With the elections over for the Police and Crime Commissioners, I first of all want to congratulate the winner, Martin Surl. While I was supporting another candidate, Vicky Atkins, and hoped her considerable experience in law would be recognised, our first Commissioner also brings valuable experience to the position and I look forward to working with him.

The legislation to create the Police and Crime Commissioners was some of the first I participated in after becoming a Member of Parliament. I am still convinced of the enormous potential of the new post because genuine accountability, transparency in decision making and public participation should all be features of modern public services with the police force being no exception.

As the role of the Commissioner evolves and the public perception begins to benefit from being able to see them in action, I am confident of a greater interest in the elections in a few years time. Nevertheless, November is not a natural month to hold elections and I do think households should have had more information about the role and the candidates seeking to fill it.

Turning to a completely different matter, I attended a Clinton Foundation event in London where former President Bill Clinton was the guest of honour. His theme was international aid - a key thrust of his Foundation - and the value of entrepreneurial activity in supporting initiatives across the globe. His ability to project passion, commitment and understanding remains impressive.

President Clinton made a point of recognising and, indeed, thanking the British Government for remaining committed to international development.  A further theme was the need for effective management of resources and sustainability.

English actor Damian Lewis who plays leading character Nicholas Brody in the exceptionally exciting series, 'Homeland', was also at the event but I resisted the temptation to find out what happens next! If you are interested in the issues raised above, please contact me on 01453 751572 or visit my website - www.neilcarmichael.co.uk. Now, you can also follow me on twitter @neil_mp.

Neil Carmichael