Benny and Sonny with Eric. Eric's the one in the middle.
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Speaking today, Carlisle MP Eric Martlew, called for the Government to scrap the rail franchise policy.
Mr Martlew said,
"The current system is unfair and unsustainable. The debacle off the GNER franchise on the East Coast Main Line beggars belief. This company won their franchise by offering to pay £1.2bn over 10 years to the Government. Because they got their sums wrong they are just walking away - without suffering any major penalty - leaving the Government to pick up the pieces.
"Also on the West Coast Main Line due to the failure of Railtrack, a privately owned company, the taxpayer will have to fork out hundreds of millions of pounds to Virgin to run the franchise to 2012."
"The contract these companies sign with the Government are unenforceable and it appears that they can make their profits without taking any risk".
He continued,
"I urge the Government not to re-let the East Coast Main Line franchise but set up a not-for-profit company similar to the structure of Network Rail, and also not to renew any of the existing franchises. This would mean that eventually we would have one national train operator, providing a united service run for the benefit of the passenger and at minimum cost to the taxpayer".
Eric Martlew, MP for Carlisle, is a Senior Member of the Transport Select Committee , Co-Chair of all Party Parliamentary Rail Group; Co Chair and founder of the All Party West Coast Main Line Group
20 Dec 2006
Carlisle MP, Eric Martlew will be presenting Accreditation Certificates to staff at the Morton Park Nursery on Friday.
Speaking today he said,
"I am delighted to have been asked to present these certificates which have been developed from the Pre-School Learning Alliance so that all young children and their families are entitled to the very best care and education."
Mr Martlew will also watch the Christmas Nativity Play by the nursery children and tour the Community Centre accompanied by Chair, Cllr Mary Styth and other members of the committee.
Eric continued,
"This Centre is very well used by all the community. It truly is A COMMUNITY CENTRE. Daily and weekly activities which take place there are for the interests of all ages from ante-natal, creche, nursery and, of course, short mat bowls, cabaret evenings and in the Manor House you can now get married".
2.30 Eric Martlew to arrive at Morton Community Centre, Coffee and mince pies and meet with parents and grandparents
2.45 The nursery children will perform their Christmas Nativity Play
3.00 Eric Martlew to present accreditation certificates followed by a tour of the Community Centre.
"Aiming for Quality" was developed as the accreditation scheme by the Pre-School Learning Alliance. It has been endorsed by Investors in children (Iic), an initiative developed by the sure Start Unit at the Department for Education and Skills. This endorsement is an indication of rigorous standards and tells parents that a setting or any other day care provider accredited through an IiC scheme is committed to delivering standards associated with high quality programmes and positive outcomes for children. Aiming for Quality is based upon the National Standards for Day Care issued by the Department for Education and Skills, and combines research, advice and experience from the Pre-School Learning Alliance and from other professionals in the field of early childhood care and education.
13 Dec 2006
"Buses are a lifeline to many people in Carlisle.
"But in the twenty years since the Tories deregulated buses we have seen the standard of services decrease and fares increase.
"Many of my constituents have told me of the problems they face day in, day out just trying to go about their daily lives. This is why I am delighted that the government are taking action to get better bus services in the Carlisle area.
"The plan is to give our local authority more power to tailor the relationship they have with private bus operators. This will include more co-operation over routes, timetables and fares so that the service is better for customers.
"Two-thirds of all public transport journeys are taken by bus. Buses are not just vital now, they are also a key way in which we can tackle congestion and improve the environment in the future.
"This isn't just a transport issue. For the people I represent, this is a matter of improving their everyday lives. So I hope that our local authority makes the most of this opportunity."
13 Dec 2006
Carlisle MP, Eric Martlew today welcomed the Pre-Budget Report unveiled by Chancellor of the Exchequer Gordon Brown, as
"a real boost to education and our long term future showing by that Labour is best for Carlisle".
"Gordon Brown showed today why Labour is best for Carlisle - building on our platform of economic stability while still investing in education and skills, the education of our children, their long term future and our public services."
"He announced a commitment to increased spending in education, meaning that every school in Carlisle will benefit.
"And every primary and secondary school pupil in Carlisle will benefit from the free school book scheme ensuring that every 5 year old starting primary school receives free books and every 11 year old starting secondary school a book voucher.
"Gordon Brown also announced that direct payments made to schools for head teachers to spend on what is best for their pupils will increase. With Labour every primary school in Carlisle will be granted the equivalent of £200 per pupil and every secondary school £225 per pupil.
"He also announced plans to make Britain the world leader in skills and training so our young people can get good jobs in the future. Government funded apprenticeships which were dying out under the Tories will be increased from 75,000 in 1997 to 500,000.
"There is good news for families too. Gordon Brown confirmed that the from next year the child element of the Child Tax Credit will increase giving more support to the families in Carlisle. And to help further, expectant mothers will be eligible for Child Benefit in the late stages of their pregnancy.
"Labour is making the right decisions for the future: building on economic stability, investing in public services, science and enterprise, and helping people into jobs and gain skills.
"Just contrast that with the past when Britain suffered recession under the Tories with families and businesses in Carlisle left to pay the price. Under the Tories inflation was nearly 10 per cent, mortgage rates soared to 15 per cent, 1.5 million people suffered negative equity and unemployment hit three million.
"Only Labour is making the right decisions to ensure Britain and Carlisle are equipped to face the challenges and take the opportunities of the future."
7 Dec 2006
Carlisle MP, Eric Martlew, is backing a national campaign that aims to highlight the plight of households who are concerned about being able to heat their homes to adequate levels this winter.
The Warm Homes Campaign is the annual winter campaign organised by fuel poverty charity National Energy Action (NEA). It runs through November and is organised in association with Powergen, part of E.ON UK, and supported by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (in England).
The campaign aims to cut the number of excess winter deaths and reduce cold-related illnesses by raising awareness of the help available to people who cannot afford to heat their homes in winter.
MPs, Members of the Scottish Parliament and Welsh Assembly Members around the country are supporting this year's campaign, which is organised in association with Powergen, part of E.ON UK.
Eric said:
"I am particularly pleased to be supporting the Warm Homes Campaign. Fuel poverty has serious issues. It is vital to help people make their homes more energy efficient. A more energy efficient house is good news for your energy bill. In this day and age, no one should have to spend the winter without affordable heat for their home. I want to see an end to fuel poverty in Carlisle and across the rest of the UK."
One in six UK households are unable to affordably heat their homes. Cold homes affect people's health and well-being and are linked to cardiovascular illnesses such as heart disease and strokes, and respiratory illnesses such as asthma and bronchitis. The elderly, families with young children, people with disabilities and others on low incomes are especially at risk from the dangers of cold homes.
There are an average 60 excess winter deaths linked to cold homes every year in Carlisle. This year, higher energy prices could push that figure even higher.
William Gillis, NEA Chief Executive, said:
"For millions winter brings poor health, isolation, debt and worry. We believe that this is unacceptable. During the Warm Homes Campaign we will be calling on the Government to provide greater resources to tackle fuel poverty and protect vulnerable householders from rapidly rising energy prices."
Anyone who is worried about their winter fuel bill should call the Home Heat Helpline on 0800 336699 for information and advice on keeping warm in winter. Or for more information about grants available to keep your home warm, call freephone 0800 3166011 and quote MK 550.
Powergen's Garry Worthington, Social & Environmental Affairs Manager said:
"Powergen is committed to helping people achieve affordable warmth in their homes. Earlier this year we launched the £100m CaringEnergy scheme to provide vulnerable customers with free energy efficiency measures and advice, as well as, advice on payments, tariffs and income maximisation.
"We're delighted to be supporting Warm Homes campaign for the second year to raise awareness of the help we can give in improving the comfort of homes and in reducing energy bills through better energy efficiency."
Notes
5 Dec 2006
The most comprehensive law to protect the welfare of animals in England and Wales received Royal Assent on 8th November after gaining cross-party support in both the House of Commons and the Lords.
The Government's Animal Welfare Act will introduce a welfare offence - which should prevent thousands of animals from suffering due to serious and ongoing neglect. For the first time, the law will require that keepers and owners have a legal responsibility to meet their animals' basic welfare needs. These include:
The law also updates a century-old cruelty offence, and also includes offences regarding dog fighting, cock fighting, administering poisons and mutilating animals.
Carlisle MP Eric Martlew, said:
"Most of us care for our animals properly. But there are those who end up causing their pet to suffer purely because they have not provided it with the necessities of life - like food and water, veterinary treatment if it gets sick, or a clean home. This new law will address this problem.
"Now, for the first time, people will have a legal responsibility to care for their animals. If someone refuses to improve their act and continues to neglect their pet, RSPCA inspectors or state authorities will finally be able to intervene to stop that animal from suffering.
"This is great news for thousands of animals which each year suffer from lack of basic care. Indeed, the RSPCA is calling it the most significant piece of legislation to affect animal welfare in nearly 100 years."
The new law comes into effect on 6 April 2007 in England, and at a similar time - yet to be confirmed - in Wales.
13 Nov 2006
Carlisle's MP, Eric Martlew, has backed laws that mean yobs misusing fireworks are fined £80 on the spot.
The police can use Fixed Penalty Notices to deal with individuals setting off fireworks at night, youngsters caught with fireworks, and adults found with high-powered display fireworks. It is also illegal for youngsters to carry adult fireworks in a public place.
Offenders who refuse to pay the £80 fine will face an increased fine and court action. For the most serious fireworks offences, the police will retain the power to prosecute offenders with penalties of a £5,000 fine and/or six months in prison.
Eric Martlew said,
"Many parents in Carlisle know that, in the wrong hands, fireworks can be very dangerous. I've heard of cases where families have been disturbed late at night, children have been threatened by fireworks or elderly relatives felt trapped inside their homes.
"That's why we need to make sure that fireworks are enjoyed safely not endured in silence.
"The police have the power to fine those who cause disturbance late at night, let off fireworks in the street and fine youngsters who carry fireworks in public.
"I know that fireworks concern many people in Carlisle, especially in the run up to Guy Fawkes night. I agree with them that controlling fireworks matters.
"Now I want to see action on this issue before Guy Fawkes night. That's why I'm calling on the police in Carlisle to crack down on those people who use fireworks to terrorise others."
30 Oct 2006
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Benny and Sonny with Eric. Eric's the one in the middle.
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Eric Martlew MP today announced the membership of the parliamentary enquiry which will investigate the issues surrounding the welfare of greyhounds in British racing. Mr Martlew, MP for Carlisle and Chair of the Associate Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare (APGAW),* gathered the members of the enquiry together at Westminster to meet some ex-racing greyhounds currently at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.
Mr. Martlew said:
"We decided the time was ripe for a parliamentary enquiry following high profile allegations in the Sunday Times regarding healthy greyhounds being shot at the end of their racing career. I'm delighted that there are so many senior members of both houses sitting on the enquiry. We will investigate the many issues that affect the welfare of racing greyhounds and, with the co-operation of both the racing industry and welfare groups, we hope to make useful recommendations that will improve the welfare of greyhounds at all stages of their lives"
The enquiry is chaired by Eric Martlew MP and the members of the enquiry are:
Notes:
The Associate Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare is a cross-party parliamentary group of over 80 MPs and Peers and over 70 Associate animal welfare organisations, which aims to further the cause of animal welfare by all means available to the Parliaments at Westminster and in Europe.
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home provides temporary shelter, veterinary, behavioural and animal care to lost and abandoned dogs and cats, while finding them new homes, or reuniting lost animals with their owners. The mission of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home is to rescue, reunite, rehabilitate and rehome the lost and abandoned dogs and cats which come into its care.
Benny, White & Black, Seven to ten years old, Male:
Benny's racing career might have ended a few years ago but since then he has been a bit of a lost soul and sadly hasn't found a place to call home. Benny is relaxed, friendly and affectionate and needs to live in a similar household.
Sonny, Brindle, Three years old, Male:
Sonny is of the typical age a racing Greyhound gets dumped, and that is sadly exactly what happened to him. Sonny is an affectionate boy that needs adult owners with experience of the breed who will invest time in training him as he doesn't know home life. Sonny will make a lovely addition to your home.
If you are interested in offering Benny or Sonny a home please call 020 7627 9234 or log onto www.dogshome.org
27 Oct 2006
Carlisle's MP, Eric Martlew, condemned the recent comments made by Councillor Mike Mitchelson, Leader of the Tory Controlled City Council, regarding the siting of the new headquarters for the University of Cumbria.
said Eric,"I have worked hard to help to establish this University in Carlisle,"
"but I think the siting of it, on the William St /Cecil St car park, is totally wrong and I am appalled by the support given by Mike Mitchelson."To site these prestigious headquarters in the heart of Carlisle's club land is bad enough, but to take away valued car parking in this area, will be calamitous.
"The residents already have problems with parking and this would make the problem untenable."
He continued,
"Mr Mitchelson and his colleagues have no strategic view and appear very complacent and compliant to this suggestion. It smacks, yet again, of their lack of vision, which was all too obvious when they gave planning permission for another Tesco superstore on the viaduct and also, their failure to buy the Lonsdale cinema when they had the opportunity to do so.
"If I am not mistaken, only recently, the City's planning committee turned down an application for flats at the old telephone exchange in Cecil Street, due to the, already chronic, parking problems in the area.
"I call upon the City Council to start immediate negotiations with the University, to help them find a more suitable and appropriate site for this flagship development."
10 Oct 2006
Tuesday, 10 October 2006 10.30
St Aidan's School, Carlisle
Capita/Cyclewise and Bicycle Helmet Initiative Trust are giving hundreds of reduced price cycle helmets to schools in Cumbria.
Cumbria is the only county offering a three way deal. Free cycle training/ discounted helmets and all bike shops offering free bike checks and discounts on safety kits. It is planned that each month the local media will report on how many helmets have been bought and, therefore, how many more children are now safer.
Cyclewise are also providing training all week to the year 7s.
Carlisle MP, Eric Martlew said,
"I am delighted this initiative is taking place. I continue to worry about the reckless way that some of our youngsters ride around the city together with the fact they don't wear helmets. Our young people are the future and we must do everything we can to a) protect them and also b) let them have the freedom which riding a cycle gives."
9 Oct 2006
Carlisle MP, Eric Martlew, has challenged Carlisle Tories to denounce Conservative policy makers' attack on the minimum wage. Speaking from Carlisle today, Eric has come to the defence of low paid workers in Carlisle, after Conservative policy makers published an attack on the minimum wage.
Eric said:
"This latest attack on low paid workers has revealed that while the Tories may have changed their style they are still the same party that opposed the minimum wage and rights for working parents."
"Local Tories should speak to anyone in a hotel or supermarket in Carlisle and see if they want to go back to wages of as little as £1.20 an hour. We now have the highest number of people in work ever recorded - and we have done it at the same time as making sure people have a decent wage and are able to balance their work and family life."
"This week, Labour's national minimum wage is going up to £5.35 an hour - with 170,000 people in our region benefiting from an immediate pay rise. This week has also seen the outlawing of age discrimination and longer maternity leave for new mums."
"Our record on helping businesses create more jobs in Carlisle shows that David Cameron's commission's attack is completely unjustified. By allowing this attack to go ahead, the Tories are showing that underneath the slick PR, the Tories haven't changed. Local Tories must accept the evidence of our own constituency and disassociate themselves from this irresponsible publication."
Notes
5 Oct 2006
"Up to £30m of extra government funding for education in Carlisle is currently up for grabs if we can come up with £2m of private sector funding"
says Brian Scowcroft, Chairman of Kingmoor Park Properties Ltd.
"I intend to start the ball rolling with £500,000 and would ask the area's business community to join me in making this, once in a lifetime opportunity, a reality for the City. We will be organising a meeting of the business community in the next few weeks in an effort to reach the £2m target before the County Council's cabinet takes their decision on 17 October 2006. However, I would be delighted to discuss this further with interested parties beforehand".
Carlisle's MP Eric Martlew, who persuaded the Government to agree to the academy option said,
"I am delighted with the announcement. Brian's company has transformed the former 14 MU site into the premier Business Park in Cumbria creating job opportunities for thousands. This generous offer to be lead sponsor for the academy is another indication of his tremendous commitment to the city. I would hope that other local businesses will join him to ensure that the option of an academy is available to Carlisle."
"The Proposal for an Academy is one of the options for re-organising schools in Carlisle. Up to £30m of government money is available for an Academy if private sponsors provide £2m to be used to provide innovative educational opportunities for young people. The communities in South East Carlisle need a new approach to education with modern, state of the art facilities."
"If an Academy can be built then all the secondary schools in the city of Carlisle will benefit because there will be in excess of £60m to invest. The sponsorship for the Academy is crucial because it releases additional funding and potentially enables all the city's secondary schools to be upgraded at the same time. I totally agree with Brian that this is a 'once in a lifetime opportunity'".
Businesses or individuals interested in supporting this project should, in the first instance, contact Evlyn Goddard, Marketing Manager, Kingmoor Park on tel: 01228 674114 or mobile: 07920 473 786 or Eric Martlew MP on tel: 01228 511395.
29 Sep 2006
Eric Martlew, MP for Carlisle and Chair of the Associate Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare (APGAW) has set up a parliamentary enquiry into the welfare issues surrounding the British greyhound racing industry and the enquiry is currently inviting written evidence.
Mr Martlew said:
"The time is ripe for a parliamentary enquiry into the welfare issues surrounding British greyhound racing. Recent allegations about healthy greyhounds being put down by unscrupulous individuals are absolutely appalling. But this is not a witch-hunt - we hope to identify realistic and achievable measures to improve welfare at all stages of greyhound's lives. I hope we can all work together and people from all parts of the industry will come forward with as much information as possible so that we can get on with the business of making sure greyhounds are safe, happy and healthy before, during and after their racing career."
APGAW invites written evidence on the welfare of racing greyhounds. In particular, we seek evidence on any information readers may have regarding:
The deadline for receipt of written evidence is Wednesday 11th October 2006. Please send 8 copies to Cassie Hague C/o Eric Martlew MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA. If possible, please also send submission as an email attachment to admin@apgaw.org. Please ensure clear contact information is included with submissions and that submissions are no longer than 4,000 words. Attributed experts from evidence submitted to APGAW may be published in the final report of the working group. Please direct any enquiries to Cassie Hague on admin@apgaw.org.
The Associate Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare is a cross-party parliamentary group of over 80 MPs and Peers and over 70 Associate animal welfare organisations, which aims to further the cause of animal welfare by all means available to the Parliaments at Westminster and in Europe.
22 Sep 2006
Carlisle MP, Eric Martlew has written to Cumbria County Council Highways about the high speeds being reached by mainly young drivers on the A6 between the Golden Fleece roundabout and Carleton village. He has also written to the Chief Constable regarding an interactive or static speed camera also on that stretch of road.
Speaking in Carlisle today Eric said,
"I recently visited the site and am requesting that the 30 mph speed limit should be moved from its present position to the end of the dual carriageway and that the Police install a speed camera."
"There have been too many deaths on Cumbrian roads already this year and we must act now to stop this."
8 Sep 2006
Carlisle MP, Eric Martlew, has called on Cumbria County Council not to axe the Carlisle Coroner's post.
Mr Martlew said,
"I have spoken to Senior Civil Servants at the Department for Constitutional Affairs and they have assured me that they are not instructing Cumbria County Council to reduce the number of coroners in Cumbria from 3 to 2. Their view is that new legislation will be coming in, within the next 2 or 3 years, which will allow the County Council to look at the reorganisation of the Coroner's system in the County".
Mr Martlew said that he had spoken to Cumbria County Council Chief Executive, Peter Stybelski and said that in view of the fact there is no Government pressure to reorganise the Coroner's department at this time and, as there will be a further reorganisation in 2 to 3 years time, disruption at this time is totally unnecessary.
4 Sep 2006
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Pictured are (Back Row, L-R): Jim Oswald (Chair 1992-93); Robert Edgar (2001-02); Eric Martlew MP (1983-85); Cllr Reg Watson (1999-00); Vice Chair Cllr Alan Toole; James Webster (2004-05); Ralph Aldersey (2002-03); Cllr Ron Calvin (1998-99); Cllr Bill Cameron (1994-95).
(Front Row, L-R): Geoff Whalley (1990-91); Nonie Wrightson (1991-92); Hugh Little OBE (1988-89); Chairman Allan Caine (2006-); Peter Naylor (1976-80); Muriel Dinning (1997-98); Clive Liversedge (1995-96). |
1,191 years of political experience gathered in one room today, when past and present Chairmen of Cumbria County Council met for the first time in five years.
That was the combined age of the assembled group, which last held such a gathering in 2001. The informal meeting allowed old acquaintances to catch up on old times as well as compare notes on their time in the Chair of the county council.
The event was hosted in the Grand Jury Room in The Courts in Carlisle by current Chair Allan Caine and Vice Chair Alan Toole.
Councillor Caine said:
"It's fantastic to get all these people who have done their bit for Cumbria together in one room and see how they're getting on. It's also good to hear their views on being the Chair, and how they did things differently. In politics, your opponents can still be your friends and we're all united in one common cause - pushing Cumbria forward."
Carlisle MP Eric Martlew, who chaired the council from 1983-1985, also attended the event. He said:
"It brings back happy memories of my time in the council. Hundreds of years of public service are represented in this group. Even though I was Chair in the early 1980s, it's good to see I'm still the youngest person in the room!"
25 Aug 2006
Carlisle MP, Eric Martlew will today open Curry Master on Caldewgate which was flooded in January 2005.
Abdul Harid's (who also owns the Dhaka at Carleton) take away will re-open at 5.00 on Friday, 14 July 2006
Eric said today
"I am delighted that the refurbishment has finished and that the Curry Master can re-open, helping Caldewgate to regenerate."
14 Jul 2006
Carlisle's MP, Eric Martlew, hit out over the delay in providing a bus shelter at Carlisle Bus Station for passengers waiting for National Express buses.
"The provision of a bus shelter is hardly rocket science,"
said an angry Mr Martlew.
"The problem is a petty squabble between Stagecoach and the owners of the bus station, whose agents are Peill & Co., a local firm of Chartered Surveyors."
"It is really frustrating,"
continued Eric.
"National Express has agreed to provide a shelter but until there is agreement between Stagecoach and the owners, who I believe are an off-shore property company, the passengers will be left out in the cold - literally!"
"Following my demand for improved facilities National Express agreed to provide this long-overdue shelter for long distance bus passengers nearly a year ago. It's appalling that Stagecoach and the owners of Carlisle bus station have such little regard for the well-being of passengers."
29 Jun 2006
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The replica door, with tutor Stuart Leslie and Eric Martlew
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Two talented students from Carlisle College on Victoria Place have recreated a full size replica of the front door of Number 10.
Elizabeth Hogarth and Charlotte Barling are about to complete an NVQ 2 in Wood Occupations. Neither have seen the real No 10 and have used photographs and TV images to work out the proportions of the door.
Eric Martlew said
"I am very impressed by their diversity of choice and obviously having visited No 10 many times, I am looking forward to comparing this door to the famous original."
29 Jun 2006
Speaking before the opening of the Learning Gateway, Carlisle's MP, Eric Martlew, praised the Government for the massive investment it has made to education in the constituency and keeping its election promise of "education - education - education".
"This exciting, innovative development at St Martin's College is just the latest example of the Government's commitment to improving the range of, and access to, quality education. This new facility will be the focus of the College's flexible learning developments in Cumbria and beyond and it is a further example of how education is a top priority in the city."
He continued enthusiastically,
"When you look around Carlisle you can see overwhelming evidence of the massive investment in education. Work is well underway on the new Carlisle College, the secondary schools review, with the proposed City Academy, will inject up to £80 million of investment into Carlisle, next September we will see the opening of the new University of Cumbria and the go ahead has been given for medical and dental students to receive part of their undergraduate training in Carlisle.
"These multi-million pound schemes will have a positive and dynamic impact, not only in stimulating the means for individuals to develop their own potential, but they will transform the whole social and economic fabric of the City.
"There can be no better investment for our future".
23 Jun 2006
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Sperm whale
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Eric Martlew, Labour MP for Carlisle and Chair of the Associate Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare (APGAW), is urging foreign governments to protect whales and help stop Japan's attempts to overturn the international ban on commercial whaling.
Mr Martlew and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), are holding meetings with embassy representatives from countries expected to vote alongside Japan at this year's meeting of the International Whaling Commission (IWC).
There are concerns that the backing of several new member states could enable Japan to secure a simple majority at this year's IWC meeting in St Kitts, (June 16-20), and that Japan would use this majority to begin dismantling the international moratorium on commercial whaling.
The Associate Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare is warning Japan's potential allies about the threats to whales and asking them to use their votes responsibly.
Mr Martlew said,
"I share IFAW's concerns that this year, for the first time since the 1970s, IWC could be under the control of the whalers. We are meeting with representatives of countries allied to Japan to voice our concerns and urge them to help protect whales."
IFAW recently commissioned an independent panel of legal experts to review Japan's so-called "scientific" whaling programme. The panel found Japan's whaling activities breached international law on several counts.
Member states expected to vote with Japan are:
Antigua & Barbuda, Belize, Benin, Cameroon, China, Côte d'Ivoire, Denmark, Dominica, Gabon, The Gambia, Grenada, Guinea, Iceland, Japan, Kiribati, South Korea, Mali, Mauritania, Mongolia, Morocco, Nauru, Nicaragua, Norway, Palau, Russia, Senegal, Solomon Islands, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent & the Grenadines, Suriname, Togo and Tuvalu, Cambodia, Guatemala and the Marshall Islands.
For more information on IFAW's anti-whaling campaign visit www.stopwhalingnow.org. Alternatively visit www.ifaw.org
13 Jun 2006
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Lynne Hutchinson, Chief Officer at CVS, MP Eric Martlew and Jessica Riddle, Chairman of CVS
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The decision to work towards achieving a recognised quality standard for Carlisle CVS has been a goal for several years as part of the organisations' continuing development.
In 2003, staff, trustees and volunteers from Carlisle CVS attended a conference to showcase a range of quality standards available. All attending reported back their views on the most appropriate standard for Carlisle CVS and the journey began to achieve IIP initially.
Since then away days to review the 2002-05 business plan, workshops to explore and clarify our core values, mission, aims and objectives and many hours work in meetings discussing all aspects of the development of the organisation, its staff, trustees and volunteers have taken place. Currently Carlisle CVS employ 10 staff, 12 trustee/ directors and four volunteers. Over the course of the work additional trustees and volunteers have also contributed.
Jessica Riddle, chairman of Carlisle CVS said :
"The experience of working towards IIP has been a positive one and the outcome of the work is the 2005-08 business plan with contributions from all staff, trustees and volunteers taken into account. This has lead to a high degree of ownership at all levels and an enhanced focus through a comprehensive range of measurable performance objects for all aspects of the organisation.
We are fully committed to developing workforce skills in order to achieve our wider aims and objectives in the voluntary sector. We have used the Investors in People planning process to address our needs and have now implemented a training and development programme. We will consistently evaluate this to ensure our workforce has the most up-to-date skills in order that we build on our success."
Many people in the organisation have been "grown" effectively through the years of learning and development and many have achieved external qualifications and this in turn has lead to an experienced and knowledgeable team who are able to provide a continually improving service to its members and the wider local community".
Notes
9 Jun 2006
Following a recent meeting between Carlisle's MP, Eric Martlew and Schools Minister, Lord Adonis, the Government have now agreed that a City Academy for pupils in the south-east of Carlisle can be considered as one of the options in the current review of secondary education in the City.
Eric Martlew said,
"After having extensive talks with the Minister and his officials I am delighted with the decision".
"If it goes ahead it will energise education in the area, bringing with it a new ethos, new opportunities and a new school."
"This new school would not only provide excellent facilities and opportunities for its pupils, but would be an integral and vital part of the community as a whole."
Eric then went on to say,
"These Academies are a radically new type of independent state school and are intended to transform education in areas where the status quo is simply not good enough for our youngsters. They are given the flexibility and freedom that enables them to do whatever is necessary to provide effective teaching and learning and early indications show that Academies are bringing about improvements in behaviour and attendance and improved educational performance."
Mr Martlew continued,
"If we are successful in this bid it will create sufficient funds, not only to build the new Academy, but also allow the millions already provided by the Government to be spent on the reorganisation of the other secondary schools in the City. It is estimated that the total amount will be in excess of £60m - all to be spent on the secondary schools in Carlisle.
"Finally, I would like to thank Roger Alston and his team for all the assistance and advice they have given me on this project - they have been invaluable."
9 Jun 2006
On Friday 9 June 2006, at 10.00, Carlisle MP, Eric Martlew will unveil a plaque at the Carlisle Council for Voluntary Service in 27 Spencer Street, Carlisle.
They have achieved Investors in People standard.
Eric Martlew said today,
"I am pleased to be unveiling the plaque on Friday which I know, means a lot to Carlisle CVS, its volunteers and staff. It is also quite appropriate as this week is Volunteers Week."
Attending Eric Martlew MP, Member of Parliament for Carlisle, Lynne Hutchinson, Chief Officer, Carlisle CVS, Cllr Peter Farmer, Mayor of Carlisle, President of Carlisle CVS and former trustee.
8 Jun 2006
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A reminder of what it was like
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Carlisle's MP, Eric Martlew, will be attending the ceremony on Tuesday 16 May 2006 to mark the commencement of the flood defences for the City.
Eric said,
"I am absolutely delighted that this work is starting - it will protect homes and properties in the areas of the rivers Eden and Petteril. The £12m given by the Government will ensure that flood defences will be built to such a standard to withstand the deluge experienced in January 2005".
"The day of the flood I made a pledge to the people of Carlisle that the Government would provide the resources to protect our homes - this is the start."
"There is another scheme, due to start in 2008, a year earlier than planned, to protect the Caldewgate and City Centre areas. This is a large complex scheme and I have received a promise from the Government that the money will be made available."
Launch details:
Tuesday 16 May 2006, 10.15 at Foxy's Suite, Brunton Park.
15 May 2006
On Friday afternoon, Eric handed over a petition to the Chief Executive of the North Cumbria Primary Care Trust, Patrick McGahon.
This petition has been signed by 500 people who are concerned that the respite home at Orton Lea in Carlisle may close.
Over the years, Eric has received representations from many of his constituents who use the home at Orton Lea and feared for its future. He has regularly met with groups of concerned parents and received the petition from them in March 2006.
12 May 2006
Carlisle MP, Eric Martlew, has called for the Housing Corporation to be involved in the controversial decision to knock down flats in the Seatoller Close and Barras Close areas of Morton.
Eric said
"I felt the decision to knock down these properties was totally illogical and support the view that these properties should be sold to first time buyers at an appropriate discount. Carlisle Housing Association argue that these properties would cost too much to renovate. However, they continue to sell properties to sitting tenants in Seatoller Close and Barras Close, in excess of £50,000."
Eric has, therefore, asked for an urgent meeting with the Housing Corporation and Carlisle Housing Association, to move the matter forward, as the policy of not re-letting these flats is making a bad situation worse.
26 Apr 2006
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Chancellor delivers the Budget
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Carlisle MP, Eric Martlew, today welcomed the Budget unveiled by Chancellor of the Exchequer Gordon Brown, as "a budget for Britain's schools that shows Labour is best for Carlisle".
Eric said,
"Gordon Brown showed today why Labour is best for Carlisle - building on our platform of economic stability while still investing in the education of our children and in our public services:
"The extra £585 million for education will mean direct money for the typical primary school in Carlisle will rise from £31,000 this year to £40,000; and from £98,000 this year to £185,000 for the typical secondary school. Investment that will help give all our children the opportunity to fulfil their potential.
"The increase in the child element will give more support to the 9,150 families in Carlisle benefiting from Labour's tax credits. Free off peak national bus travel for pensioners will give more freedom to our 15,200 pensioners. And the increase in the starting threshold for stamp duty will help first-time buyers and those on low incomes to get on the housing ladder.
"As today's Budget shows, Labour is making the right decisions for the future: building on economic stability, investing in public services, science and enterprise, and helping people into jobs and gain skills.
"With Labour, inflation and interest rates are low, there are two million more jobs than in 1997 with unemployment in Carlisle alone has fallen by 49% since 1997.
"How different from the past when Britain was tipped into recession with families and businesses in Carlisle left to pay the price. Under the Tories inflation was nearly 10 per cent, mortgage rates soared to 15 per cent, 1.5 million people suffered negative equity and unemployment hit three million.
"And today, neither the Tories or the Liberal Democrats can offer the policies for the future.
"The Tories would fail to equip Britain for the global economy. They are committed to scrapping the New Deal which would return Britain to unemployment, cutting the child tax credit that gives more support to families, and their billions of pounds of cuts would slash investment in science, infrastructure, and our public services.
"As for the Liberal Democrats, until they can explain where the money is coming from to pay for their endless list of tax and spending commitments no one can take any pledge they make seriously."
"Only Labour is making the right decisions to ensure Britain and Carlisle are equipped to face the challenges and take the opportunities of the future."
22 Mar 2006
Eric Martlew today attacked the misleading press release put out by David Maclean, which said that Cumbrian taxpayers would pay at least £25 more to fund the new merged police forces.
"The reality is this couldn't be further from the truth. Mr Maclean quotes figures from the House of Commons Library but fails to tell whole story"
"I enclose, for your information, a copy of a full briefing of the financial effects of the merger of the two police forces. This states that even if the Government does not pay towards merger costs, there will be a decrease to Cumbrian taxpayers of 6%."
Mr Martlew continued.
"This is very different from an increase of £25. However I will be having discussions with the Home Secretary to see if any assistance can be made available."
Mr Martlew calls on Mr Maclean to apologise for sending out such a misleading and scaremongering press release and warns the press to be vigilant about any of his further statements.
Briefing Paper (PDF 21K)
10 Feb 2006
The Conservative MP the Rt. Hon Ann Widdecombe has tabled a Commons motion paying tribute the former Labour Minister and animal welfare campaigner Tony Banks, Lord Stratford, who died while on holiday in Florida two weeks ago.
In the motion which already has the backing of MPs of all parties Rt. Hon Anne Widdecombe also gives her backing to the 2006 campaign to end of the slaughter of baby seals in the Canadian Arctic.
The campaign was being planned by Tony Banks before his death. His widow Sally has announced that she will take over his role.
Ann Widdecombe said,
'Tony was a tremendous worker for animal welfare, he spoke from the heart and could put aside party differences for the cause. I am delighted to be able to table this motion with cross party support it is a fitting tribute that colleagues from all parties recognised a true animal advocate.'
Eric Martlew MP, who seconded Anne Widdecombe's Early Day Motion said,
'As the current chair of the associate parliamentary group on animal welfare(APGAW), I too want to pay tribute to Tony Banks, who was a leading member of APGAW and hardened campaigner for animal welfare' Eric recalled that his last meeting with Tony was 'Only the day before we broke for the Christmas recess, in which he outlined his daring proposals to put a ban on Canadian products in order to stop the horrendous slaughter of seal pups'.
Eric went on to add,
'Tony is a great loss to all areas of animal welfare. The Canadian Seal hunt is to begin in just two months. If it's not stopped it will involve the slaughter of hundreds of thousands of seals of just a few weeks old.'
A large number of the seals are skinned alive. In 2001, an independent panel of veterinary experts performed post mortems on seal carcasses at the hunt. In 42 percent of cases, they concluded that the seal did not show enough evidence of cranial injury to even guarantee unconsciousness at the time of skinning.
In 2003, the Government of Canada approved the largest harp seal quota in history, with a three-year allowable catch of nearly 1 million seals.
In 2005, more than 317,000 harp seals were killed for their fur, bringing the three year total kill up to nearly a million seals. The last time sealers killed this many seals - in the 1950s and 60s - close to two thirds of the harp seal population was wiped out.
97 percent of the seals killed in the commercial seal hunt are under 3 months of age; the majority is under one month old. Many pups have not eaten their first solid meal or taken their first swim at the time they are killed.
Contact: Sally Banks via Don Brind 07961446036 or Jane Springford 07714287878
20 Jan 2006
The most far-reaching piece of animal welfare legislation for almost a century will receive its Second Reading in the House of Commons on 10th January 2006. MPs will debate and agree the content of the new Animal Welfare Bill before it progresses through Parliament and becomes law.
The Government Bill will, for the first time, require owners to properly care for their pets and thus prevent thousands of animals from suffering ongoing neglect.
Once enacted, the Animal Welfare Bill will make it a legal obligation for owners to ensure their pets are well nourished, receive veterinary treatment if sick or injured, and are kept in an appropriate environment.
Each year, RSPCA inspectors have to watch in frustration and sadness as the serious neglect of thousands of pets at risk turns into suffering. Although the owner can face prosecution once suffering [as defined by a law dating back to 1911] it is often too late to save the animal from death or lasting injury.
"Animal welfare organisations such as the RSPCA are delighted with the new welfare offence to help combat the dreadful neglect they see on a daily basis,"
said Eric Martlew MP for Carlisle who Chairs the All Party Group on Animal Welfare.
"I will be voting to ensure that the Animal Welfare Bill reaches our statute books swiftly to help prevent the serious ongoing neglect too many of our pets have been allowed to endure."
As well as the welfare offence, the Animal Welfare Bill will increase penalties for those found guilty of inflicting the most serious cruelty on animals.
Further issues likely to be debated during the Bill's passage through Parliament are whether the docking of dog's tails for non-therapeutic purposes should be banned, and whether circuses should still be allowed to employ wild animals in their acts.
5 Jan 2006
Carlisle MP, Eric Martlew, called on constituents to protect themselves and their families by making a New Year's Resolution to play in safe with gas in 2006.
Eric said,
"I am pleased to help CORGI in its campaign to ensure that people have their gas appliances regularly maintained by a CORGI-registered installer.
"Carbon Monoxide poisoning is entirely preventable but can be a silent killer in the home.
"I call on all my constituents to make pledge to have their gas appliances checked by a CORGI-registered installer in 2006.
"I am very conscious that we have an increasing student population and unfortunately tragedies have occurred in the past through poorly maintained appliances. I would therefore ask that they check with their landlord."
CORGI and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents will jointly launch an advertising campaign in January 2006, warning people of the danger of CO poisoning in the home.
22 Dec 2005
Carlisle's MP, Eric Martlew, has stepped up the campaign to save the Lonsdale Cinema.
"I have asked the City Council to use their powers to put an emergency listing on the building to stop any developer demolishing the property in the near future. I have written to Mike Mitchelson, Leader of the Council, urging him to take this action. It is the least they can do having failed to secure the building for the City.
"I will also be submitting a formal application to English Heritage to list this rare, local example of 1930s architecture.
"The Lonsdale is worth preserving both as a building and a cinema and I would like to pay tribute to Mr Alan Towers who has kept faith with the cinema going public in Carlisle, even through the wilderness years."
Councillor M Mitchelson
Leader of the Council
Carlisle City Council
Civic Centre
Carlisle CA3 8QG
5 December 2005
Dear Councillor Mitchelson
I understand that the Council has the power to place an emergency listed building order on properties that could be subject to demolition.
I am deeply concerned that the Lonsdale Cinema could be at risk of demolition and I therefore ask that the Council use this emergency power to protect this building prior to the due process of consideration for listing takes place.
I feel that this is the least that the City Council can do following the failure of your administration to purchase the building for use by our citizens.
I look forward to your speedy response.
Yours sincerely
ERIC MARTLEW MP
Member of Parliament for Carlisle
6 Dec 2005
Carlisle MP, Eric Martlew, today encouraged Carlisle families and friends of troops on operations overseas this Christmas to take up the chance to send them presents free of charge, thanks to a free mail scheme introduced by the Labour Government.
Eric said:
"Our armed forces are doing a fantastic job on our behalf and Cumbria should be proud of the men and women who sacrifice so much for our country.
"Receiving a package from home really lifts the spirits of our troops at Christmas and I am very pleased that the Labour Government has decided to make this free Christmas postal service permanent.
"Packets must be sent before December 8th to take advantage of this scheme so I recommend getting the Christmas shopping done this weekend so you have plenty of time to send a parcel free"
Secretary of State for Defence John Reid said:
"Personnel away on operations and their family and friends feel the strain of separation particularly keenly at Christmas time. That's why I am introducing a free packet service this Christmas and every Christmas as a permanent part of the Operational Welfare Package."
"As usual, don't send anything which may offend local mores, such as alcohol and pork products to some places. Bear in mind aerosols don't travel well and chocolate melts at 40 degrees!"
Notes:
Date 2005
Eric Martlew MP for Carlisle has reached out to accept an invitation from the Limbless Association and other disablement charities to join the new All Party Parliamentary Group on Limb Loss.
The Group will promote the provision of prosthetic, wheelchair, special seating and other rehabilitation services to all persons suffering limb loss in the UK and Internationally. The Group will be officially launched on 30th November at the House of Commons.
Eric Martlew says:
"On behalf of my constituents, I am delighted to accept the invitation to help spread still further knowledge of the special skills of all the healthcare professionals at our first-class Carlisle Disablement Services Centre, who provide all the services necessary to achieve and to sustain rehabilitation after limb loss. They reach out to Eden Valley and West Cumbria. I am sure that they will be willing ambassadors whenever invited to help others less fortunate overseas. I wish them and the new Group every success in the future. I will continue to do all I can to help raise the profile of these vital healthcare services in my constituency.
Sam Gallop, President for Life of the Limbless Association, says:
"As a double amputee, I give thanks every day for the caring skills of all the staff at Centres like Carlisle - and Carlisle is second to none - who with their Blatchfords limb production partners have kept me mobile and independent and able to live life to the full since 1944. They are always prepared to go the extra mile to help others less fortunate. It is really good news, and I know will be a great encouragement to them and to their patients, that Eric Martlew has their interests close to his heart in promoting their services."
Centre Manager Ray Marshall says:
" We are delighted and gratified at the support of our MP Eric Martlew through the new Group and directly, raising the profile of our services. We will continue to strive to provide the highest possible standards of treatment and care. The more we do the more we are needed. Patients are encouraged to offer their views on the services we provide, leading to positive experiences for all of us."
17 Nov 2005
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Eric Martlew visits Burgh By Sands school.
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Carlisle MP, Eric Martlew, has been invited to visit Burgh by Sands School, Carlisle, to see proposals for their new nursery.
At present Pre-School and Reception are in one room together but because the school has now changed its status to include a Nursery from September 2005. The room will be extended to include toilets and a quiet room.
Eric said today,
"This is also the first time I have been to Burgh School since they were awarded the School Achievement Award by the Department for Education and Skills".
He continued,
"I am really looking forward to seeing the excellent facilities".
Not only can the children attend from nursery age but Burgh also has a superb AFTER SCHOOL CLUB which was given the accolade "Best Out of School Club" by Sure Start in 2004".
18 Mar 2005
Carlisle MP Eric Martlew, is calling for consideration to be given to the future of the fire and police stations in Carlisle.
His comments form part of the consultation undertaken by Carlisle City Council on its Local Plan regarding future land use in the district and he has written to both Chief Fire Officer and Chief Constable expressing his concerns.
Eric said
"I am deeply concerned about the location of the fire station due to the worsening situation with traffic congestion. Although the service has an excellent response record, the continuing traffic problems does have an impact and I am frightened that gridlock could lead to a tragedy".
"I have suggested that consideration be given to relocate the central fire station by providing two smaller ones, in the east and west of the city, with easy access to the motorway."
He went on to say,
"This would give the authorities an opportunity toassess whether the police station should be extended or whether,whilst keeping a smaller office in the city centre, move to a largerHQ on the outskirts, giving an opportunity to free up Rickergate for redevelopment."
2 Nov 2004
Carlisle's MP, Eric Martlew, launched a scathing attack on the failure of the authorities to address the chronic traffic chaos in Carlisle.
He said,
"I'm calling all agencies to an urgent meeting to agree to a concerted effort to get to grips with this problem. I share the deep frustration and anger of motorists and bus passengers who daily get caught up in this gridlock and nobody seems to be taking the initiative to sort it out."
"I have invited local Councils, utility companies, the Highways Agency, Stagecoach, Capita, BT and the Police, to a meeting to get some joined up thinking on this problem, and to come up with workable solutions, before the city chokes".
2 Nov 2004
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