During Prime Minister's Question Time yesterday, Martin asked the Prime Minister: "What steps the Government are taking to help overcome the social and economic problems facing coastal towns."
Martin's full exchange with the Prime Minister can be read below, or viewed on the video above at 23 minutes 18 seconds:
Martin Vickers (Cleethorpes) (Con): What steps the Government are taking to help overcome the social and economic problems facing coastal towns.
The Prime Minister: The Government are absolutely committed to regenerating our coastal towns and ensuring that everyone, regardless of where they live in this country, has access to high-quality public services and the very best opportunities. I am happy to reaffirm that to the House today.
Martin Vickers: Thank you, Mr Speaker. I recognise the initiatives the Government have taken, but the Prime Minister will know that many coastal towns, such as Cleethorpes, suffer from poor educational standards. We have many high-performing academies trying to reverse that and ensure that our young people have access to sport, arts and culture at the highest level. The council is preparing a report with the private sector. Will he commit the Government to working with me and the council to deliver regeneration to Cleethorpes?
The Prime Minister: No one, Mr Speaker, could silence the voice of the Humber. That was not going to happen. My hon. Friend is absolutely right, and I am happy to look at the proposal with him. We have to make sure we tackle both failing schools and coasting schools, and there are some in coastal areas of our country. One issue is making sure we get very talented teachers and leaders into those schools, and that is what the national leaders of education service is all about, but I am happy to talk further with him.