WITH the war in Iraq appearing to be drawing to a conclusion, I am pleased that the conflict has not been a long, drawn-out affair, especially for our military personnel involved and the Iraqi civilian population.

I was opposed to the war but in my mind there is a complete separation between the professionalism of our armed forces and the quality of the political decision that supported an American invasion of Iraq in the face of United Nations' opposition.

Our military personnel have certainly carried out a very professional job and we should be grateful for the tasks they have carried out and the lives they have given on our behalf.

There now needs total commitment, particularly from our Government and the government of the United States, to co-operate with countries of the United Nations, irrespective of their attitude towards the war.

Political differences must not be allowed to get in the way of ensuring that the people of Iraq do not suffer unnecessarily.

The supply of vital humanitarian aid is urgently needed and we must ensure that essential food, water and medical supplies get to the Iraqi people quickly. Our commitment to rebuilding Iraq and ensuring the establishment of a democratic government that will be freely and fairly chosen by the Iraqi people, without external pressure being applied by foreign governments, must be a priority.

On the home front, the Chancellor set out his Budget with the conflict in Iraq adding to the uncertainties facing the world economy.

Over the last 12 months, the world has experienced the biggest economic slowdown for 30 years. Fortunately for us, the UK sits on sound economic foundations with the lowest inflation for 30 years, lowest interest rates and mortgage rates for 40 years, and the highest levels of employment ever.

Unemployment in Britain is now lower for the first time in 50 years than elsewhere in Europe, Japan and America, and we are enjoying the longest period of sustained growth for 50 years.

Although it is difficult to please everyone, the Chancellor's goal is to deliver high and stable levels of growth and employment, with opportunity and rising living standards for all. Gordon Brown provided support to families with announcements regarding the Child Trust Fund and Child Tax Credits. He also gave a commitment to tackling pensioner poverty and confirmed that, by 2004/5, the Government would be spending £9.2 billion extra in real terms on pensioners, including over £4 billion on the poorest third of pensioners.

My next surgery is on Friday, May 9, at Bolton Town Hall from 4.30pm until 6.30pm. No appointment necessary.