THE approach of 2014 brought the customary range of predictions about the prospects for the economy and the likely challenges facing the Government as well as rash assessments as to the outcome of the general election as a consequence.

I read all with great interest but, as always, there is so much we cannot take for granted.

My hope for 2014 is to see continued growth in our economy reflected in the pay packets of hard-working families.

There is no doubt that the pressures on cost of living, in terms of utility bills and increases in some food prices, mean that the headlines in terms of new jobs, reduced unemployment and the reduction in the deficit have not been fully translated into a “feel good” factor for many working people, especially those in the public sector who have had no pay increases for a number of years.

I hope 2014 will be the year in which we see tangible progress to add to the fourth consecutive year of council tax being frozen so that people will feel certain that the tough decisions this government has taken are bearing long awaited fruit in their household incomes.

In Salisbury I expect to see tangible progress in the Maltings development plans.

I also trust that the positive energy generated by the highly successful Christmas market in the city will translate into sustained confidence in the retail business community.

My main priority at Westminster will be to ensure that the challenges facing the A303 are fully and urgently addressed by ministers and any feasibility study will not put the Stonehenge issue into the long grass. I also hope to raise matters around military training and continue to take an active role in developments at Porton and in education provision locally.

As Salisbury’s constituency MP my role will be to continue to take up individuals’ frustrations with the processes of government and seek to deliver the outcomes that they deserve. Please don’t hesitate to email me at john.glen.mp@parliament.uk or call my office on 01722 323 050 if you wish to make an appointment at my surgery. I wish all my constituents a happy and prosperous 2014.