Green Party

Let’s start with the positives.

There are some policies in the coalition agreement which I welcome, particularly the pledge to scrap the ID cards scheme and the proposal to replace the House of Lords with an elected upper chamber.

But there are many aspects of the coalition between the Conservatives and LibDems which worry me. My biggest concern is the proposal for 'savage cuts' to the funding of our public services, starting this year. During the election, the LibDems promised not to make such cuts during the first year to ensure they didn't kick start a spiral of unemployment.

It’s disappointing that the LibDems have gone back on their manifesto pledge and accepted these cuts. Of course they had to make some compromises, but these cuts could affect some of the services we most rely on, such as the Sure Start, schools and universities. I will be keeping a close eye on what spending cuts the Government proposes and will work with you to protect crucial services here in Norwich.

The Green Party’s costed manifesto for the General Election recognised that some spending cuts are needed. For example, we proposed that trident nuclear weapons should not be replaced – and it’s disappointing that the coalition agreement will allow this expensive replacement to happen.

However, our manifesto showed how key funding for public services can be maintained by increasing tax for those who can afford to pay more – such as the big banks and those earning over £100,000 per year.

There are many policies on which the position of the new Government is unclear from the coalition agreement. When will our troops be brought home from Iraq and Afghanistan? Will the fox hunting ban be retained? Will student tuition fees be scrapped? Will there be free personal care for the elderly? Will our schools and hospitals be protected from increased corporate influence?

On all these issues, it is not yet clear which direction the new Government will take us – but I’m pleased we have a Green MP in Parliament to fight for fair and ethical policies.

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