Copy of letter sent to Helen Jones MP

Dear Helen,

I am very sorry to hear that you are not publicly backing the 'Wolves' in the same way that both MPs Helen Southworth and Brian Simpson are. You mention in a piece to the GUARDIAN this week;

"I have made it clear to the club that I would be happy to discuss any issues of concern with them but that the Secretary of State will not entertain any lobbying from me or any other elected representative".

Surely it is your job to lobby the Secretary of State on this matter! You were elected by the people of Warrington as their voice in Parliament and to speak out on matters that have an impact on this town. Well, here is something that concerns the town and you feel that the best course of action is to remain silent!

In an article written just after you were elected in 1997 (Sisters in Arms, May 9 1997 Warrington GUARDIAN) you said;

"I also want to get out and about and meet as many people as possible in the constituency - talking to them and hearing from them what they want. One of the things to avoid is the difficulty of getting isolated and drawn into the enclosed world of Westminster. I want to come back and listen to people on the ground".

Well, we are telling you what we want, but as normal with politicians; you say one thing and when it comes to standing up and being counted then you stay sitting! You replaced a great MP Doug Hoyle, who is still fighting for the survival of the club I only wish that you could add your public support to the campiagn. You were happy to give your backing to the 'Diamond Project' at Daresbury, so why can't you help us with regard to the stadium? I realise that 500 jobs are not on the line, but this is just as important to the people of Warrington.

We need to show a united front on this matter to everyone and having one of the town's MPs sitting on the fence doesn't look very good. I hope that you will reconsider your position in this matter and publicly back the campaign.

STEVE PHILLIPS

by e-mail