MP Christopher Leslie meets the public

Sherwood for Justice and Peace
& Carrington and Sherwood Churches Together
'Held to Account'
their MP Christopher Leslie
at 6.00pm on Friday 15th October 2010
at the United Reformed Church.

The public meeting was attend by 31 people many of whom arrived early for a cuppa and the opportunity to set questions to be asked of Mr Leslie. The questions were selected by the chairman, Revd David Legge, covering "Local", "National", "International" and "Other" issues.

After introductions, the questions put to Christopher Leslie ranged from asking him to share how he felt at "being selected [to stand as our MP] ahead of local candidates" to how he would support those local people who are campaigning for the rights and international protection of the Palestinian people. (This area of Nottingham has a twinning arrangement with Jenin).

Local and National issues overlapped in the discussion ensuing the the  question about "reducing the gap between the richest and the poorest in our society." particular concern was expressed from the floor as to whether the welfare state (N.H.S, Schools and other local government services.) This led on quite naturally to considering the question set by the members of the Justice & Peace Group "what lies in prospect for Sherwood in the form of the Big Society". It was clear that there are huge changes coming our way in the UK and in Nottingham, changes that are likely to cause a large amount of stress to many people, especially the most vulnerable in our communities.

Throughout the meeting Mr Leslie demonstrated that he had a good understanding of the issues that face the country, and in particular how they are likely to impact the people of Nottingham East who he serves. After a good hours discussion Christopher Leslie was thanked for sharing with us and left for his next engagement while many of the rest of us lingered in the room to further discuss some of the issues raised.

One person said that it had been a worthwhile meeting but thought that we had been rather gentle with him, although that was to be expected at this meeting which gave us our first opportunity to get to know our new MP. She wondered if it would be different should we have another meeting in the future.

Well, this was a rare opportunity for ordinary people to meet their MP, and we do intend to repeat it in the spring - so look out for the posters and come along to find out!