January 2008
One of the reasons why politics turns people off is the way in which politicians attack each other – often on a personal basis. That is why I regret the way in which there have been so many attacks on Neath's MP, Peter Hain. I have been one of those who have defended his integrity and praised him as a constituency member and outstanding Minister.
I was proud to pay tribute to Peter in Parliament last week for his work for Higher Education in Wales, as did other Welsh MPs for his work in other spheres.
By contrast, I find my most productive work is when I work with members of all parties. Recently I have been campaigning through the All Party Carers Group (which I chair) to ensure that carers are included in the 2011 Census. One of the reasons why carers are at last being recognised in more Government policies, from pensions rights for older carers to support for young carers, is that the 2001 census was the first in history to ask the question, 'are you a carer?'
As a result of this question, we know that there are nearly 6 million carers in the UK, and that there are over 20,000 in Neath Port Talbot, more than in any other county borough per head of population.
There is much happening that is positive for carers - from strong words of support from the Prime Minister with his review of the 'new deal for carers' to the launch this month of our county strategy for carers led by Councillor Paul Thomas, our local carers champion, and a new developing strategy for Corus employees who are carers.
I am also delighted to be working with other parties in Parliament and in the Assembly on the new legislative powers in Cardiff Bay. As Chair of the Welsh Affairs Committee I was pleased with the success of our first joint meeting when we took evidence from Deputy Health Minister Neath AM Gwenda Thomas on the proposed order on domiciliary care.
