Posted on January 9, 2012 by Phillip Lee

We are now approaching the New Year 2011 and the economic outlook for 2012 is rather gloomy and I fear that we have inherited a much tougher situation then originally thought.  It is becoming increasingly difficult to recover from a negative balance sheet but as we know recovery from a financial crisis is more difficult than any other kinds of recession. If there’s anything our times cry out for is leadership.

2011 was a year which some may compare to historic revolutionary years such as 1848 or 1968- a year in which ordinary people round the world rose up against their governments and ruling elites. We had the Arab Spring, the riots, a double-dipped recession and strikes across the country. The reality of our future is that we will have to work longer and harder for less money. Tough economic times, coupled with the financial cost of people living longer, means we will be working much longer. I do not believe it is fair to the young to pay the pensions of a generation that had experienced nothing other than economic prosperity, home and job security. With an ageing population, public sector pension reform is inevitable and I believe that the 30^th November  strikes were inappropriate, untimely and irresponsible and hit hardest some of the most vulnerable people in society.  After years of prosperity the party is over, and we have to face reality – a period of boom had changed beyond recognition to one of bust. Although we have to accept this reality and we have to prepare for difficult times in 2012, there are things that I am looking forward to. The New Year will also bring some hope. I dare to predict that Britain will become 4^th in the league tables at the Olympic Games next year and England will get to the semi-final of the European Championship.

Looking back at 2011, it has been an extraordinary privilege for me to represent Bracknell in Parliament, to be at the core of the challenges of the nation’s political conversation, and to work in the shadows of great statesmen from across the centuries. My overwhelming new impressions have taught me the importance of responsibility, liberty and democracy. Life as the Member of Parliament for the Bracknell constituency has been both very rewarding and challenging at the same time.  Over the last year I have tried to get out and about as much possible in Bracknell, visiting schools, churches, community groups, hospitals, GP’s, businesses and talking to local residents. I have seen many hundreds constituents working tirelessly to improve the area and support the community. Ever since my election I’ve been overwhelmed by the number of community activities in Sandhurst, Bracknell, Crowthorne, and Finchamstead. This year was just further confirmation of the vibrancy of Bracknell Constituency life. People throughout the constituency engage in activities that make it a better place to live. Being able to experience this is the time when the job as MP is the most rewarding.

Finally, I would like to wish every reader of Bracknell News a very Happy New Year and I look forward to continuing to work for you all over the coming period.

(Published in the Bracknell News, December 2011)