I fought the election in May 2010 on a clear platform to do whatever I could to support the creation and retention of jobs in Birmingham Erdington, Birmingham and the wider region. In particular I am keen to see our proud manufacturing heritage revitalised.

One of my pledges during the 2010 General Election was to fight crime. Crime is actually at an all time low but that doesn't mean there isn't more we need to do to combat it. Specifically I said I would 1) Fight for more police officers and PCSOs 2) Campaign against Birmingham City Council cuts to youth services (whilst most youngsters keep on the straight and narrow, more activities for the young will help stop some going off the rails) 3) Get the Council to keep our streets cleaner.

People want to stay near family and friends. If you’re from North Birmingham, you want to stay here. I understand that. I have led the campaign nationally for more affordable homes. As a result 300 new homes are being built right here in Birmingham.

300 homes are nowhere near enough though. In Erdington and Birmingham, whether you’re a family looking for somewhere to settle or a first-time buyer struggling to get a foot on the property ladder, a lack of affordable housing is a real issue.