Many residents have contacted me since the election about the new Liberal Democrat-Conservative Coalition Government.

Most are delighted that two parties can set aside differences and work together in the national interest – especially at this time of financial and economic crisis.

A few have expressed concerns - whilst recognising the Government must now prove itself. No-one doubts we are witnessing a new kind of politics.

I spent many hours in meetings debating the options and the coalition agreement. Frankly, the coalition with the Conservatives was the only option to give Britain stability. Labour were disinterested in serious negotiation and unable to deliver the change voters wanted.

I have been pleasantly surprised by how willing Conservatives were to embrace many Lib Dem policies. Of course, Lib Dems compromised too, but the new Government will implement policies on lower taxes for people on low incomes, on the environment, on civil liberties and on political and economic reform – straight from the Lib Dem manifesto.

The coalition means that, for the first time in decades, a Government is made up of parties who, together, were chosen by a majority. In Kingston, 87% voted either Lib Dem or Conservative, on a high turnout!

In my next Informer column, I’ll update you on my new Ministerial responsibilities working with Vince Cable in the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.

However, I remain first and foremost your local MP, committed to campaigning for our community. With major budget cuts inevitable given the huge deficit Labour left, this will be more challenging than ever – and so more important than ever.