From Public Meeting to Parliament: Local Voices Leading the Way
Andrew George MP has thanked everyone who attended his public meeting in Penzance at the weekend, highlighting the strong turnout and the wide range of thoughtful contributions from local residents.
The meeting on Friday evening 29th May at the Queens Hotel, Penzance brought together a hundred members of the community to share views, raise questions and offer suggestions on a range of issues, following Andrew’s recent success in the Private Members’ Bill ballot.
Mr George said, “Thank you to everyone who attended my Public Meeting in Penzance this weekend. There were excellent contributions, questions and suggestions from all who spoke during a really good session.”
Since coming 4th in the ballot of MPs just over a week ago, Mr George reported an unprecedented response from constituents and campaigners.
“My normally red-hot inbox has become an inferno since my name came out in the Private Members’ Bill ballot just over a week ago.
“Though I’ve narrowed down the range of topics, it’s very difficult to turn down others to choose just one. If the ballot had been to replace the PM and produce a whole King’s Speech of parliamentary Bills, the job would be much easier and less painful. There are so many good causes to fight for. So, thank you again to all who have responded with helpful advice and comments.”
Guests at the public meeting were invited to vote from a list of Andrew George’s suggested Private Members’ Bill options. The result of the weighted vote at the meeting is:
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Affordable Housing Bill (874)
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Nature & National Security Bill (580)
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First Homes before Second Homes Bill (443)
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Palliative Care Standards Bill (287)
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Ancient Woodland Protection Bill (137)
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End Violence Against Women & Children Bill (118)
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Terminally Ill (Adults) Dying Bill (111)
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Marine Mammals Protection Bill (67)
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End Trade with Illegal Settlements Bill (41)
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Enhanced Devolution Bill (40)
Mr George emphasised that this ranking represents just one snapshot of opinion and that there remains time for further input before a final decision is made.
“I’ve a week before I must start drawing up the details of the final choice and working with parliamentary draftswomen and men to prepare legislation which will withstand the scrutiny of government departments, government whips, and then win support across the House of Commons this autumn.”