Queen's Speech "all talk, no action, and won't help South Lakeland" says Farron

Speaking after the Government set out its agenda for the forthcoming Parliament, local MP Tim Farron has described today's Queen Speech as "all talk, no action".

The speech referenced 11 new Bills which included the introduction of a Health Bill to guarantee cancer patients will receive a consultation within two weeks and a Policing, Crime and Security Bill to give people a greater say over policing and crime prevention policies.

Speaking after speech Mr Farron said:

"There are some good things mentioned in today's Queen's Speech such as the cancer guarantee, but those could be implemented tomorrow without the need for legislation! So this programme really does seem to be a waste of time.

"The Health Bill is no substitute for practical action. Patients requiring treatment for cancer in South Lakeland have to travel to Carlisle or Preston, enduring some of the longest distances in the UK for cancer treatment.

"As most NHS trusts in England already meet the two-week deadline, it's important that the Government invests more money in cancer treatment centres, by investing in facilities such as the proposed cancer care unit were are campaigning for in Kendal. Rather than more legislation, we need action today so that local people's needs are met"

"The Government seems to think that simply creating more legislation will help solve the problems of our policing and criminal justice system. We don't need more legislation; we need more resources given to our local police here in Cumbria.

"With the average hill farmer working a 60 hour week for less than minimum wage and the industry facing potential collapse, there is no mention of the kind of action needed to underpin and protect our vital farming industry. We need a Hill Farm Apprenticeship scheme to ensure a practical boost for the industry, and to give young people a future.

"With 5,000 people on the waiting list for a social rented home in South lakes, the Government could have introduced legislation to allow communities to build affordable homes for local families. It is a great shame that they didn't do

"Today's speech is a huge disappointment for South Lakeland and for rural communities as a whole. All talk and no action."