News Release

8th March 2003

MEETING WITH 25 COMMONWEALTH MPs IN LICHFIELD

Guildhall Lichfield

Earlier today (Saturday 8th March), Michael Fabricant met with 25 MPs from all parts of the Commonwealth to talk to them about the constituency work of an MP. Later this week, they will receive a series of lectures down at the House of Commons on the legislative work undertaken by British MPs. (See earlier News Release dated 27th February ). The morning meeting, held at the George Hotel in Lichfield, was followed by lunch at the Thai Rainbow Restaurant opposite the hotel where a performance of Thai dancing was given.

The meeting in the George Hotel was chaired by Labour MP Tom Cox, chairman of the United Kingdom Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. Michael Fabricant spoke for 25 minutes and then took questions. "The range of questions was fascinating", says Michael Fabricant. "It gave an insight into the working conditions of MPs in very different countries.

"Several African MPs asked whether we have to give money to constituents to pay for their weddings and funerals. I replied 'not so far' and many were fascinated by the fact that British MPs have staff and computers. One asked what the CPA can do to make their Government take their Parliament more seriously. Discussions with the Canadian and Australian MPs were also interesting. We discussed how to serve a constituency of many thousands of square miles - a problem I don't face in the Lichfield constituency which is somewhat smaller.

"All the MPs seemed delighted with Lichfield: the specialist shops, the restaurants, the Cathedral, and the City's special atmosphere. Many said they would be encouraging their constituents to come to visit in the coming years. And that has to be good news for Lichfield" Michael adds.

The previous day, Friday, the 25 MPs met representatives of local Government including the Mayor of the City of Lichfield and the Chief Executive of Lichfield District Council.