ELLESMERE Port Labour MP Andrew Miller has welcomed the Government's programme unveiled in the Queen's Speech.

Mr Miller said: 'The Queen's Speech has set out a wide range of legislative proposals which will be good news for the people of Ellesmere Port and Neston.

'It contains major Bills that will help to build strong communities, extend opportunity and improve the quality of life for everyone.

'It also builds on the real progress delivered since 1997, which has seen unemployment and mortgage costs fall dramatically and record investment in our schools and hospitals.'

Mr Miller said the programme included the following measures which would:

Continue to improve quality and choice in schools and hospitals Improve protection for children Complete the Government's overhaul of the asylum system by tackling the `abuse' of the appeals system Give police and courts new powers to stamp out domestic violence and give victims of crime guaranteed rights Safeguard retirement by improving protection for pension schemes Reform higher education to enable more young people, of all backgrounds, to get a high quality university education Ensure a sustainable energy policy to provide for the future and encourage competitive pricing.

Mr Miller added: 'Many of my constituents will be concerned to see there is no mention of a Hunting Bill in the Queen's Speech.

'The Lords abandoned this Bill during the last Parliamentary session and we now have to establish the primacy of the Commons over the Lords, but I have been assured the Government will take action to deliver on our manifesto commitment on the abolition of hunting with dogs.

'Today's Queen's Speech really demonstrates the Government is determined to confront today's challenges and build a fair future for all and I look forward to the measures becoming law.'