Leon Duveen for Bassetlaw

National & International issues

 

Devolution

Leon is glad the Scotland has decided to remain in the United Kingdom “While accepting the need for greater devolution of power from Westminster to the Scottish Government, we are all better off working together in a united country, working together to make both Scotland & the rest of the UK stronger and with a bigger say in deciding the big issues that face us around the world”

While Scotland rightly gets more devolved powers, it is also important that here in England, we also get more power devolved from the centre to local Councils, “Power is far to centralised in England with Whitehall &  Westminster controlling far too much that should be decided locally.  From Education to Health, from Economic Development to Transport, too much is run by Central Government.  We must take the opportunity the outcome of the referendum in Scotland has given us to bring more of the decision making back to local councils.”

 

Mental Health

While many other areas of health care have improved over the years with cancer & heart disease both better dealt with than even 20 years ago, mental health care is still very much a Cinderella area.  Waiting list are too long, both for initial assessments and later for treatment.  All those who know someone suffering from a mental health condition (and that is most of us) know it is as debilitating & disabling as many physical complaints.  The NHS needs to make more money available to improve mental health services so patients can get the treatment they need far quicker.  Also, as a nation, we must learn to accept mental illness in the same way we accept other illnesses and conditions and not stigmatise those who suffer from mental health conditions as work shy or lazy. 

 

Europe

Leon is a convinced European.  “While accepting there is much that needs to be improved in the EU, to leave it would be a disaster for the UK.  I wrote an article last year on my personal blog (Why I am Pro-EU) and nothing that has happened since has happened to change my mind.  Outside of the EU we would lose any say over the  trade rules that would still govern us, we would lose influence in shaping the way the world will need to change to meet the global issues we face.”

 

Middle East

As a former Israeli soldier, Leon still cares deeply about Israel.  “While I still call myself a Zionist, Israel must face up to the reality that it will never be secure without a free Palestine alongside it and also a free Palestine will not come into existence without an Israel that feels secure within accepted boarders.  Many on both side already accept this and we need to work with those people to promote peaceful solution where both Palestinians & Israeli can live in peace and their children can grow free from the threat of more wars.