When first elected I promised to always tell you the whole truth. Most people are cynical about politicians for understandable reasons. But I am a conviction not a career politician, fired up as ever about the need for reforms

I’ve stuck to the truth although that’s not always easy. As the proud son of a soldier who was cheated out of his pension, I led the call for a just end to the Afghan war to bring our boys back home.

In 2006, mine was the only voice raised against the Helmand incursion. Then 7 UK soldiers had died. Now it's nearing 300. The war is being prolonged by those of all parties who are too timid to end it.

The best measure for deciding your vote is on delivery. Every year, I have pressed for restoring the pension link. It will happen. A pension is not a handout. It is an earned entitlement. More progress is essential.

The Tories cut the basic pension for 17 years. Labour has increased it in real terms by 12% and added Pensions Credit and Winter Fuel allowances. Yes there are justified complaints against, but the Tories record was abominable.

The credit crunch threatened a catastrophic slump. Labour steered us safely past the worst nightmares. The Tories have been wrong on every financial decision last year. It would be reckless to risk the fragile recovery by handing them power.

Barbaric animal cruelty should now be history. But new Tory MPs will try to put cruelty back into hunting. How many other gains in compassion to animals could be dumped? Some new Tory MPs will be global warming deniers and environmental wreckers.

More hard won progress reversed? Of course, some changes are needed. Anger at those who cheat our welfare state is justified. Our generosity and hospitality is often abused. New safeguards are necessary. It’s unfair to everyone else.

Tough times are ahead whoever wins. I will do all I can to win a fair deal for you. That means a strong Newport with sustainable jobs and an improving environment. My local knowledge and parliamentary experience are assets that deliver benefits for Newport.

I am proud of the work of my office and my fine staff. I am eager to continue and I ask for your vote. The job of an MP is about giving not taking. I will never let you down.