LAST week, the first back in parliament after the summer recess, was very busy with a number of key issues being debated.

Firstly, the home secretary answered questions on child safeguarding procedures following the appalling events in Rotherham.

There was a consensus on all sides that everyone involved in child protection should review their policies and ensure they are as watertight as possible to prevent the horror of Rotherham happening again.

Secondly, I spoke in an adjournment debate, that I had applied for alongside David Mowat, on the impact of HS2 on Warrington.

I was able to reiterate my concerns about the economic and environmental effects of the proposed HS2 route on Culcheth and Rixton, as well as the serious problems constituents are having with planning blight on their properties.

The Higgins Report (HS2 Plus) proposes a transport hub at Crewe which could ensure the line joins the West Coast main line north of Crewe thus avoiding the loss of habitat, environmental destruction and economic problems here in Warrington.

It would also provide a better service to the region and would save £1 billion at the same time.

Finally, on Friday, I joined other Labour colleagues and voted against the Bedroom Tax.

I’ve spoken to many people in the constituency who have told me that they are struggling to cope with the bedroom tax and I received a large postbag on this issue in the run up to the debate.

There are well over a thousand people affected by this tax in Warrington North.

It has unfairly hit many vulnerable people, such as those with disabilities or who are carers, and it threatens to cost more than it saves.

I’m glad the Lib Dems voted against their own policy on Friday, but sadly it’s come too late for those forced into debt and forced to rely on food banks to survive.

Unfortunately, Friday’s vote will not abolish the bedroom tax.

It will remain in force until, at least, the General Election continuing, in my view, to cause misery to many by forcing them out of their homes.