We all make New Year’s resolutions.  Here are mine for 2012:

1.      Step up my campaign to protect local people from the effects of the Tory/Lib Dem Government cuts.  This year the Government cut funding to Southwark Council by £34 million.  In 2012 the Government will make further cuts to Southwark Council’s budget meaning less money for vital local services.

2.      Keep a watchful eye on the NHS. The Government’s reforms will take money away from the NHS and put it in the pockets of private companies.  And because the Government has abolished targets, waiting times for people in Southwark have gone up.

3.      Keep campaigning against the Government cuts to the number of police in Southwark.  The Government is cutting Southwark Police’s budget by 20%, meaning fewer police officers in Southwark.  Simon Hughes MP failed to vote against these cuts.

4.      Work with the Lib Dems when they are fighting for the same things.  But shine a spotlight on their actions when they and the Tories make poor decisions.

5.      Continue holding regular advice surgeries where people can seek my help with a variety of issues. In 2011 my team and I took action over 4,000 times to help people with problems they raised.

6.      Stop young people in Peckham from being stereotyped. Though most of those charged with offences related to the riots in Southwark were young and local, the reality is that the overwhelming majority of young people in Southwark are decent, law abiding and determined to do well in their lives. They are not to blame for this country’s problems but they must be part of the solution.

7.      Support the arts and culture in Southwark.   Arts and the creative industries help generate economic growth and jobs which helps pay for important public services.

8.  Ensure an Olympic legacy in Southwark and keep up the pressure on the government to make sure everyone has the opportunity to participate in sports.

9.      Campaigning for Ken Livingstone and GLA members leading up to the May 2012 London elections.  Ken Livingstone will stand up for all Londoners but Boris just wants to be leader of the Tories.

10.      Ensure the Equality Act is not left on the shelf – the Government is not implementing parts of the Act and equality is necessary for a healthy economy where everyone has the opportunity to fulfil their potential.

Best wishes for the new year.