CRIME tops the list of subjects that voters want their MP to raise in Parliament.

More than 200 people responded after Batley and Spen Labour MP Mike Wood asked for ideas.

He hopes to be able to use their suggestions to form the basis of a Private Member's Bill in the Commons.

Mr Wood said: "The most popular suggestions so far have related to law and order, such as more policing and measures to tackle youth crime.

"The suggestions range from bringing back the birch and banning roadworks to compulsory voting and finding more ways to stop school bullies."

Ten backbench MPs whose names are drawn out of the hat get the chance to introduce Private Member's Bills.

Mr Wood asked people in Batley and Spen what they would want if he won the ballot.

The MP said: "The response has been absolutely astounding.

"I expected crime, pensions and health services to come up - but one of the most popular suggestions I didn't expect is a law to address the shortage of council housing."

Suggestions can be made until October 31 by phoning Mr Wood's office on 01274 335233 for a form.

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