Am I alone in thinking that there is a collective sigh of relief as this new Coalition government lays out its plans to reduce the role of the State and to hand more responsibility to us.
This is to be warmly endorsed, although it may take a little time for people to appreciate what this means as the state has increasingly bludgeoned us into submission over the past 13 years.
I was reminded just how much while meeting a group of sixth formers at a school in Dorset before the general election.
One female student, bolder than the others, asked: “If you’re elected, what are you going to do for me?”
I paused to gather my thoughts – always a good move – and replied: “Actually, what are you going to do for yourself, your family, your friends, your community? What are your aspirations and how will you achieve them?”
This was not meant as a put down, far from it, but my comment was instinctive and, I believe, the right one.
This new era of austerity is, I think, reminding us all that we are going to have to take far more responsibility for our own lives.
Of course an MP’s role is help their constituents, but we are sent to Parliament to legislate, a point that is perhaps often forgotten.
Our governance should provide the framework within which citizens can live, educate their children, feel secure at home, receive medical help when it’s needed and, of course, many other areas.
Yet none of this works efficiently without a willingness on your part to join in. Big government simply doesn’t work any more and we certainly cannot afford it.
Instead, we must harness our energies to the benefit of us all.
As President Kennedy put it so well more than 50 years ago: “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.”
This does not mean leaving the poor, the sick and the elderly to fend for themselves. Any civilized society must look after the weak and the infirm.
But those who can work, for example, must do so and I know the Coalition government will be reviewing the welfare state, which is long overdue.
So, to the charming young woman I met, I say this. I am here to help and advise should you need it, but I can’t make your life choices, nor should I.
I and my colleagues in Parliament will do what we can to ensure the country’s infrastructure is in a fit state to allow you to pursue your dreams.
Whatever career you wish to pursue, do so with a single-minded determination which will impress any interviewer, and never give up.
I believe there’s nothing you can’t achieve if you are determined enough and I have met many people during my varied life who are living proof of this.