I've had no problems. I've corresponded with Jim Dowd on and off for some time and he usually (probably always) gets back to me. Some stuff is passed to the relevant government department, others answered by party workers, and some is clearly hands-on. Sometimes I write in support, sometimes I have major issues.

I was not impressed by the labour party in Lewisham over a planning issue, and wrote to the Mayor who just ignored me. Jim Dowd responded but not in a particularly helpful way. So I had a great rant when I had a recent election leaflet. Hats off as I got an almost immediate reply from John Paschoud, who I guess realised that my rant was in good sprit.

On the kissing babies and being seen in local shops, Jim Dowd has a role with the shop local lobby - so it would be good to see him in the independent stores.