The General Election has been called and I am setting out my pledges for Stafford constituency. Should I have the honour of being elected Stafford's MP, this would be the work which I would concentrate on.

TACKLE LOCAL UNEMPLOYMENT, SUPPORT BUSINESS AND SOCIAL ENTERPRISE.
I will work to help bring jobs, businesses and social enterprises to Stafford constituency and to improve availability of finance for them. I will encourage as many employers as possible to offer apprenticeships.

SUPPORT THOSE WORKING TO RESTORE PUBLIC CONFIDENCE IN STAFFORD HOSPITAL.
I will support management and staff as they work on improving the hospital. I will keep a close eye on the hospital finances and lobby government to ensure it receives proper funding. A Conservative government will hold a full independent public inquiry to learn the lessons of our hospital’s problems for the whole NHS.

FAIRER FUNDING FOR STAFFORDSHIRE’S SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES
I will continue to fight for fairer funding for Staffordshire’s schools and colleges. Our schools currently receive more than £300 below the average for England. I will encourage the highest standards in education for our young people.

SUPPORT OUR ARMED FORCES AND THE DEVELOPMENT AT MoD STAFFORD
I will support our armed forces and veterans and work to ensure that the move of 1st Signals Brigade to Stafford happens as soon as possible.

IMPROVE SUPPORT FOR CARERS
The unsung work of carers is vital. So I will work with the County Council and local health services to improve support for carers, especially more respite places.

TACKLE STAFFORD’S CONGESTION AND IMPROVE PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Traffic congestion threatens future investment and quality of life. I will work with the County Council, Borough Council and transport bodies to tackle congestion blackspots. I will also work on improving public transport links in Stafford, Penkridge and rural areas.