Rob Wilson, MP for Reading East, and the local Conservative Association were delighted to welcome Eric Pickles, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government and MP for Brentwood and Ongar,to their Spring Dinner last week, only a few months after citing Reading Borough Council as an example of good practice in Local Governance.
After dinner at the Shehnai Banqueting Suites on London Street, Eric entertained those present with a positive speech, on a host of topics. Mr Pickles particularly hailed the efforts of the Conservative led Coalition Council in freezing Council Tax for the first time ever in Reading whilst providing better value for money for vital services.
Mr Pickles was also keen to discuss his views on the forthcoming AV Referendum, where he, along with Rob and the Local Conservatives will be campaigning strongly for the no vote.
Rob commented, ‘I was so pleased when Eric agreed to come and to talk to us here in Reading. I’ve known Eric quite a while now and he has a great reputation for his humourous speeches. I think it’s important that ministers, like Eric, get out across the country and spread the Government’s positive message. It’s also great to hear Eric recognise all the hard work that our Conservative Councillors have done since taking control of the Council last May.’
Alison Swaddle Chairman of the Reading East Conservative Association said, ‘It was wonderful to have so many Conservatives at our Spring Dinner this year, listening to Eric’s great speech. Our membership is continuing to grow every week and I would like to thank everyone who attended and contributed to our fighting fund’.