This week several constituents have visited Parliament

THIS week has seen a number of Stroud constituents in London for business connected to Parliament.

The big event was the apprenticeship lunch, hosted by the Institute of Mechanical Engineering and inspired by the work of Festomane which was all about apprenticeships.

Local firms, including ABB and Sartorius – both with large production facilities in Stonehouse – were joined by Rolls Royce and the Society of Motor Manufactures and Traders to develop an action plan to take apprenticeships to a new level, especially but not, of course, exclusively in engineering.

Next was a meeting with John Hayes, minister of state for transport, to discuss noise levels from the motorway surface adjacent to Upton St Leonards. A highly successful meeting in terms of outcomes included Cllr Keith Pearson and other interested parties from Gloucestershire.

Animal welfare was also on the agenda as the RSPCA was celebrating good practice in caring for animals, particularly dogs where Stroud District Council was a recipient of awards. This is an annual event and this year was not the first time for Stroud to be recognised.

Stroud High School was also represented in Parliament by several pupils. An all-day seminar on equality for women was taking place with the school being well-represented by several pupils.

Becoming familiar with our system of government, understanding the key issues of our time, and campaigning for ideas and reform are all part of a rich and rewarding education.

Two other organisations connected to Stroud were also in Parliament this week. St. Mungo’s – a charity supporting homeless people and very active in the Valleys and Vale – held a reception to highlight the causes of homelessness.

Appreciation of the support the charity receives locally was expressed.

Another fabulous cause, the Great Western Air Ambulance was prominent at an event to celebrate the work of Air Ambulance teams. As residents will know, the helicopter has been active many times over the Valleys and Vale, making a positive and swift difference in emergency situations. Our thanks go out to the crews and supporters of this valuable service.