Media Releases

MP Robert Halfon welcomes news of lower crime in Harlow

Published on 3 February 2012

A NEW investigation into Harlow crime has been published today, by Harlow MP Robert Halfon. 

It shows that in most serious categories - violence, burglary, criminal damage, and anti-social behaviour - crime in Harlow fell last year, and is on track to fall this year as well. 

The most recently available local figures from the Office of National Statistics show that crime in Harlow has fallen as follows, between the years 2009-10 and 2010-11: 

Violence Against the Person (Harlow): 18 fewer crimes per year. 

Criminal Damage including Arson (Harlow): 63 fewer crimes per year. 

Burglary in a dwelling (Harlow): 87 fewer crimes per year. 

Harassment and Anti-Social Behaviour (Harlow): 26 fewer crimes per year. 

Mr Halfon said: "This is good news, and a real credit to Harlow's hardworking Police Officers, Special Constabulary, and PCSOs, as well as the volunteers from our church community in the Street Pastor project. Their work is having a genuine impact. They are Harlow's heroes. We are lucky to have them." 

He added: "The national Government is also doing its bit. I regularly meet with the Chief Constable of Essex and the Home Secretary, and they have worked hard to focus resources on the frontline, helping Essex Police to hire 55 new community officers this year (bringing the total up from 472 to 527).

"This has been helped by a policing revolution in Britain, with brand new services for the public, such as the crime map at http://www.police.uk/overview/?q=Harlow,%20Essex,%20UK. 

"This is giving Harlow residents a detailed picture of how crime and anti-social behaviour is happening right on their street.

"From May this year police.uk will also show the action taken by Harlow's police after a crime." He concluded: " 

More reform is on the way. 

This November, Harlow residents will have the first chance EVER in the history of our town, to elect a Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex. Crime is coming down, which is good news. But violent crime and burglaries are still unacceptably high. 

"That is why I will be campaigning for a tough Police Commissioner in Essex to keep crime coming down."

Government puts extra money into Harlow - Harlow MP Robert Halfon welcomes funding for vital services

Published on 3 February 2012

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has welcomed Government funding to build more affordable homes in Harlow. 

Through the New Homes Bonus, Harlow Council has been granted £442,473 this year (£231,938 was awarded in 2011) to build much-needed housing in the local area. 

The New Homes Bonus is a multi-billion pound programme that rewards communities when they accept more housebuilding in their area. 

The Bonus includes an extra reward for building new affordable homes, and for getting long-term empty homes back into use.

Building on the flagship Housing Strategy, the Government has unveiled a range of measures to help first time buyers onto the housing ladder, provide support for millions who have been left languishing on social housing waiting lists and get construction on the move. 

Mr Halfon said: "Labour led Britain into a housing crisis - the number of affordable homes fell, waiting lists almost doubled and first-time buyer numbers collapsed to their lowest level for a generation. 

"Housebuilding is already up a quarter under the Coalition Government, but there is more to do. 

"I am delighted to welcome this funding for new homes in Harlow. The Government's actions will help local people onto the housing ladder, provide more affordable housing and create local jobs."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon praised Harlow College as it is ranked top of the class

Published on 31 January 2012

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has praised Harlow College after the Government announced that it has been ranked number one for long courses out of the 223 further education colleges across the UK.

Mr Halfon, who is a regular visitor to the college, said: “This is fantastic news. In terms of getting the top grades, Harlow College was ranked number two for all its students - making it one of the very best places in Britain not only to study, but to do well.” 

He added: “These results are a real credit to Colin Hindmarch (the college principal), the staff and teachers, and all the students and their parents. They are really putting Harlow on the map. 

“Having such a successful college may also help to explain why youth unemployment has been falling in our town since 2009, and why the number of apprenticeships locally has increased by 73 per cent. 

“Ignore the critics who want to talk Harlow down.

"These results prove that we can compete with the best and brightest not just from Essex, but from the whole country.”

"Tax cuts are good for Harlow business", says Harlow MP Robert Halfon

Published on 24 January 2012

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has welcomed a range of tax cuts by the Government, saying they will be "good for Harlow business, and good for Harlow jobs". 

He added: "Harlow is an entrepreneurial town. We have more start-ups here than the average and more young people in work. 

"I'm not complacent about this for one moment but I think this is a pro-business Government. 

"That's why I will be pressing David Cameron in the months ahead to go further in cutting fuel duty, and raising the threshold of income tax." 

So far, Harlow businesses have benefited from the following policies of the Coalition Government: 

- Corporation Tax is being cut steadily to 23p, and the small business rate has been cut to 20p. 

- Fuel duty is now 10p per litre cheaper than it would have been under Labour - on every litre of fuel -thanks to Robert Halfon's campaign for cheaper petrol. This helps every small business and family in Harlow. 

- Apprenticeships in Harlow have risen by an astonishing 73 per cent since the last general election. - Harlow is to be made into an Enterprise Zone, with super-fast broadband and the ability to keep business rates to invest into the town. 

- The Conservative-led Government's rate relief holiday for small business has been extended by another year to October 2012. 

- The Conservative-led Government has raised the threshold of income tax, and will raise it to more than £8,000 in April 2012. This will lift more than one million workers out of paying tax altogether - many of them in Harlow. 

- Residents of social housing have been given the right for the first time to set up a business in their home. 

Martine Perrin, a local businesswoman who runs the JP's hairdressers, said: "The economy is difficult at the moment, but I welcome what the Government is doing to cut taxes."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon presses Government on Iran

Published on 24 January 2012

ROBERT Halfon, Member of Parliament for Harlow, today asked the Foreign Secretary, the Rt. Hon. William Hague MP, to clarify what action the Government will take to resolve the situation in the Strait of Hormuz. 

Halfon made the point that Iran is now at crisis-point and asked three key questions: 

"Will my Right Honourable Friend set out to the House what military action Britain is planning in the Strait? Will he explain what will happen, if these latest economic sanctions don't work? And what more is being done to bring Russia and China to the table?" 

Halfon made the point that Iran is the new Soviet Union of the Middle East as it supports terrorism, undermines democracy, and is trying to stop the Arab Spring in Syria.

Harlow MP Robert Halfon welcomes Government climbdown over benefits after campaign

Published on 9 December 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has given his backing to the Harlow-based national charity Grandparents Association’s campaign which is calling for the right for grandchilden to be allowed to have a minimum of ‘letter box’ contact with their grandparents - if it is safe to do so. 

The association yesterday handed in a petition to Number 10 Downing Street whichhas been signed by more than 7,200 people. 

If successful it would mean children would have a legal right to receive appropriate cards, presents and letters from their grandparents on special occasions. 

Mr Halfon said: “In the run-up to Christmas, this is especially important.

“Sadly, across Britain today, thousands of children are denied access to their grandparents - even at birthdays and the holiday season. Often this is caused by family conflict. 

“To be fair, the Government are looking at this, with the recent Family Justice Review. but more needs to be done. 

“That is why I urged the Leader of the House of Commons today to look at changing the law.”

Mr Halfon raised the issue in the House when he asked the Leader of the House, Sir George Young, for a debate on the issue Mr Halfon asked: 

"May we have a debate on the rights of children to proper and equal access to their grandparents? In a few moments, I and a number of other MPs will join the Grandparents Association - a charity based in Harlow - to take a petition to No. 10 Downing street calling for children to be given that right in law? 

Sir George Young replied: "I applaud the work of the Grandparents Association to achieve positive outcomes for grandchildren, and I hope that my hon. Friend will get a positive response to the petition that he is about to present. 

"In the context of what the coalition Government are doing to strengthen the family, we of course want to see what more we can do to strengthen the rights of grandparents, particularly where there is family breakdown."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon welcomes Government climbdown over benefits after campaign

Published on 8 December 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has welcomed the Government's decision to reverse a plan to take away from people with disabilities in residential care homes the "mobility disability component" of their benefits. 

The move follows sustained pressure from Mr Halfon who stepped in after the issue was raised by constituents. 

Mr Halfon said: "The 'mobility disability component' is important to people with disabilities if they are to retain a vital element of independence. 

Mr Halfon had tabled several written questions to the Government on the issue and spoken in a number of parliamentary debates, where he urged the Government to reconsider the matter. 

He also had a private meeting with Welfare and Pensions Minister Chris Grayling. 

Mr Halfon said: "A number of residents contacted me about this and I am glad that the Government has listened. It just shows that a bit of hard work and pressure sometimes can pay off. 

"Of course we have to balance the books: but we must protect the most vulnerable in Harlow."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon welcomes Chancellor's Autumn Statement: A budget for children, families and pensioners

Published on 6 December 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has welcomed the action taken in the Autumn Statement to support families in Harlow. 

The Autumn Statement included a package of support including a freeze in fuel duty, a freeze in council tax and the extension of free childcare for two-year-olds. 

Mr Halfon said: "This is a mini-Budget for children, motorists, businesses, and pensioners. It deals with our debts, and will help to shield hard-working families in Harlow from the economic crisis that we face in Europe. 

"I welcome the fact that the Government has genuinely listened, and scrapped the 4p increase in fuel duty which had been planned for January 2012.

"I am also delighted for Harlow pensioners that they will see pensions increase by more than £5 a week next year: the highest cash rise in British history."

Details on how the Autumn Statement will help Harlow residents: 

- Council tax freeze. The Conservative-led Government has extended its council tax freeze for a second year, saving residents up to £70 for the year on an average Band D Bill 

- Keeping interest rates low. Our clear and credible plan is keeping interest rates low to help you with the cost of your mortgage

- Helping with the cost of your commute. We are putting in £105 million to limit the rise in your rail fares - Cutting Fuel Duty. 

We have cancelled Labour's fuel escalator and cut duty. This means that from April petrol duty will be a full 10 pence lower than it would been without our action.

Harlow MP Robert Halfon welcomes completion of college crossing following lengthy campaign

Published on 4 December 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has welcomed the completion of work on a new crossing for Harlow College some 18 months after he started a campaign for the safety work. 

During his efforts to get the improvements carried out Mr Halfon met several times with Essex County Council highways and transportation cabinet member Tracey Chapman and her predecessor Norman Hume and several Essex highways officers. 

He also wrote to the council over the issue and worked with Harlow College staff to get the issue to the top of the agenda. 

He also managed to get the issue debated by Harlow Council which supported Mr Halfon's campaign. 

The crossing, on Velizy Avenue, now makes it safer for students to cross the busy road as they walk into and back from the town centre. 

Mr Halfon campaigned for the crossing after members of the Students' Union at the college collected signatures on a petition calling for action to improve safety for pedestrians crossing the dual carriageway. 

Mr Halfon said: "I am delighted that work on the crossing is finally completed and that students now have a safer journey walking to and from the college.

"Velizy Avenue is a busy road at all times of the day and so the crossing will be welcomed by all the students who have to cross Velizy Avenue." 

Harlow College principal Colin Hindmarch said: "We have campaigned with Robert Halfon for over a year to get these improvements and we are delighted that this has now happened.

"The safety of college students is our top priority - and the new crossing at Velizy Avenue will help."

Essex County Council highways and transportation cabinet member Tracey Chapman said: "We have been working with Robert Halfon on this project for some time, that's why I'm delighted to see these road improvements happen.

"I know from meeting with Robert Halfon about this several times that the Velizy Avenue crossing is hugely important to Harlow town centre, and to Harlow College students especially."

Harlow MP welcomes New Homes Bonus cash for Harlow Council

Published on 3 December 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has welcomed the news that Harlow Council is to receive almost £500,000 from the Government's New Homes Bonus scheme. 

The authority will get a total of £442,473 which will fund essential community services, and pay for more affordable housing in the town. 

Mr Halfon said: "This is great news for Harlow residents. The New Homes Bonus is a powerful, simple and transparent incentive for housing growth and is a key part of the Government's housing growth focus for our national housing strategy. 

"Locally I have been campaigning for ten years to bring more affordable housing into Harlow and his financial contribution will go some way to achieving this."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon welcomes massive rise in number of apprentices working in Harlow and across the country

Published on 1 December 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has described official figures which show a massive rise in the number of apprentices being taken on as "fantastic news". 

The statistics show that in Harlow alone the number of apprentices appointed since there has been a Conservative-led Government has rocketed by 73 per cent - from 450 in 2009-10 to a provisional figure of 780 for 2010-11. This is above the national average increase of 58 per cent. 

Nationally the total number of apprentices rose from 279,700 in 2009-10 to a provisional level of 442,700 in 2010-11. 

Mr Halfon said: "This is fantastic news and clearly shows that businesses not just locally but across the country are seeing the benefits there are in having apprentices working in their workplaces."

Mr Halfon is a keen supporter of apprentices and apprenticeships. 

Recently, with the continued support of Harlow College, he appointed his second apprentice to work with him in his House of Commons office. 

He was the first MP to appoint an apprentice to work in Parliament. 

Mr Halfon's efforts to highlight the benefits of apprentices continue with a campaign to bring a University Technical College to Harlow. This would be new 'apprentice school' which would focus on medical technology and engineering. 

Mr Halfon has also delivered the Apprentice Card - an NUS card which gives financial benefits and high street discounts to apprentices to put them on an equal playing field with university students, and he founded the Parliamentary Academy - an apprentice school in Parliament giving young people from ordinary backgrounds the chance to earn a decent wage and get a foot on the career ladder in politics. 

Mr Halfon's campaigning work was recently acknowledged in the House of Commons by Employment Minister Chris Grayling who paid tribute to Mr Halfon's work. 

He said: "Robert Halfon is a model example of how an individual member of Parliament can make a real difference, by identifying an issue where they can transform people's prospects. 

"His work on apprenticeships is a credit to him, and a credit to this House."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon "completely understands" why public sector workers took strike action yesterday

Published on 1 December 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has said he "completely understands" why public sector workers decided to take strike action yesterday. 

Mr Halfon said: "I have complete understanding why some hardworking public sector workers have taken this action, given the difficult economic climate. I have met a number of them in my MPs surgeries, and I believe that negotiations should continue.

"I welcome the fact that the Government has listened to representations from me and others." 

He added that he welcomed the revised the plans: 

1. Public sector pensions will remain among the very best available - a guaranteed level and inflation proofed. Only 1 in 10 private sector workers have access to such schemes. 

2. Most will see no reduction in the pension income they receive at retirement and many low and middle income earners will in fact receive a larger pension income at retirement. 

3. Low earners making under £15,000 a year (FTE) - that's 15 per cent of the workforce- will not have to make increased contributions. Another million workers earning up to £21,000 will have their total increase limited to 1.5 per cent over three years. 

Mr Halfon added: "This has been welcomed by former Labour Pensions Minister Lord Hutton as the best deal possible.

"We have to face the difficult fact that to be fair to all taxpayers - and many low-paid private sector workers have no pension at all - the Government has introduced a permanent bank levy. 

"This tax will generate £2 billion - £3 billion a year, to ensure that the rich pay their fair share."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon calls for "urgent explanation" over issues raised in Care Quality Commission report into Partridge Care Centre, Harlow

Published on 1 December 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has called for an "urgent explanation" over issues raised in a Care Quality Commission report into Partridge Care Centre, Harlow. 

Mr Halfon says parts of the report's contents are "deeply worrying". 

He said: "I have visited Partridge Court, and met many hardworking staff there, and a number of elderly residents. Clearly there are some good things going on. 

"I have also worked closely in recent months, with councillor Ann Naylor of Essex County Council, who has led her own review into standards." He added: "Nevertheless, the new report from the Care Quality Commission raises serious concerns, especially around the unsafe use of medicines. 

"As the CQC inspection report from November 22 states: the residents of Partridge Court 'are not protected against... the unsafe use, management, recording, safe keeping and safe administration of medicines.' 

"This is deeply worrying. That is why I have written directly to Rushcliffe Care, who own Partridge Court, asking for an urgent explanation, and urging them to put the necessary resources in to fix these problems." 

The CQC also notes concerns about the following issues at Partridge Court:

- Treating people with respect 

- Gaining people's consent, before treatment - Giving the right kind of treatment - Keeping a clean environment 

- Levels of staffing, and staff training. 

Mr Halfon said: "I accept that there has been some small improvements in recent months, at Partridge Court. But enough is enough. In the run-up to Christmas and the cold winter months, we need to see rapid improvements in care, especially on the use of medicines."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon delighted at fuel tax campaign victory as Chancellor scraps fuel duty increase

Published on 29 November 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has spoken of his delight that Chancellor George Osborne has scrapped the Government's planned 3p fuel tax increased scheduled for January. 

Mr Halfon said: "I welcome the fact that this Government has listened, and scrapped the 4p fuel duty bombshell that had been planned for January 2012. 

"High petrol prices are literally adding to our dole queues, and causing a poverty trap, as Harlow people cannot afford to drive to work. 

"According to figures from the RAC, scrapping the 4p fuel duty rise will save every Harlow motorist £30 next year. And it will save the 37,000 motorists in Harlow a total of £1m pounds. That is £1m more being spent in Harlow shops and bills: £1m more in the pockets of Harlow residents."

More than 100 MPs supported Mr Halfon's campaign which saw an e-petition attract more than 106,000 names - triggering a parliamentary debate on the issue earlier this month.

Mr Halfon, with the FairFuelUK campaign, fought a long campaign over the fuel tax issue asking questions in Parliament, speaking at Prime Minister's Question Time and taking part in a protest to Whitehall which ended with a letter being delivered to 10 Downing Street. 

Mr Osborne, who made the announcement in his Autumn Statement to the House today (Tuesday), added that a fuel tax increased planned for next August will be limited to 3p. 

He told the House: "Millions (of people) use their cars to go to work, and pick up the children from school. It is not a luxury for most people - it is a necessity. 

"In the Budget I cut fuel duty by one penny. The plan was for fuel duty to be 3p higher in January and 5p higher by August next year. That would be tough for working families at a time like this. 

"So despite all the constraints that are upon us, we are able to cancel the duty increase planned for January and for fuel duty from August to be only 3p higher than it is now. 

"Taxes on petrol will be a full 10p lower than it would have been without our action in the Budget and this autumn. 

"Families will save £144 on filling up the average family car by the end of next year. In these tough times, we are helping where we can." 

Quentin Willson, spokesman for FairFuelUK, said: "'This is a victory for FairFuelUK but only a stay of execution. We've saved the UK 9p since March in proposed fuel duty rises and we are now the gatekeepers of fuel sanity for this country.

"We're going to carry on pressurising this government to keep duty down and reduce it significantly. If we don't they'll hike it up again the first chance they get." 

Peter Carroll, who runs FairFuelUK, said: "Adding another 3p a litre at this critical time for the economy would have been economic madness. 

"Petrol and diesel remain far too expensive. We will be fighting on to try and make the Government understand that the economy needs an actual cut in fuel duty - a cut would create jobs, give people a little more disposable income and stimulate the economy. 

"This will mean that the Government and the Chancellor will gain, not lose, by cutting duty."

Government Minister backs Harlow MP Robert Halfon over new Apprentice School

Published on 28 November 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has received Government backing in his work over Apprentice Schools.

Speaking in Parliament today (Monday) Mr Halfon asked the Government to back the Apprentice School, which he is setting up with the charity New Deal of the Mind.

It aims to employ genuine apprentices to work with MPs in Parliament. 

Mr Halfon said: "I am delighted to say that Employment Minister Chris Grayling gave his full backing to the scheme. This is fantastic news."

Mr Halfon sought the backing of Mr Grayling in his request that work experience needs to progress to apprenticeships. 

He also sought Mr Grayling's support of his Apprentice School scheme, which aims to employ genuine apprentices in Parliament, and which is also involving Harlow College and Essex County Council. 

Mr Grayling praises the efforts being made by Mr Halfon. 

Mr Grayling said: "I am very happy to both support and pay tribute to the efforts of Robert Halfon. 

"He is a model example of how an individual member of Parliament can make a real difference, by identifying an issue where they can transform people's prospects.

"His work on apprenticeships is a credit to him, and a credit to this House."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon supports Afghan women rights 'Kite' initiative

Published on 28 November 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon is supporting an international campaign to press for women's rights in Afghanistan. 

Mr Halfon took part in an event in Parliament on Wednesday, November 23, which saw a cross-party group of MPs and peers having their photograph taken in front of hundreds of handmade kites designed by campaigners from around the country to symbolise their support for women's rights in Afghanistan. 

The campaign - led by ActionAid UK, Amnesty International UK, CARE UK, GAPS, Womankind Worldwide and Women for Women International - has seen 18,000 campaigners petition the UK government to support Afghan women's rights, with more than 8,000 kites designed. 

Campaigners are using the kite symbol because in Afghanistan women and girls make kites but are effectively prevented from actually flying them because of cultural attitudes that make it socially unacceptable.

Mr Halfon said: "This is an important campaign which I'm very pleased to support. If the human rights of women and girls in Afghanistan are not front and centre of peace negotiations, it will be an absolute tragedy.

"I will be following up on this issue with the Foreign Secretary William Hague at the earliest opportunity."

MP Robert Halfon calls for democratisation of the Licence Fee

Published on 25 November 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has called for the democratisation of the BBC, which he says is run like a "feudal monarchy" - giving licence fee payers a greater say in how the organisation works.

Today, the House of Commons read his Private Member's Bill. Mr Halfon said: "The BBC is something the UK should be justly proud of. It is a great institution. 

"I don't even mind when it leans to the centre-left, from time to time, because it means Conservatives have to be that much better at presenting their case. 

"But the problem is that the BBC is run like a feudal monarchy. "It is unaccountable to the licence-fee payers who fund it, and its decisions are all made by the great and the good. 

"When we are seeing elected police commissioners, e-petitions, and the Localism Bill, clearly the BBC is behind the curve. It must change." 

Mr Halfon says his Bill would enable licence-fee payers to vote on the BBC's strategic direction and aspects of senior salaries and programming. They would also elect members of the BBC Trust and a few members of the BBC Executive Board - which between them are responsible for operational management, programming, and budgets. 

Mr Halfon said: "If the BBC had been more in touch with popular opinion, it might have avoided some of the worst problems of recent years, such as the decision to scrap Formula 1 - which at its peak is watched by over eight million viewers.

"Critics of democratisation say that it would be bureaucratic. But the truth is that the BBC is fantastic at running elections on various phone-in shows, quizzes, and so forth: they are probably the most professional election-running body in the country - so I don't accept that they lack the know-how. 

"I listen regularly to BBC radio, especially BBC Essex and Look East, and to the World Service, which is central to spreading liberal democracy around the world. 

"I do not object to the licence fee; I personally would be happy to pay double. But at the moment, the licence fee is taxation without representation. 

"We do not tolerate that in our politics, and there is no reason why we should tolerate it in our public media."

More than £1m spent in Harlow on Pupil Premium payments

Published on 24 November 2011

BURNT Mill School in Harlow has been highlighted by Harlow MP Robert Halfon and praised by a Government minister during a parliamentary debate after it was announced that Harlow schools are receiving over £1m in Pupil Premium payments. 

Mr Halfon had raised the issue of Pupil Premium payments - which sees Harlow schools receive a total of £1,012,112 - with Minister of State, Department for Education Sarah Teather who said the Government was planning to allocate £625 million to schools and local authorities in England in 2011-12. 

Mr Halfon said the payments were " excellent news" with the money going to help the most vulnerable children in Harlow. 

Mr Halfon asked the Minister whether she would look at incentivising schools like Burnt Mill that are using the pupil premium to focus on improving maths and English. 

She replied: "I am delighted to hear about that school using the pupil premium in that way. It is good to hear from head teachers examples of how they are spending the money and the impact it is making on the ground.

"I wonder whether the hon. Gentleman would invite the head teacher to write to me to tell me more about the detail of the work that the school is doing and its impact on pupils, as we are looking to try to publicise examples of good practice and it would be helpful to hear what is happening in the hon. Gentleman's constituency?"

Harlow MP Robert Halfon calls on Government to introduce legislation regarding council tax discounts for returning servicemen and women

Published on 14 November 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon is urging the Government to make it easier for local authorities to give council tax discounts to servicemen returning from duty. 

Mr Halfon raised the issue in a parliamentary debate today (Monday) when he asked a question of Andrew Robathan, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Defence. 

Mr Halfon asked: whether the Government would consider introducing legislation to allow councils to give council tax discounts to servicemen returning from duty. 

He added: "At the moment, although that is possible, it is very difficult for them to do so." 

The Government's response was encouraging. 

Mr Robathan said: "It is within the powers of any local authority to give a discount on council tax, should it wish to do so. 

"I would welcome that if it improves the lot of our service personnel returning from operations." 

Last December Mr Halfon called on the Government to introduce legislation that would allow councils to discount council tax to Special Constables. 

Mr Halfon said such a move would be a boost to the Special Constabulary. 

He said: "This would act as an incentive and would give something back to those Specials who do so much to give their efforts to communities."

New research shows Harlow residents pay £42m in fuel taxes every year

Published on 9 November 2011

AS more than 100 MPs have now backed Harlow MP Robert Halfon's motion for cheaper fuel it has emerged that Harlow residents are paying £42m in fuel taxes every year.

The shocking figure has been published by the Taxpayers Alliance ahead of next Tuesday's parliamentary debate which has been secured by Mr Halfon after his e-petition reached the magic 100,000 names required to trigger a parliamentary debate. 

The e-petition campaign which also involved FairFuelUK has now attracted more than 106,000 names. 

Mr Halfon's campaigning and three visits to the backbench committee to argue for a debate has resulted in next week's date being set. 

MPs will have three hours to debate the issue which follows the lengthy campaign which saw Mr Halfon address parliament, ask a question at Prime Minister's Question Time and take part in a protest along Whitehall to Downing Street. 

He said: "We are facing a silent crisis as the cost of living is rocketing. Steadily, month by month, energy and petrol bills are crippling our economy. 

He added: "The case for cheaper petrol is not just popular; it is good economics, too. Experts at the LSE have published research showing that our soaring petrol prices are contributing to UK unemployment. 

"Added to that, the high price is creating a poverty trap, as people can't afford the costs of getting to work. In fact, petrol is now so hugely expensive, that it is costing the Government money. This is because fewer people can afford to drive, leading to lower tax revenues. 

"We urgently need a study of petrol taxes, by the Treasury, to see whether high fuel taxes are actually making it harder to close the deficit. 

"Rip-off petrol prices are one of people's top concerns, according to Populus. To his credit, George Osborne has taken major steps to help, including a 1p cut in fuel duty and abolishing Labour's 'tax escalator'. 

"But we urgently need to do more. We need no new fuel taxes in this Parliament. The 4p duty rises that are planned for January and August 2012 must be scrapped, and the Government needs to pressure the oil companies to keep prices down."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon calls on the Government to bring a new apprentice school to Harlow

Published on 3 November 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has underlined the case for Harlow to have a University Technical College. 

During a special Commons debate, he said: "Although university technology colleges have not yet received the same media attention as free schools and the huge expansion of the academy programme, they are an equally profound reform of our school system. 

Already 18 UTCs have received Government support.They are being supported by some 130 companies. Government funding has been allocated for 24 UTCs. 

Mr Halfon hopes that a Harlow bid will be successful in the next wave. 

Mr Halfon said: "Harlow is a new town. It was built after the Second World War with a vision to change people's lives and create jobs and growth, but its potential is still unfulfilled. 

"School results have risen sharply over the past ten years. Most secondary schools now perform around the national average and this year two secondary schools became academies. 

"Harlow College is now widely recognised as one of the best further education colleges in the country, with pass rates exceeding 99.5 per cent.

"Anglia Ruskin university opened in the town this term a campus, which now has approximately 200 students studying for degrees. 

"Wherever I go in Harlow parents are delighted with the idea of a new apprentice school which is exactly what it is, and they have no ideological objections." 

He added that Harlow's bid for a UTC is not opposed by the local state schools and both Harlow Council and Essex County Council have said they support UTCs, and would like to see a UTC in Harlow. 

A Harlow bid for a UTC will now feature the enterprise zone status which has been given to the town.

Mr Halfon added: "Anglia Ruskin is broadening its university courses to meet the needs of the emerging 'MedTech' enterprise zone with firms like Bupa Home Healthcare. Harlow Council is delivering the proposed 'MedTech' campus - a specialised industrial estate, which will employ the highly skilled technicians that a UTC provides.

"Harlow already has several biotech and pharmaceutical firms, such as GlaxoSmithKline, and is in the London-Cambridge science corridor. 

"We have several strong local hospitals - primarily Princess Alexandra Hospital and the Rivers private hospital in Sawbridgeworth. 

"The Health Protection Agency is considering a move to Harlow, partly because of its own financial position, and partly because of the enterprise zone. I hope that in due course it too will have a need for medical technicians and engineers. 

"In the second wave of UTC applications we hope to include medical technology as one of the Harlow specialisms, and to submit an even stronger bid."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon secures fuel debate

Published on 1 November 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has secured a parliamentary debate over fuel tax after 105,000 people put their name to his e-petition organised with the organisation FairFuel UK. 

Mr Halfon has campaigned for months in a bid to get Parliament to look into the high cost of fuel.

Now, following a lengthy battle, campaigning and three visits to the backbench committee to argue for a debate the go-ahead has finally been given from the authorities for a three-hour debate in the main chamber of the House of Commons. 

The debate is expected to be scheduled for a half day (afternoon) on Tuesday, November 15. 

The e-petition, which was tabled by Mr Halfon, was one of the first to attract over 100,000 signatures. 

Mr Halfon said: "The rising cost of fuel is a major issue which affects everyone. I am delighted that the petition received such marvellous support and achieved the 100,000 names required to trigger a parliamentary debate in such a short time." 

Mr Halfon's campaign has seen him address parliament, ask a question at Prime Minister's Question Time and take part in a protest along Whitehall to Downing Street.

He said: "We are facing a silent crisis as the cost of living is rocketing. Steadily, month by month, energy and petrol bills are crippling our economy. 

"Figures from the Royal Automobile Club show that the average motorist in Harlow is getting fleeced for £1,700 a year just to fill up the family car. This is one tenth of the average local salary. 

He added that the Government defines "fuel poverty" as spending a tenth of your income heating your home, but asked: "What about spending a tenth of your income just driving to work?" 

Mr Halfon said: "The case for cheaper petrol is not just popular; it is good economics, too. 

Experts at the LSE have published research showing that our soaring petrol prices are contributing to UK unemployment. 

"Added to that, the high price is creating a poverty trap, as people can't afford the costs of getting to work. In fact, petrol is now so hugely expensive, that it is costing the Government money. This is because fewer people can afford to drive, leading to lower tax revenues.

"Figures from the AA show that the Treasury received £1 billion less in revenue from petrol taxes in the last six months, compared to 2008. If this is true, it is disastrous. 

"We urgently need a study of petrol taxes, by the Treasury, to see whether high fuel taxes are actually making it harder to close the deficit. 

"Rip-off petrol prices are one of people's top concerns, according to Populus. To his credit, George Osborne has taken major steps to help, including a 1p cut in fuel duty and abolishing Labour's 'tax escalator'. 

"But we urgently need to do more. We need no new fuel taxes in this Parliament. 

"The 4p duty rises that are planned for January and August 2012 must be scrapped, and the Government needs to pressure the oil companies to keep prices down."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon slams Child Support Agency as "incompetent" and "inefficient" as he calls for urgent debate

Published on 31 October 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has called for an urgent parliamentary debate about the Child Support Agency after slamming the organisation as "incompetent and inefficient" 

Mr Halfon said he is repeatedly hearing horror stories about the organisation when he holds his regular surgeries. He made his demand for an urgent debate when he raised the cases of three constituents who he claimed have been poorly treated by the CSA. 

Mr Halfon said that in one case the CSA is "refusing to pay money that is rightfully owed" after the man was found not to be the father of a child. 

Mr Halfon said the situation was causing the man "immense hardship". 

Sir George Young, the Leader of the House of Commons, promised to take up the case. 

He said: "I will certainly contact ministers at the Department for Work and Pensions and ask them to pursue the individual case raised.

Sir George added: "We all know from our own casework that the CSA generates a fantastic amount of work. 

"The Government are in the process of reforming the child maintenance system by putting the child first, encouraging parents to come to an agreement about financial support and then providing statutory back-up where that is impossible. 

"We believe that that will be a better system than the one we have at the moment." 

Speaking later, Mr Halfon said: "Time and time again in my surgeries in Harlow, there are examples of the CSA behaving incompetently. Today I raised this with the Government, as many Harlow residents are suffering because of it. 

"The CSA is causing them real hardship. The Leader of the House agreed to help, and I hope we can get these cases resolved."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon opens "inspirational" environmental charity's Harlow centre

Published on 28 October 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon praised the "inspirational" work of the Phoenix Resource Centre when he officially opened their new Harlow premises at the Harvey Centre.

The environmental charity, which is based in premises on the top floor of the Harvey Centre car park, promotes recycling, re-use and reduction. 

The centre collects a wide range of materials, including surplus stock, end of lines and unwanted goods or returns from industry and local businesses and makes them available at low cost to its members - who can include schools, nurseries, childminders, youth organisations, schools, playgroups, care homes, charities, art and theatre groups. 

Harlow MP Robert Halfon said: "Phoenix Resource Centre is an inspirational place and possibly one of the best examples of the Big Society in action.

"They stop thousands of products from going to landfill and instead ensure that they are recycled and given back to the community. 

"It is a community-based organisation manned by volunteers and people with all abilities. 

"I suggest that there is nothing like this going on elsewhere in the country and I will be doing all I can to support it." 

Mr Halfon was shown round the premises by Andrew Richardson, a trustee from the charity. 

He said: "It was great that Robert was able to come along and for us to show him how the charity works. 

"Anything from the items that we collect that can be re-used gets put onto our shelves for our members to take and re-use. Everything else that can be then gets recycled." 

For more about the Harlow centre ring 07415 104440. 

The centre is open Mondays (10am-4.30pm), Wednesdays (1am-7.30pm) and Saturdays (10am-noon).

Harlow MP Robert Halfon welcomes knife crime law changes which mean tougher sentences for offenders

Published on 27 October 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon, who has been campaigning for changes to knife crime laws, has welcomed changes to legislation which more tougher sentences for offenders.

In March this year, Mr Halfon - following a meeting with police community support officers in Harlow when he learnt that the town sees about 100 knife-related crimes a year - took part in a parliamentary debate calling for tougher action.

Mr Halfon was a key supporter of the amendment, and was one of its first signatories. 

He raised the issue of internet websites where young people can buy knives very cheaply, without proper restrictions and was a key signatory of a parliamentary amendment which has now resulted in changes to legislation regarding the sentencing powers available. 

Legislation now means offenders aged 16 and 17 now face a minimum four months detention and training order, two months in custody or two months close supervision. 

This is the minimum as a judge can increase the level of sentence by two month increments to a maximum of two years. 

Mr Halfon said: "I welcome these changes which mean much tougher sentences can now be handed down to those responsible for knife crimes. 

"This sends a clear signal of intent to potential offenders that knife crime at this level will not be tolerated." 

He added: "Legislation alone will not solve the problem of knife crime and much work needs to be done in respect of early intervention programmes, education and more but this law provides a long overdue deterrent which should be seen as part of a solution." 

Mr Halfon will be attending an anti-knife crime event at Harlow College in the near future and helping to raise awareness of the problem.

Harlow MP Robert Halfon joins with Federation of Small Businesses to challenge costs for small businesses

Published on 19 October 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon is campaigning with the Federation of Small Businesses to fight costs planned by the Health and Safety Executive which would hit small businesses. 

Mr Halfon is challenging a move by the Health and Safety Executive to charge small firms for health and safety inspections. 

Mr Halfon said: "There is a risk this could be seen as a way to raise revenue rather than improve compliance, as the Federation of Small Businesses has argued." 

He added it is feared that the cost to a small business could be at least £750 for each inspection that results in a letter - a move which could hit jobs and growth." 

The motion calls on the Government to resist red tape from the Health and Safety Executive and to "do everything possible to help small British firms to prosper".

Harlow MP Robert Halfon welcomes pupil premium funding boost for local schools

Published on 18 October 2011

HARLOW schools are to receive an extra £1m in funding thanks to the new Pupil Premium for children on free school meals. 

The figure - £1,012,112 - has been finalised because there are 2,074 children on free school meals in the Harlow constituency. 

The pupil premium for 2011-12 is allocated to local authorities and schools with pupils known to be eligible for free school meals in Year Groups R to Year 11 as recorded on the January 2011 School Census, Pupil Referral Unit Census and Alternative Provision Census. 

Each pupil known to be eligible for free school meals attracts £488 of funding which will go to the school or academy via the local authority. 

Mr Halfon said: "Children from low income families generally do not achieve as well as those from more advantaged backgrounds. This Premium will support them in reaching their potential and help schools reduce educational inequalities." 

He added: "This funding is a massive boost for our local schools, and our children who deserve the best possible start in life."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon appoints second apprentice

Published on 18 October 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has appointed a second apprentice to work in his House of Commons office. 

Louis Luck studied History, Politics and Religious Studies at A-Level and achieved ABC in his final exams. 

Mr Halfon said: "Since I was elected to the House of Commons I have campaigned long and hard to improve apprenticeships in our country. 

"For this reason I employed the first ever MP’s Apprentice (Andy Huckle) and now am proud to have the second apprentice (Louis Luck). 

"Louis, from Harlow College, is an outstanding individual who went through a gruelling college interview process." 

Louis will be completing a Level 3 NVQ in Business Administration and will be working with Mr Halfon in the House of Commons Monday to Wednesday, studying in Harlow College on Thursdays, and working with Mr Halfon in Harlow on Fridays. 

Mr Halfon added: "Apprenticeships are not just about economic efficiency but about social justice as they give young people the chance to get on the conveyor belt to skills, jobs, and opportunities.

"As well as hiring an apprentice I have created with the NUS a national Apprentice Card, which gives apprentices that same financial benefits that graduates get. This is set to include high street discounts, and cheaper bank accounts." 

Mr Halfon will shortly launch the Parliamentary Academy for Apprentices, with the charity New Deal of the Mind. This will enable every MP to have an apprentice if they want. 

Mr Halfon said: "I congratulate Harlow College and Essex County Council for their groundbreaking apprentice scheme, and thank Mr Dean Barclay who has given a financial contribution to support Louis Luck this year. 

"It is no accident that this apprenticeship scheme has been praised by Government Ministers. Harlow College has even won praise from the Prime Minister, David Cameron." 

Louis said: "Ever since Year 11 I have had a great interest in politics. Since then it has become my greatest passion. 

"Having the opportunity to work with Robert and in the Houses of Parliament is the most superb opportunity and is a dream come true."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon welcomes news that Harlow is a safer place to live and work

Published on 13 October 2011

LATEST figures show that Harlow is now a safer place to live, and Harlow MP Robert Halfon welcomed the falls in crime ranging from burglary to anti-social behaviour and assault. 

Overall, crime figures in Harlow for the last year have fallen by more than four per cent on the previous 12 months.

Anti-social behaviour continues to decline with an 8.96 per cent drop while violent crime is down 6.52 per cent and assault with less serious injury is down by 7.8 per cent. 

Threat and damage endangering life is down by 38.46 per cent while hate crime is down by 25.33 per cent. 

In addition, the figures show that criminal damage is down by 11.72 per cent, drug offences are down by 10.57 per cent, fraud and forgery is down by 7.41 per cent and domestic burglary is down by 16.47 per cent. Vehicle crime is down by 2.39 and theft of pedal cycles is down by 6.34 per cent. 

Mr Halfon said: "Despite the difficult economy this just proves that a strong community can keep our streets safe. 

"We should thank our hardworking police officers, staff, taxi-marshalls, the town's Safer Harlow Partnership, and volunteers - and also the street-pastors led by our local churches, who help especially in our town centre at night. 

"Government reforms will help to accelerate this trend. Elected Police and Crime Commissioners will give local people a real say over neighbourhood policing. They will also give police the tools they need to tackle alcohol-related crime and disorder in the night-time economy."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon speaks out over fuel tax as figures show motorists are cutting back on fuel so costing the Treasury £1billion in fuel duty in just six months

Published on 5 October 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon says his campaign for lower fuel taxes has been strengthened by figures which show that drivers have reduced their petrol consumption by more than 15 per cent since the credit crunch and the recession. 

According to new research, the AA has calculated that fuel transactions in the first six months of 2011 amounted to 1.7bn litres less than in the same period three years ago.

The AA says the drop in petrol sales can be attributed to the record fuel prices.

The high cost of petrol leaves drivers with no option but to use their cars less. Businesses are also cutting back. 

Mr Halfon said: “According to the research, this fall has cost the Treasury of nearly £1bn in fuel duty between January and June this year.” 

Mr Halfon added: “According to recent figures the average motorist in my constituency of Harlow is getting fleeced for £1,700 a year just to fill up the family car. This is one tenth of the average local salary. 

“The Government defines ‘fuel poverty’ as spending a tenth of your income just heating your home, but what about spending a tenth of your income just driving to work? 

With the FairFuel UK campaign, Mr Halfon launched an e-petition - http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/347 - calling for lower fuel taxes.

It reached the 100,000 signature mark last Friday (September 30) – the figure needed to trigger a parliamentary debate on the issue.

Harlow MP Robert Halfon's fuel tax e-petition reaches the 'magic number' of 100,000 signatures

Published on 2 October 2011

THE petition calling for cuts in fuel duty has reached the 100,000 signature count required to trigger a full MPs debate on the issue. 

The e-Petition entitled 'Cheaper Petrol and Diesel' was lodged by Harlow MP Robert Halfon MP and reached the 100,000 signature point at 7.45pm on Friday, September 30. 

Mr Halfon, who has championed this in the House of Commons and taken part in a protest along Whitehall which ended with a letter being delivered to 10 Downing Street, said: "It has only taken since the end of July to reach 100,000 signatures. 

"This shows the strength of feeling there is for this issue.

"Cutting fuel duty now must be a priority for the Chancellor, over and above the clamour to cut taxes for millionaires. 

"Rip-off petrol and diesel prices are now so high they are a poverty trap, keeping people on benefits as job-seekers can't afford to travel. Many businesses are struggling to stay afloat. 

"And to those do-gooders who say we shouldn't be using cars, I say 'get in the real world'" 

He added: " In Harlow, the question is not whether can you afford to have a car - but whether can you afford not to.

"In the debate I will be arguing for an immediate cut in Fuel Duty and I will be pressing four additional key points" 

These are: 

1 - Whilst acknowledging the welcome 1p cut in Fuel Duty in the last Budget, we will be urging the Government to scrap the two inflationary Fuel Duty rises planned for next year. 

2 - Demanding that the Government put more pressure on the oil companies to lower prices at the pump given the fall in International oil prices. 

3 - Urging the Government to set up a Royal Commission to look at long-term prices of petrol which have currently become unsustainable. 

4 - Examining how the Government release oil stocks from the strategic reserves, as there is evidence that the banks brought up supplies, and then stored them at sea, in order to keep oil prices high.

Harlow MP Robert Halfon gives his support to local organisations involved with Natwest CommunityForce project

Published on 30 September 2011

ELEVEN Harlow-based organisations are in the running to receive support through this year's Natwest CommunityForce project. 

CommunityForce is a platform that empowers local projects and charities to raise awareness of their work and make their plans a reality with the support of NatWest and their local community.

 NatWest CommunityForce sees Natwest working with local communities to support the people, projects and charities that are making a real difference to their local communities. 

Until October 23 votes can be cast on your favourite project or organisation. 

The three projects with the most votes in each CommunityForce area will win the awards.

The Harlow organisations involved this year are The Victoria Hall Performing Arts Association, St Clare Hospice, Michael Roberts Charitable Trust - Harlow Foodbank, the Canal Boat Project, Science Alive, Harlow Fields Association, 2nd Great Parndon Scout Group, Harlow Steel Band, Sheering Primary School Parent Teachers and Friends Association, Harlow Rugby Club and The Victoria Hall Community Theatre. 

Harlow MP Robert Halfon has undertaken a week of volunteering with local organisations, including Harlow Foodbank. 

He said: "The Natwest CommunityForce scheme is a great initiative, and a great way for just some of our local organisations to gain additional support. 

"I would encourage as many people as possible to go online and chose their favourite local cause from the Harlow schemes in the running this year. 

"These organisations do a great deal of good work in our local area and it would be brilliant to see their efforts, and the contributions that they are making to Harlow, rewarded." 

To find out more about the schemes, and details on how to vote, go to http://communityforce.natwest.com/

Harlow MP Robert Halfon supports father who has launched an e-petition calling for a change to family law

Published on 29 September 2011

A ROYDON father has received the backing of Harlow MP Robert Halfon in his battle to get changes made to family law so that parents have equal rights and responsibilities for their children. 

Colin Riches has launched an e-petition with the Ministry of Justice stating that “shared parenting needs to be the default position for separated parents.” 

The petition adds: “One parent should not be able to act on their own to determine a child’s future. Both parents should work together unless one is unfit to do so.” 

Mr Halfon has highlighted Mr Riches’s case in the House of Commons. 

Mr Riches, who is a member of the campaign group Families Need Fathers, has written to the leaders of the main political parties as part of his campaign. 

Mr Halfon, who referred to Mr Riches during a debate in the House of Commons earlier this month, said: “I congratulate Colin for his petition. I have raised his case in Parliament and it is clear that there is a strong case for the law to be changed. 

“I hope as many people as possible will sign the e-petition.” 

To sign the petition, go to http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/993

Harlow MP Robert Halfon behind new parliamentary 'Apprentice School'

Published on 23 September 2011

THE first parliamentary training programme for apprentices - the idea of Harlow MP Robert Halfon - will be launched next month. 

The programme, which has been dubbed the 'school of apprentices', will offer 16 to 19-year-olds the chance to spend up to three days a week working in Westminster, along with two days working towards a level 3 apprenticeship (equivalent to A-level) in business administration. 

MPs who recruit from the apprentice school will have to pay the minimum wage for apprentices (£2.50 an hour) but the London living wage of £8.30 an hour is recommended. 

Mr Halfon, who came up with the idea for the programme with the charity New Deal of The Mind, is a long-standing campaigner for and supporter of apprentices and apprenticeships.

He was the first MP to employ an apprentice in his House of Commons office and is now in the process of appointing a second, also from Harlow College. The final interviews are to be held on Friday (September 30). 

He said: "The aim (of the parliamentary training programme) is to open up politics to young people from a much broader background and get them a decent qualification at the same time." 

Over the past few weeks, all 650 MPs have been sent a letter asking them to take on an apprentice. So far, eight have agreed and a further 14 have expressed a strong interest.

Harlow MP Robert Halfon to address Essex County Council planning meeting to highlight waste transfer station concerns

Published on 23 September 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon will be representing local residents and businesses at a meeting of Essex County Council's planning committee this morning (Friday) when he highlights various concerns over a planned waste transfer station in Harlow. 

Mr Halfon said it is "vital" that various issues are resolved before approval is given for such a use. 

Mr Halfon has already met with local residents, the head teacher of Tanys Dell Primary School, local business representatives and Essex County Council environment cabinet member Kevin Bentley and several council officers following concerns from residents over the proposal. 

Mr Halfon said: "Whilst I appreciate the efforts made by councillor Bentley to listen fairly to the objections of residents, we still have serious concerns about the proposals. 

"It is true that the site itself, as it is vacuum sealed, is unlikely to cause smells and pollution. But the situation with the numerous trucks transporting the waste, is much less clear. 

Mr Halfon says the proposed location is simply in the erong place, would cause traffic chaos along West Road, create smells, noise and pollution and attract vermin. 

He said: "One hundred vehicles will cause gridlock down West Road, arriving at approx 10.30am and 2.30pm. 

"The proposal is for these vehicles to come in at West Road and leave at West Road turning round at the Howard Roundabout and coming back up Edinburgh Way. 

"Local people are genuinely concerned about the traffic impact, especially at rush hour." 

He added: ""West Place is a very quiet light industrial area to work. There are genuine concerns about the noise especially early in the morning." 

Mr Halfon also says that the proposed use will mean a loss of local jobs as the site was originally set to be a new industrial site for several business units that would have created many jobs for Harlow people. 

He added: "The impact on business and local land values could significant.

"It's the wrong location, as the site is a long way from the A414 entrance to Harlow, it will devalue business premises, cause congestion and traffic gridlock and degrade what is a pleasant and good quality working environment."

He added: "There will be high noise levels, a risk of vermin, high levels of unpleasant odours, a loss of jobs - and additionally there is the site's close proximity to Tany's Dell School which only goes to underline the fact that this is totally the wrong place for such a facility. 

"It is vital that these issues are addressed before the plans go through."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon uses Commons Break to embark on Social Action Week

Published on 20 September 2011

FROM Monday (September 26), Harlow MP Robert Halfon will be volunteering with a number of local charities and organisations in Harlow and the villages. 

Robert will be involved with a range of activities from volunteering at the Harlow Foodbank to teaching at Harlow College and helping with the Nazeing Cubs Group. 

Each day, Mr Halfon will be at a different project. 

Monday, September 26 - afternoon - Nazeing Cubs Group, Perry Hill, off Middle Street, Nazeing, EN9 2LL. Robert will be supporting the cub leaders and taking part in the activities that the group undertakes.

Tuesday, September 27 - morning - Sheering Primary School, The Street, Sheering, CM22 7LU. Robert will be on Milk Duty at the school, as part of World School Milk Day, making sure all the children receive their daily intake of milk. 

Wednesday, September 28 - morning - Harlow College, Velizy Avenue, Town Centre, Harlow, CM20 3LH. Robert will be teaching the AS Government and Politics class about how ideology of political parties has changed since the Second World War. 

Wednesday, September 28 - afternoon - St Clare Hospice Centre, Hastingwood Road, Hastingwood, CM17 9JX. Robert will be doing a shift running reception, greeting visitors and also helping run the shop.

Thursday, September 29 - morning - Harlow Foodbank, St Mary's Church Hal, Peldon Road, Harlow, CM19 4HT. Robert will work with volunteers to prepare food parcels for people in Harlow.

Thursday, September 29 - afternoon - Harlow Talking Newspaper, The Talking Newspaper for the Blind, Harlow Library, The High, Harlow, CM20 1HA. Robert will record the latest editions of newspapers and learn the process of how talking newspapers operate. 

Friday, September 30 - evening - Harlow Street Pastors, St Paul's Church, College Square , Harlow , CM20 1LP. Robert will join the Street Pastors and join in with their work whilst serving tea and toast until the early hours of the morning. 

For more information please contact Victoria Thornton on 020 7219 7223 or 07738 240183.

Harlow MP Robert Halfon addresses youth unemployment and campaigns to boost the number of apprentices

Published on 20 September 2011

SINCE being elected in May 2010, Harlow MP Robert Halfon has been a champion of apprentices.

Last week, during a debate on Opportunities for the Next Generation in the House of Commons, Mr Halfon said: “In Essex, nearly 4,000 young people are not in employment, education or training, with Harlow being one of the worst-affected towns.” 

He highlighted that in the year 2000, there were about 600,000 people aged 16-24 not in employment, education or training. 

“By 2010, the number of jobless had doubled to well over one million, where it has remained today.” 

Given this high level of youth unemployment, Mr Halfon is urging that measures are taken to deal with this serious issue. 

Mr Halfon said this improvement should “start in our schools”. Mr Halfon welcomes the Government’s expansion in Academies and Free Schools. 

He also supports the new focus on yielding results and is proud to support many students in Harlow who have recently gained impressive GCSE results. 

He also believes that we must build up vocational education and welcomes the Government funding over 100,000 sponsored work experience placements for jobless 18 to 21-year-olds. 

He added: “Improving youth unemployment can only be achieved if we encourage the right climate for employers to create jobs. 

“The Government have made steps to create a job-friendly climate by introducing the Work Programme, lower taxes for lower earners, cuts in small business tax and welfare reform.” 

Mr Halfon has always believed that this issue should not be made party political and has openly supported MP for Newcastle North, Catherine McKinnell, who has put forward a proposal to Parliament.

This proposal would require companies winning large public contracts to provide apprenticeships as part of their bid. 

Mr Halfon said: “I urge the Government to implement this proposal, not just nationally but in local councils. I have called for this repeatedly, and I have discussed it with members of Essex County Council, who are taking a serious look at it.” 

Read more here  

Mr Halfon, who is co-chair of the All Party Group on Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning, understands the importance of public procurement in addressing the issue of youth unemployment, and is currently in the process of recruiting his new apprentice to his Westminster Office.

Harlow MP Robert Halfon renews call for planned fuel tax increase to be scrapped

Published on 15 September 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon - whose e-petition with FairFuelUK is on course for 100,000 names which would trigger a parliamentary debate on the issue - has renewed his call for planned fuel tax increases to be scrapped. 

The e-petition has so far attracted more than 86,000 names with the figure growing by the day. 

Mr Halfon and the FairFuelUK campaign have renewed their call for a significant cut in fuel duty in the light of new figures which show that unemployment has surged by 80,000 to over 2.51 million - the largest increase in nearly two years. 

Mr Halfon, whose campaign has already seen him address parliament, ask a question at Prime Minister's Question Time and take part in a protest along Whitehall to Downing Street, said, 'The shockingly high price of petrol and diesel is causing companies to go bust all across the UK.

"Added to that, the high price is creating a poverty trap which means people can't afford the costs of getting to work. 

"The inflationary duty rises planned for January and August next year must be scrapped and the Government needs to put more pressure on the oil companies to keep prices down." 

The FairFuelUK campaign is backed by the RAC, and the two trade associations that represent over 20,000 UK road freight companies - the Road Haulage Association (RHA) and the Freight Transport Association (FTA). 

To sign the petition, go to http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/347

Harlow MP Robert Halfon condemns Islamist demonstration during London commemoration of 9/11 victims

Published on 13 September 2011

A DEMONSTRATION which took place in London close to Grosvenor Square where the victims of the 9/11 terror attacks in America were remembered has been condemned by Harlow MP Robert Halfon. 

Mr Halfon raised the issue in the House of Commons (yesterday, Monday) when he spoke out against the "anti-social behaviour and racism" of the demonstration. 

Mr Halfon asked Home Secretary Theresa May whether she agreed that the demonstration should not have been allowed to take place so close to the commemoration, and he asked whether will she take steps to stop that happening again. 

Mrs May replied: "Anybody who engages in criminal activity should be dealt with appropriately." 

She added that nine arrests were made at the time of the demonstration and that number had since increased to 33, with the possibility of further people being detained.

Harlow MP Robert Halfon welcomes council support, in campaign against Waste Transfer Station

Published on 8 September 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon today welcomed the decision by Harlow Council, as councillors agreed unanimously to oppose plans for a Waste Transfer Station in West Road, Harlow.. 

However the final decision still rests with Essex County Council, in Chelmsford, as the matter is deemed to be a "strategic" planning decision for the county. 

Mr Halfon said: "I have huge reservations about this. That is why - like many local residents - I have written formally to Essex County Council objecting to the plans. 

"As soon as I heard the news I took Tany's Dell Primary School, local businesses and residents to meet with Essex County Council to find out the facts. We have been working together on the campaign ever since.

"In recent weeks it has become increasingly clear that West Road is the wrong location. The extra traffic will overload Edinburgh Way, and the site is the wrong end of Harlow. It is literally miles from our M11 junction. This means big waste trucks from Epping Forest will have to drive across our town on a daily basis.

"On top of that, many parents are worried, as Tany's Dell Primary School is very close to the planned site. There is likely to be a damaging impact on local residents and small businesses.

"As I have said for many months, I am in favour of recycling and the overall idea, but this is simply the wrong location. Essex County Council need to think again."

Online petition launched by Harlow MP Robert Halfon and Fairfuel UK calling for lower fuel taxes is now the third most popular Government e-petition in the country

Published on 7 September 2011

MORE than 75,000 people have now put their name to the e-petition launched by Harlow MP Robert Halfon and FairFuelUK which is calling for lower petrol and diesel taxes. 

When the petition reaches 100,000 names then it paves the way for a parliamentary debate on the issue. 

The petition, which was recently featured on the BBC's Daily Politics programme, was lodged by Mr Halfon in conjunction with the FairFuelUK campaign. 

Mr Halfon has been a long-time campaigner demanding a cut in fuel tax, a move which he says is urgently needed to help boost the economy and to help people in his Harlow constituency and across the country. 

Mr Halfon has already raised the issue in Parliament, at Prime Minister's Questions, and took part in a car push along Whitehall which ended with a letter calling for the tax cuts being delivered to 10 Downing Street. 

Mr Halfon said::"I have been campaigning with FairFuel UK for cheaper petrol and diesel. The most important thing is stopping the planned 4p increase in fuel duty that is scheduled for January and August 2012. 

"So far, the Government has delayed these plans (which were inherited from Gordon Brown) but we need to scrap them entirely. 

"If we get 100,000 signatures it will help us to secure a debate in Parliament and keep this issue high up the Government's agenda. To have reached 75,000 names is incredible. 

"It just shows the strength of feeling that exists over this issue and how important it is that we get a debate on this important matter." 

The FairFuelUK campaign is backed by the RAC, and the two trade associations that represent over 20,000 UK road freight companies - the Road Haulage Association (RHA) and the Freight Transport Association (FTA).

To sign the petition, go to http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/347

Harlow MP Robert Halfon urges people to vote for local arts group Razed Roof as it looks to secure £10,000 in National Lottery funding

Published on 7 September 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon is backing local arts group Razed Roof in its attempt to secure £10,000 of National Lottery funding. 

The Harlow-based performing arts group is in the running for the windfall but whether or not it receives the money depends on a public vote. 

Mr Halfon, who has been delighted to watch Razed Roof on a number of occasions when it has performed at Harlow Playhouse and at the Harlow Fire Station Disability Day, said: "Razed Roof is a really amazing organisation and they deserve all the support possible. Please do vote for them if you have a chance." 

He added: "Razed Roof is an inclusive performing arts group which is doing great work in Harlow - work which is being appreciated by a great many local people. 

"It would be fantastic if Razed Roof were to be successful - but to do so they need your help." 

For more information, and to vote for Razed Roof, visit http://www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/awards/best-arts-project/92

Harlow MP Robert Halfon to work with Pitney Bowes as it looks to maintain a base in Harlow

Published on 1 September 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has promised to do all he can to help customer communications management company Pitney Bowes maintain a presence in Harlow after it announced major relocation plans. 

Mr Halfon has had a number of discussions with the company and Harlow Council in a bid to ensure a future presence for the company in Harlow. 

Pitney Bowes, which has occupied the Pinnacles site in the town for over 45 years, has said it has undertaken an extensive search in the Harlow area no single location having been identified as being suitable for the entire organisation. 

As a result it is proposing is to find suitable accommodation next year in Harlow for some 200 staff and to relocate the remaining 450 employees elsewhere. 

Mr Halfon said: "I am grateful to Pitney Bowes for opening up discussions with me at an early stage and also with Harlow Council to examine if any other options are viable for the company to remain in Harlow. 

"Pitney Bowes has a valued and historic presence in Harlow. They have also been active in supporting local community projects." 

He added: "Despite the announcement it is good that they have pledged to maintain about 200 employees here.

"I will continue to work with Pitney Bowes over the weeks ahead to see what can be done. Further to my existing discussions, I will be meeting with employees and management. I will also be speaking with the Government Minister for Business."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon's petition calling for lower fuel taxes is halfway towards the 100,000 signatures needed to spark a parliamentary debate

Published on 19 August 2011

AN online petition launched by Harlow MP Robert Halfon which is calling for lower petrol and diesel taxes has already topped 50,000 signatures. 

The petition - on the Government's new ePetition site - has surged past the 50,000 mark. It needs to reach 100,000 mark to trigger a full debate in Parliament on the issue. 

The petition was lodged by Mr Halfon in conjunction with the FairFuelUK campaign. 

Mr Halfon has been a long-time campaigner demanding a cut in fuel tax, a move which he says is urgently needed to help boost the economy and to help people in his Harlow constituency and across the country. 

Mr Halfon has already raised the issue in Parliament, at Prime Minister's Questions, and took part in a car push along Whitehall which ended with a letter calling for the tax cuts being delivered to 10 Downing Street. 

Mr Halfon said: "To have reached 50,000 names in just a few weeks is incredible. It just shows the strength of feeling that exists over this issue and how important it is that we get a debate on this important matter." 

Quentin Willson, leader of the FairFuelUK campaign said, ‘Now that Britain is back to normal, people are thinking about other pressing concerns, and fuel is the top of many people’s lists. 

"We need to force a debate in Parliament, and that means it’s crucial to get another 50,000 signatures of the Governments e petition website. 

"If we don’t, we will see another duty rise in January, and another spike in oil prices with the cold weather." 

Sign up now at http://bit.ly/FFUK-Gov 

Mr Halfon said: "Businesses, families, job seekers are suffering under the strain. With high inflation, and slow growth, cutting petrol taxes must now be a priority for the Chancellor- over and above clamour to cut taxes for high earners. 

"To those 'do-gooders' who say we shouldn't be using cars, I say get in the real world. The question is not can you afford to have a car - but can you afford not to’. 

The FairFuelUK campaign is backed by the RAC, and the two trade associations that represent over 20,000 UK road freight companies – the Road Haulage Association (RHA) and the Freight Transport Association (FTA).

Harlow to become Enterprise Zone: MP Robert Halfon thanks Government for vote of confidence in the town

Published on 17 August 2011

FOLLOWING a sustained campaign by Harlow MP Robert Halfon, the Government has picked Harlow to become a flagship new Enterprise Zone. 

The town will lead the Government's drive for economic growth, by keeping future business rate increases in the local economy for at least 25 years, as well as benefiting from super-fast broadband, reduced planning restrictions, and other measures. 

The Government's aim is to kickstart the local economy, and bring jobs back to Harlow. 

The news follows a sustained campaign from Mr Halfon. In Parliament on 23 March 2011, Mr Halfon urged the Government to give the thumbs up to Harlow, saying: "Surely Enterprise Zones should be extended out of the cities and into towns such as Harlow, which has a strong scientific corridor?"

Following his fight to keep Harlow open for business, Mr Halfon said today: "I am delighted we have been awarded Enterprise Zone status by the Government. This is a vote of confidence in Harlow. It is good for jobs, and good for our town. 

"I want to also thank the combined efforts of local businesses, residents, Harlow Council, and hard-working councillors, without whom this would not have happened. 

"It just goes to show that a strong campaign in Parliament and locally can make all the difference. In fact, this is all the more special because there will only be a limited number in the country. 

"I have worked for over a year with local firms, Harlow Council, and residents to make sure that Harlow is at the front of the queue to become one of the new Enterprise Zones, and I am delighted that the bid has been successful. 

"Our town has an excellent reputation for industry. In fact, we are one of the most entrepreneurial towns in England, as our rate of new start-up businesses is well above average."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon helps launch e-petition calling for lower fuel taxes

Published on 8 August 2011

AN online petition launched by Harlow MP Robert Halfon and the FairFuelUK campaign calling for lower fuel taxes has attracted more than 17,400 names just days after it was launched - making it top of the list of current e-petitions. 

Mr Halfon, who has been a long-time campaigner for a reduction in fuel tax, has led a parliamentary debate and taken part in a car push in Whitehall which ended with a letter being presented at 10 Downing Street. 

The petition is demanding, among other things, a debate on the high cost of petrol in Parliament. 

Mr Halfon said: "The petition calls for three things: First it urges the Treasury to abandon the planned fuel price increase in January. 

"Second, it asks the Government to put pressure on the International oil companies to cut petrol prices at the pump when global prices, and thirdly it calls for a Commission to be established to examine the cost of fuel and to look at ways of reducing petrol prices - possibly via the fuel stabiliser and moving petrol tax to other areas including road tolls." 

Mr Halfon added: "A full debate in Parliament on petrol prices is a necessity. To those 'do-gooders' who say we shouldn't be using cars, I say get in the real world.

"The question is not can you afford to have a car - but can you afford not to. Britain is a great car economy. 

"The cost of petrol is crucifying motorists up and down our country. Businesses, families, job seekers are suffering under the strain. 

"High petrol prices are a break on economic growth, push up costs on frontline public services and act as a poverty trap to those seeking work. 

To sign the petition, go to http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/347

Harlow MP Robert Halfon launches petition to save Harlow One Stop Shop health service

Published on 27 July 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has launched an online petition to save Harlow's One Stop Shop heath clinic from closure. 

NHS West Essex confirned that the service was to close at the end of July citing issues regarding the lease. 

However Mr Halfon is challenging the closure decision which he says was taken without any consultation by a health trust which has been awarded an additional £12m for local health services this year. 

Mr Halfon has already written to NHS West Essex and Health Secretary Andrew Lansley, asking him to intervene having branded the closure "disgraceful and shortsighted". 

Mr Halfon said: "I know many people feel frustrated that there has been no real consultation or chance for our community to repair some of the damage this will do. 

"That's why I have already written to Andrew Lansley MP, the Health Secretary, asking him to intervene, and have also written to the PCT's chief executive (Sheila Bremner) asking for a formal explanation. 

"But it's also important that we show the strength of popular feeling about this, in Harlow, and increase pressure on the PCT to change their minds. 

"That's why I have started an online petition for local residents to show their support." 

To sign the petition visit http://www.petitionbuzz.com/petitions/saveoccasiohouse 

Mr Halfon added: "The petition is easy to share on Facebook: just look at the website, and click on the Facebook icon. 

"If you're on Twitter, the petition is also easy to share that way too. Please do tell as many people about this as you can, and help to spread the word."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon raises concerns over proposed Waste Transfer Station off Edinburgh Way, Harlow, and questions the choice of location

Published on 27 July 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has said there are "major questions to be answered" over proposals for a Waste Transfer Station in Harlow. 

Mr Halfon has received numerous letters and emails and had meetings with local residents and businesses about the plan and organised a meeting for all concerned parties with Essex County Council cabinet member Kevin Bentley and relevant officials on Friday. 

Concerns have focussed on the impact on traffic and local businesses, and the proximity of the site to Tanys Dell School. 

Mr Halfon said: "Whilst I appreciated the efforts made by councillor Bentley to listen fairly to the objections of residents, I remain concerned about the proposals. 

"It is true that the site itself, as it is vacuum sealed, is unlikely to cause smells and pollution but the situation with the numerous trucks transporting the waste, is much less clear."

Mr Halfon added: "It is unclear how many lorries will be travelling from Epping to Harlow to transfer their waste here. Essex County Council promised to provide us with this information before the planning application was made. 

"The problem is that Edinburgh Way is gridlocked as it is - traffic in Harlow is often at a standstill. Dozens of lorries a day will be travelling to and from the M11, adding to the already problematic issue of having just one entry and exit into the town. This will only add to our traffic burden. 

"The county council have promised a traffic impact assessment - which is an absolute necessity." 

Mr Halfon said: "The proposed site is very close to Tanys Dell School. Children will be subject to the noise of the lorries and possible pollution from diesel. 

"The school - despite being within the 250-metre limit - was not properly consulted about the plans. Nearby residents have also expressed real worries about the impact on diesel fumes and the noise of the trucks. 

"Additionally, the site, if built, will have an inevitable impact on local businesses." 

Mr Halfon added: "It is likely that some of the businesses around the area will want to relocate, not just because of the noise of the lorries and constant traffic, but also because there is very little room in which they will be able to operate and park their cars. 

"This was something made clear by the local businesses who attended the meeting. In essence, there is a risk that the Site will act as a reverse magnet for businesses in the area, adding to our already difficult economic situation. "As it stands there are major questions to be answered.

"I accept the pressure to put less waste into landfill, and to boost recycling, but is this Waste Transfer Site in the right place? That is the question local people are now asking. It is vital these issues are addressed before the plans go through."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon backs FairFuelUK in demand for lower fuel tax call

Published on 26 July 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has renewed his call for lower fuel tax in a bid to boost economic growth. 

His call comes on the day that latest figures revealed that the UK's economic growth is running at only 0.2 per cent. 

Mr Halfon and the FairFuelUK campaign see a cut in fuel duty as a means of stimulating the economy. 

Robert Halfon MP champions the issue of fair petrol and diesel prices in Parliament and recently led a parliamentary debate on the issue. 

He also took part in a car push along Whitehall to Downing Street where a letter calling for the cut in fuel tax was delivered to the Prime Minister.

Mr Halfon said: "Petrol and diesel are just too expensive. The high prices are hurting families and businesses in my own constituency of Harlow and all across the UK. 

"High fuel prices are holding back growth. The Chancellor took a bold and decisive step in the March budget to abandon the fuel escalator and to cut duty by 1p. 

"The Chancellor has hinted that he may look at tax cuts in the autumn. I urge him to cut fuel duty."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon welcomes Government plans to reform local government finance and ensure business rates can be kept by local councils

Published on 22 July 2011

A GOVERNMENT decision to reform local government finance which will allow local councils to keep their own business rates has been welcomed by Harlow MP Robert Halfon. 

Mr Halfon has repeatedly called for the Government to keep Harlow business rates for Harlow people, and has been praised by the Federation of Small Businesses for his campaign. 

Mr Halfon said: "I have long been campaigning for 'Harlow business rates for Harlow people' and welcome the reforms that have been announced. 

"These reforms wil make local councils less dependent on Whitehall and continue to provide support for more needy areas while also creating new incentives to deliver more local jobs and local economic growth. 

"The current system of local government funding inherited from Labour is broken. It is confusing, arbitrary, complex and widely seen as unfair." 

Local Government and Communities Secretary Eric Pickles said a consultation paper has been published on local retention of business rates. 

It is anticipated that a Local Government Finance Bill will come after the Localism Bill, and the new system will come into operation from April 2013. 

Mr Halfon added: "In Harlow, the regeneration of the town centre would be hugely supported if a greater share of the new business rates could be kept in the local community."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon encourages local sports clubs to bid for their share of £50m funding boost

Published on 20 July 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon is urging local sports clubs to apply for a share of funding being made available by Sport England. 

Sport England's Inspired Facilities fund. part of the Places People Play legacy programme that is bringing the magic of a home Olympic and Paralympic Games into communities across the country, has £50m to help refurbish and improve up to 1,000 community sports clubs across the country. 

Mr Halfon said: "I would encourage sports clubs in the Harlow area to consider applying for this funding which will be available to breathe new life into tired facilities. 

"We have many marvellous local sports clubs in the area but I am sure that many of them could think of projects that could benefit from a facelift to their facilities if only the funding was available." 

There will also be money available to convert existing buildings into venues that are suitable for grassroots sport. 

At least £35m of the funding will go to community and voluntary organisations, through grants of between £20,000 and £50,000. 

The remaining money will be open to a wider group of organisations, including councils and schools, with grants of up to £150,000 available. 

Applicants whose project will benefit disadvantaged young people will also be invited to apply for funding from the Thomas Cook’s Children’s Charity from August this year. 

For full details, ring 08458 508508 or email funding@sportengland.org

Harlow MP Robert Halfon starts his search for a new apprentice

Published on 18 July 2011

LORD Sugar has just completed his search for this year and now Harlow MP Robert Halfon is ready to undertake his hunt for an apprentice. 

Mr Halfon is a keen supporter of apprentices and apprenticeships and was the first MP to employ an apprentice in his House of Commons office. 

Now, following the success of having had Andy Huckle working for him for the last 12 months - the search is underway for a second MP's apprentice to work for Mr Halfon in both his House of Commons office and in the constituency.

The successful applicant will work with Mr Halfon and also study at Harlow College. 

Mr Halfon said: "People will know that I am a firm believer in apprentices and apprenticeships and continue to campaign to ensure that apprentices and apprenticeships are given the praise and standing in local business that they deserve." 

Andy Huckle - the first ever apprentice in Parliament - will complete his year-long Level 3 placement at the end of July. 

Andy said: "I have learnt so much during my year with Robert and have been involved in so many projects which have certainly taught me a lot and helped me immensely with my studies at Harlow College. 

"I would certainly encourage anyone with an interest in politics and current affairs, and who wants to find out more about the workings of Parliament, to seriously consider applying for the position." 

Mr Halfon said: "Andrew has had a brilliant year, meeting the Prime Minister only earlier this month, running events in Harlow and helping with research in Parliament." 

Andy will go on to finish his A-levels next year, and plans to go to the University of East Anglia to study History and International Relations. 

Students applying to the Apprenticeship need to email a covering letter and CV to Tracy Andrews tandrews@harlow-college.ac.uk. 

For more about the job details click here 

The Big Petrol Push highlights campaign calling for lower fuel tax

Published on 13 July 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon joined with other MPs and activists to help highlight the ongoing campaign calling for lower fuel tax. 

The MPs pushed a car along Whitehall to Downing Street where they presented a letter to 10 Downing Street. 

Mr Halfon said: "Despite the 1p cut in fuel duty at the 2011 budget, the price of petrol and diesel at the pumps is still so high and that it is causing enormous hardship to millions of families across the country. 

"Foreign road freight companies continue to expand their operations in the UK at the expense of British firms, as European rates of fuel duty up to 24p per litre less than in the UK." 

He added; "The truth is high fuel taxes are not working. Figures published by the AA show that the Treasury collected £637 million less in fuel taxes than in the same period three years ago, despite record levels of fuel tax." 

The letter which was delivered for the Prime Minister asks for a delay or the abandonment of the inflationary rise in fuel duty next year, which will add as much as 4 per litre in January 2012. 

Cutting or freezing fuel duty might actually mean a higher revenue for the Treasury, as more people can afford to fill their tanks. 

This in turn would help the Government to tackle the deficit faster. The letter also asked the Prime Minister to investigate why petrol prices do not fall, when the international oil price falls. 

Mr Halfon said: "A cut or freeze in fuel duty would not just put fuel in the tank of the British economy, it would also be hugely popular. 

"All the recent polling evidence suggests the cost of filling the family car is at the very top of the public’s priorities. 

"One recent poll showed that 59 per cent of respondents saw the petrol/diesel price issue as the top priority with the next highest item, the reforms to the NHS, scoring just six per cent (over 170,000 members of the public have so far signed the Fair Fuel UK petition."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon to show his support for the campaign calling for lower fuel tax by leading a car push in Westminster

Published on 8 July 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon will be leading a cross-party group of MPs as they symbolically push a car down Whitehall to Downing Street to show their support for the millions of UK motorists and businesses struggling with high petrol and diesel prices. 

The push will take start outside the Welsh Office in Whitehall at 9am on Tuesday (July 12) with the MPs delivering a letter to 10 Downing Street at 9.30am. 

The MPs are members of the newly-formed FairFuelUK All Party Working Group in the House of Commons which is fighting for lower pump prices. 

The formation of the group was inspired by Robert Halfon working in conjunction with the FairFuelUK campaign. 

The letter will set out the urgent need for the Government to pressure oil companies to pass on reductions in the cost of oil and for the Government to abandon its plan to increase fuel duty in January 2012 which could add up to 4p per litre. 

Mr Halfon has been involved in a sustained campaign calling for lower fuel tax. 

He has led a parliamentary debate on the issue and recently asked a question at Prime Minister's Questions. 

Speaking today, Mr Halfon said: "Petrol prices are the number one issue in Harlow and I know this is reflected all across the country. "Oil has plummeted, but pump prices are still too high. "First, the Government needs to abandon its plan to increase fuel duty in January. Second, the Government needs to pressure the oil companies to pass on reductions in the oil price. 

"The pain we will have felt symbolically pushing the car is nothing compared to the misery that high fuel prices are causing in Britain. 

"We have to keep fuel costs down to get the economy moving again." 

The FairFuelUK campaign is supported by the RAC and the trade bodies that represent more than 20,000 UK road freight companies, the Road Haulage Association (RHA) and Freight Transport Association (FTA) and has the support of over 170,000 members of the public.

Harlow MP Robert Halfon renews call for fuel duty cut

Published on 7 July 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has renewed his call for lower fuel tax as he continues his campaign for a fair price for petrol and diesel. 

Mr Halfon recently led a parliamentary debate on the issue as he supports the FairFuelUK campaign. 

The FairFuelUK campaign believes figures showing a marked drop in fuel duty revenue to the Treasury prove that Fuel Duty rates are too high. 

The Treasury collected £637m in fuel taxes less than in the corresponding period three years ago, despite record levels of Fuel Duty. 

Mr Halfon said: “The FairFuelUK campaign has constantly argued that Fuel Duty is now so high that we are at the point of diminishing returns. 

”The higher the level of Fuel Duty, the less the Treasury actually collects because people and businesses simply can’t afford to keep on the move.

”It is vital that we cut fuel taxes to get the economy moving again.”

Harlow MP Robert Halfon urges Prime Minister to close "immigration loophole" at Stansted Airport, which allows Islamists, terrorists, and illegal migrants in without passport checks

Published on 6 July 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has urged Prime Minister David Cameron to close an immigration loophole at Stansted Airport. 

Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Halfon highlighted the 'Common Area Travel Channel' which, immigration and special branch officers say, allows people access to this country without their passports being checked. 

Mr Cameron, replying to Mr Halfon, admitted that "these routes can be open to abuse". 

Mr Halfon had asked: "Given the Olympics and the Diamond Jubilee next year, is the Prime Minister aware that immigration and special branch officers at Stansted Airport are concerned that the 'Common Area Travel Channel' in its current form allows illegal migrants, Islamists and terrorists into the country without their passports being checked. 

"Will he take urgent steps to close this loophole immediately?" 

Mr Cameron said Mr Halfon had made an "important point" and added: "Passport-free travel between the UK, the crown dependencies and the Republic of Ireland has been in place for many years and it does offer some real economic and social benefits. 

"I do accept these routes can be open to abuse and we are determined to resolve this." 

He added: "The UK Border Agency is working very closely with Ireland and others to make sure this happens. But we've got to try to do that, without disadvantaging people who've been able to take advantage of the 'Common Area Travel Channel' up to now."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon calls for urgent parliamentary debate on petrol prices and the impact they are having on public services

Published on 1 July 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has requested an "urgent" parliamentary debate on petrol prices and how they are affecting public services, including the police and health service. 

Speaking in the House of Commons Mr Halfon highlighted the millions of pounds being spent by police forces on fuel - money which he said could be better spent on policing. 

Mr Halfon, who also raised the question of petrol and diesel prices at Wednesday's Prime Minister's Questions, said: "Last year, the police spent £78 million on motoring fuel and it could hit £90 million this year - money that could have been spent on policing." 

Mr Halfon, who put a question to Leader of the House of Commons George Young MP, added: "The Royal College of Nursing says that 60,000 nurses now subsidise NHS petrol bills out of their own pockets. 

"Does my right hon. Friend agree that high petrol prices are becoming a real threat to front-line services?"

Mr Young said petrol prices have started to come down and "we all hope that that initiative can be sustained. 

"The coalition Government have taken action to help. As he (Mr Halfon) knows, average pump prices are approximately 6p a litre lower than they would have been if we had continued with the previous Government’s escalator." 

Putting a question to Second Church Estates Commissioner Tony Baldry MP, Mr Halfon asked about the impact tha fuel prices were having on clergy and dioceses, which affected their communities and charitable work. 

Mr Halfon asked: "Will the Church play its part in asking the Government to delay the 3p inflationary rise in fuel tax that is planned for January?" 

Mr Baldry said: "The Church of England will increase the mileage rate for staff and clergy, but we try to encourage them to travel by public transport wherever possible. 

"I am sure I speak for all Members of the House when I say that we hope that charities and religious groups will endeavour to maintain their charitable and pastoral provision despite the change in fuel tax."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon supports National Autistic Society campaign to improve special educational needs system for children with autism

Published on 29 June 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon was joined by members of Pact Harlow when he attended the parliamentary launch of The National Autistic Society’s (NAS) Great Expectations campaign. 

The campaign focuses on special educational needs (SEN) and aims to inform and influence the Government’s proposed overhaul of the SEN system.

The launch, held at Westminster on Monday (June 27), was attended by National Autistic Society president Jane Asher who spoke about the challenges faced by parents of children with autism in getting even basic educational support. 

Members of Parliament and Lords were in attendance along with children with autism, parents, carers and principals and other professionals from NAS autism-specific schools. 

Mr Halfon said: “The NAS Great Expectations Report provides a solid foundation on which to build a robust and fit-for-purpose SEN system. 

"I believe children with autism have a right to local and appropriate services for their children and it is only right that an organisation which provides such fantastic local and national support to parents should be leading the way for these reforms.” 

He added: "I was pleased to invite members of Pact Harlow to come and meet with the Minister for the Disabled Maria Miller. It was a useful forum to discuss the Government's plans to assist children with special needs - Pact Harlow will have a strong input." 

Great Expectations follows research the NAS conducted with more than 1,000 parents of children with autism and young people with autism about their experiences of the education system and how they feel it can be improved to work best from them. 

Education is a fundamental part of every child’s life, but the survey found far too many children with autism are not getting the education they need and deserve. 

• Just half of parents in the survey (52 per cent) feel their child is making good educational progress 

• 30 per cent of parents feel their child’s educational placement is not adequate 

• A quarter of children are not happy at school, and one in five does not feel safe 

• 43 per cent of young people feel teachers don’t know enough about autism. Furthermore, too many parents have to fight the system to make it work

• 7 out of 10 parents say it has not been easy to get the educational support their child needs 

• 47 per cent of parents say their child’s special educational needs were not picked up in a timely way 

• 48 per cent of parents say they have waited over a year to get the right support for their child.

 National Autistic Society chief executive Mark Lever said: “We have Great Expectations that the necessary changes can, and will, be made. 

"The Government recognises that action is needed, and says they want to reform a system which is letting children and young people down. 

"Our report sets out the practical, often simple, steps that the Government can take to create a system that works for everyone, not least the parents who battle every day for their child’s right to an education." 

He added: "The SEN Green Paper, and planned ‘biggest SEN reform in 30 years’, will shape the future of a generation of children with autism. Let’s get it right.”

Harlow MP Robert Halfon receives the support of Prime Minister David Cameron over his call for lower fuel prices

Published on 29 June 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon's campaign for lower fuel prices received the support of Prime Minister David Cameron when he raised the issue during Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons today. 

This support from the Prime Minister follows a sustained campaign by Mr Halfon for cheaper petrol and lower petrol taxes, including a major debate in Parliament in recent weeks, which gained national press coverage. 

Mr Halfon said: "I asked the Prime Minister to join me in supporting the FairFuelUK Campaign, asking oil companies to pass on lower petrol costs to motorists. His reply was encouraging." 

Mr Halfon had asked that "given the high cost of petrol, which is crucifying motorists in Harlow and across the country, will my Honourable Friend support the FairFuelUK campaign, to urge oil companies to reduce petrol prices at the pump in line with market prices, and review the 3 increase next January?" 

Prime Minister David Cameron replied: "I want to see every chance for lower prices to pass on to the consumer. 

"What the Government has done is certainly take its necessary measures - the 1p cut in fuel duty this year, the putting off of the RPI increase, the abolition of the fuel escalator that the Labour Party opposite put in place. All of those things will make a difference. 

"Also we took part in the release of oil stocks together with the Americans, which has actually seen the oil price come down and ease somewhat. 

"We need to make sure we have a good competitive sector that passes on price cuts right through the country."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon repeats call over housing money

Published on 29 June 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has used a House of Commons debate to repeat his demands that local people should have priority of housing waiting lists. 

He also wants to see money collected by Harlow Council for rents and capital receipts spent in Harlow and taken away by central Government.

Mr Halfon said: "The good news is that the coalition is making important strides in the right direction.

"The Localism Bill will give first call to local residents and the Government have agreed not to take away our £13 million in rent money collected each year." 

Mr Halfon added: "I also urged the Housing Minister to boost shared equity schemes, so as to give people a first step on the housing ladder and look at the introduction of a housing voucher scheme so individuals in need of social housing would have a real choice in the private rented sector." 

Mr Halfon told the debate about Social Housing that such accommodation was "an enormously valuable national asset".

In Harlow more than 12,000 households are in social housing - about one third of the town - with a further 4,000 households on the waiting list, down from 7,000 under the previous Government. 

Mr Halfon added: "Social housing is the number one issue in my constituency mailbox but it is not just about putting a roof over people’s head- although that is, of course, the central mission. 

"Social housing is a mechanism by which we measure social justice and help people to escape the poverty trap."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon praises sculpture exhibition

Published on 27 June 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has spoken of his delight that the work of distinguished artist J W Mills has gone on show in Harlow. 

Mr Halfon was at the Gibberd Gallery at the Civic Centre for the launch of the exhibition. He said: "Having this exhibition in our town is a great honour for Harlow." 

Mr Mills is one of Britain's most famous artists and his sculptures vary far and wide.

In Downing Street there is the memorial to women at war. Other works are of Matisse smoking a cigar, William Blake and even Brian May, of Queen fame. 

Mr Halfon added: "I was asked to give a speech and mentioned not only the genius of the exhibition, but that it was a very proud moment for Harlow as a designated sculpture town 

"Harlow is also a town of scientific success with the birthplace of fibre optic communications. Science and art are not separate disciplines both are about the pinnacle of human achievement, originality and the pursuit of excellence." 

Among those attending the launch of the exhibition was Mr Mills's daughter who travelled from Switzerland for the occasion.

Harlow MP Robert Halfon welcomes Government decision to scrap plan to abolish cheques

Published on 24 June 2011

A GOVERNMENT decision to scrap plans to abolish cheques has been welcomed by Harlow MP Robert Halfon. 

Mr Halfon, who has campaigned against the move to scrap cheques, said: "I am delighted that the decision has been taken to abandon plans to phase out cheques by October 2018. 

"Cheques are a lifeline for many people, especially pensioners and local small businesses who would have been particularly badly hit."

Mr Halfon added: "While many people rely on credit and debit cards and online banking to pay their bills, there are still millions of people - and thousands in the Harlow constituency - who would be lost without their cheque book. And that includes myself." 

Mr Halfon had expressed concern about what people would be expected to do without cheques, especially since so many rural post offices have closed in recent years. 

Mr Halfon said: "As a result of the post office closures there are now far fewer places where pensioners can go to close to their homes to withdraw their money.

"Many people do not do internet banking and so need cheques to pay their bills. 

"The abolition of cheques could have forced some individuals to withdraw cash and keep it in a safe place at home, which could then spark an increase in opportunist thieves who would target the elderly who they think have money stashed away. 

"Small businesses too rely on cheques to pay some of their suppliers."."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon and employers to launch groundbreaking Apprentice Society and benefit card

Published on 22 June 2011

THIS afternoon (Wednesday) Harlow MP Robert Halfon and the National Union of Students (NUS) will launch a major new business-backed association and benefit card designed specifically for apprentices. 

They will be supported by Skills Minister John Hayes who has welcomed the project. 

Developed by NUS and Mr Halfon and launched with partner employers such as GTA England, PERA, Kaplan, Harlow College and the Association of Accounting Technicians, the Apprentice Card will give apprentices benefits of the NUS Extra Card, such as high street discounts, along with events and advice. 

The society will provide a unique charitable fund to enable apprentices, their providers and employers to work together to improve the learning experience. 

Mr Halfon said: "For many months I have worked with the NUS and employers to develop a national society of apprentices: starting with the Apprentice Card. 

"The Card will finally put apprentices on a level playing-field with students, with the same financial benefits. "But this is not just about economic efficiency it is about social justice as well. That's why I was also among the first MPs to employ an apprentice in my Westminster office. 

"Sadly, just 28 per cent of British workers qualify to become apprentices or technically skilled. In France, it is 51 per cent. In Germany it is 65 per cent. 

"Our economy must not lag behind. For growth and jobs, we need to make apprenticeships the Plan A for our brightest young people." 

Shane Chowen, NUS vice-president (further education) said: "The huge growth in both the demand for and provision of apprenticeships demonstrates the benefit they bring to employers and hundreds of thousands of apprentices but also the need to ensure a joined up national support network and access to life-enhancing benefits. 

"NUS has been working closely with politicians and employers to improve the benefits and support available to apprentices and the National Society of Apprentices and ApprenticeCard will provide groundbreaking access to discounts, events and advice for work-based learners across the country." 

John Hayes MP. the Minister for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning, said: "The Government is supporting the greatest number of apprenticeships our country has ever seen because we want more young people to develop the advanced practical skills that fuel growth and build fulfilling and productive careers. 

“To elevate vocational learning and competence, it is right that the hard work, skill and dedication of apprentices is recognised and rewarded alongside the achievements of other learners.

"By reaching out to apprentices NUS is celebrating the worth of practical accomplishment, and helping to build a more cohesive and fairer society."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon supports hearing loss campaigner's call for Harlow residents to get their hearing checked

Published on 16 June 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has joined a local hearing loss campaigner’s call urging local residents to take action and get their hearing checked. 

Mr Halfon is backing a campaign by Action on Hearing Loss – formerly RNID – encouraging people to take the charity’s hearing check by visiting www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk/check or ringing 0844 800 3838.

In their new report, Hearing Matters, which was launched during the charity’s 100th birthday celebration in Parliament,

Action on Hearing Loss is warning only one in three people who could benefit from hearing aids are currently using them, leaving four million people living in the UK with an unaddressed hearing loss. 

It takes, on average, ten years for people to take action from when they start to notice a problem and unaddressed hearing loss can lead to depression, social isolation, or an early departure from the workforce. 

Mr Halfon said: “It was fantastic to find out about the great work of the charity and the importance of looking after your hearing and taking action as soon as you realise you have problems. 

"I’m supporting the call by Action on Hearing Loss urging people in Harlow and the surrounding area who are struggling to hear their friends, family or colleagues to get their hearing checked now and avoid the unnecessary negative impacts of unaddressed hearing loss in their everyday lives.” 

Action on Hearing Loss chief executive Jackie Ballard said: “It’s vital that people in Harlow take action quickly if they recognise they are having difficulty hearing so that they can get the maximum benefit from hearing aids and be less likely to finish their careers prematurely or experience unnecessary isolation, which can lead to depression.” 

Hearing Matters is supported by Action on Hearing Loss’s new partners, Specsavers. 

To see the charity’s Hearing Matters report, visit www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk/hearingmatters.

Harlow MP Robert Halfon welcomes town's ranking in latest recycling league table but says there is still more to do

Published on 16 June 2011

HARLOW District Council is ranked fifth in Essex in the latest recycling league table of Essex district and borough councils. 

Harlow residents reused, recycled or composted 51.50 per cent of its household waste. 

Harlow MP Robert Halfon said: "The county figure is just over 50 per cent and so Harlow is ahead of many of the other local authorities in Essex but there is still more that people can do to help the environment. 

"Our local residents and Harlow District Council deserve praise for what has been achieved but there is obviously more that we can do to improve the council's standing in the Essex league table. 

"We are all only too aware of the importance of recycling and it is vital that we continue to reduce the amount of our household waste that ends up at landfill sites."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon lends his support to the 'Love Where You Live' campaign

Published on 16 June 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon is supporting this year's 'Love Where You Live' campaign which will see students at Passmores School and Technology College, Harlow, taking part in a wide range of community-based projects. 

Mr Halfon and Essex County Councillor Jeremy Lucas, the cabinet member for environment and waste, will be at Passmores School and Technology College, Tendring Road, Harlow, CM18 6RW, for a photocall and interview opportunity at 8.45am on Thursday, June 23. 

The Essex County Council initiative aims to be Essex’s biggest ever community improvement campaign. 

This year’s campaign will build on the success of last year’s 'Love Where You Live Week'which saw more than 1,000 volunteers take part in 40 local clean-up events across Essex. 

Passmores students will be supporting the campaign by taking part in their annual Community Day spending the day undertaking a wide range of projects to benefit the local community. 

The students work with a wide range of local people including younger children, older residents, disabled people and community groups. 

Last year the Passmores Community Day won the competition for ‘Best Blog’ as part of Love Where You Live Week, and received £500 worth of DIY vouchers. It is a prime example of the type of activity that residents will be encouraged to organise for this year’s campaign. 

Mr Halfon said: "I am delighted to be able to support this year's 'Love Where You Live' campaign and especially the efforts of the students at Passmores School and Technology College. 

"Their efforts last year were a credit to the students themselves, their school and Harlow and it these sort of efforts which further illustrate how the 'Big Society' is alive and well in Harlow. 

"I look forward to seeing what the youngsters will be doing to benefit their community this year." From July residents will be able to visit the new Love Where You Live 2011 website www.goodforessex.org/lovewhereyoulive and register their own event. 

Everyone who does this will receive a free support pack to help them plan their activity.

Harlow MP Robert Halfon leads call for end to 'Great Petrol/Diesel Rip Off'

Published on 14 June 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has successfully led a debate in parliament on the high cost of petrol and diesel. 

Speaking after today's debate in Westminster Hall, Mr Halfon said: "We want a fair deal for fuel for motorists and businesses." 

He has called for various measures to be taken: 

Mr Halfon says: 

1) We need a fair fuel rebate, so that when the oil price falls, the big energy companies face a choice: 

Either cut prices, or the Government will impose a windfall tax on energy profits, and use the money to cut petrol prices anyway. 

This would be a solution to the Great British Petrol rip-off, which saw the major energy firms announcing record profits in the first quarter of 2011. 

The AA, RAC, and FairFuelUK have all said publicly, that if the 2p drop in the market cost of petrol had been passed on to motorists earlier this year, it would have wiped out most of the impact of the 2.5p VAT rise. 

That is why I have written to the big energy firms asking for price transparency. 

2) We must commit to no more petrol tax rises in this Parliament. George Osborne has already cut fuel duty by 1p and scrapped Labour’s fuel duty escalator. 

He has also delayed inflationary rises by a year. But I would ask him to go further, and look at abolishing even the inflationary rises. 

3) We must establish a Commission to look at radical ideas, and other ways for the Government to raise revenue, to address the unfairness where UK fuel duty is so out of line with the rest of Europe.

Mr Halfon added: "I made the case in the strongest possible terms that there should be no more rises in fuel duty during the rest of this Parliament. 

"Petrol and diesel are necessities for everyone in my own community of Harlow and for the whole country. 

"As well as no more rises in fuel duty I am urging that the Government sets up a Commission into why fuel prices at the pump are still far too high, even though oil has fallen on the international markets and to examine alternatives to rising fuel duty." 

Mr Halfon said that when the fuel protests broke out in the year 2000 the country was worried about 80p per litre, and the damage it might do to the economy. 

"But now even the cheapest petrol station in my town is charging 133p per litre," 

Mr Halfon said. "This means the average Harlow motorist spends £1,700 a year just to fill their tank. A tenth of the average Harlow income." 

Mr Halfon added: "Harlow families now pour at least £63 million of petrol into their cars and vans every year (of which about £40 million is tax). Not to mention gas and electricity bills, which are also spiralling out of control. 

"That is the story of Harlow: a town held to ransom by petrol prices. But across the country we see the same tragedy." 

Peter Carroll, of FairFuelUK said: "Motorists and businesses are rightly furious that oil prices have fallen, but pump prices still remain very high. 

"Nearly every MP present at the debate agreed with the call for more transparency in the market so that hard pressed motorists and businesses can see ‘who’ is taking ‘what’ out of the price of a litre.

"FairFuelUK strongly supported the call by Mr Halfon that the Government should commit to no more rises at all in fuel duty in this Parliament. 

The plan is that fuel duty will rise in January. We have to stop that rise."

FairFuelUK is supported by the RAC, the Road Haulage Association and the Freight Transport Association together with over 150,000 members of the public. 

Justine Greening MP, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, replied in the debate on behalf of the Government and acknowledged the role of FairFuelUK in the run up to this year's Budget. 

Several MPs made special mention of the plight of UK road hauliers who are being undercut by foreign lorries that are pouring into the UK with tanks full fuel bought on the continent at up to 24p per litre lower duty levels. 

Mr Carroll added: "This debate was just the start of a long battle in Parliament. All our recent polling quite clearly shows that the cost of fuel is right at the top of people’s agenda. 

"We urge everyone who is suffering from the effects of high fuel prices to sign up their support at www.fairfueluk.com

Harlow MP Robert Halfon at forefront of campaign to challenge the 'Great British Petrol/Diesel Price Rip Off' in Parliament debate

Published on 10 June 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon will raise the issue of fuel prices in a parliamentary debate on Tuesday.

News that the debate - called for by Mr Halfon - will be taking place, at 1pm, has been welcomed by the FairFuelUK campaign. 

Campaigners will be challenging the high cost of petrol and diesel. 

Mr Halfon,. who is Parliamentary Champion of the Fair Fuel Campaign, said: "The cost of petrol and diesel is the number one issue in my constituency and across the UK. 

"Motorists and businesses are genuinely suffering, and the high fuel price is an obstacle to bringing jobs back and getting our economy moving again. 

"I have campaigned on this issue for many months, meeting with the Prime Minister and raising this frequently in the House of Commons." 

He added: "I welcome what the Government did in the recent Budget to cut fuel duty and to avoid Gordon Brown's planned tax hike. However we still urgently need transparency. 

"The oil price is falling internationally but hard-pressed British motorists, businesses and road freight companies are still paying inflated prices at the pump. 

"That's why I have written to all the major energy companies, to ask if they will lower their prices across the country. 

"I am delighted MPs will be given the opportunity to debate this vital issue."

Immediately after the debate, Mr Halfon will formally announce the formation of an All party Working Group on FairFuelUK at a press conference on College Green (2pm). 

The FairFuelUK campaign is backed by the RAC, the two major road freight bodies, the Road Haulage Association and the Freight Transport Association and over 155,000 members of the public. 

This parliamentary move comes during a period of mounting anger from businesses and the motoring public that oil prices have fallen, but pump prices have stayed high.

MP fights for cucumber growers

Published on 10 June 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has asked the Government to help with the crisis hitting cucumber growers in the Lee Valley, and across the UK. 

Following the E-Coli outbreak in Germany, sales of British cucumbers have fallen by 30 to 50 per cent, even though UK produce is perfectly safe. 

Mr Halfon is campaigning for compensation for the farmers, from the 150 million Euro fund announced by the European Commission, an end to Russian sanctions against British produce, as cucumbers grown here are perfectly safe, and a communication campaign from the Government, reassuring the public that our cucumbers are safe to eat. 

Mr Halfon has also spoken personally with the Farming Minister, Jim Paice MP, about the plight of small farms and pack-houses in his constituency in the last few days. 

When Mr Halfon raised this in Parliament, the Government's reply had some glimmers of hope, as the Leader of the House, Sir George Young, promised to take forward the question of compensation for farmers that have lost their livelihoods. 

Mr Halfon later said: "Since the crisis broke I have been in regular contact with the Ministerial team in DEFRA, and I know they are pushing hard to protect British interests at the European level. As we speak, Lord Henley is at an emergency agriculture council in Luxembourg on this very subject.

"But we must do more. The European Commission has proposed giving at least 150 million Euros in compensation to the farmers hit by this deadly outbreak. We must redouble our efforts, to ensure that British farmers get their fair share of this aid." 

He added: "Secondly, many large countries such as Russia have used this crisis not just to ban imports of German cucumbers, but to impose heavy trade embargoes on British produce as well, even though our cucumbers are perfectly safe. That's why I have asked the Government to pressure Russia to lift their unfair ban. 

"Finally, I would urge the Government to continue reassuring the public. Supermarkets and shoppers need to hear that British cucumbers are safe, and that this Government is standing four-square behind our local farmers at this difficult time. 

"On Saturday I will be meeting with many cucumber growers and businesses from the Roydon and Nazeing area of my constituency, to hear their problems and see if I can help."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon welcomes Government's action on immigration

Published on 9 June 2011

THE Government's action to reduce immigration has been welcomed by Harlow MP Robert Halfon.

Immigration Minister Damian Green has said that to control immigration the Government istaking action to address all the main routes of entry - work, family, education - simultaneously, and is clamping down on illegal immigration while also getting to grips with the asylum system too. 

Mr Halfon said: "Of course some immigration is welcome. But we are a small crowded Island with 65 million people. We don't have the room. It is a simple as that." 

He added: "National identity is a good thing. Look at the USA - a country with millions of immigrants, yet with one identity. 

"I wish we displayed our flag in the way the Americans display theirs in their homes and schools. Our problem has been that we have accepted immigrants without encouraging a sense of national identity at the same time." 

Mr Green says the previous Labour government presided over a period of "uncontrolled immigration" with net migration totalling 2.2 million - twice the population of Birmingham - which "put unacceptable pressure on public services and harmed community relations".

In the past year the Government has taken steps to control the immigration numbers and improve the efficiency of the system. 

It has: 

* introduced the first ever annual limit on work visas. This will ensure skilled British workers have a level playing field to compete for jobs. 

* set the cap on economic migration at 20,700 and will limit the number of people UK employers will be able to bring from outside the EU to work in skilled professions 

* there will be an extra 1,000 visas for people of ‘exceptional talent’ to ensure the country remains open to the brightest and the best 

* introduced reforms to the widely-abused student visa system. The government estimates this will cut net migration by more than 60,000. Students who want to come here should be able to speak English, to support themselves financially without taking paid employment, and to show they are coming for study, not for work. Government reforms will both enable our universities and trusted private schools and colleges to go on attracting the best students from overseas, and at the same time crack down on abuses to the system. 

* cleared the backlog of nearly 500,000 asylum cases discovered in 2005 without declaring an amnesty. Each case has been examined individually. More than 36,000 individuals have been removed and the rate of approval has remained at the same level. The Government will be creating a Border Police Command, as part of a new National Crime Agency. 

By April 2012 every passenger on non-EU flights will be checked in advance of travel using the e-borders system. 

And the Government is committed to reintroducing exit checks by 2015 because counting people in and out of the country will give us better control over those who overstay. 

The Government will also take steps to cut the link between temporary and permanent migration, and to control abuses of the family migration route.

Harlow MP Robert Halfon backs theatre group's bid for National Lottery funding

Published on 6 June 2011

THE Harlow-based Razed Roof performing arts group has been shortlisted for the semi-final of the National Lottery Awards 'Best Art Project' for its work 'Inclusion Through Practice'. 

The group's success in the semi-final depends on a public vote, and Mr Halfon is urging people to take a minute to back their efforts. 

Mr Halfon has been delighted to watch Razed Roof on a number of occasions most recently at Harlow Playhouse and the Harlow Fire Station Disability Day. 

Mr Halfon said: "Razed Roof is an inclusive performing arts group which is doing great work in Harlow - work which is being appreciated by a great many local people. 

"It would be fantastic if Razed Roof were to be successful in the National Lottery best arts project - but to do so they need your help." 

To support Razed Roof visit www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/awards/best- arts-project/92/ or ring 0844 836 9672. 

Voting continues until midday on Monday, June 20. 

Razed Roof is based at Harlow Playhouse where an inclusive group of up to 40 participants work together for over six hours every Thursday with the support of an experienced team of staff. 

The group is made up of adults with specific learning difficulties and disabilities and young people from mainstream education. 

The group provides theatre skills training and opportunities for performing publicly. 

Building social skills and confidence is an integral part of the work.

Harlow MP Robert Halfon visits Harlow projects which have received Big Lottery funding

Published on 3 June 2011

HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has praised the contributions being made by Harlow organisations which have benefited from Big Lottery funding. 

Mr Halfon was joined by Sara Betsworth, Head of Region for the Big Lottery Fund, when he visited the Young Concern Trust in Harlow to see the brand new youth counselling and support centre recently opened by Joe Thomas star of the television show, the Inbetweeners. 

The scheme received Big Lottery funding totalling £50,000 in November 2009 through the People's Millions project to enable it to create a youth counselling and support centre through renovating the building the charity currently has a 20-year lease on. 

Mr Halfon said: "The Young Concern Trust provides vital counselling service for people in Harlow and thanks to the funding it has received from the lottery it will be able to continue to support young people in the Harlow area." 

Mr Halfon also visited Harlow’s Stroke Support Club which meets regularly and has a thriving social network. 

The club received £178,477 last September to allow it to continue its work. 

Mr Halfon said: "The stroke support club provides a valuable service to people recovering from stroke and also works with their families. 

"This is just yet another example of a local organisation working hard and well to support local people."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon welcomes support for his campaign to bring a University Technical College to Harlow

Published on 30 May 2011

MP Robert Halfon has been working closely for many months with Harlow College to prepare a bid to bring a University Technical College to Harlow. 

There is a groundswell of local support for this bid. 

The organisations to publicly back the bid now include Harlow District Council, Harlow Chambers of Commerce, Essex FSB, the Chartered Institute of Journalists, Pearson UK, a number of local engineering firms and the Joint Contracts Tribunal Ltd. 

These local employers have added their weight to the bid, after Mr Halfon also secured the backing of Prime Minister David Cameron and Education Secretary Michael Gove (who has promised to visit Harlow College this autumn to see how the plans are progressing). 

The bid is due to be submitted on Wednesday June 1, 2011. 

Mr Halfon said: "I have worked very hard on this for over a year helping Harlow College with their plans for a new University Technical College. "If we get this it would transform the lives of young Harlow people." 

He added: "I have done this because I am passionate about giving young people opportunities and skills, and helping them to get good jobs. 

"I am also passionate about social justice. A University Technical College together with a growth in apprenticeships will help achieve this. 

"My commitment to young people and apprenticeships is why I employed the first ever MP's apprentice - a local lad from Harlow College called Andy Huckle." 

The Harlow University Technical College (UTC) - will be a brand new type of college specialising in high