Merlene's New Year Message

3.00.00pm GMT Thu 31st Dec 2009

In a new year message to residents of Hammersmith, Merlene expresses her hopes for 2010:

"My wish for 2010 is that those in positions of power will have the wisdom and foresight to take bold steps to deal with the crises facing us today.

First the Financial crisis. We need solutions to redress UK's unbalanced economy. We cannot rely on the financial sector nor on property price rises and consumerism to get us out of the recession. We need to invest instead in our infrastructure and build up the skills of the population.

Secondly, the crisis of Climate Change. I was at the march with my Liberal Democrat colleagues before the Copenhagen Summit calling for greater cuts in carbon emissions and funding to help developing nations. What we had at the end of the Summit was merely an intention to cut emissions (to ensure no more than 2 degree Celsius rise in temperatures). This is only a start and we must build on the momentum so that a binding agreement will finally be reached.

The third crisis is the loss of faith in the Political system. This was in part due to the expenses scandal but we need to overhaul the whole electoral system so that every vote will count. I will push for the Government to hold true to their promise to have a referendum on electoral reform and bring in a fairer system of voting.

May the coming year bring a Fairer Britain, a more Peaceful World and Good Health and Happiness to everyone!"