Its a busy week in Parliament on local issues. We have the rail operator, GTR, coming in to explain the latest causes of severe delays and cancellations. MPs want to know more of the background to the current industrial action that is having an appalling impact on commuters’ lives. More importantly we want to know how it can be resolved. Nor however will we lose sight of the ongoing underlying performance issues. Even prior to the industrial action GTR’s improvement plan was not working – we need to know how that too can be put back on track.
The ongoing dreadful state of the railways throws into sharp relief Gatwick’s announcement this week of how they believe they can deliver an extra runway. The chaos on the railways and gridlock on the road network from double the number of passengers and employees can just be imagined.
Also appearing before Sussex MPs this week are the management of Coperforma. They are responsible for the transportation of patients to non-emergency hospital appointments. The service levels since the start of the contract has been woeful. They have apologised and are undertaking additional staff training and recruitment as well as sourcing more vehicles. I have received fewer complaints in the last two weeks – but please do let me know if you suffer delays so I can take it up with Coperforma and help them fix the problems.
On a happier note this week is the South of England show at Ardingly. I greatly enjoy the show and it is great opportunity, among all the attractions, to see our fabulous Sussex farming and food sector highlighted.
This weekend is however particularly special: it is the Queens Official 90th birthday. An extraordinary record of service and commitment. The Queen is the last Head of State to wear uniform in the Second World War and the country has changed immeasurably during her reign. Britain’s role is very different to that of 1952 but our people are wealthier, better educated and live longer than ever before. The Queen has been a focus of stability and service throughout. I am looking forward to celebratory parties in Crawley Down, Horsham, Slinford and Warnham and a service of Thanksgiving at Chichester Cathedral.