Parliament has probably been at its best this week debating the issues people are currently most concerned about - the NHS, the Post Office and Pensions.

The fact that these topics were chosen by opposition parties rather demonstrates that they are issues where it is felt that the Government could be in trouble.

This was clearly the case as in all three debates there appeared many Labour backbenchers showing signs of discomfort.

The NHS is held dear as one of our Nation's treasure and successive Government's have tried to claim it was 'safe in their hands' trying to parody no doubt the old TV programme 'your life in their hands'.

This referred to the surgeons at the time, but increasingly it could be taken as referring to Government Minister as in a very real sense their decisions have become matters of life and death. Liberal Democrats have argued for many years that if we want first class public services then we must be prepared to pay for them. You can't get 'own for nowt'.

The debate on pensions, and particularly the paltry 75p increase due soon, attracted very few mPs to the Chamber. Labour members were once again rather embarrassed and Conservatives MPs could not make up their minds whether they supported the 75p rise or not - so in the end the abstained. So much for the 'Official' opposition.

On the other hand, despite three debates on the same issue in recent months, Post Offices brought a very high turnout of members. I do wonder if this was because of the high profile newspaper campaign in every region of the country more than from a genuine concern at the Government's proposals. The Minister Alan Johnson was formerly the Trade Union General Secretary for the Postal Workers and there are probably few in the House who could rival his knowledge and experience.

Many members, however, remain deeply unconvinced that our Post Offices will be able to attract the alternative revenue to stay open as benefit income reduces when payments are made directly to bank accounts.

I was also able, on Tuesday, to obtain an adjournment debate on swimming pool safety which brought a disappointing response from the Minister. However, losing the first battle does not mean the war is lost.

I shall continue to press Government for more effective legislation.