This region has long been a place of excellence for our armed forces, with our Naval Base and Dockyard being centre stage.

Historically the schools in this region have been underfunded and we have pushed hard to persuade the Government to review the national funding formula. Two years ago, agreement was reached and we all looked forward to good news.

Last November the 20 year plan for our rail network was submitted to government ministers by the Peninsula Rail Task Force (see www.peninsularailtaskforce.co.uk).