EAST Hampshire MP Damian Hinds (pictured) focussed nationally on conflict in the Middle East and locally on the Whitehill and Bordon regeneration plans and its inclusion in a proposed sci-tech corridor, in his new year message.

“As we head into the new year, there is little doubt that we face a great deal of uncertainty and risk, with confrontation across the Middle East and volatility in some key global economies and financial markets,” his opened.

“These issues will test our resolve in many ways and it will be important for our response to remain united and determined,” he said.

“2016 will be about delivering on promises already made rather than new resolutions. A key priority remains greater economic security for families through the introduction of the national living wage in April; better access to apprenticeships and training, and the continued roll out of universal credit to ensure it always pays to work and it always pays to work more. The start of the year sees more people in work than ever before. The programme of social reform will be felt across the welfare system but it’s vital if we’re to have sound public finances and be able to balance the books.

“National security also remains top of the agenda with the commitment to confront the terrorism that continues to threaten the freedom and democratic way of life we all value, and felt particularly by residents in East Hampshire with our close and long association with the armed forces.

“The developments in Whitehill and Bordon are particularly exciting and I was delighted to see plans for the Business and Enterprise Centre (at Louisburg Barracks) on my visit in December, providing much-needed employment space for start-ups and small businesses. The successful bid for the new Enterprise Zone is recognition for the potential of a “sci-tech corridor” down the M3, and East Hampshire is well placed to take advantage of this and the opportunities offered by the recent growth in digital technologies and knowledge-based industries.

“Referendums have bec-ome a common part of our language in recent years, both nationally and locally. The EU negotiations continue apace with the prospect of an in-out referendum before the end of 2017.”