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Here is my formal submission to Govia’s 3rd stage consultation on timetable changes for train services from Stevenage and Knebworth:

Click here if you would like to help Stephen make a difference

Click here if you would like to help Stephen make a difference

Stephen McPartland, Member of Parliament for Stevenage, joined local primary school children being taken back in time as they experienced the Christmas story brought to life. The Christmas Journey is one of the projects run by Bridge Builders Christian Trust charity in Stevenage, in partnership with Stevenage Churches.

Stephen McPartland MP said, "It is amazing how such a small group of volunteers bring the Christmas journey to life for so many schoolchildren. They really do make a huge difference in a very imaginative way."

Several hundred 6-7 year old children visit one of several churches in Stevenage during December to take part. The Christmas Journey’s aim is that every child not only hears the Christmas story but also begins to understand some of the significance it has for Christians today. The Bridge Builders project supports schools with their teaching of Christianity within the RE curriculum and within corporate acts of worship. The children really enjoy meeting the characters and making the crafts.

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Thank you @SMcPartland for popping in to see us at The Poacher pub! Next to the longest serving landlord in Stevenage! We hope your the longest serving MP!!????Merry Christmas to you and your family pic.twitter.com/D7H6HkBEyo

— Conor McGrath (@cjmcgrath96) December 15, 2017

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It is important we protect our marine life and proud to #BackTheBlueBelt pic.twitter.com/mdTw8EZKTY

— Stephen McPartland (@SMcPartland) December 13, 2017

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Stephen McPartland, Member of Parliament for Stevenage, has welcomed a draft bill that will ensure animal abusers are jailed for up to 5 years and animal sentience is reflected in domestic law.

Stephen McPartland MP said, "We are a nation of animal lovers and we all know that animals are sentient beings who feel pain and suffering. It is important we are write this principle into domestic law and ensure that we protect their welfare. Our plans will also increase sentences for those who commit the most heinous acts of animal cruelty to five years in jail. I will ensure we deliver enhanced animal welfare standards as we leave the EU and welcome this new draft bill, which builds on major policy announcements, such as introducing CCTV in all slaughterhouses and ending the ivory trade."

The Government has published a draft bill for consultation which would increase the maximum prison sentence for animal cruelty tenfold, from six months to five years, in England and Wales. The draft bill also sets out that the government must have regard to the welfare needs of animals as sentient beings in formulating and implementing government policy. The plans underline the Government’s commitment to raising animal welfare standards, ensuring there will be enhanced protections for animals as the UK leaves the EU.

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Great time at Oval Christmas fair in the Oval Community Centre. Come down and meet the animals until 2pm today @CommunityOval pic.twitter.com/IaEyGZsqoi

— Stephen McPartland (@SMcPartland) December 9, 2017

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As part of  Herts County Council's Libraries Week activities, staff at Stevenage Central Library were very pleased to welcome local MP Stephen McPartland and Councillor Terry Douris and to show them how the library service has adapted to keep up with the changing needs of the community.

Stephen McPartland MP said, “I was amazed at how many activities now take place in the library on a daily basis and it really is becoming a community hub. I am personally dedicated to protecting all our libraries, as they provide such an amazing place for everyone to learn to love reading. I was delighted they now have an online borrowing facility too."

During the visit Stephen downloaded the Hertfordshire Libraries App and an audio book from Borrowbox, a recent addition to the free online services, while in the background there was singing from young families enjoying one of the popular Baby Rhyme Time Sessions. Stevenage Central Library also provides study and meeting space, free WiFi, computer access and support, along with traditional book lending.

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