Worth the wait

1 September 2006

Jane supports The Big Ask

Jane was curious as to what arranging an appointment with her MP to discuss the Big Ask. Big Month. Big Lobby would entail.

We asked her about how her meeting went with Jeremy Corbyn MP for North Islington.

What were your thoughts?

Jeremy Corbyn MP

I'd only been to see my MP once before, when I lived in Manchester, so didn't really know what to expect.

How did you arrange it?

I googled 'Jeremy Corbyn surgery' to find out when it was possible to visit him.

How did the meeting go?

I waited nearly four hours to see him but he was sympathetic and agreed that climate change was a problem.

What was said at the meeting?

Jeremy Corbyn was a really friendly, amiable guy and happily agreed to write to Tony Blair and David Miliband to ask for the Climate Change Bill to be in the Queen's Speech.

Have you got any tips for other lobbyists?

Be aware that unless you turn up early to open surgeries, you may have a long wait. If you can't turn up early, it may be worth making an appointment.

My MP has four days a month for open surgeries and surgery by appointment, which is fairly typical.

Jane

Would you recommend this to others?

Definitely. The need for political action on climate change is pressing and the more MPs that get visited by their constituents, the greater the hope that something will be done about it.

Press for change

Inspired by Jane's story? Then please take part in the Big Ask Big Month Big Lobby! Find out all you need to know.