As a relatively young woman - I'm 33 - I hope to one day have a family and already have commitments. If and when I'm elected as an MP, I would face a choice: take my family with me to London each week or be apart for four, maybe five, nights a week. Lucy Powell choicecommitmentday share on social
I wish that Iraq had not happened - and that we had not lost touch with so many of our natural supporters. But this should have provided an opportunity for the Liberal Democrats as a party. Yet their protest gains are now diminishing. Lucy Powell democratdiminishgain share on social
Over the last 15 years or so, Manchester has undergone huge transformation - from a city in decline and on its knees to one that is growing, vibrant and confident. Lucy Powell cityconfidentdecline Change image and share on social
A global deal will only be possible if Britain plays its part, leading the way with other developed countries. Lucy Powell britaincountrydeal Change image and share on social
Both the velodrome and the Commonwealth swimming pool are open to the public and are frequently used by local schools and the local community. Over the last six years young people have been inspired to take up swimming and cycling more seriously; some of them are now coming through as Olympic champions or hopefuls. Lucy Powell championcomecommonwealth share on social
At times unpopular measures are needed in order to change behaviour. Lucy Powell behaviourchangemeasure Change image and share on social
As the economy faces such difficulties, more tough questions need to be asked about what the Tories would do if elected. Their ideology of free markets and small government needs challenging. That has to be part of our job. Lucy Powell askchallengedifficulty share on social
People in south Manchester overwhelming want to be able to recycle more than they currently can - especially cardboard and plastics - and want more frequent and accessible collections, particularly for those living in flats. Lucy Powell accessiblecardboardcollection share on social
Doing nothing and shrinking spending may save us public money in the short term but could cost us a great deal more over time as the recession takes hold for much longer. Lucy Powell costdealgreat Change image and share on social
At its most basic the democratic contract is a simple one: the right to vote comes with a responsibility to society, through tax payments and citizenship. Lucy Powell basiccitizenshipcontract Change image and share on social