From: DAVIES, Geraint
Sent: 18 October 2010 11:36
Subject: PLP Committee – Geraint Davies MP

Dear Colleague,

As we move forward with our new Leadership team it’s important that the priorities and views of backbench members of the PLP are heard and reflected.

The Parliamentary Committee is being reformed and will act as a means of providing the Leadership with regular feedback from across the PLP and wider movement.

I am putting my name forward having represented a marginal London seat fighting the Tories and now a traditional seat in Wales challenged by the Liberal Democrats.

Therefore, I appreciate the range of local concerns amongst varying electorates we need to address to regain power. As a reincarnated MP, I am also keen to reflect the views of new MPs who bring fresh insights from the world outside Westminster whilst harnessing the talents of experienced members.

Your views and the issues in your constituency are a critical barometer to help Labour get back on track as we approach elections next year for our Welsh Assembly, Scottish Parliament and councils across England.

I am a Labour Co-operative and GMB supported MP with a background in industry so appreciate the need for us to carry the support of the wider movement and to bring confidence in our economic and industrial policy.

Our main resource is the skills, experience and energy of our PLP. If elected I would:

1 Listen to your views and concerns and be an approachable committee member accessible to all back-benchers
2. Be representative providing a drop in surgery and drop off/e mail feedback etc
3. Reflect varying opinion across all wings of the Party and the priorities of marginal and traditional seats
4. Be a strong & effective voice for back-bench opinion to the Leadership rooted in the breadth and depth of opinion across the PLP
5. Help ensure the committee acts as a critical friend.
6. Be accountable through regular report backs after meetings
7. Be active & visible in the Chamber and PLP

The Condems’ reckless and ideologically driven cuts programme alongside its gerrymandering agenda to gag the communities worst hit needs all our best efforts to bring Britain home to Labour.

The steady drumbeat of the Tory story that Labour left the cupboard bare has become more deep-rooted. That is why all of us in the PLP share a responsibility to set the record straight and regain the upper hand.

I hope you will support me with one of your votes and would be happy to discuss your views and priorities with you on xxxxxxxxxxx.

Yours truly,

Geraint Davies MP