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Dear Editor,
Unlike Jeremy Wilcock (Mail, 24 August), I was elected to represent the interests of my Hull North constituents over flooding and many other issues. It seems that some Lib Dems cannot cope
with an elected MP doing the job of constructively speaking out on what is happening to local constituents.
In raising issues, I am properly reflecting the views and concerns of many constituents who I have met or spoken to since the flooding, some of them very distressed at the treatment they have
received from Hull’s Lib Dem Council. I held four extremely well attended open surgeries in Hull North in July and August. These generated a huge amount of casework concerning Hull City Council,
insurance companies, the Environment Agency and Yorkshire Water.
It is entirely legitimate for an elected MP to air genuine differences over policy issues, make critical comments where necessary and to suggest alternative ways forward. For example, the idea of
having a simple flat-rate payment to all victims of flooding is a proposal I support. So do most of my constituents.
The launch of my petition for a new pumping station for the Kingswood and Bransholme area is another example where keeping quiet would not be representing Hull North properly.
Since being elected, I have taken up nearly 3,000 cases on behalf of local people. With Mr Wilcock’s party not observing the strictures that he demands of me, I will continue to speak up in the
interests of Hull North - even if it involves airing truths that may be inconvenient to some.
Yours sincerely,
Diana Johnson MP
Kingston upon Hull North
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24 August 2007: To Hull Daily Mail - published 29 August 2007
