Posts Tagged ‘Bedford & Kempston’
Richard welcomes announcement on Disability Living Allowance
Posted by admin | Filed under Bedford & Kempston, Family, Health, Housing
Richard has welcomed today’s announcement that disabled people living in residential care will continue to receive the mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and its proposed successor, the Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
The government had proposed to remove the mobility component of DLA from October 2012. Richard, who has campaigned on this issue for over a year, said he was delighted that since he first raised the issue in Parliament in November 2010, the Minister has taken the time to listen and consult to reach this decision, which allows disabled people in residential homes to maintain their independence.
As part of the listening exercise carried out by Maria Miller MP, Minister for Disabled People, Richard arranged for her to meet with a Bedford constituent, who had the chance to discuss the impact the removal of the mobility component would have on her son.
The Government’s decision sends a signal that it will continue to protect our most vulnerable members of society, despite the difficult economic challenges we face. Richard thanked the Bedford residents that had contacted him, as well as the Minister for meeting with him on several occasions and listening to the strong arguments put forward by his constituents.
Olympic Torch coming to Bedford!
Posted by Richard | Filed under Bedford & Kempston, Media & Sport
The announcement of the Olympic Torch’s route to London 2012 has now been made, and I am delighted to hear that the torch relay will be coming through Bedford.
I am pleased that LOCOG has recognised the diversity and sporting importance of our town, and that the residents of Bedford and Kempston will be able to share in this great festival.
So, make a note in your diaries that Sunday 8th July will be the day the Olympics comes to Bedford!
LOCOG are now looking for ‘local leaders’ to get friends, family and neighbours together to celebrate the torch relay and to organise local events. Please visit London 2012 Local Leaders to sign up
Cameron Direct in Bedford
Posted by Richard | Filed under Bedford & Kempston, Democracy
David Cameron will be in Bedford on Tuesday 8 September to answer questions from local residents as he prepares his plans for forming the next Government.
It’s a completely public event for anyone local wanting to attend, whatever their political beliefs. The meeting is taking place at the Harpur Suite in the centre of town from 6:30pm in the evening.
Places will be limited, so if you would like to attend, send an email to camerondirect@bedfordconservatives.com or call 07858 642346 to register.
Tribute to Frank Branston, Mayor of Bedford
Posted by Richard | Filed under Bedford & Kempston
Bedford has lost its leader and, in many respects, its visionary spirit. Frank Branston wanted the best for Bedford and he went about achieving his goals with vigour and purpose.
Over the years – and despite our political differences – Frank always had a willingness to hear a different point of view. I valued his directness and his entrepreneurial flair – both of which I shall sorely miss.
I met with Frank last three weeks ago, and his focus was very much on how, despite the recession, he could keep our community moving forward. At times like these, we badly needed his sense of purpose.
To Frank’s family and to his many friends across our town and beyond, my sincere condolences on his passing, and on this sad day, may our thoughts and prayers be with them.
