In 2007-8 I continued as Parliamentary Under Secretary of State within the Department for Work and Pension. My responsibilities included:
- Housing Benefit
- Bereavement Benefit
- Income Support
- Jobseekers Allowance
- International Relations
- Social Fund
- European Social Fund
- Debt Management Policy
- Fraud and Error
- Methods of Payment Reform
- Benefit Simplification
- National Insurance Numbers
I also lead in the Commons on the Child Support Agency.
I have also attended the following Mass Lobbies of Parliament in order to meet with constituents:
- CWU
- Lobby for Palestine
- TUC NHS Lobby (x2)
- Warwick University National Union of Students
I have also sponsored an exhibition by Transaid and organised or hosted visits by 10 groups of constituents to Parliament.
I am maintaining a good attendance record. So far, I have been present for 85% of all votes this session. The 'missing' 15% is accounted for by authorised absences due to Ministerial commitments.
There was a substantial free vote during this session, on House of Lords reform. I voted for a 100% elected chamber, and against all the other options. | 
