I went along to a public meeting on Friday evening in Patcham, attended by residents concerned about unauthorised traveller encampments in the city in general, and the proposed permanent site in Horsdean in particular.

I sympathise with many people's concerns, and have always made it clear that I utterly condemn any kind of violence, harassment, anti-social behaviour, fly-tipping and rubbish-leaving whoever commits it - travellers or the settled community.

It was helpful to hear from residents, as well as to have the opportunity to explain the action I can take as the local MP to respond to specific complaints - and under what circumstances the police and local authorities can apply for an immediate eviction.

Of course, as we know from bitter experience, clearing sites does not make the problem go away.

It simply moves it, usually only temporarily, to another part of the city or the region.

I think we need a proper solution and one that goes to the heart of the issue, rather than just addressing the immediate visible problems, pressing though those may be.

That's why I have been arguing for a coherent national approach to greater authorised traveller and gypsy site provision, as the only way to deliver long term protection to our much loved parks and green spaces.

I know how furious people feel that their hard earned taxes are spent on clearing up after a minority of travellers.

Nationally £18m is spent each year on dealing with unauthorised encampments.

I don't want us to simply do more of the same, at ever greater cost.

It isn't working, so let's look at bringing the cat and mouse game to an end instead.

More permanent pitches is a step in this direction, which is why I support the local authority's bid to develop a new traveller and gypsy site at Horsdean.

I deeply regret that this issue has become a political football in our city.

The organisers of this meeting publicised it using inflammatory language - that is not helpful and also risks fuelling discrimination.

The Green city council's implementation of the law on moving on unauthorised encampments is identical to that of the previous Conservative administration and it is irresponsible to suggest otherwise.

I will continue to work with my constituents, the police and the local authority to advocate a tough and consistent approach to upholding the law, whilst also lobbying the Government to urgently address the shortage of authorised traveller and gypsy sites nationally.