HAPPY New Year! As we enter 2012 it is an occasion to reflect on the year departing and to look forward to events this year.

It hasn’t been the easiest of years. The turbulence of the eurozone continues to impact our economy and that is prolonging economic uncertainty. We must use our voice in Europe to make sure EU leaders do not duck the challenge of fixing the euro’s problems. The action we are taking to tackle debt is not easy, but it is improving market confidence in Britain. We must learn the lesson that we should never allow any Government to live beyond our means again.

2011 was the year Britain came together to celebrate the marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton. It was also the year we witnessed scenes of wilful destruction and looting during the August riots.

But the condemnation of the rioters and the community spirit which helped clean up in the aftermath reassured me that the prevailing values in British society are undimmed.

It has also been a year which saw the further spread of democracy and freedom across the world. The uprisings throughout the Arab states are changing the face of the Middle East and the death of Osama Bin Laden will surely make the world a safer place, although the need to be vigilant against terror and extremism remains.

So there is much to be thankful for. Looking ahead our priority must be to strengthen our economy by creating jobs and promoting growth. We can only do that by supporting business, not by spending money we do not have.

Only by supporting business will we foster the growth and jobs that we need. The eyes of the world will be on Britain as we celebrate the Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics. This is our chance to showcase the best of Britain. We must seize the opportunity to market Britain to the world.