Questions to the Prime Minister?

Mr Stephen Mekker.

Number one, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Before answering my Honourable Friend, I know the whole House will wish to join me in paying tribute to Michael Meacher.

He died suddenly last week, and we sent our condolences to his family and friends.

Michael dedicated his life to public service, diligently representing his Oldham constituents in this

place for a staggering 45 years. He was a passionate advocate of the causes he believed in.

These included the environment and he was able to put these into practice as a minister

between 1997 and 2003. This House and our politics are a poorer place without him, and I know

that colleagues from all sides of this Chamber will remember him with affection and miss him greatly.

Mr. Speaker, this morning I had meetings with ministerial colleagues and others.

In addition to my duties in this House, I shall have further such meetings later today.

Mr. Stephen Metcalfe.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Can I associate myself with the sympathies expressed by the Prime Minister?

Will my right honourable friend join me in celebrating that one in ten

of the world's tractors are built in Basildon?

Yes! But not an air bus, A380 flies without a part built in Basildon.

And that Thuruk is not only home to the largest inward investment in the South East, but

is also attracting investment from world-renowned organisations such as the Royal Opera House.

All this is leading to job creation and opportunities.

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