News

The Governance of Britain Green Paper

The Governance of Britain Green Paper explored ways in which regional accountability could be developed through Commons committees. It has yet to be agreed how this will work in practice but I am supporting a proposal for a series of Select Committees in each region which will promote regional democratic responsibility through dialogue with Regional Ministers.

Innovative Approach to the problem of anti social behaviour

The National Centre for Restorative Justice in Preston takes an innovative approach to the problem of anti social behaviour and crime in the community. On my recent visit there I saw how offenders receive penalties, including a formal apology, cleaning up their own graffiti and community work from a panel of their peers for a range of offences.

 Community Champions Award Ceremony

I was delighted to see so much hard work rewarded at the Community Champions Awards ceremony in Liverpool. The Community Champions Fund is sponsored by the Department for Children, Schools and Families and provides grants for individuals with small scale projects to help improve their communities. These people have truly made a difference and have dedicated themselves to improving the lives of those in their local community.

Siddika Ahmed appointed to the National Muslim Women’s Advisory Group

I’d like to congratulate Siddika Ahmed who has been appointed to the National Muslim Women’s Advisory Group. Siddika is on secondment to Government Office for the North West from Oldham’s PeaceMaker group and attended a productive meeting I had with Rushi Munshi and Hashmukh Pankhamia, of the Council of Ethnic Minority Voluntary Sector Organisation.

National Takeover Day

Sana Sheikh, head girl at Stretford High School in Manchester, spent some time with me as part of the national Takeover Day, an initiative designed to give schoolchildren an insight into the world of work. Sana’s written some kind things about her experience and I should say It’s just as useful for ministers to be able to see the world through teenage eyes.

Bolton Lads and Girls Club 

I dropped in on the Bolton Lads and Girls Club to see some of the good work that is being done there to get youngsters actively involved in sport – and out of trouble. More than 3,000 young people use the club every week and it’s just one of a number of initiatives in and around Bolton demonstrating best practice in tackling anti social behaviour. There are lessons for the Youth Taskforce which is currently developing an action plan.

Interview for 315 degrees: NWDA's magazine 

Trevor Bates from the Northwest Development Agency interviewed me for an edition of the agency’s magazine 315 degrees. The detailed interview gave me the chance to set out why I believe the role of Regional Minister is important for the North West and what I can do for the region.