Solihull's Conservative MPs, Neil Shastri-Hurst and Saqib Bhatti, have written to the new Prime Minister, urging him to break with the policies of his predecessor and deliver a new approach for local communities.
Whilst congratulating Andy Burnham on taking office, the MPs make clear that residents across Solihull Borough have been let down by decisions taken under the previous Government of Sir Keir Starmer and are looking for a change of direction.
The letter sets out five priorities raised repeatedly by constituents: protecting the Green Belt from excessive housing targets, increasing neighbourhood policing, restoring a full Emergency Department at Solihull Hospital, backing high streets and helping young people into work, and making home ownership more affordable.
Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst MP said:
“The previous Labour Government left Solihull facing excessive housing targets, rising pressure on our public services, and fewer opportunities for young people. A change of Prime Minister must mean more than a change of face. Our constituents want to see a change of direction, and we've set out a clear plan for how the Government can start rebuilding confidence.”
Commenting on the letter, Saqib Bhatti MBE MP said:
“Andy Burnham has become Prime Minister with the public knowing very little for what his new government will stand for, aside from some concerning briefing to the press on new land taxes.
“That’s why we have decided to write directly to Burnham to seek assurances that he agrees with the campaigns that my constituents in Meriden and Solihull East and I are prioritising. We want to see an end to Labour’s war on the greenbelt, more police on our streets, an A&E at Solihull Hospital, young people in work not on benefits and a Thatcherite revolution in home ownership.
“I wish the new Prime Minister the very best in his new role and hope he can deliver on issues that my constituents in Meriden and Solihull East need to see. I will be following the progress of his government closely and scrutinising his policies in Parliament wherever necessary. Andy Burnham desperately needs to realise the West Midlands matters and the Borough of Solihull from Chelmsley Wood to Meriden matter too.”
