That this House has considered local government funding.
It is an honour to serve with you as Chair, Mrs Main.
I start with the wide-ranging responsibilities of our local government. In much of the work that I do in Westminster and in my constituency of Colne …..." Thelma Walker - View Speech
"I do agree. I hear the same thing from Unison members—that they have worked so hard and are so committed to delivering services, but they are now crossing red lines where it is not possible to continue.
"It is absolutely true that cuts are being made in a time of rising need. We are now at a point where all councils are feeling the pain, and we have even seen one of the Government’s own councils effectively declare itself bankrupt. By 2025, it is predicted that local …..." Thelma Walker - View Speech
"I congratulate Wigan Council, and all the council workers who have helped to deliver such success, especially in such trying times.
The situation has occurred in spite of the incredible hard work being done by councillors and council workers across the country. I have seen that at first hand, not …..." Thelma Walker - View Speech
"I was a headteacher and a teacher for 34 years, and as a member of the Education Committee, I know the impact on children’s services and their ability to cope. My constituent described how low-level support for families had been removed, leaving them to reach crisis point before they received …..." Thelma Walker - View Speech
"I believe that devolved local governance, with local knowledge of the needs of local communities, is really important, and we have lost that.
Early intervention was cost effective in my previous career, and it transformed people’s lives. They were not left to go through the stress and trauma of reaching …..." Thelma Walker - View Speech
"It is a pity that we do not have better representation on the Conservative Benches.
I was talking about Labour’s vision for how things can be. We will properly fund public health services, establish a new national target to narrow health inequalities, and prioritise the health and wellbeing of every …..." Thelma Walker - View Speech
"Absolutely; I completely agree with my hon. Friend. It speaks for itself that we do not have representation on the Government Benches.
I hope the Minister is able to take note of the contributions made in today’s debate and take meaningful action, instead of recycling tired lines. I will conclude …..." Thelma Walker - View Speech
"I hear what the Minister is saying, but the reality is that high streets are emptying. Companies such as Marks and Spencer are pulling out of the centre of Huddersfield in Kirklees. Well-known names are pulling out of our high streets. What is the answer to that?..." Thelma Walker - View Speech