§ Mrs. Claire Curtis-Thomas (Crosby) (Lab)If you have never had the opportunity to visit Liverpool, Mr. Deputy Speaker, I suggest you try and get to see us as soon as possible. Liverpool is a great city of kindhearted, spirited people. We have marvellous museums, theatres and buildings that rival anything in the UK. After years of underinvestment, since 1997 Labour Government money has been helping to transform our city. In 2002 our glorious city received the ultimate accolade when it was awarded the status of European city of culture 2008.
What a wonderful array of goodies we have to offer our visitors, including Quiggins, a marvellous retail mix with something for everyone. Motorbikes, antique furniture and the best 60s clothes on the planet are all available in this retail unit. But Quiggins is facing compulsory purchase as the mega Grosvenor empire seeks to close one of the best shopping experiences that Liverpool offers.
I present to the House tonight a petition signed by 50,000 people, which includes the names of thousands of my constituents who are both customers and retailers of that lovely emporium. I ask the House to urge the Deputy Prime Minister to consider carefully the recommendations placed before him by the planning inspectorate, to support the retention of a great Liverpool institution and to support Quiggins.
§ To lie upon the Table.