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My call for tougher penalties for drivers who cause
death by negligent driving has certainly struck a chord with many of
you. BBC Radio Norfolk tell me my interview
with them before my House of Commons debate last week generated hundreds
of calls.
The problem was first brought to my attention
by my constituent Jennie Mason whose son Andrew, a motorcycle
instructor, was killed when a 90-year-old motorist hit his motorbike.
The man was fined £150 and given a 12-month driving ban which expires
next month.
Tragedies such as this are happening more
often. But as the law stands, stiffer sentences are difficult to obtain
in the courts unless the driver is under the influence of drink or
drugs. I very much welcome transport minister
David Jamieson’s response that he hopes to introduce a road safety bill
this autumn, which would include a review of road traffic offences.
On the farm
DOWN ON THE FARM: Richard Bacon MP admires
Holstein cow Ebony with
John Ingles, herd manager for
R.G. Taylor & Son at Starston |
All of us are aware
that farmers are having a difficult harvest this year but I was
heartened to visit to Richard and Julian Taylor's mixed farm at Starston last week. Environmentally aware and on the leading edge of
farming, the Taylors showed me their new poultry sheds.
These are a huge investment but I admire their optimism
and willingness to take risks. |
The agricultural team from
Barclays Bank who helped arrange my visit were impressive
and it is good to know that at least one bank continues to
be committed to farming.
Because the Taylors
maintain high standards of animal welfare and hygiene, their
splendid, quality herd of Holstein cows has been chosen to supply
East Anglian Co-ops with Exclusive East Anglia milk. Consumers have
voted this milk fresher tasting and with a longer life than ordinary
supermarket or doorstep milk.
In remembrance The police come in for a lot of flak these days but it’s easy to forget that
each day, men and women in the police force may be putting their lives on the
line to protect every one us. Sadly, for some, they pay the ultimate price.
Last week, in the grounds of Norfolk Police Headquarters
at Wymondham, I witnessed the opening of a beautiful memorial pool paid for with
generous contributions from Constabulary staff.
This fitting tribute can be visited by family, friends
and colleagues of those brave Norfolk police staff who have given their lives in
service to others.
▪ Need to see your MP? You can make an appointment to see Richard
by calling 01379 643728.
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