MARK HUNTER PAYS TRIBUTE TO PATSY CALTON IN MAIDEN SPEECH

1.54.54pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 25th Jul 2005

Mark Hunter nas a history of closely working with Patsy

Mark Hunter MP, winner of last week's Cheadle by-election, has lost no time in making his maiden speech, getting off the mark less than 48 hours after taking his seat on Tuesday. Mark's speech, during Thursday's debate on the Olympics Bill, included a powerful tribute to his predecessor, Patsy Calton, as well as highlighting some of the problems faced by his constituents, such as unfair funding for local services and the need for more police officers. Both Houses of Parliament have now risen for summer recess, returning on October 10th.

Mark Hunter said:

"It is an immense privilege to succeed my friend and colleague, Patsy Calton, as Member of Parliament for Cheadle. Hon. Members will no doubt recall the courage and determination that my predecessor demonstrated only a matter of weeks ago in this very House. Having known Patsy for many years, I know that her qualities as a person and as a Member of Parliament were not defined only by the bravery and commitment that she displayed throughout her illness. She was an inspiration to and a great servant of the community in so many other ways. The drive and tenacity that she showed when assisting her constituents was matched only by her attention to detail and her sharp mind, which she employed in the House and in Committee. Her sheer work rate on behalf of the people of Cheadle will be celebrated for many years to come within the constituency and beyond. She came closer than most to bridging the gap between being a champion of the local community and a politician of national standing." (Mark Hunter, Liberal Democrat MP for Cheadle, 21/07/05)