Rachel has contributed a piece for Left Foot Forward after the release of the IFS report into the budget, and explained why it makes increasingly worse reading, and raises the question about what the government defines as 'progressive'.

Rachel is pictured on the Kirkstall Forge site this week, alongside Kirkstall Councillors Lucinda Yeadon and Bernard Atha, and a number of local residents.

Rachel was touring the site to view progress, as preparatory work continues towards what is an exciting project. The picture is in front of the proposed train station, which Rachel is working hard to support.

The project has the potential to offer decent housing and jobs for our community, as well as much improved links to the city centre. Visit www.kirkstallforge.com for more information, and keep up to date with what Rachel is doing to support the train station right here!

This week Rachel visited a printing business in Leeds West. Target Print boss Peter Biggins gave Rachel a tour of his business, which prides itself on employing and training local people, and building strong relationships in the local community.

Rachel said: 'I was impressed by the ethos of the business, and it's roots in our community. Target Print train an apprentice every year, and choose young people from our area. This is a fantastic thing for a local business to do - especially in light of the recent demand for university places and competition for employment. Small businesses are the backbone of the local economy and are vital to the economic recovery.'

'I am spending time in the parliamentary recess in Leeds West, and the chance to meet local employers, workers and charity groups is very enjoyable. It is great to build on local perspectives of the current economic climate when I hold meetings and speak in Parliament.'

Rachel has branded the coalition government's NHS reorganisation 'dangerous'. She said

A top-down reorganisation is the last thing the NHS needs right now. It needs to focus all of its efforts on meeting the financial challenge it faces. This reorganisation will distract attention, reduce motivation and cost billions. I am determined to fight the Health Bill when it comes before Parliament to stop this dangerous legislation.

You can read more about Rachel's thoughts at http://www.guardian.co.uk/leeds/2010/aug/04/leeds-mp-criticises-dangerous-nhs-reorganisation