James Wharton MP

We have had a huge response to a survey on MPs expenses that we sent out last week.  I am working through all of the replies and will be contacting residents who have sent a completed survey in, but given the unexpectedly high volume this might take a little longer than originally anticipated.

A great afternoon out campaigning in Yarm.  It was good to get such a warm welcome from residents, even those who told us they had not previously voted Conservative but now “it’s time for a change”.  A large number also commented on our regular intouch newsletters, which everyone in Stoctkton South receives with information about their local area and what is going on politically in the Borough.  It always feels good to get a positive response.

Apologies to those who have emailed me and not had an immediate response this week.  I had a minor eye operation on Monday which meant I could not use the computer until this morning.  My vision is nearly as it should be now so I should be back to normal by Monday.  I am now working on that backlog of emails!

Last night Stockton Conservatives hosted the Annual General Meeting of Cleveland & Durham Area, the next level up in Party organisation.  I was pleased that the Chairman, Ian Galletley and his fellow officers were re elected and it was a great opportunity to discuss a range of issues, both local and national.  There was near unanimous opposition to moves by Stockton Council to count the General Election votes on Friday morning as opposed to Thursday night, only up to 25% of Councils are considering such a move and it would be a shame if Stockton is unable to get its act together and decides to be part of that bottom 25%, rather than striving to ensure a quick and accurate count on election night itself.

I attended a meeting with the Head of Adult and Children’s services at Stockton Council.  We discussed a range of issues from BSF and schools to Youth Cafes and healthcare provision.  I passed on the comments and concerns of Eaglescliffe residents who have contacted me about the proposals to move Egglescliffe School to Preston Park and Ingleby Barwick residents who are concerned about the site which has been chosen for a new Youth Cafe.