Ian Taylor MP News

Leaving the House: Ian Taylor MP - BBC News
March 2010

Nearly 140 MPs are standing down from Parliament at the next election, the largest number for more than 60 years.

Two of these, Labour's Jane Kennedy and Conservative Ian Taylor, are reflecting on their decision to say goodbye to Parliament, how they are spending their remaining days at Westminster and what life holds for them in the future.

The vote last week to support the Wright Committee reforms could be the beginning of a recovery of Parliamentary influence.

I greet this with just a bit of envy of the opportunities for the next generation if they grasp the new powers to make the House more effective, more accountable and more relevant to the people outside it.

They will be more able to create new laws and hold the government to account. As long as not all newcomers are obsessed with becoming ministers instantly, Parliament could become lively.

It needs to be. Perhaps it is just the way a long-standing MP recalls the "good old days" but oratory in the House has declined. Too many colleagues clutch notes or even worse, read speeches or even questions.

This used to be unacceptable - and must become so again.
 
The art I miss most is the 'wind-up' session to major debates. This was an opportunity for a junior minister to shine as the secretaries of state chose to open debates.

The Chamber filled up around 9.30pm and we often listened to a proper debating exchange where reputations were won and lost.

Now debates tend to drift to a somnambulant conclusion with far too many prepared scripts.

I would change the time allocated to prime minister's questions and reintroduce twice weekly shorter sessions with an attempt, backed by the Speaker, to elicit more enlightenment than the current gladiatorial contest archives.

I was the first MP to ask Tony Blair a question in May 1997 and regretted the change to the once-a-week appearances. Also, we should recall that William Hague wowed the House with his wit and thrust but the public were turned off. The lesson has not yet been fully learned today.

As I enter my final few weeks my office is a bit of a sight - too many storage boxes and my PA cheerfully nagging me that "we must go through this pile to avoid throwing away precious documents".

Twenty three years of memories - some of which I am happily discarding but others on which I look back fondly.

Highlights include supporting employee share ownership in the late 1980s; being on the Foreign Affairs Select Committee when the Berlin Wall was falling; my spell as Minister for Science & Technology; voting against the Iraq War and many others.

Meanwhile, as I prepare to disappear, I seem to have more groups inviting me to speak - a strange paradox.

Recently I squeezed in a speech on the taboo subject of Europe to a sixth form conference. I have also given talks outside the House to engineers, universities and schools on my pet subjects of science, technology, security and space.

This week I am off to the launch of the Big Bang Fair in Manchester to celebrate the uplifting efforts of young scientists and engineers.

I must make my final speech in the chamber this month - what is the opposite of 'maiden' speech?. In Westminster, I chair several all party committees and these are very active. It is these committees that I shall miss most - and the dining clubs with convivial colleagues.

It is going to be a strange few weeks but I am excited by the challenges I face outside Westminster - I am developing a portfolio of business interests plus a trusteeship of a charity.

Nevertheless, my wife is suddenly aware that she might soon see more of me - the prospect of which she is not entirely overjoyed. I am encouraging her to see some benefits, especially as we reclaim weekends for ourselves in London with theatres, galleries, restaurants and parks.

My constituency has chosen an excellent and cerebral candidate. Like policemen, candidates seem to get younger.

But his enthusiasm and energy are just what are needed. We work well together - and at recent branch AGMs he has spoken first so I am realising the value of a warm-up act!

I have really enjoyed constituency work and meetings over the years. The often awful personal and local problems have been challenging for me and my excellent and hard-working staff. But successes are really satisfying. I shall miss this aspect of an MP's life.

So I should be content if my epitaph could be "we may have disagreed with his views on various issues, but he was a jolly good constituency MP".

Letter which Ian Taylor has sent to Dr. Andrew Povey, Leader of Surrey County Council on the state of Surrey roads
March 2010

Dear Andrew,

Thank you for sending me a copy of your letter to Dame Margaret Eaton, LGA Chairman regarding the urgent need for emergency funding and in the longer term, more Government investment in our road network. 

As you mention, the issue of potholes in Surrey roads is causing many complaints from motorists.  I know that following the initial snow, the Council announced that £500,000 would be made available for repair work on potholes.  However, the continuing icy/rainy weather has taken its further toll on the roads and I am receiving e-mails daily from constituents highlighting specific “holes” and from those whose cars have been damaged through driving into potholes.

Clearly this is a problem across the country but Surrey’s roads were already in a poor state of repair.  As you pointed out, usage of our roads is far greater than in many areas and this has been exacerbated by year-on-year low government funding.

I support the call for a permanent increase in real investment in our roads, so I have written to the Secretary of State for Transport calling on him to make emergency funds available to councils to address the immediate “pothole” problem but also to respond to the urgent need for greater investment in the road network.

However, the Government persistently underfunds Surrey, so nothing unexpected there.  Accordingly, I find it difficult to understand why you have announced a council tax for next year which leaves the Council inadequate funds for repairing the damage to our roads now. This is County Council responsibility -  not one for individual road users.

In view of the degree of concern, I have released my letter to a wider audience.

Yours sincerely,

Signed Ian Taylor MBE MP

pdf file
 

MP thanked for pledging to ‘do his bit’ for British Armed Forces & attends Esher march-past on 19th February 2010

an Taylor MP for Esher & Walton has been thanked for pledging to doing his bit for the British Armed Forces family. He will also be in attendance on Friday 19th February at the march-past in Esher High-Street of the 22 Battery Royal Artillery and he sits on the Surrey Lord Lieutenant's Royal British Legion Fund-raising committee for whom he is hosting a lunch that day at Sandown Park for the Royal Artillery Cup.

Ian Taylor MP is pictured being presented by Legion staff member, Bethan Herbert, with a giant replica of the personalised pledge card which he has been given in recognition of his pledge.

 
Ian Taylor MP met with a delegation from The Royal British Legion at Westminster to get behind the charity's call for MPs of all parties to support the Armed Forces. He also discussed the Legion's manifesto and the changes that it is calling for.
 
The manifesto sets out priorities for the next Government to improve conditions for the British Armed Forces past and present and their families. It encourages MPs and prospective parliamentary candidates (PPCs) to "do their bit" for Service Personnel and their families, the bereaved, veterans and dependants.
 
During the meeting, Ian was photographed with a giant replica of the personalised pledge card, which he has been given by the Legion in recognition of his pledge. [see photo attached].
 
Kevin Shinkwin, the Legion's Head of Public Affairs, said, "We're delighted to give Ian Taylor his pledge card. Our message to every MP and candidate standing at the general election is very simple: "It's time to do your bit. How you do that is entirely up to you but pledging publicly at www.timetodoyourbit.org.uk is a great way of showing your support for the whole Armed Forces family, both now and beyond the general election."
 
"Both the serving and ex-Service community need the support of politicians," he added. "Our manifesto outlines practical ways the next government can help, and we hope all the parties will give it serious consideration".
 
Ian Taylor MP said, "I have always supported the Armed Forces – even when I voted against the Iraq War, I made clear that the armed services had my support when they engaged in combat. My elder son is now an Army Captain, and served in Iraq, and twice in Afghanistan, so I understand the thoughts of families of men and women serving at the front line.”

Ian Taylor MP Helps Thames Learning Group Set Sail
New Partnership To Aid Enjoyment and Learning Potential of The Thames January 2010

Esher & Walton MP Ian Taylor has helped launch The Thames Learning Group – a new initiative from education, environmental and heritage organisations along the River Thames, dedicated to helping local schools and adult learners maximise the benefit from the Thames.
 
The Thames Learning Group covers the length of the Thames from source to sea and involves over 60 organisations through to the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, the National Trust, RSPB and many more.
 
The aim of the Thames Learning Group is to provide an easy to use resource for schools and adult learners looking to access the River and its surrounds. Topics range from learning outside the classroom for schools through to bird watching, river ecology and the history and heritage of the Thames. Schools, colleges, community groups and individuals in Esher & Walton can now use the Partnership to provide learning opportunities tailored to them and plan trips along the river.
 
Members of Parliament, including Ian Taylor MP, joined other member of the All Party Group for the Thames at a special event at the House of Commons on 2 February 2010. They confirmed their support for the Group, confirming the significance and value of the Thames.
 
Ian Taylor MP said: “The River is one of the world’s most fascinating, exciting, mysterious and beautiful rivers. It is a tremendous resource for Esher & Walton, one that must be cared for and enjoyed by all. Many of my constituents already enjoy activities associated with the river but this new Group should open up the wonders of the river to many more. From understanding more about the wildlife we share with the riverbank through to school projects and more, the river provides something for everyone.   Making access to the wide range of benefits the river can provide is an excellent initiative and should encourage local schools and other groups to get on board and discover the river.”

Paul Mainds, Co-Chair, The Thames Learning Partnership and Chief Executive of the River & Rowing Museum, Henley on Thames said: “The Thames is often a hidden jewel when it comes to learning – but when discovered it provides inspiration and unparalleled opportunities for understanding and enjoyment and is often the beginning of a life long love for the River. Over the last 12 months alone at the River & Rowing Museum we have welcomed over 20,000 children and adults through our education programme. For schools the Thames provides the opportunity to bring subjects to life outside of the classroom, while adult learners benefit from the unique environment and heritage that the Thames provides. The new Group simplifies getting access to the benefits of the river – from Palaces to Piers, Castles to Cormorants, there is something for everyone!”
 
For further information about:

The Thames Learning Group please contact  The River Thames Alliance Learning Partnership
01491 415605 or www.visitthames.co.uk/learning

The Thames Estuary Partnership
020 7679 0540 or www.thamesweb.com

Protecting children from sexual predators.
January 2010

The murder of little Sarah Payne in 2000 by a man later found already to have been convicted of sex offences, shocked the nation.   As their MP, I had several meetings with the parents, and went with the mother, Sara, to meet the Home Secretary to see what might be done. The traumas associated with the savage killing caused a campaign to be launched for "Sarah's Law" and provoked demonstrations to increase efforts to keep children safe from predatory paedophiles. 
 
 I have always been careful not to endorse full and automatic public access to information about sex offenders - such schemes could lead to vigilante attacks and could drive offenders further underground from where they could be dangerous. Yet it is clear that some greater protection and sense of security for families is needed.  
 
So I gave a cautious welcome to the 2008 announcement of trial of a limited and restricted sex offender scheme in Southampton, Warwickshire, north Cambridgeshire and Stockton-on-Tees. The early results of the trials appear to be extremely encouraging and the project has protected children as intended. In the first six months 150 parents made inquiries. Of those, ten were given relevant information.

Under the pilots, parents, carers and guardians were be able to ask the police for information as to whether someone with access to a child has convictions or has been previously suspected of abuse. Disclosure is only made to parents and others with a direct interest in a child about a carer who has regular unsupervised access. The police and probation service consider each individual request. In each of the pilot areas police have been obliged to look into the background of individuals and consider providing information to parents. This might include confirmation of a previous conviction for sexual offences, domestic violence or an indication that the individual is suspected of being a danger to children. However, police may choose not to disclose information, such as convictions, if child protection teams conclude the individual no longer poses a risk to youngsters.
 
In as much as the pilots empowered the parent to take the initiative and register an interest in an individual, they have my support as indeed would the wider rolling out of the scheme. I hope that the government will continue to work closely with police, charities and other bodies to ensure that the scheme achieves its objective of safeguarding children.
 
Sexual perverts continue to be tracked down. The news of consideration of extension of the pilot schemes comes in the week after a Hersham man, a former school teacher, received a prison sentence for on-line sexual abuse and has been banned from working with children and placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for the next five years.
 
Sara Payne, who is now the government's Victims Tsar, has been undergoing treatment after complications following brain surgery but is said to have responded well. I hope this news will speed her full recovery. She is an impressive campaigner for safety of other children in her daughter's memory.
 

Ian Taylor MP - Carbon Monoxide - Be Alarmed!
Press release dated January 24th 2010

Ian Taylor MP warns of deadly Carbon Monoxide risk

Ian Taylor MP said:
 
“Carbon Monoxide is a deadly gas that you can’t see, smell or taste.  I urge every householder in Esher and Walton to ensure that they have an alarm and that they have their fuel-burning appliances serviced each year by a professional.”
 
“I would like to see a requirement for all new homes to be fitted with an alarm and for landlords to provide an alarm before they can receive their annual gas safety certificate.”
 
 
For many years Ian Taylor MP has been working with the charity CO-Gas Safety, whose President is his constituent, Mrs Stephanie Trotter.  CO-Gas Safety - The Carbon Monoxide and Gas Safety Society is an independent registered charity who work tirelessly to try to reduce accidents from Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning and other gas dangers.   Ian Taylor MP has made many representations over the years to the relevant Ministers lobbying for changes to legislation and a heightened awareness campaign to educate about this deadly danger.   New research shows that  76% of households in the South East are putting themselves at risk of poisoning by not having an audible Carbon Monoxide alarm. 
 
Carbon Monoxide is produced when fuel-burning appliances are incorrectly fitted, badly repaired, poorly maintained or if flues, chimneys or vents are blocked.  Lives can be saved by  a Carbon Monoxide alarm – it’s the only way to detect this killer. You can buy an alarm from around £15 at DIY stores, supermarkets, high street shops or directly from energy suppliers.  A number of retailers will also be offering special discounts in support of our the Carbon Monoxide – Be Alarmed campaign this January. 
 
The campaign recommends four simple steps to keep your household safe:
•       Fit an audible Carbon Monoxide alarm which should be marked with the ‘EN50291′ safety standard
•       Have fuel-burning appliances serviced annually by a registered professional
•       Don’t block ventilation and get chimneys swept at least once a year
 
Anyone wishing to learn more about the danger signs and symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning can visit the Campaign website at www.co-bealarmed.co.uk
 

Ian Taylor’s  Question to the Home Secretary in the House of Commons -
Press release dated January 7th 2010

M.P. Questions the Home Secretary on Aviation and Border Security
 
I share the relief that so many lives were saved when the attempt by Umah Farouk Abdulmutallab to destroy a passenger plane at Detroit airport on Christmas day was prevented.   He attempted to detonate a device that was strapped to his upper thigh and groin area which resulted in a fire and a small explosion.    Abdulmutallab was restrained and subdued by passengers and flight crew and is now in US custody.  This was a very lucky escape for the many passengers who would not have stood a chance at survival had the device detonated successfully.
 
Authorities in the US, UK, Netherlands, Nigeria and Yemen are now doing everything possible to look at Abdulmutallab's movements before this attack, so that urgent steps can be put in place to prevent further suicide bombers.
 
What this highlights is the great need for forethought and forward planning so that we can be ahead of those who subscribe to this nasty and perverted philosophy of mass killing. Reactive gestures after the fact are too little too late although one measure to reduce the recurrence of this type of attack is the plan is to introduce more body scanners. The first scanners will be deployed in around three weeks at Heathrow and over time, they will be introduced more widely. Additionally, all UK airports are to introduce explosive trace detection equipment by the end of the year. To defeat the terrorist threat requires constant vigilance and adaptability.  We must also place privacy in context of risk assessment. Some of the scanning technologies protect privacy as they do not produce images of intimate body details, removing the need to restrict screening to adults only and for same gender operators or privacy filters.
 
It is true that a great deal of progress has been made in enhancing national security since 9/11 in the USA and 7/7 here, but terrorists are inventive. The scale and nature of the threat is constantly changing and we need to harness new technologies to meet new threats. With this in mind I asked the Home Secretary this week:
 
Ian Taylor MP asked Home Secretary:
 
Terrorists watch very carefully the technology that we deploy. Does the Home Secretary realise that the term "scanners" covers a wide range of things? Some use millimetre technology; others use terahertz; some require one to go through a box, and others can scan remotely in airport lounges or railway stations. Will the Government please institute a research programme? Several British companies are involved in such research, but the Government never pull through new technologies. We need to stay ahead of the terrorists, not deploy after an incident'.
 
To which the Alan Johnson, Home Secretary, replied:
 
The hon. Gentleman makes a valuable point. I do not accept that we have been slow in dealing with this. We are due to meet Smiths Industries shortly, and the document that Lord West, our security Minister, produced in August 2009 was specifically aimed at the scientific community and innovators to get things moving and find new ways to deal with such matters. It is important to stress that there is a great deal of British technology that we can exploit. We need to ensure that we get the right body scanners-that is one reason for talking to the airlines. The hon. Gentleman is right to say that there is a variety of scanners, and we need to use the most effective.'
 
A former Home Secretary, John Reid, then added
 
 “A range of search procedures and technologies is required. Above all, as Mr. Taylor said, constant innovation in our thinking must be embedded in everything that we do. Will the Home Secretary therefore build on Lord West's good work and ensure that a partnership of the Government, academia and private industry is given more resources so that we can we stay ahead of the curve and the terrorists' thinking in introducing new ways of terror?”
 
Our national security must be a priority and better protected. It is clear that no one measure will be enough to defeat inventive and determined terrorists.  Airport security is multifaceted and needs to adapt constantly to evolving threats. We also need to be aware – as I have warned before – that other transport systems are vulnerable especially as we approach the 2012 Olympic Games in London
 

Ian Taylor MP’s Westminster Report 2009

full report

Chilcot Enquiry Elmbridge article Dec 2009

Although it has not made all the headlines, the launch of the Chilcot Inquiry into Britain's involvement in the
Iraq War has started its work. The inquiry was set up by the Prime Minister to examine the reasons for Britain's
involvement in the 2003 U.S. led invasion and the subsequent occupation of Iraq. It is vital that this enquiry -
not the first - is more thorough, impartial, objective and fair investigation. We need to have the full story so
everyone can understand the basis for the war. It is of particular importance to the families of those killed
during the operation. Those of you with good memories will know that in March 2003 I voted against the
government as I considered that the case for war against Iraq had not been established and I predicted that
there was no plan for establishing stability thereafter. My reasons for voting against were set out at length at
the time and can be found on my website.

Locally, my post bag has been swamped by letters and emails expressing alarm over powers granted to councils
under the little-known Clean Neighbourhood and Environment Act to introduce Dog Control Orders which have
recently been the subject of public consultation in Elmbridge. There are aspects of the proposals which point to
the ever increasing amount of regulation yet there are no powers to force local authorities to introduce such
Orders - so it is a matter for Councillors to decide. That is why local democracy is important - I am saddened
that when it comes to borough elections only about 40 per cent turn out to vote.

I know from listening to some constituents that there have been complaints about aggressive or untrained dogs in
public places in Elmbridge which appear to be threatening people and other animals. Also, too many dog owners do
not clean up after their pets. But equally I know that many responsible dog owners and walkers are now worried
about the over-restrictive nature of the proposals. Blanket bans simply do not work and punish the majority for
the faults of a few. A fair balance is required and I hope common sense will prevail.

Another issue which has certainly got temperatures rising this winter was the sudden announcement of months
of closure to traffic along Seven Hills Road in Hersham which has caused enormous anger locally. I have pressed
the Council and gas company to investigate all the options which may be open to them in relation to this work.
At least, consultation has now taken place and the start delayed. But I remain very concerned about the
disruption to local residents living on Seven Hills Road and the surrounding roads together with the impact on
people who usually use these roads to access jobs, schools and other routes and the length of time that this
process will take, regardless of any overruns. Utility companies must be more sensitive to local needs.

Finally, as I sometimes fancied myself as a pop star or premiership footballer, I came closest to these
fantasies when I switched on the Christmas lights in Cobham at the end of November. And they did light up!
Despite the rain lots of people turned out to celebrate and to enjoy festive Sunday afternoon shopping and a
glass of wine. Afterwards, there was a uplifting community church service with carols. So many parts of my
constituency celebrate Advent in different ways - sorry I cannot be at them all!

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. 2009 has been a difficult year for many people in
Elmbridge for a variety of reasons. Community spirit is strong and means we care for those in need. But I hope
we can all reflect on the positive things in our lives so that as we look to the New Year our spirits are lifted.
 

Press Release - Ian Taylor MP URGES CARERS TO ‘CARE ALSO FOR THEIR INCOMES AND PENSIONS’ 4 December 2009

Ian Taylor MP for Esher and Walton has added his support to Carers UK’s national carers’ rights campaign on Friday 4th December 2009.

There are approximately 9,500 carers in Esher and Walton who provide care and support to family, friends and neighbours - an unpaid service.  The UK saves an estimated £87 billion from the work done by carers, much of which would otherwise have to be services paid for by the taxpayer, so the contribution they make to our society is priceless.  It is therefore imperative to support a day like Carers’ Rights Day, which seeks to increase the take-up of benefits; raise awareness of carers’ rights and the support that they may be entitled to in order to protect their pensions.  For individuals, help with the Carer’s Allowance, council tax discount, Pension Credit or Housing Benefit could make a huge difference to their well-being.

Ian Taylor MP said: “It’s a real concern that carers in Esher and Walton may not be getting all the help they are entitled when they are fulfilling such a compassionate role in society. Without them, the NHS and social care system would simply be unable to cope. It is therefore essential that they are given information about their rights so that they get the support they need in order to take care of themselves and make provision for their futures.”
 

Chilcot Inquiry – UK security - December 2009

I welcome the start of the Chilcot Inquiry into Britain's involvement in the Iraq War. The five-member inquiry team, headed by former civil servant, Sir John Chilcot, was set up by Prime Minister to examine the reasons for Britain's involvement in the 2003 U.S. led invasion and the subsequent occupation of Iraq.  It is vital that this enquiry – not the first – is a thorough, impartial, objective and fair investigation. We need to have the full story so everyone can understand the basis for war. It is of particular importance to the families of those killed during the operation. Those of you with good memories will know that in March 2003 I voted against the government as I considered that the case for war against Iraq had not been established.
 
However, we are currently fighting a long campaign in Afghanistan, from which we were distracted at a crucial time by concentration on Iraq. In this case, I am increasingly concerned that the morale of our troops and our success in Afghanistan is compromised as too many are questioning the need for our troops to be there.  In recent weeks, as the death toll continues to rise, there has been a rise in anti-war sentiment. We need to be cautious. The Taliban watch our domestic debate and take comfort from our lack of purpose. The tribesmen also fear we will withdraw and leave them to the mercy of the Taliban. So in my view we should be steadfast while training up the Afghan army to a state of readiness to enable it to hole up the terrorists and attempt to maintain stability. Otherwise, we risk dissipating the courage of our troops and the energy, commitment and loss of life there to date. I declare an interest – my elder son is an Army Officer who has just returned safely from his second tour in Helmand. Also, on Remembrance Sunday I met a young soldier who had returned cheerfully proud of what he had done for our country on the front line but minus both his legs from an explosion.
On another security note, I was recently invited to give lectures at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) on security, terrorism and critical national interests. One of the issues to which I drew attention was the fact the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics are likely to present the UK its greatest security challenge.  There is an urgent need to see how best to protect built-up areas, transport systems and national infrastructures from terrorist attacks both in the capital and surrounding counties such as Surrey.  The Olympics and Paralympics are about sport and not security but efforts to protect sporting competitors and the public must be thorough and co-ordinated between Whitehall, the police and armed forces.
 
The development authorities here in London have let numerous contracts for the construction of Olympic facilities. But there is not one overall contract for security - every vendor takes responsibility for the security of their part of their particular project. I must assume that responsibility will be further delegated to their subcontractors. When responsibility is dispersed, the effect is no one is really accountable – and that is the vulnerability. This needs to change. We need rapidly to set an overall strategy and then adapt the latest technologies to ensure security avoid being disruptive. It is possible - without trying to impose airport type security systems at railway and tube stations. Doing that would mean London and Surrey grinding to a halt.
 
Finally, the Government’s long awaited Floods and Water Management Bill has just started its journey through Parliament.  I am supportive of moves to define clearly the role of the Environment Agency as the lead agency and I am meeting the Thames Regional Manager shortly to look at the Local Flood Plan in detail. We have so far been saved from the terrible flooding which has occurred in Cumbria but the threat from flooding whether local or national is becoming ever more apparent and roles need to be clearly defined in dealing with such incidents.

Olympics Security and Terrorism / Cottage Hospitals - November 2009

One of my recent contributions to the policy debate - an important part of an MP's life at Westminster - was to give two lectures at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) on security & terrorism issues. One of the issues to which I drew attention was the fact the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics are likely to present the UK its greatest security challenge.
 
There is an urgent need to see how best to protect built-up areas, transport systems and national infrastructures from terrorist attacks both in the capital and surrounding counties such as Surrey. The Olympics and Paralympics are about sport and not security but efforts to protect sporting competitors and the public must be thorough and co-ordinated between Whitehall, the police and armed forces.
 
The development authorities here in London have let numerous contracts for the construction of Olympic facilities. But there is not one overall contract for security - every vendor takes responsibility for the security of their part of their particular project. I must assume that responsibility will be further delegated to their subcontractors. When responsibility is dispersed, the effect is no one is really accountable – and that is the vulnerability. This needs to change. We need rapidly to set an overall strategy and then adapt the latest technologies to ensure security avoid being disruptive. It is possible - without trying to impose airport type security systems at railway and tube stations. Doing that would mean London grinding to a halt.
 
On a local note, I recently attended the Cobham Cottage Hospital's AGM. It was wonderful to see those who have really worked hard to keep facilities in the local community. But there are concerns about the future strategy for our cottage hospitals in Walton, Molesey, Thames Ditton and Cobham. I am pressing for better consultation from NHS Surrey.
 

Comment from Ian Taylor MP on the arrest of a man in connection with the murder of Milly Dowler - 26 October 2009

Ian Taylor MP said: "Following the news that a 40 year old man has been arrested today in connection with the police investigation into the murder of Milly Dowler, I am watching for developments. Surrey Police have never given up in their efforts to bring the perpetrator of this dreadful crime to justice. My thoughts are with the Dowler family."
 

Thames Valley MPs come together to promote the River Thames in new Parliamentary group

Following the launch on Friday September 18th 2009 Ian Taylor MP said:
 
"The Thames is one of the World's most fascinating, exciting, mysterious and beautiful rivers. From source to sea its 200-plus miles flow from bubbling springs in Gloucestershire to the site of the old London Bridge, then on to the imposing, formidable tidal estuary to the east of London.

"The launch of the new All Party Parliamentary Group on the Thames saw five MPs - Theresa May (Maidenhead), John Howell (Henley), Ian Taylor (Esher & Walton), Martin Salter (Reading West), Fiona Mactaggart (Slough) - from both Labour and Conservative Parties join together on a boat to see part of the Thames from Runnymede to Windsor.  Not only was it a pleasant journey, but gave us an opportunity to discuss issues with senior representatives of River Thames Society, the Environment Agency, Thames Water and Port of London Authority.
 
"Amongst the issues discussed were: commercial and leisure and sporting importance of the Thames; impact of climate change; coping with flood surges coming downstream; flood barriers and flood plains; extraction of fresh water and recycling of waste water; condition of tributary rivers; preservation of wild life; maintenance of locks and support for lock-keepers."
 

Comment by Ian Taylor MP re: Burwood Ward at Walton Hospital 12 October 2009

"Given strained resources for health-care in Surrey, it is right that efforts be made to find efficiencies with the aim of making the best use of all and any resources available. Clearly, patient care should be protected in these calculations.
 
"Yet I am not in favour of a ‘behind closed doors’ approach. It is vital to involve all key players in discussions on such matters to allow consideration of wider impacts on the community – and failure to do so will lead to questioning of motives or intentions.
 
"This seems to be what has happened at Walton Cottage Hospital. Because of on-going confusion about the role of intermediate hospitals, when Surrey PCT made and internal decision to decommission Burwood Ward the result was indignation amongst the wide circle of supporters of the hospital.

"Further investigation clarified that this decommissioning of Burwood Ward is in fact as a result of a review undertaken set by Woking and Walton Community Hospitals since January. Revised resource allocation by discharge teams, social services and intermediate care staff resulted in the need to re-evaluate the need for Burwood Ward at this time. With nurse shortages an issue and too many empty beds, a decision was taken by the PCT to pool nurse resources and merge wards. I have had assurances that six of the seven patients currently on Burwood Ward will be relocated, along with their current nursing staff, to other wards within Walton Community Hospital. The seventh patient would have been assessed for alternative care in any case in the very near future before being relocated to a more suitable environment for the specific needs required. This needs to be monitored.
 
"Burwood Ward is apparently not closing long term. But questions remain. Why the secrecy? What policy is there for moving longer stay patients from St Peter’s into more cost-effective and pleasant surroundings at Walton? What is the mid-term strategy for Walton as an intermediate care facility? How can local GP’s use the facilities better? Is Burwood the beginning of a progressive shrinking of the local hospital? I am not saying that the internal staff have no answers – but I am stating that the wider community interested in the cottage hospital are not all aware of them."
 

MPs come together to promote the River Thames in new Parliamentary group

MPs from right across the political spectrum and the length and breadth of the Thames Valley have agreed to put their political differences to one side, even in an election year, and work together in a new cross-party Parliamentary group on the Thames which will be launched this week in Windsor. The idea for the group came from the River Thames Society following last year’s successful campaign to persuade the Environment Agency to drop its plans to sell off many of the lock-keeper’s homes along the river. The new group intends to meet in Parliament three times a year to highlight and promote the economic, cultural, recreational and environmental value of the River Thames.
The initial organisation is being done by Reading West MP Martin Salter. The MPs worked closely together last summer in opposing the lock-keeper proposals. An inaugural meeting and launch of the group took place on Friday 18th September aboard the Nuneham Steam Launch which will be cruising upstream from Runnymede Boat House near Egham to Windsor Promenade. The group will receive presentations on the work of the River Thames Society, the Environment Agency and Thames Water.

Ian Taylor MP said:-
The River Thames unites MPs with constituencies along its banks. So the new All Party Parliamentary Group will enable us to be more effective in dealing with the many issues relating to this great river. On the cruise to mark the Group’s formation, we shall be a bigger gathering than just Three Men in a Boat. I have already helped my constituency lock-keeper as part of a combined campaign. Those of us in Surrey are now monitoring the revised approach to policing our stretch of the river to ensure it is sufficient. We all want to improve access to and enjoyment of the waterway, including sporting activities, as well as recognising its commercial importance.

Martin Salter MP said:-
With the River Thames flowing through no less than four regions of England our new group will create an opportunity for Thames Valley MPs to come together and work collectively for the benefit of this fantastic and iconic feature which is such a central part of all our constituencies. The new group will give the Thames and those organisations who look after it and treasure it, access to the House of Commons and its facilities in order to pursue our agreed objectives which are to highlight and promote the economic, cultural, recreational and environmental value of the River Thames.

Peter Finch, Chairman of the River Thames Society said:-
"We are very happy that our suggestion for an All-Party Parliamentary Thames Group has been welcomed by MPs, and it is fitting that its inaugural meeting should take place afloat on the river next Friday. The Group is unique as there is no other Parliamentary forum dedicated to just one river and it will provide a useful forum for MPs to discuss matters of concern with organisations and public bodies, on a range of topics affecting the Thames, from the Source to the Sea.
 

Ian Taylor MBE MP 22 Years in Parliament

David Cameron’s Letter to Ian on celebrating 20 years in Parliament

About Ian Taylor MBE MP

Ian was born in 1945. He was educated at Whitley Abbey School in Coventry, Keele University (BA Hons in Economics, Politics & Modern History) and the London School of Economics (Research Scholar).

Ian is married to Carole and they have two sons, Arthur and Ralph.

Ian's Experience

Ian is Member of Parliament for Esher and Walton, having represented Esher from 1987-1997

Ian was Minister for Science and Technology at the Department of Trade and Industry (1994-97). He now chairs the Party's Policy Task-force on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

His previous Parliamentary appointments have included Parliamentary Private Secretary at the Foreign Office (1988-1990), the Department of Health (1990-1992) and as Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (1992-1994). He was a member of the Finance Bill Committees (1987-1994), member of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee (1987-1990 and a Member of the Science and Technology Select Committee (1998-2001). He was Shadow Front bench Spokesman on Northern Ireland (1997).

In Parliament he is a Board Member of the Parliamentary Office of Science & Technology, Director of EURIM (European Information Society Group), Vice Chairman of PITCOM (Parliamentary Information and Technology Committee) and co-Chairman of the Parliamentary Space Committee.

Other appointments have included, National Chairman of the Federation of Conservative Students (1968-1969), Chairman of the European Union of Christian Democrat and Conservative Students (1969-1970), Chairman Conservative Group for Europe (1984-1987), and Vice-President (1998-2005), Chairman of the Conservative Foreign & Commonwealth Council (1988-1993), and Patron of the Tory Reform Group (1999-). He was Chairman of the European Movement (2001 - 2004). Ian is currently the Chairman of the Conservative Group for Europe and also the Cuba Initiative.

Pamphlets written by Ian include, 'Fair Shares for all the Workers' (Adam Smith Inst, November 1988); 'A Community of Employee Shareholders', (Bow Group, March 1992); 'Releasing the Community Spirit' (Tory Reform Group, September 1990); 'The Positive Europe' (Conservative Group for Europe, May 1993); 'Escaping the Protectionist Trap' (Social Market Foundation/DTI, February 1995); 'Networking' (CPC, May 1996); & 'The Conservative Tradition in Europe' - contributor - (Mainstream, October 1998), 'Restoring the Balance' (Tory Reform Group, October 2000). 'Full Steam Ahead: The Great National debate about Britain and Europe' (Britain in Europe, July 2001), ‘Europe: Our Case’ (Tory Europe Network, 2002) and ‘Shaping the new Europe – The British Opportunity.’ (EUW: Alison Tennant Lecture, 2002), 'Twin Towers: Europe and America' (Tory Europe Network, 2003), Corporate Social Responsibility - Should Business be Socially Aware? (Tory Reform Group, 2003).

Experience outside Parliament:
In 1969, Ian joined Hill Samuel & Co (Merchant Bankers) moving on to Stirling & Co (stockbrokers) in 1971 where he created and managed the European Department. From 1975-78, he was a corporate finance advisor in Paris. On his return to London, he merged his business with Mathercourt Securities Limited (FIMBRA), providing corporate finance and management advice to developing companies in the UK and USA. After 1987, until becoming a Minister in 1994, Ian was an advisor to Commercial Union Plc. and Barclays de Zoete Wedd Investment Management.

Since the 1997 General Election, Ian has been involved in providing development capital and management assistance to smaller UK technology companies. His portfolio of business interests includes directorships of Next Fifteen Group plc, Petards Group plc, AXA Framlington Group Limited and Speed-Trap Limited.

Ian's hobbies and interests are wide-ranging including travel (especially in France), the opera, shooting and cigars.