Jordan's Journal

It is now less than a week until the Local and European elections and here in Colchester, the voters will have a clear choice on 4 June.

Ahead of the local elections, I have been out and about with our local Labour Councillors and council candidates to promote Labour's Plan. A plan to grow Britain out of recession, with help and support for families and businesses. And as I go around Colchester, I want people to know the dangers they face by voting Conservative. The Tory route in this recession is simple - to help for the wealthiest few in our country and to cuts to public services for everyone at the worst possible time.

Labour is putting in place real help now and the building blocks of recovery. By investing in families, jobs and key sectors in the economy, we are giving real support to all. Labour will not make tax cuts for a privileged few, or cut public services and investment in the middle of a recession. I and my Labour colleagues are committed to standing up for those who are worried that they could lose their homes or jobs - unlike the Tories, we will not walk on by.

Last night, I attended a debate hosted by the European Society at the University of Essex. Representatives of seven parties standing for the European Parliament in the East of England, with Beth Kelly putting in an excellent performance on behalf of the Labour Party. I was delighted that so many students turned out for the event, showing a great deal of interest in Europe and the forthcoming election.

Labour's campaign here in Colchester has also been to support our European Candidates, led by our excellent Labour MEP Richard Howitt. Together, we have been promoting Labour’s European Manifesto which sets out how Labour will continue to be a strong voice in Europe and stand up for the interests of British people. From tackling the current economic crisis to fighting climate change and international crime, Labour is part of a strong alliance in Europe that is essential to build greater prosperity and security for the British people. 

There can be little doubt that standards in our education system have improved massively since Labour came to power in 1997. Whether it is through more teachers, better equipment or improved school facilities, the results of Labour's investment in education is clear for all to see.

However, schools in Colchester have so far fallen short of the higher standards that many of us would like to see, and that is why it has been necessary for our secondary education provision to be reviewed. The proposed reorganisation of secondary schools in Colchester is necessary to improve the opportunities of young people across the town.  

I have been campaigning with our local Labour Councillors to ensure that the community benefits of schools, like Thomas, Lord Audley and Alderman Blaxill, are safeguarded. While arguing in a measured and conscientious way to protect these schools, Labour Councillors welcome the proposals for a new academy on the site of the Sir Charles Lucas School - a plan also backed by the parents, staff and governors. 

This is in contrast to the Lib Dems approach - outlined by Councillor Martin Hunt in the local press - to ‘do nothing, cross your fingers and hope for the best’. Cllr Hunt has failed to recognise that local education provision is a devolved matter, and the school reorganisation proposals are the sole responsibility of the Tory-run Essex County Council. Attacking the Government gives an impression that Ministers can intervene in this decision. He knows they cannot. 

Rather than cause chaos and confusion, I prefer to work with the local community and those most closely involved in order to reach a solution that will drive up standards, attainment and results and bring the greatest benefit to the children involved.