George Eustice MP has called for a three-pronged approach to tackling poverty. In two interviews on BBC Radio Cornwall he outlined the need for better education, welfare reform and job creation.
Speaking on the Lawrence Reed show today, George responded to reports that the Pengegon estate has one of the highest poverty rates in the Council highlighting the excellent work that is already being done in the area to reverse that trend. He highlighted the 'Outstanding' OFSTED status that has recently been conferred on the Trevithick Primary School and also commended the work being done by the Neighbourhood manager, Claire Arymer and the PCSO, Andrew Richards.
George said, "There is a lot being done to address this problem, starting with raising aspirations, and focusing on education and job creation. I made economic and social regeneration my two priorities in the election and a lot of my work is focused on this.
It is important that we change the culture of benefits, that people realise that no job is beneath them, and that the Government creates incentives to work.""
George also featured as the first MP in a new slot in Martin Bailie's Friday afternoon show, again talking about poverty, as well as a range of other issues including the Coastguard, where he stressed the importance of retaining the Flamouth centre of excellence, and the NHS, highlighting how crucial it is to get the reforms right.
To listen to the interviews click here.
UPDATE: 28/6/11
George appeared on BBC Spotlight last night again discussing the issue of child poverty in Pengegon. The report focused on the huge progress that has been made in the area and the ongoing initiatives, both locally and nationally, that aim to tackle this issue.
To watch the feature click here.