Margaret Moran MP
Labour MP for Luton South

In light of the recent announcement by First Capital Connect of planned cuts to opening hours at Luton train ticket offices, Margaret Moran MP is urging residents to sign an online petition against the cuts. Margaret Moran wants an explanation of why ticket office opening hours will be drastically reduced whilst ticket costs will rise.

Ms Moran says “ Not only is this becoming more expensive for passengers but this will also affect staff morale and passenger security both of which are important particularly in a time of economic difficulties”

A petition to the Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, is currently on the Number 10 website. To sign, please go to petitions.number10.gov.uk/ticket-offices.

Margaret Moran MP is encouraging Luton to buy fair trade products during Fairtrade Fortnight which starts 23rd February – 8th March.

Ms Moran welcomed Douglas Alexander’s, the Secretary of State for International Development, announcement of further support to the Fair Trade movement and urged Luton shoppers to match this commitment and buy more Fair Trade products.
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Margaret was given a business update at GMM Luton van plant. GM is working with the UK Government to ensure support for manufacturing.

Margaret met with management at the GM Manufacturing (GMM) Luton van plant for a general business update on Thursday 12th March. Ms Moran was briefed by Paul Staes, Plant Director, on key plant performance metrics and the business outlook for 2009.

Ms Moran said:

“The GMM Luton plant is a key player in the local economy and I am working to ensure the Government understands the importance of this to the Luton area.

“It is an efficient plant and although the automotive industry is facing tough times, the plant is managing the downturn in the wider economy with a clear focus on the impact on both workers and the business itself.”

Danielle Chapman, Manager, Government and Community Relations at GM UK said:

“The current economic situation is hard for a number of companies and GM alongside a number of other companies is working with the UK Government to ensure support for the manufacturing sector.”

The plant operates under a joint venture between General Motors and Renault, which began in 2001.

GMM Luton produces all European specification low-roof versions of the Vivaro for the Vauxhall and Opel brands, as well as for Renault and Nissan.

Over 1,400 people are employed directly at the Luton plant. The factory also supports many more jobs through suppliers and service providers, making it a significant contributor to both the British and local economies.

The Government has produced comprehensive advice on keeping your home, on training and skills and on jobs and benefits.

The international financial crisis and the recession it has caused around the world, and now in the UK, is having a real impact on individuals, families and businesses.

The Government is acting because extra support is needed to get us through the downturn. So a range of new help is being made available for those who need it, from homeowners with difficulties paying their mortgages, or people seeking employment or training, to small businesses with cashflow problems and larger businesses needing working capital.

This booklet tells you what help is available now and where to find it. It also includes details of extra support that is being introduced this spring, and we will update it as more help becomes available.

DirectGov (www.direct.gov.uk) is the online government website for citizens. It has lots of useful services and information.

Download the Real Help Now leaflet (PDF, 264K)