Latest news with #JoeRobertson
Yahoo
21-06-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Island MPs share concern over Assisted Dying Bill after House of Commons vote
THE Isle of Wight MPs have expressed concern over the passing of the Assisted Dying Bill. The bill, which was backed by a majority of MPs, allows terminally ill adults with a life expectancy of less than six months to end their lives. Despite warnings from opponents about the safety of the legislation, the bill took another step in the parliamentary process after being approved by 314 votes to 291 in the House of Commons yesterday (Friday). Labour's Isle of Wight West MP, Richard Quigley, consistently voted against the bill at every stage. Read more: Following the news of its passing, Richard said: "This bill was always going to be emotional, but it was never about winning or losing, but having the chance to debate. "We have done that and the bill has now passed. "My opposition is based on the belief the safeguards, particularly around the so-called 'anorexia loophole,' are not robust or comprehensive enough." He urged the House of Lords to apply "rigorous scrutiny" to the bill as it progresses. Richard stressed the importance of examining every aspect of its implementation, paying close attention to the risks and unresolved unintended consequences. The Isle of Wight East MP, Joe Robertson, also voted against the bill. He shared his concerns, saying: "I voted against the Assisted Dying Bill — not because I am against the principle of wanting to relieve suffering, but because there are too many loopholes, too few safeguards and potential for unintended consequences." Joe, with great experience in the legal profession, criticised amendments made to the bill since the last vote — particularly the replacement of a role for a High Court judge with a 'panel' of professionals, with no power to summon witnesses. He said: "It means judges can decide whether a child has been coerced into wanting to spend time with only one parent (in divorce proceedings), but not whether a grandparent has been coerced into wanting to end their life (under assisted dying laws). "As a former family lawyer, I find this both perverse and dangerous." The concerns raised by both MPs reflect the apprehensions of a significant number of opponents who believe the bill was rushed through without adequate consideration of the potential risks. The bill will now move to the House of Lords for further scrutiny.
Yahoo
14-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
'Heating oil supply crisis has left me anxious' says woman with incurable cancer
An Isle of Wight woman with incurable cancer is among the many Islanders struggling to heat their homes, the County Press can reveal, amid growing "anxiety" and concern over oil supply issues. Sarah Waldron, from Chillerton, has been unable to source new oil for six weeks, leaving her "distressed" her tank could run dry at any minute. The issue has prompted Isle of Wight East MP Joe Robertson to pen a letter to the Minister for Energy, asking the government to "urgently review the situation". Like many other residents living in rural parts of the Island, Sarah relies on an oil tank to provide heating and hot water to her home. Read more: Islanders left without heating as major oil supplier 'pauses operations' Isle of Wight company Solent Fuels suspends deliveries Solent Fuels, a leading supplier of kerosene oil on the Island, recently announced it was 'pausing operations', blaming the combination of restricted credit and unpredictable supply, placing the company in a "financially unsustainable position." Sarah ordered through the firm at the beginning of February and was initially quoted two weeks. More than a month later, and after being reassured she would be on the 'next urgent batch', the oil never arrived. Sarah then contacted Certas Energy, which told her there were delays due to increased demand. Oil tank in Sarah's garden (Image: IWCP) Sarah, who has secondary cancer, told the County Press: "A bath for me everyday is really important because it just eases the pain a little bit. "We haven't put the heating on in ages. Luckily we've had nice weather and haven't needed and we've got something in the lounge to heat that. "I am really anxious about it." Sarah said her husband contacted Solent Fuels disclosing her cancer diagnosis and the firm gave "a partial refund". She has now resorted to ordering from mainland firm, Tank Topper and is awaiting delivery. Sarah is one of many affected Islanders who have contacted the County Press over the last week. Sophie Ross, from Upper Adgestone, said she has spent the first three months of the year living without much heating or hot water. Solent Fuels has not responded to request for comment but in a letter to customers, CEO David Grannum, the former boss of Isle of Wight Fuels, said: "We understand that this news may be concerning, especially for those of you who rely on us for heating oil, farm diesel and commercial diesel. "Please be assured that our commitment to the Isle of Wight community remains unwavering." Despite residents' concerns, Certas Energy said "it is not currently experiencing any known supply issues" A spokesperson said: "We remain well stocked and continue to work to supply customers on the Island as efficiently as the infrastructure allows. "As always, we will continue to keep our supply situation on the Island under review." Joe Robertson MP told the CP he is "very concerned" and has been contacted by several East Wight residents. 'I am in direct contact with both Solent Fuels and Certas to request an urgent update on the situation and the steps being taken to resolve it", he said. Isle of Wight West MP Richard Quigley has not responded to request for comment. Charity the Footprint Trust, which helps Islanders keep warm and well in their homes, said it shared concerns about shortages. Speaking to the County Press, Laura Stitchbury offered the following advice: "Alternative temporary heating is likely to be from electric, plug in heaters, which, whilst costly to run, will provide emergency warmth. "Plug in oil filled radiators are best for space heating, whilst halogen heaters are a lower cost solution for heating a person in a limited space. Care should be taken that heaters do not present a fire hazard. "You can warm up through use of hot water bottles, heated blankets and electric blankets. "And of course, keeping curtains drawn when it gets dark and draughtproofing will help to keep warmth inside your home. "Our team of energy guides are helping by providing emergency heating for low income homes and assisting with energy reduction." A spokesperson for the Isle of Wight Council said: "We are aware of some issues around the supply of domestic heating oil on the Island, whilst customers transition from one supplier to another. "Customers were advised by Solent Fuels to contact alternative companies and as a result will need to meet the terms of delivery of a new supplier. 'Any resident that is concerned around the cost of heating their home, including those who depend on heating fuel deliveries, can visit our Cost of living pages. "If you are a vulnerable adult and feel that you need further assistance or know someone who is, please call our Adult Social Care team on 01983 823340 for help and information.''
