James Wharton MP

I spoke to a group of 6th formers from Yarm School about politics. There were a number of good questions and I thoroughly enjoyed being back at the School. The politics students seem to be going from strength to strength and they treated me to a school lunch afterwards!

Last night I met with members of the Party from across Stockton South to discuss different local issues that have been raised in the area.  There is an awful lot going on and, especially as we head into an election year, it is clear that there will be busy times ahead.

Today’s Gazette is covering yesterdays visit by Caroline Spelman.

http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/2009/11/17/visiting-tory-caroline-spelman-vows-to-give-more-powers-to-councils-84229-25181967/

This afternoon I met Caroline Spelman MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, to discuss how a Conservative government would do things differently.  There was a great deal of emphasis on devolving powers to local authorities and improving accountability, with specific discussion around planning and regional development activities.  All in all a good meeting and a great opportunity to promote the work being done locally by Councillors and Councils in this area.

Last night I spent some time in the office getting to grips with our new computer system!  The new software is extremely impressive, but as is often the case when new software is introduced I rather miss the old version, which I had taught myself to use over many years.  Still, I have no doubt that the upgrade will show its worth over the coming months as we head towards a General Election in 2010.