Do we need public telephone boxes? I believe this debate must be had.

In London they seem to support the advertising of commercial products plus calling  cards promoting  prostitution. In our area some phone boxes are said to be linked to  crime and disorder. From drug dealing to general nuisance, I get regular complaints about certain public pay phones.

In London they are more often used by tourists for photographs than by callers, but I need more information from you about how you see it.

Clearly they are needed in managed buildings, such as pubs, community centres, the Town Hall and bus and train stations. But do we need as many as there are on our streets? I believe that BT is now putting in more, not to make money from call charges, but to gain advertising revenue.

In today’s mobile phone age, would we not be better off with public pay phones only in community buildings and commercial premises? I am edging towards the view that the disgusting phone boxes that we have in some areas should be removed, but I will only act after you have had your say. Perhaps they provide a vital lifeline- or are they a thing of the past?

If there are phone boxes that you think should go, or ones that are vital to remain please let me know.

More good news on the graveyards front. Following a meeting I set up, I am aware that government is to issue clear guidance to local councils. The Health and Safety Executive made very clear that they do not require or support the kind of over zealous staking that has gone on in our area and elsewhere.

I have commenced action on behalf of several constituents. If your family grave has been staked you should contact me on 01909 506200 and mannj@parliament.uk.

One change that I support is the development of federated schools, whereby one super head leads more than one school, also allowing better use of support staff and property. This model is slowly building momentum, with the 3-18 school in Harworth leading the way. I believe that we should look at this to sort out some of our smaller schools and some of those that are repeatedly under-performing. I repeat my view that no school in Bassetlaw can be allowed to fail its pupils. Second best will not do in this area.