and refurbishment taking place, the Sailing Club is entering a new and exciting era. Remembering history, though, is also important, and it was good to see that members are enthusiastic about their Club's past.

Kwasi hosts Aviation Forum

Kwasi held another Aviation Forum in Westminster last week, attended by Andrew Jones, the Parliamentary Private Secretary (PPS) to the Transport Secretary, and representatives from BAA, Virgin and the architecture firm, Foster and Partners.

Kwasi said:

"The meeting was successful in so far as Andrew managed to convey very clearly the Transport Department's views. I also think that the business representatives were happy to meet someone who was so clear."

"There is a growing realisation that for Britain to compete in the modern world, we are going to have to get serious about aviation. Everyone seems to understand that economic growth, without more flights is very difficult, if not impossible. It's simply become a question of how we meet the capacity. I have set out my views about all this many times, but what struck me about the Forum was the opportunity that we have to get politicians in government together with representatives of an industry. In this case, it was the aviation industry, but it could just as well have been the mining or financial services."

Kwasi joins tea party at Bishop Wand

Kwasi visited Bishop Wand School last week to attend a tea party alongside a group of local senior citizens and year 11 students. The students organised the event as part of their coursework, their objective being to foster a better understanding between older and younger people in the community. Speeches were given, games were enjoyed and students led guests on tours around the School.

Kwasi said, "It was a real pleasure to attend this event. The guests seemed to really enjoy themselves and the students did an excellent job in organising things. The idea of reaching out to the community to develop closer relations with senior citizens is a very positive and thoughtful initiative."

Kwasi calls for debate on airport capacity

In a recent article for the Heathrow Villager, Kwasi commented:

Just recently, the question of airport capacity has been in the headlines, and really that's a good thing. Yes, the issue is controversial, but it would be foolish if we didn't start to talk about it. We do need to have a debate.

Passenger demand for London's airports is anticipated to increase from 140 million passengers a year, to 400 million a year by 2050, with demand for air travel to emerging markets like China and India set to double in just twenty years. If we want to do business with the wider world, so important in this day and age, we'll have to come to terms with this relatively quickly. If we don't, it seems likely that our economy, locally and nationally, will suffer. Paris and Frankfurt are already ahead of the game; they have more annual flights to the three largest cities in China than we do.

So what's the solution? Most people are agreed that some expansion in aviation capacity will probably take place. The shape that this takes is, in many ways, the bigger question.

Boris's island airport idea has received a lot of attention. Of course, it makes good press copy. Such a scheme, though, would take a very long time to build and could have damaging knock on effects. Obviously, we wouldn't want jobs being dragged from the local area. Building on the current infrastructure of London's array of existing airports makes more sense. That certainly doesn't mean the government should suddenly build a new runway at a particular location. But these issues, as they affect so many people, should be talked about openly. Majority local opinion needs to shape solutions. Of course, some people will be thinking "I've heard that before." But what if we allowed airport operators to freely and fully negotiate compensation wherever and with whom development unfavourably affected? This might mean that some locations would prove commercially unviable. It could also mean that development might occur in places which may have been previously overlooked.

What is clear is that, for our economy to grow, the aviation industry will have to grow too. There's no getting around that basic fact.

Brooklands College

Kwasi visited the College's Ashford campus in December to see the Principal, Maureen Kilminster, meet students and learn more about their studies in a range of courses, from business and construction to hairdressing and beauty.

Kwasi said:

"It's crucial, as a country, that we invest in the practical skills of our young people, so I'm delighted Brooklands are able contribute in this way."

Visiting Riverbridge, Spelthorne's new Primary School

Kwasi spent a morning visiting Riverbridge, the Borough's new split site primary school. With a new logo and uniform, it only opened in September after Kingscroft Junior, Shortwood and Knowle Park Infant Schools were amalgamated. He met the Headmistress, Maggie Robertson to talk about the merger, which has been no small task, and visited the School's Knowle Green and Park Avenue bases in Staines to talk to pupils about what they'd been learning and his role as an MP.

In an article for the Surrey Herald and News Kwasi said:

Kingscroft Junior, Shortwood and Knowle Park forged their own identities and sense of togetherness over time, which are essential ingredients for the success and well-being of any school, engaging children in a feeling of purpose and pride, which is so important.

But while these foundations meant that opening Riverbridge wasn't at all like building a school from scratch, it's obviously been a logistical challenge to manage the transition and create a new identity against this backdrop; of course, it's often tricky to make changes to the status-quo.

Although the School's new uniform and logo mark an important aesthetic and symbolic change, Riverbridge has engaged in the tougher task of fostering a deeper sense of unity and shared ethos across the School's bases. This has depended on a lot of hard work, and from what I could see, it's really starting to pay off.

I certainly felt a real sense of well-being and happiness at Riverbridge. Children were smiling and seemed to really enjoy being there. That's a real credit to staff, parents and everyone involved with the School.

Riverbridge is a great addition to the Borough, and I have no doubt that with further support, and encouragement from the community, it will only go from strength to strength.

Remembrance Sunday

On November 13, Kwasi attended the Remembrance Service and parade in Ashford, on what was a beautiful sunny day.

Kwasi reflected:

"The morning was faultlessly organised and hundreds of people turned out to pay their respects to the brave men and women who have given their lives to pro­tect our freedom, which was fantastic to see."

Kwasi visits BP in Sunbury

Kwasi went to BP's International Centre for Business & Technology in Sunbury-on-Thames, to find out more about what goes on at the site, which is the largest privately owned Business Park in the UK, employing over 5000 people!

Kwasi was hosted by Mikhael Bhudri, who is the Head of Communications & External Affairs for BP in Sunbury, was given a presentation on the role that the ICBT plays in supporting BP's global operations and technological capability, and learned about the Company's plans to engage with the local community in the run-up to the London Olympics and beyond.

After the visit, Kwasi said:

"In many ways it's a privilege that BP is based in my constituency; the Company is a British flagship, major local employer and global centre of innovation. Meeting Mikhael and his team was a useful way to learn more about what goes on behind the scenes, and I was particularly encouraged to hear about the local community projects being developed."

Kwasi takes part in Local Democracy Week

Kwasi joined pupils from seven local secondary schools at Spelthorne Borough Council's Offices in Knowle Green, Staines. They were taking part in events organised as part of Local Democracy Week, a national campaign which aims to promote democracy and electoral participation.

In an article for the Staines and Ashford News, Kwasi commented:

It was great to see so many children taking part in activities designed to encourage engagement with electoral processes and the workings of Parliament.

In a mock election, pupils were divided into teams of five or six, each representing an imaginary political party with different ideas. Each party, led by one pupil and would-be Prime Minister put their ideas forward and tried to drum up support and votes, which were cast in a ballot box at the end. Their enthusiasm was really impressive.

Finally, The Computer Grants Party, represented by Jay Simpson of Matthew Arnold School, and the Apprenticeship Choice at 14 Party, represented by Daniel Donohue of St Paul's College, emerged tied when the votes were counted.

To decide a winner, Jay and Daniel each made a final thirty second pitch on behalf of their parties. Both spoke concisely and really confidently, until Daniel was finally elected by show of hands. Congratulations to him for his brilliant effort.

The Council did an excellent job organising things, and I think the idea of engaging young people in democracy in this way is a really positive thing to do.

By getting children excited about political processes and by showing them how they can make a difference, they're much more likely to participate in our democracy when they get older. This can only be a good thing, and is what good democracy relies on: getting as many people involved as possible.

Bishop Wand wins O2 competition!

Here's some brilliant news: It's been announced that Mrs Hanson, a Science teacher at Bishop Wand Church of England School in Sunbury, has won the national O2 Learn Competition for her film "Rocket Science". At a special assembly, the School received £100,000 in prize money, which will be used to build an exciting new outdoor learning complex.

On hearing the news, Kwasi said: "Many congratulations to Mrs Hanson, Bishop Wand School and their fantastic video, which has captured the imagination of the kids at the school and the surrounding community. The prize money and the outdoor learning facility they will use it to invest in, will offer a valuable boost to the school and help them go from strength to strength."

Kwasi wishes Bishop Wand, Science teacher the best of luck

Kwasi recently learned that Mrs Hanson, a Science teacher from Bishop Wand Church of England School in Sunbury, is in the running to win £100,000 for the School, after her short film "Rocket Science" was shortlisted for the national final of the O2 Learn Awards.

Kwasi says:

"It's really exciting to hear that Mrs Hanson's film has been shortlisted for the competition; it's obviously a great endorsement of her enthusiasm for science, teaching and learning, and having watched it, it's clear that a lot of time has gone into making it with the help of students. I certainly think the film stands a great chance of winning. I wish Mrs Hanson the best of luck and would encourage everybody to watch it online and get behind her."

The winner of the competition will be decided by public vote and announced on Friday, October 14.

To watch the film and cast a vote visit www.o2learn.co.uk

Kwasi leads adjournment debate on proposed waste and recycling centre

Kwasi led an adjournment debate in Parliament last night on a proposed waste and recycling development in Shepperton, arguing that the views of local residents and Spelthorne Borough Council should be considered paramount in planning decisions relating to it.

Kwasi says:

"I sympathize with the deep concerns people have about this development, and it is my job to give voice to them. I led the debate in Parliament to do this at the highest level and to make sure that the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government is fully aware of local opinion and the arguments in hand before he takes the decision to block the development, call it in for his determination or allow it."

The official transcript of the debate is detailed in the daily Hansard, 5 Sept, Column 145

Town Farm Primary School visit Westminster

Kwasi welcomed a group of year six pupils from Town Farm Primary School in Stanwell to Westminster. They toured the Houses of Parliament, took part in lessons organised by Parliament's Education Unit, which works with schools and members of both Houses to help teach young people about British democracy, and then discussed what they'd learnt with Kwasi.

In an article for the Surrey Herald and News Kwasi commented:

"Amongst the pupils, there were some familiar faces since I had visited the School in January, and they were full of enthusiasm on the day. I started off by asking them questions about what they had learned that morning and then talked about what an MP does. I felt they got something out of it; it can be beneficial for pupils of all ages to visit Parliament, get a feel for what goes on day to day in Westminster and start engaging with democracy early on."

For the full article: Why everyone should visit the heart of our political system

Kwasi visits Staines Town Football Club ahead of the new season

Kwasi paid a visit to Staines Town Football Club to meet the Chairman and other staff. They chatted about the Club's preparations for the new season, discussed how football can be better supported locally and talked about Staines' engagement with the community.

Kwasi said:

"A lot of work goes on behind the scenes and it was exciting to hear more about the Club's new apprenticeship scheme, which will employ sixteen to eighteen year olds in the day-to-day running of the club and help them acquire nationally recognised qualifications at College. They could then pursue a career in the sport and leisure industry."

"By employing young people, the Club is helping them develop practical skills, and is benefiting from their help and enthusiasm in return. That is good news locally, and is exactly the kind of initiative any government should encourage."

Visiting the Bank Manager

Kwasi recently paid a visit to Barclays Bank on Staines High Street, where he met and chatted to staff working at the cash desk, and others handling loans and mortgages for a wide range of customers, and during a longer meeting, talked to the Branch Manager and Head of Corporate Affairs for London and the South about the status of their business and banking locally.

Kwasi said: "Keeping in contact with banks and bank managers in your constituency is one way to keep tabs on the shape of the local economy because they have relations with lots of residents and local businesses."

"The staff at Barclays in Staines were very friendly and professional, and I learned a lot; it was particularly encouraging to hear about new local businesses starting up in recent months, since we have, as everybody knows, been through a recession and are still experiencing economic slowdown."

Send my Sister campaign

Kwasi met students at Bishop Wand School in Sunbury-on-Thmes to hear about their involvement in the Send my Sister Campaign (an initiative to help secure primary school education for girls in the developing world), and talk to them about the Government's commitment to foreign aid.

Kwasi later reflected: "I was hugely inspired by my visit to Bishop Wand. The students involved in the Campaign have shown great dedication and compassion for those less fortunate, and at the same time, are broadening their own learning, which is really important."

Clockhouse Lane

Last Friday, Kwasi visited Clockhouse Lane in Ashford, where local residents are concerned about the danger and vibration caused by HGVs travelling down this narrow road.

In an article for the Staines and Ashford News, Kwasi commented:

As an MP, whilst you are focused on your own constituency, you often have to engage beyond that, with colleagues, councillors and civil servants in neighbouring places. That can be a challenge and inevitably, issues and problems arise from time to time.

One area of tension has been the connecting road: Clockhouse Lane in Ashford, which straddles both the London Borough of Hounslow and Spelthorne.

Within Spelthorne the road is residential, but on Hounslow's side there are no residential properties, and instead, alongside Princes' Water Ski Club, a number of industrial units.

For many years, residents have complained about the danger, noise and trembling caused by HGV's racing along the road. More than a decade ago, a 7.5 tonne weight restriction was imposed on its northbound length, within Spelthorne. But this hasn't solved the problem because ever since, Hounslow has refused to agree to a southbound restriction, arguing that this would damage business and negatively impact on their road network - they have their interests too.

As it stands, the stalemate persists, and whilst I support residents, alongside local councillors, we have little sway in Hounslow, so it won't be easy to find a solution. But, that's the nature of politics. And, in no way should we give up; there's always room for fresh ideas and negotiation.

Conversation between opposing groups is usually a good place to start, so I've been corresponding with Hounslow and am looking forward to arranging some face-to-face discussions.

Whilst, locally I've been meeting with residents, and plan to encourage collaboration between them, our Borough and County Council, because this will be essential in moving forward and finding a solution.

Visiting Heathrow Airport

Together with other members of the House of Commons' Transport Select Committee, Kwasi visited Heathrow Airport. He met representatives from BAA and over the course of a good three hours, talked to staff, encountered some of the inner workings of the Airport and went to the top of the control tower to observe a remarkable panorama of Spelthorne, Windsor and most of the western side of London.

Kwasi later said: "The visit was very interesting and useful: we came across the sometimes tight and stressful conditions that staff confront, discussed the progress of Terminal 2's rebuild and learned more about some of the immediate challenges that a modern airport like Heathrow faces, with security, logistics and climate change.

St Nicholas C of E Primary School

Last week, Kwasi visited St Nicholas Primary School in Shepperton. He met Sue Vanstone, the Headmistress, enjoyed a tour of the School's classrooms and facilities, led impressively by pupils themselves, and attended assembly, where he talked about his job in Parliament, listened to the school band deliver an excellent rendition of Michael Jackson's Billy Jean and joined in the congratulations when pupils were praised for their recent achievements.

Kwasi later commented:

"It was a privilege to visit St Nicholas' the other day; the School seemed an exceptionally happy place, in the classroom and in the playground, and it was particularly refreshing to see pupils' success in sport, academia and music, being celebrated and rewarded."

The Royal Wedding in Spelthorne!

After watching the Royal Wedding with some friends, Kwasi attended street parties in Spelthorne, including this one in Rosefield Road in Staines. "I had a fantastic time," said Kwasi. "The residents of Rosefield Road had permission to block off the road, and they put up lots of bunting, held children's games, and served guests a range of food and drink. My personal favourite were the fairy cakes with Union Jack flags!" Street parties were held across all of Spelthorne, in honour of the marriage of Prince William and Catherine Middleton, now Duchess of Cambridge.

Kwasi watches pantomime at Echelford

Kwasi spent an enjoyable evening at Echelford Primary School in Ashford, where he watched year 5 and 6 pupils put on a fantastic pantomime: Cinderella Rockerfella.

He was very impressed by the high standard of the performance and later commented:

"As I said to members of the audience, the show provided a refreshing contrast to the staid debate I had just come from in the House of Commons. Indeed, this points to the diversity of an MP's job. As an MP, one moment you have to consider your position on international affairs and how Britain should act on the global stage. Then, the next minute, you might be going to a primary school or a local event in your constituency, which feels removed from this. In many ways, this contrast illustrates the strength of our parliamentary system - the constituency link grounds MPs in the lives of real people outside Westminster."

No 2 AV Debate

In the run up to the AV Referendum on May 5, Kwasi has travelled around the country as one of Downing Street's appointed champions for the No to AV campaign. Last week, he took part in a debate on the issue at St Peter's Church, Staines, against Serge Laurie, the former leader of Richmond Borough Council, who spoke in favour of AV.

The debate was well attended, moderated by Fr Rod Cosh and included some excellent contributions from the floor. In a straw poll at the end of the evening, 43 people voted against a change to AV and 15 in favor: a solid victory for Kwasi and the No campaign.

Kwasi later said: "The upcoming referendum on AV proposes a change to our voting system. I think this would be a big mistake because our current First Past the Post system is the best way of returning MPs to represent individual constituencies - it is tried and tested. Whilst, in theory, AV would maintain some form of constituency link, it is much more complicated and is, to many of its supporters, a way of getting proportional representation in through the back door."

Spelthorne Conservative Association AGM

Kwasi attended the Spelthorne Conservative Association AGM at the Loyola Centre in Sunbury on Thames. The event went well, and was attended by more than one hundred members and prospective Conservative Councillors. During the evening, County Councillor Denise Turner-Stewart was elected to the position of Association Chairman, and the Association's borough election campaign was officially launched.

Kwasi said:

"For May's local elections, the Spelthorne Conservative party are represented by a group of prospective councillors with great quality, strength and depth. As we look to the future, Spelthorne is in a strong position, and I am confident they will do a very good job locally if elected."

At the end evening, Kwasi delivered a speech, in which he talked about his first year as MP for Spelthorne, and discussed the decisions taken by the Conservative and Liberal Democrat Coalition.

Kwasi said:

"Since last May, I have met hundreds more residents: visiting local places, holding meetings and weekly advice surgeries. I have felt welcomed by the local community, and would like to express my thanks."

"Politics has moved fast since the General Election. The Coalition has taken steps to tackle the national economic deficit, which is vital, and is facing up to extraordinary events in Libya. The year ahead will throw up new challenges; with questions over our monetary responsibility to struggling EU states like Portugal likely to stir heated debate soon. Indeed, I am very sceptical about using taxpayers' money to bail out countries with whom our economic ties are limited, as they are with Portugal."

Kwasi Visits Manor Mead School

Kwasi visited Manor Mead School, a special needs primary school in Shepperton. He met the Headmistress, Fiona Neal, to discuss government plans in relation to education, and then toured the school and met teachers, support staff and pupils.

Later, Kwasi reflected: "I really enjoyed visiting Manor Mead School last Friday. The dedication and care afforded by the School's staff was inspiring, and I was impressed by the relaxing atmosphere and use of technology to stimulate pupils' senses. It was clear that all this is having a very positive impact on the pupils' learning and comfort." 

Dancing on Ice

Kwasi went to Shepperton Studios - very much a jewel in Spelthorne's crown – to watch ITV's Dancing on Ice being filmed live. During the evening, alongside an audience of local residents and people who had travelled from all over the South East and further afield, he watched celebrities compete against one another in a series of dazzling routines.

Kwasi later commented: "It's hard to believe that all the contestants started out with minimal skating experience just a few weeks ago. It really shows how, with a specific goal in mind, people can rise to great challenges."

Kwasi talked about Shepperton Studios in his article for the Herald and News: Shepperton's enterprise should help film industry to thrive

Kwasi visits Bronzefield

Kwasi visited HMP Bronzefield, Ashford - a women's prison run by Sodexo Justice Services. To learn more about the Prison, it's association with Spelthorne and to discuss government policy, he met the Director, Helga Swindenbank, and Sodexo's Head of Government Strategy and Relations, Kate Steadman. Kwasi then toured the Prison's cell blocks, mother and baby unit and gymnasium, and at the same time, spoke to some inmates.

After the visit, Kwasi commented: "I felt that I learned a great deal during my visit to HMP Bronzefield. I was very impressed by how the Prison functioned, and by the professionalism and energy of the staff there."

Kwasi hosts discussion on the future of aviation

On Tuesday February 15, Kwasi hosted an aviation forum at Westminster with representatives from British Airways, Virgin, and nine parliamentary colleagues.

The meeting went well, and included extensive discussion about if and how the aviation industry needs more capacity, the role of new technologies in reducing CO2 emissions and the importance of Heathrow to the wider economy.

The participants agreed that the industry, as a whole, has not done enough to communicate the benefits that aviation brings to Britain.

Kwasi commented, "I remain committed to ensuring that the UK is competitive in this field as I appreciate how dependent the local economy is on good transport links, and aviation in particular. We need to ensure that our industry doesn't lose out, sending flights via Paris, or even Amsterdam, ahead of London. That's bad for the environment, and bad for our economy."

Kwasi has discussed this event in his blog at Conservative Home.

Kwasi trains with Sunbury Air Cadets

Last week, Kwasi spent a Thursday evening with Sunbury ATC, commonly known as the Sunbury Air Cadets, at their barracks on Croysdale Avenue. He was met by Paul Humphreys, the Squadron's Media & Communications Officer, and introduced to the Squadron's staff and cadets, who number more than a hundred.

He watched the Cadets take part in an array of activities, including shooting, first aid training, drill exercises and band practice, and enjoyed an experience in a flight simulator.

He later commented: "I was very impressed by the enthusiasm and hard work on display; it shows that a high standard has been maintained since the Squadron won the Greater London Cadet Forces Elworthy Trophy in 2004, and belies the adverse remarks sometimes made about today's young people."

Kwasi Talks with Special Constables

On February 11, Kwasi joined two Special Constables, Chris Wills and David Llewellyn, from Surrey Police's Neighbourhood Team, on patrol in Spelthorne. This coincided with "National Specials Weekend" .  Kwasi said: "On Friday night, I was pleased to support the work of our Special Constables by going on patrol in Spelthorne. I gained a fascinating insight into their good work, and over the course of three hours, on foot and in a patrol car, we covered most of the Borough."

Kwasi visits Laleham Primary School

Kwasi is currently visiting Spelthorne's primary schools. Most recently, he spent some time with the students at Laleham Primary School.

During the visit, Kwasi met the Headmistress, Miss Shirley Lunn, and the Student Council, who questioned him about his life as a Member of Parliament. He toured the school's classrooms, and joined a class of Year One pupils, who were dressed up as their favourite fairytale characters and talking about their most loved fairytales. He joined in the fun and learning, and read aloud a short story.

Afterwards, Kwasi exclaimed: "It's great to be able to spend time at Laleham School. I enjoyed meeting Miss Lunn and the School Council, and seeing all the children dressed as fairytale characters...The children were inquisitive, enthusiastic, and bubbling with energy, which was great to see."

Kwasi Awards Man of the Match

On Saturday, 29 January, Kwasi watched Staines Town FC vs Chelmsford City.

Kwasi enjoyed the match very much, and in an article in the Hearald and News he said, "I have always enjoyed keeping up with and watching sport live, the opportunity to watch Ashford Town (Middlesex) FC play Aylesbury FC two weeks ago, and Staines Town FC take on Chelmsford City FC last Saturday, was a treat. I thoroughly enjoyed attending both home games, and was welcomed by supporters and management of both football clubs. I was able to have a good chat, at the same time as drinking a few cups of tea to keep warm!

In their match, Ashford scored an early goal, but unfortunately conceded two goals before half time. Despite the team's best efforts, 1-2 remained the final score.

In the second game I saw, Staines staged an excellent comeback to overturn a one goal Chelmsford lead, and win 2-1. The result was duly celebrated on the pitch, where I had the privilege to present Marc Charles-Smith, scorer of Staines's equalizer, with the man of the match award."

Respect Signs Kwasi Kwarteng

Newly-elected MP for Spelthorne, Kwasi Kwarteng, has become the latest high-profile signing for Respect FC, joining the club in a joint deal with Ashford Town (Middlesex).

Mr Kwarteng dropped in on the Ash Trees – the only FA Charter Standard Community Club in the borough – for their recent Zamaretto League match with Aylesbury.

The Conservative Member of Parliament was enthusiastic in his support for both Ashford Town's tireless work in the local community, and for Re-spect FC's mission to eliminate anti-social behaviour from football.

Ashford Town (Middlesex) run a total of nineteen teams from Under 7 right up to the adult First XI and are truly at the heart of their area. The club is known for its nurturing of young people and last week reached the Final of the Middlesex Senior Youth Cup, defeating local rivals Staines Town 3-2.
The club are also firmly behind Respect FC. Manager Jamie Lawrence, who played over 200 Premier and Football League matches, said that he was happy to support any initiative that encouraged meaningful dialogue between match officials and managers.

Middlesex FA spokesman Gareth Coates welcomed the support shown to Respect FC, saying "this is not just about raising awareness; it's much more than that. Everyone who is involved in the game in some way is aware of poor behaviour and knows that – be it towards referees, players or fellow fans – it is wrong. The challenge now is to unite, change people's attitudes and make them realise that verbal and physical abuse are not acceptable in the game."

The Big Society in Spelthorne

On Friday 14 January, Kwasi attended a community engagement event, held at Spelthorne Borough Council's offices in Knowle Green, Staines.

The event was organized by Voluntary Action in Spelthorne, which is an umbrella body for local voluntary groups and organisations. On the day, more than 70 people came along, who represented more than 20 of these groups!

In a speech, Kwasi talked about the "Big Society" as a concept. Then, in a lively and enjoyable question and answer session, chatted about how the Big Society can be supported locally.

After this event and having been kindly invited, Kwasi visited Berryscroft Court, Staines, where he enjoyed chatting with residents.

Kwasi later commented, "Getting together with local residents on an informal basis is always a pleasure."

Kwasi's speech at the Voluntary Action in Spelthorne event was covered by the Staines News. (Picture credit: The Staines and Ashford News).

The Holiday Season in Spelthorne

Kwasi recently visited Staines Moor to meet conservationists from Natural England, the Government's advisor on the natural environment. He was impressed by the site's beauty. Dissected by rivers and ponds, it is home to all sorts of wildlife, rare birds and horses that roam free. Afterwards Kwasi noted: 'Staines Moor is just one of the natural gems dotted over the local area. These sites support nature, affect our well being and quality of life, and must be carefully managed.'

Kwasi also attended a Christmas tree festival and bazaar at Ashford's St Matthew's Church, on Saturday 4 December. Rev. Ralph Horton and the tree festival organiser Alice Bennett accompanied Kwasi on a tour of the Church, where Christmas trees decorated by local schools, volunteer groups, and businesses were displayed. Kwasi then attended the bazaar in the adjacent church hall. This was very well supported, and Kwasi mingled with residents, enjoyed some mulled wine and home-made mince pies.

Kwasi about in Spelthorne

On Sunday, November 14, Kwasi attended the annual Staines Remembrance service, and laid a wreath at the War Memorial. Says Kwasi, "This service always moves me -- although this tradition started with the First World War, over the generations millions of citizens have made the ultimate sacrifice, or been seriously injured, defending this country and our freedoms. It is even more important to acknowledge this today, with our ongoing operations in the Middle East."

He is also working hard to address key constituency issues in Spelthorne. For example, on Friday November 12 he met with both the Chairman and Chief Exec of Ashford and St Peter’s Hospital Trust, and with A2 Dominion to discuss the Stanwell New Start project.

And on 10^th November Kwasi met with sixth formers from St James Senior Boys School, based in Ashford, at the House of Commons. The school have written up the visit on their website here.

He also enjoyed a fun night out with the local Conservative Associations at their annual ball, on Saturday November 13, at the Runnymede-on-Thames hotel in Egham. This event was run jointly by the Spelthorne Conservative Association and the Runnymede & Weybridge Conservative Association. Says Kwasi, "It was huge fun. Everyone really got into the spirit of the occasion, and quite a lot of money was raised to help us fight the upcoming local elections in 2011."

If you are interested in volunteering for the Conservatives at the local elections -- campaigning starts very soon -- please contact sarah.fitch@parliament.uk.

Kwasi visits Matthew Arnold School

On Friday 8th October, Spelthorne MP Kwasi Kwarteng was delighted to have the opportunity to meet with Matthew Arnold students to discuss topical issues.

Mrs Pearson, Headteacher, conducted a tour of the school for Kwasi who said he was particularly impressed with the school's fantastic new café, 3G facilities and fitness suite. He noted the large numbers of computers in the school and reminisced on the differences since he was at school.

After the tour, Kwasi enjoyed an informative presentation on Applied Learning by Head Boy Sam Ollason, Head Girl Sarah Prothero, Yr 11 and Jay Simpson and Ella Smith, Yr 9.

Two School Council representatives, Jodie King and Jessica Ketchen took the opportunity to ask Kwasi why he got into politics and what he is planning to do for Spelthorne.

Kwasi spent some time talking about his Mathematical background working as a Company Analyst in London and how his passion for helping and listening to others, made him determined to get into politics. He was impressed at the variety of work experience placements The Matthew Arnold School offer for our Year 10 and 11 students.

Said Kwasi, "I was extremely impressed with the atmosphere, friendliness, and professionalism that I saw at The Matthew Arnold School. I can see why the school has won coveted awards for improving standards in recent years, and I think that the Head, Mrs Pearson, is doing a fantastic job."

(Pictured are Back Row: L-R Ella Smith, Sarah Prothero, Sam Ollason, Jodie King
Front Row: L-R Jay Simpson, Kwasi Kwarteng, Jessica Ketchen)

Kwasi elected to the Transport Select Committee

Kwasi Kwarteng was elected to the Transport Select Committee for the Conservative Party.

"I am delighted to have been elected to this committee. The nature of economic growth in the South East, the future of Heathrow, the possible development of Airtrack, and the Crossrail project, are all relevant to the Surrey and the Home Counties in general, and to Spelthorne in particular"

"I look forward to playing a role in the development and scrutiny of policies relating to all these projects, among others, which will significantly affect our quality of life in the years ahead".

Some coverage of the selections that have been made for the various committees were reported recently on the Financial Time's Westminster blog.

Kwasi's Maiden Speech

It is a great honour to be called to deliver my maiden speech. First of all, I want to give a hearty thanks to David Wilshire who, amidst difficulties and press distortions, managed to keep up his work as a fine constituency MP. Very often, people would open the door to me and say, "Ah, so you're the new David Wilshire," and I would reply, "Well, sort of, but I want to continue his traditions of service and commitment to the constituency."

People always ask me, "Where is Spelthorne?" A friend of mine said he did not realise it was a constituency; instead he thought someone called David Spelthorne was the MP for Wilshire. It is, however, a well-known constituency, and Spelthorne is a very old name, too. It comes from an old English word of which we have a remnant in the word "spelling". It means speaking, and the "thorne" part of the word "Spelthorne'" referred to a thorn tree on Ashford common where people used to gather and speak. That is where the name comes from, and it also appears in the Domesday Book as the southern hundred of the old county of Middlesex.

Middlesex had a long and illustrious history, which my predecessor was very keen to stress-much to the annoyance of my Surrey colleagues. Middlesex did have an existence, however, and it had a reputation in this House, because in the old days it had proper elections. Charles James Fox was elected, and thousands of people were involved, whereas in nearby rotten boroughs there might be only half a dozen people. Famously, John Wilkes was elected in Middlesex, and was a distinguished Member of this House. He was described as the "ugliest man in England" but, like many politicians, he was not afraid of boasting and celebrating his own talents and he said that he had such charm that he could "talk away his face" in "half an hour". Hon. Members can imagine my surprise at the fact that we were given only seven minutes to speak in the House today.

In the limited time available to me, I wish to make some points about the subject of today's debate. Spelthorne is a seat in the south-east that relies almost exclusively on infrastructure and economic expansion, and in that context self-starting business men are very important. A gentleman from Shepperton, in my constituency, who has been in the breakage business for 30 years said to me, "Kwasi, it is very difficult. I am getting strangled by red tape and bureaucracy." A Government quango, whose name I shall not mention, had been bombarding him with forms that he had to fill in, so he had been spending all his time filling in forms and none of his time attending to the business. My thought was that it was precisely those small business people who will drive us out of recession and into recovery.

I have to say-even though this is a maiden speech, I will be controversial-that to hear Labour Members in many of these debates is to be in never-never land; they have not once accepted any blame for what happened and they seem to think that we can just sail on as before. In many of their eloquent speeches it appears that they have forgotten that wealth creation is the most important element in getting us out of this recession. I heard the right hon. Member for Oldham West and Royton (Mr Meacher), who I believe has been in the House for 40 years, say that he was going to tax those in The Sunday Times rich list. Of course, one of the results of their being rich is that they can leave the country in about half an hour, so if he were to go down that route, a lot of them would leave and he would not bring in any more money to the Exchequer.

One of the right hon. Gentleman's remarks reminded me of the story of the man who, when leaving a gentlemen's club-it might have been the Carlton Club-in 1970 gave the footman sixpence. The footman looked at him and said, "That is only sixpence", to which he replied, "Ah, it is sixpence to you, but it is a pound to me." That was because income tax was at 95 or 97%. We cannot go down the road that the right hon. Gentleman suggests, and the Conservatives have stressed again and again that the only way to get out of this difficulty is to try to let business grow.

I was surprised to hear the hon. Member for Edinburgh South (Ian Murray) refer to the Scottish enlightenment. He will recall that one of its most prominent figures was Adam Smith, rather than the previous Prime Minister, who did not take an enlightened Scottish approach. Adam Smith made it very clear in "The Wealth of Nations", a book that many hon. Members will know, how societies grow rich and how they can become very poor. I am sorry to say that the past 13 years have been an exercise that Adam Smith and the university of Edinburgh would probably have awarded a flat D grade for performance-perhaps he would have awarded a B grade for effort, who knows?

I am pleased at this juncture to refer to the compelling speech made by the hon. Member for Newcastle upon Tyne Central (Chi Onwurah), in which she mentioned George Stephenson. There was some controversy as to whether he came from Newcastle upon Tyne Central or from Chesterfield, but I shall not comment on that as that is a matter for Labour Members. What she did say was that he made a fortune through industry, enterprise and innovation, and those are exactly the kind of things that this coalition Government will look to promote in the months and years ahead.

To sum up, I should say that the truest words said in this debate were uttered by someone making a maiden speech, my hon. Friend the Member for Loughborough (Nicky Morgan), who said that the private sector is the "backbone of our economy". In my few weeks in the House, I have not heard any truer words uttered in it. That is something that we have to be absolutely focused on, in terms of getting out of the recession. I hate to say this, but I find it staggering that Labour Members have not had the good grace to come to the House to apologise and to show some recognition of the very real problems that we face and the solutions that we need to get out of this situation. I thank the House for giving me such a good and warm reception to my maiden speech.

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