Chorley is officially online following the opening of the UK Online centre in the Lord Street Community Centre.

The centre aims to provide people with free access to computers and the internet. It has been established with government funding in partnership with Lancashire County Council and Runshaw College I was pleased to join representatives from the county council and Runshaw College for the official opening. as part of a government project to ensure everyone gains access to the internet. Chorley's centre has now opened and everyone is invited to visit. The centre has a relaxed atmosphere and staff are on hand to help people use the facilities. The need to use computers and the internet is growing and is important for people entering the jobs market.

We cannot afford to have people put at a disadvantage because they can not gain access to computers and the internet.

The Online centres are aimed at ensuring those who do not have access to computers can come along and receive training and advice in order to prepare themselves for future employment.

The war in Afghanistan continues and as winter approaches it is important efforts are made to ensure humanitarian aid is shipped in, to help the people who are fleeing their homes. Efforts should also be made by the international coalition to open up borders so refugees can receive vital support. The attack on terrorism will be a long-term affair using financial and diplomatic as well as military action.

I was delighted to be invited to the official launch of the Emissions Possible scheme in Chorley. The scheme is designed to convert commercial vehicles to operate on a dual fuel system of compressed natural gas (CNG) and diesel. It is more economical, plentiful and cleaner than many other fossil fuels and is available for commercial vehicles powered on diesel from 7.5 tons upwards. The scheme is the first to offer this commercially viable system in the UK. Cleaner and efficient fuels are needed to lessen the damage caused by road vehicles.

I joined the Mayor and Mayoress of Chorley and civic leaders at St Lawrence's Church for Remembrance Sunday. The service was well attended and hundreds also gathered at the Cenotaph. At a time when once again British military personnel are involved in war it is necessary to remember those who died during military conflict. For those involved in conflicts, and for widows and family members every day is a remembrance and It is important we continue with the tradition of Remembrance Day so at least for one day people reflect on the sacrifices people have made so we can live in a free society.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Amnesty International and I was invited to a celebration at St Mary's club by the Chorley and South Ribble Amnesty International Group. The organisation has championed many human rights causes and members still have many concerns particularly on immigration and asylum. It is important their views are heard by our leaders.

I was delighted to see Southlands High School compete in the Liverpool heat of the Bar National Mock Trial Competition. The scheme, run by the Citizenship Foundation, aims to provide students with experience of the workings of the legal system.