Caroline has responded to today's Queen's Speech. 

She slammed the Government for a lack of action on climate change, and for failing to take seriously the challenges facing Britain today.

She said:

“All of this talk of a ‘one nation’ Queen’s Speech is a meaningless side show from a Government intent on dividing this country with its relentless pursuit of austerity.

“Just a few months ago we had another eye watering budget – and further cuts to local services are now hitting hard. The idea that the Government can build social reform on the carcass of a gutted welfare state is a fallacy.

“The Queen’s Speech offers nothing beyond platitudes on climate change. We needed to see a serious commitment to low carbon infrastructure but instead all that’s been offered is more hot air and warm words from a Government that’s lost its footing on the most pressing issue of our time.”

“Proposed prison reforms simply won’t address the crisis we’re facing. After years of cuts – and with staffing levels critical- we badly need investment to make the prison service work better. Beyond that is the urgent need for the Government to focus on cutting the prison population – a policy which must start with a rethink of our approach to drug addiction.

ENDS

Contact: Matthew Butcher on 07885 459 904 or clucasmedia@parliament.uk