Please all read what is below and ask your MP to attend the debate on Nov 8^th

John Dodwell

As you know a number of MPS put their names down to hold an adjournment debate (getting an adjournment debate is a lottery so the more names down the greater the chance of being drawn). Sir Peter Soulsby has been successful.

There is an adjournment debate on waterways funding in Westminster Hall from 2.30pm to 4pm on Wednesday 8th November. Please write to and or e-mail your MP asking her or him to attend.

In an adjournment debate, the Minister responsible  (Barry Gardiner in this case) has to respond to the points put by the person calling the debate. They used to take place after the business for the day had been adjourned hence he name. Now that happens AND there are day time ones in Westminster Hall. The parliamentary website does a better job of explaining! It's another and very powerful lobbying tool - the Minister has to answer questions in public from his colleagues and the civil servants have to research those answers

Whilst writing remind your MP to sign EDM 2757 if s/he hasn't already done so. Also ask them to sign EDM 2829, an EDM on Environment Agency cuts. If they haven't signed, ask them why - some don't because they're Ministers or PPSs some think it's better to write directly to the Minister & will do that. It's a well to check that they have a good reason & I have warned our members that they are being closely monitored by waterways activists!

Best wishes

Penny Barber (Ms)
Administrator
Parliamentary Waterways Group
c/o 67 Chawn Park Drive
Stourbridge
DY9 0UQ

Tel: 07976 591727