Ealing is better if we stay in the European Union

Liberal Democrats are proud of the European Union and are fighting for us to stay IN Europe when the referendum takes place on 23rd June.

I come from a position where it is better to discuss differences with others, rather than isolate ourselves. Reforms are certainly needed within the European Union but we NEED to be at the table to influence any reforms.

Councillor Gary Malcolm

Groups like the EU, NATO and the United Nations – can deal with shared issues better. Only the EU with others can make changes to significantly reduce the effects of Global warming.

And through agreed EU standards, our rivers and beaches are cleaner. Good for Britain and as a tourist destination.

In a previous job, I was a workplace union representative. There are key sets of Health and Safety legislation which protect staff and make the workplace safer.

Over 3 million British jobs are directly linked to British membership of the European Union’s single market. That’s 1 in 10 British jobs. You also get the additional jobs, indirectly through supply chains.

Exports & investment - The EU buys over 50 per cent of UK exports (54 per cent of goods, 40 per cent of services). Over 300,000 British companies and 74 per cent of British exporters operate in other EU markets. American and Asian EU firms build factories in Britain because we are in the single market.

International mobile phone charges were reduced because of the European Union and Lib Dem MEP Catherine Bearder.

The European Arrest Warrant replaced long extradition procedures and enables the UK to extradite criminals wanted in other EU countries.

Research funding - The UK is the second largest beneficiary of EU medical research funds.

Freedom to work, study and travel abroad – 1.4 million British people live abroad in the EU. More than 14,500 UK students took part in the European Union’s Erasmus student exchange scheme in 2012-13. Driving licences issued in the UK are valid throughout the EU.

I prefer the CERTAINTY of staying in the EU vs the UNCERTAINTY of leaving the EU.

The EU benefits the UK, London and Ealing – directly and indirectly.

If you would like to know more please visit the Stronger In website!

Let us vote to stay IN Europe.

My New Years Message: thanking volunteers and wanting a better-run Ealing Council

As we end the year I am reminded of the excellent work that the many nurses, doctors and staff at our hospitals undertake. They have provided a great service to Ealing and our local hospitals need to be retained, not downgraded.

Very recently, Nelson Mandela’s death has reminded us that problems can be best sorted out by discussion and engaging with those who have different viewpoints.

In my local area there has been a great uptake in community and sporting activities such as street parties and residents associations being active in suggesting how our areas can be improved. So many wonderful people improve the lives of others through their community work. Thank you.

In May this year residents of Ealing will have a chance to state in the local elections who they want to run Ealing Council and what values Ealing Council should have. Liberal Democrats have over the past four years challenged the Labour-run administration in their decisions to cut vital services affecting the disabled and other vulnerable groups. We would protect these groups first. Given the extremely poor level of service residents are getting from the waste & recycling contractors we would either ditch them or ensure they perform to a high standard.

Another area where Ealing Council needs to improve is in its communication with residents. So often residents tell me that they are treated as an inconvenience. Liberal Democrats want to see more focus on ensuring that the Council serves residents properly.

As I wish you a great new year, why not take up a new sport? There are lots of great FREE facilities around the borough.