THIS election is absolutely crucial for the future of our country. Our economy was put under tremendous pressure by the international banking crisis. Under Gordon Brown’s leadership the recovery is underway.

The Tories’ predictions of disaster have not happened. However, the difficult choices that were made were opposed by the Tories.

Labour took several banks into public ownership, RBS, Lloyds, and Northern Rock. This action was necessary to ensure industry was financed, public services were protected and home owners were able to pay their mortgages.

In Wyre Forest, we have a choice to make. We either vote Labour to continue our economic recovery, or allow the Tories to put that recovery at certain risk.

Labour has made a massive contribution to the economy. More people are at work than ever before, Labour has doubled the money spent on health, education and the police. Our armed forces are being provided with the very best equipment and their magnificent achievements have earned our lasting respect and gratitude.

New schools, Sure Start and Children’s Centres are threatened by proposed Tory cuts to Labour’s budget. The Tories would introduce an emergency budget and make cuts to public services and jobs would be lost.

They refuse to match Gordon Brown’s spending commitments, thereby threatening our economic recovery.

Kidderminster Hospital is being properly funded, thanks to Labour’s commitment to the NHS. The new £26 million Treatment Centre is an excellent provider of vital services. The Millbrook Suite provides cancer patients with exceptional medical care.

I would like to thank the League of Friends for their continuing contribution. The Diabetes Centre really makes a difference to the quality of life of our patients. Further positive changes will be made at our hospital and additional services provided. A permanent MRI Scanner for cancer detection will be installed this summer.

Labour’s commitment to our police service, its increase in numbers and the introduction of Community Support Officers, with the help of community groups and goodwill of the public, has resulted in falling levels of crime. Wyre Forest is a relatively low crime area. We do not have a “broken society” as the Tories state.

I want to see Wyre Forest continue to enjoy an increase in living standards. I want to be your MP because I can make the best contribution to that process. I will always put the interests of Wyre Forest and our people first.