OnTheWight always welcomes a Letter to the Editor to share with our readers – unsurprisingly they don’t always reflect the views of this publication. If you have something you’d like to share, get in touch and of course, your considered comments are welcome below.
Stewart Blackmore shares this letter he sent to Isle of Wight council leader, Phil Jordan, Ed
Dear Phil,
I hope that you are safe and well. I write to urge you to take advantage of Angela Rayner’s offer of inclusivity for Council leaders who do not form part of the ‘regional mayors’ cohort.
It seems to me, and I am sure that you and your colleagues will agree, that this is an ideal opportunity to bring the Island to the forefront of local decision-making and take greater control of planning, transport (including ferries!) social care and health.
This would represent a real move away from the past conservative regime and give the lie to the ex-MP’s claims that he had an ‘Island deal’ in his pocket; something we all know not to be true.
I am equally sure that the new MP for Ventnor West, the excellent Richard Quigley, will be a more than willing partner in moving this initiative forward. Indeed, he has already established good relationships with the new Secretary of State for Transport, Louise Haigh, and I am sure that he is doing the same with other Ministers. It would also be an opportunity for the new MP for Ventnor East to distance himself from the previous regime and stake his claim to be a true champion for his constituents and for the whole Island.
This could, and should, be a pivotal moment for the IW Council and its relations with the government. I hope that you agree.
I have copied this to the MPs concerned.
All Best Wishes, Stewart
Update: Read Phil Jordan’s reply
