 It was with mixed emotions I today heard the news teachers at Furzedown Primary School have volunteered to take a pay cut to save the jobs of colleagues.
Whilst I am proud that five teachers have stepped in to save their colleagues and agreed to take a salary reduction of up to £7,000 - enough to safeguard the jobs of two classroom assistants - this should not be happening. Schools across the country are so short of funds that headteachers are being forced to make drastic cutbacks. In fact, school funding per pupil has fallen has fallen by 8% in real terms over the past eight years. Heads are being forced to fund raise for basic items such as pens and glue sticks, close at lunch time on Fridays to cut back on running costs, and make difficult redundancy decisions. Education is not a luxury, and our children deserve better. These volunteers at Furzedown - some of whom now earn 80% of their previous salary - are a fantastic example of the passionate, committed and caring educators shaping the next generation.
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 Thank you to the 2,300 local people who filled in my ‘Brexit Options’ survey - which helped inform my votes.
 After a couple of busy days (or weeks!) it was back to Tooting where Dee Light Bakery put together one of her legendary baking parties for my little girl's birthday. Needless to say, there were a lot of happy, cake-filled little ladies in Balham and Tooting this afternoon. Thank you Dee - already looking forward to my next visit.  A million of us marched for a People's Vote today!
People came from Ashford to Aberdeen, from Tyneside to Tooting. And the mood was incredible. The Brexit ship is heading towards an iceberg and the captain has gone full speed - the effect of Brexit will be devastating for jobs, living standards, and our economy. We won't let it happen; our voices will be heard. Proud to be marching alongside the masses for a People's Vote.  My favourite night of the year - BATCA Awards! This is always a great chance to celebrate all the unsung heroes of Balham and Tooting, and tonight was no different. I had a fabulous time meeting and speaking with the award winners - it was a pleasure to be part of it again. I am so moved by the incredible community I have always called home.  Such an incredible night watching all the fantastic performances at Tooting Gymnastics Club. All the children had so much fun and their confidence was amazing to see. It was a real honour to be asked to speak, and I must admit I got choked seeing my two little ones perform in their first display - and I really did mean it when I asked if someone could teach me how to cartwheel. It is heartbreaking to hear the reports coming out of New Zealand this morning - a barbaric act of terrorism. My thoughts and prayers are with all of those affected.
We heard poignant words from the Speaker in the Commons as we observed a one minute silence. "This sort of behaviour will never prevail, for it is fascist conduct. The notion that might is right, that if you're bestial enough, you'll get your own way. People who think that will have to be disabused of that notion. It will not happen." Locally, some community leaders have been in touch concerned about safety at prayers today. I have spoken to the police to ensure that assistance will be provided. I take this opportunity to thank them for their help.  Today is the Spring Statement. We urgently need to tackle violent crime by boosting police numbers. Over 70% of the Met's budget comes from the Government, and so every London Labour MP co-signed my letter to the Chancellor demanding more funding for the Met Police. It is very disappointing that NO Conservative MP wanted to add their signature.  Happy International Women's Day!
This year I’ve been celebrating with local trailblazers. From entrepreneurs to editors, councillors to charity CEOs, Tooting has so many inspirational women. There were such inspiring discussions from our wonderful speakers and audience. It was great to hear so many women talking about their journeys to success. I'm proud to work alongside each and every one of you.  It’s very easy to be reminded of why I love Tooting, and today was the perfect example of this.
‘Visit my Mosque Day’ at Balham Mosque was a fantastic community event. It was great to spend time here, sharing knowledge with open hearts and great food. I’m already looking forward to the next one! |