What an excellent opinion column by the excellent local MP, Sir John Hayes.
It comes as little surprise that he was a friend of Tony Benn, as John is popular and respected by many politicians across the House of Commons. Not least because of the excellent work he did as a Government Minister, much of it ground breaking. For example, he devised the recent Acts on automated vehicles and before that skilfully guided vital legislation on counter terrorism, energy, infrastructure and education through Parliament.
Throughout all of this, Sir John built bridges across politics, as can be seen from reading the content of debates.
Locally too, John has worked with local politicians (from all parties) in campaigning for the area – just look at the recent successful effort to maintain the minor injuries unit at Spalding hospital for example, or his leadership of the campaign (again successful) to save the Deepings of St James signal box.
It is no surprise that the man who stood against him for Labour at the last general election was such an admirer of Sir John.
I read his recent opinion column on the importance of manners and kindness within political discourse with interest. What a breath of fresh air. I hope he will write more often.
Andrew Livsey
via email
