Elizabeth's column in the Kenninghall News - August 2010

With a new Government in place, it has been a very busy time in Parliament - partly as there are only three legislating weeks left until the recess, with lots of business to get through.  Following the Finance Bill - which confirmed the budget measures, we are now discussing the Academies Bill - which will open up the possibilities for new schools to be established.  Last week we had a late night vote at 2.30am and although that was threatened this week in the end the session finished at 11, much to my relief.

Much of my time continues to be taken up with pressing for action on the A11.  This is currently being considered by the Government and as well as having a press interview on site with fellow MP Matthew Hancock and local business people last week, I raised this with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury as part of the "Norfolk Nine" delegation of MPs.  We are also launching Norfolk's bid to be one of the three pilot areas for high speed broadband next week.

Defence and farming are both high on the agenda.  I visited RAF Marham to see the Tornado operations and the Army Training at STANTA.  I also hosted a meeting with local farmers to get views on Government policy.

I am holding a meeting for local businesses on 17th September at 10am in Thetford.  There will also be surgeries on 30th July (Downham Market) 5-7pm and 10th September (Swaffham) 5-7pm.  Please contact Fiona Walker on fiona.walker@parliament.uk or 01842 757345 for more details.

I have been enjoying the generally great weather and outdoor events. The Norfolk Show had particularly fine sunshine. I was also delighted to be able to give a reading at St Mary's Church, Sporle to celebrate Armed Forces Day.

We have now established the constituency office in Thetford.  Please contact me at The Limes, 32 Bridge Street, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 3AG, on phone number 01842 757345 or e-mail me at elizabeth.truss.mp@parliament.uk.

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