The coming General Election will usher into existence the new Selly Oak parliamentary constituency. It will consist of the wards of Billesley, Bournville, Brandwood and Selly Oak. This change means that if the voters of the new constituency elect me, I will still be able to represent the people in Billesley and Brandwood with whom I've been proud to work for many years. It will also provide the fresh challenge of working with new constituents and new businesses, voluntary groups and community bodies in Bournville and Selly Oak.

The new seat is a leafy suburb on the south side of the city. It is a largely residential area consisting of a mixture of owner occupiers, privately rented and council owned houses. There is also a significant student population living in the Bournbrook area.

The constituency is home to Selly Oak Hospital and the Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, the world renowned Cadbury factory (whose takeover by Kraft remains a major focus of concern), Moseley Rugby Club, Cocks Moor Wood Leisure Centre and Golf Course, St Mary's Hospice and the Acorns Children's Hospice as well as a number of parks and open spaces including the outstanding Cotteridge Park; and part of Birmingham's famous canal network. It is also host to many small high streets with independent stores, restaurants and bars.

The former Selly Oak seat has been represented by my colleague Dr Lynne Jones who wrested it from the Conservatives in 1992. Lynne is retiring at the next General election after 18 years at Westminster.

More information about Birmingham Selly Oak's social and economic make up as well as other local information can be found at: www.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk and www.upmystreet.com