JimfromOldham

This week in Parliament

Education Questions kicked things off on Monday. I pressed ministers for clarity on the proposed 𝗢𝗹𝗱𝗵𝗮𝗺 𝗘𝘁𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿 𝗦𝗶𝘅𝘁𝗵 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗺 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲. It was announced back in 2023 and parents, the council and local providers deserve straight answers on where it now stands. I also pushed again for 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄𝗲𝗱 so moreContinue reading “This week in Parliament”

Backing crackdown on fireworks

Many residents tell me about the distress caused by nuisance fireworks. Despite our work with GMP and Oldham Council through licensing checks, warning letters and early intervention, the current rules limit what can be done. Fireworks should bring joy, not anxiety for neighbours, those with sensory issues, pets or veterans living, or anyone who wantsContinue reading “Backing crackdown on fireworks”

TfGM’s investment in Royton is welcome but the plans still need work

We contacted TfGM because parts of the scheme did not carry public support, including the changes to the right turn from High Barn Street and the proposal to remove the guard rails. Those rails are there to keep pedestrians safe and to guide people to the proper crossing points. Public concern is understandable. A largeContinue reading “TfGM’s investment in Royton is welcome but the plans still need work”

Protecting local news & holding social media giants to account

For generations our local papers, radio and broadcasters in our borough have told the story of our communities and held power to account. But the world has changed. Print readership has fallen sharply and advertising has moved to global tech companies. These platforms rely on the work of local journalists but often give very littleContinue reading “Protecting local news & holding social media giants to account”

Corpus Christi visit Parliament …

It was a pleasure to meet with the pupils from Chadderton’s Corpus Christi RC School in Parliament. After a full tour which included the Commons and Lords I caught up with them in the Education Centre to talk about the role of an MP and to take questions. Great to meet you all!

Where has the time gone!

Exactly 10 years ago today, the Oldham West & Royton by-election took place and I was elected as its Member of Parliament. It has been an honour and a privilege to serve for all those in the communities of Oldham West, Chadderton & Royton for the past decade, and as councillor in the borough forContinue reading “Where has the time gone!”

Homelessness Debate in Westminster Hall

I spoke in the well subscribed debate on Homelessness today, and I was keen to put the human cost forward as well as the financial cost of failure. In Oldham there are 517 households with 633 children living in temporary B&B and shared nightly facility accommodation. Though we call it temporary accommodation 10% have beenContinue reading “Homelessness Debate in Westminster Hall”

Pressing for clarity on Oldham Eton Star Sixth Form

Eton backed Star Sixth Form in Oldham was announced by the Tory government in August 2023. The Labour government announced a review of the national programme over a year ago to consider its value for money and added value in local areas of the overall programme (not Oldham specificity) and the priority of special needsContinue reading “Pressing for clarity on Oldham Eton Star Sixth Form”