Andrew Mitchell, Member of Parliament for Sutton Coldfield and Secretary of State for International Development, is to take the Sutton Coldfield Churches Together Lenten Lecture at the Trinity Centre, Church Hill, off Mill Street, on Thursday 24 March at 7.30pm. Mr Mitchell will talk about his experiences since being appointed to the Cabinet as Secretary of State for International Development following the 2010 General Election. His speech is entitled: “How the Coalition Government will target Britain’s support for the world’s poorest and change the world.” Earlier this month Andrew announced a major shakeup of Britain’s aid programme to get maximum value for taxpayers’ money and most recently he has been responsible for the UK’s response to the humanitarian disasters in Libya and Japan, mobilising the UK International Search and Rescue response (UKISAR) which includes fire fighters from the West Midlands. The event next Thursday is free and will be an opportunity to ask questions and discuss issues concerning International Development with Andrew. All are welcome – of any faith or none. Central Sutton Coldfield Churches Together is a group of nine Christian Churches, from different traditions, that work together to support the community and local projects. Andrew Mitchell MP said, “This an opportunity which I organise locally once a year for those who are interested to discuss International Development with me. I am very much looking forward to it.” Tea and coffee will be available from 7pm with the meeting to begin at 7.30pm. For more information contact the Trinity Centre on 0121 321 1144. Photo: Andrew Mitchell MP with Mgr David Cousins, Sacred Heart Church.