David Burgess-Joyce is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Wallasey. We spoke with David about his decision to stand.
“I no longer supported a party that was NOT conservative. I also looked at what Reform UK were advocating, and I struggled to disagree”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is David Burgess-Joyce and I represent the Wallasey constituency on the Wirral, which is part of Merseyside. I’ve spent all my working life in law enforcement and have worked throughout the United Kingdom and internationally.
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
I was a Conservative all my adult life and had two terms as a councillor. However, last year I resigned my membership because I no longer supported a party that was NOT conservative. I also looked at what Reform UK were advocating, and I struggled to disagree.
“I have lived in this area all my 60 years and know it extremely well”
You’re the Spokesman for Wallaseywhat’s made you decide to represent this area?
I have lived in this area all my 60 years and know it extremely well. I am also of the opinion that decades of a Labour MP who lives in London has not helped its success.
“There are areas of deprivation which have not seen the council maintain or show any interest in”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
Wallasey needs inward investment to raise the area from a forgotten part of Merseyside. There are areas of deprivation which have not seen the council maintain or show any interest in. Ironically, these are some of the areas the Labour council receive their votes from! Given we have a coast on three sides I am concerned the pollution caused by the water utility company and some businesses is rife, and I intend campaigning for strong sanctions.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
Peter Sceats is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Bethnal Green and Stepney. We spoke with Peter about his decision to stand.
“I would crawl over broken glass to vote leave again if I had to…”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
I am Peter Sceats, a British businessman working mainly in the energy markets. I invented the index upon which the international coal market is based. I am chairman of our family gin company, EL-BART.
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
I was a referendum party supporter back in the day, then UKIP, Brexit Party and now Reform. I think the EU is merely “greater Germany” and is in any event an undemocratic dictatorship. I would crawl over broken glass to vote leave again if I had to…
“My family has 230 years history in the area”
You’re the Spokesman for Bethnal Green and Stepney what’s made you decide to represent this area?
My family has 230 years history in the area. I got involved in the stairway to heaven charity which built the monument next to St Johns Church remembering the 173 who died in the Bethnal Green tube disaster. My cousin Lillian died in that event… I wrote the charity’s song actually, “Lillian’s Theme” and recorded it with my middle daughter who is now somewhat a star of musical theatre.
“I simply want to represent the people of Bethnal Green and Stepney and help them with the problems where I can”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
I simply want to represent the people of Bethnal Green and Stepney and help them with the problems where I can. I will be present in the constituency week in, week out for the term. Radical, huh?! I would like for the area to regain more of its East London charm and be safer, cleaner and more visually compelling and I will work for that.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
What is it like running for Parliament? I’m a first time candidate standing for the SDP in the constituency of Coventry South I’ve taken six weeks off work and I’m entirely self funded. I sleep in a 12 m² student accommodation room and haven’t seen my wife for 2 weeks. My opponent Zarah Sultana ships in around 100 Labour Party volunteers from Manchester, London, Carlisle, Birmingham every weekend.
“The central plank of my campaign is to focus on bringing high skilled, high value added, high paying, jobs back to the city of Coventry”
FedEx lost 10,000 of my 62,000 leaflets and tonight we discovered the post office are delivering my leaflets all over Coventry North. BUT… We talked to 200 to 300 Coventry voters every day and today was our best day ever in terms of the positivity of the response.
The central plank of my campaign is to focus on bringing high skilled, high value added, high paying, jobs back to the city of Coventry because “a rising tide lifts all boats”. Our current MP, Ms Sultana, has used the platform afforded to her by the voters of Coventry South to focus on Gaza with 87 tweets about Gazza to 6 about Coventry in Q1 2024.
“Bit by bit, we have put together a group of volunteers who join me at weekends and evenings after work to support my campaign. I spend 10 to 12 hours a day in one-to-one conversations throughout the constituency”
Having held nearly 2,000 individual conversations, not one single person has raised this issue with me in Coventry South. The local BBC radio station is only interested in talking to me about Gaza despite me pointing out to them that BBC Question Time in Coventry on the first day of the campaign demonstrated that Gaza was not on the mind of Coventry voters.
Bit by bit, we have put together a group of volunteers who join me at weekends and evenings after work to support my campaign. I spend 10 to 12 hours a day in one-to-one conversations throughout the constituency of Coventry South and I think I have a good feel for voters want.
Some of my volunteers struggle with the level of anger and frustration expressed by voters. It can be very raw and very real and not everybody can cope with it. I am absolutely convinced that the mass of elite opinion especially in London is totally disconnected from the majority views throughout the country. Labour support is a mile wide and an inch deep.
Reform is on the lips of almost every white male over 45 years old. Nigel Farage has tapped into and reflected the anger of voters but I believe has no compelling answers. The SDP are committed to a long march across three electoral cycles to build a mass national party that can offer voters a real alternative that the positively want to vote for rather than the least hated.
“This week I’ve started to receive dozens of different manifestos from organisations and pressure groups seeking my endorsement. I have been absolutely clear that my overwhelming focus is to drive the economic well-being of Coventry”
Our 122 Candidates represent a 500% increase from 2019 and we aim to field 350 Candidates at the next election. I know that Solihull next door to Coventry will be the next centre for the SDP growth in the West Midlands as we have three volunteers coming almost daily to help us in Coventry South.
Standing for parliament is a trip! This week I’ve started to receive dozens of different manifestos from organisations and pressure groups seeking my endorsement. I have been absolutely clear that my overwhelming focus is to drive the economic well-being of Coventry. Consequently, I am being very sparing with my responses as I do not want to dilute my message. When our family returned to Coventry in 1969 wages in Coventry were significantly above the UK average and they are now significantly below. House prices were four times average earnings now they are 13 times.
Professor Danny Dorling of Oxford University maps Coventry to the north of the north-south divide but to my mind the line goes directly through the centre of the city. Parts of the south are still doing ok but the north is in a hell of a state. If we could get 50 great new entrepreneurs to set up in Coventry, it would be enough to kickstart the economy and address the physical deterioration of the city.
If I had one wish for Coventry it would be for Tesla or BYD Company to set up the at the site of Coventry Airport where a 5 million square foot planning consent for a battery electric vehicle plant has already been granted, wisely in my view, by Coventry City Council. So my request to X/Twitter world is to tweet this article to Elon Musk and Tesla or BYD Company to raise the profile of this great City and hope that we can rebuild our volume manufacturing business. For full transparency, I’ve been a Tesla shareholder since 2016.
“Big parties can afford to fund lots of the expenses and you have big teams of supporters helping. There is a tiny pool of people who can do what I am doing or attempting to do outside of the two dominant parties”
I discussed with a friend today how many people could take six weeks unpaid leave? Assuming there are 35 million voters we figured that maybe 3% maximum which gives a figure of 1,050,000. We then calculated that may be 5% of these remaining people could afford the estimated £7,500 of costs which cut down the pool to 52,500 potential candidates. We then estimated what percentage of those remaining could bear the anger, resentment and contempt of the disillusioned voters and we thought it was as little as 10% leaving approximately 5250. We then asked how many people in our Venn diagram would map and fit our three criteria and it left us with 525 people (10%). This is the problem the small parties face. Big parties can afford to fund lots of the expenses and you have big teams of supporters helping. There is a tiny pool of people who can do what I am doing or attempting to do outside of the two dominant parties. Not many people realise that the vast majority of reform candidates are paper candidates, who will never go to the constituency and are candidates in name only.
Vinayak Malhotra is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Croydon West. We spoke with Vinayak about his decision to stand.
“At the core of Reform UK’s ethos lies a steadfast dedication to individual liberty, personal responsibility, and economic freedom”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Vinayak Malhotra, and it is both an honour and a privilege to stand as Reform UK’s candidate and spokesman. My journey to this candidacy is deeply rooted in a steadfast belief in the potential of our communities and a resolute commitment to addressing their specific needs and aspirations.
With a rich background in extensive volunteer work and community service, I have dedicated myself to improving the lives of those around me and fostering a stronger, more connected community. This experience has not only shaped my understanding of local dynamics but has also instilled in me a profound appreciation for the rich tapestry of British society.
Being deeply committed to British values and culture, I am driven by a passionate desire to preserve the traditions and principles that make our country great. Throughout my years of service, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges our communities confront, particularly concerning issues such as crime and safety. These pressing concerns lie at the heart of my campaign, and I am fully committed to implementing effective, evidence-based solutions that safeguard the well-being and security of all residents.
I firmly believe that by fostering collaborative efforts and engaging all stakeholders, we can create a safer, more prosperous environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. My candidacy reflects a genuine dedication to serving the people and making a positive impact on our community’s future.
As Reform UK’s candidate, I am prepared to bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a steadfast commitment to accountability and transparency in governance.
Together, let us forge a path forward that honours our shared values, celebrates our cultural richness, and ensures a brighter future for generations to come.
“Central to my agenda is promoting economic growth and prosperity. I am dedicated to attracting new businesses, supporting local entrepreneurs, and creating job opportunities”
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
I decided to stand for Reform UK because it represents more than just a political party to me; it embodies a profound commitment to the fundamental principles that underpin our society. At the core of Reform UK’s ethos lies a steadfast dedication to individual liberty, personal responsibility, and economic freedom. These principles resonate deeply with my belief in the importance of empowering individuals and communities to thrive on their own terms, free from unnecessary governmental interference.
Throughout my life, I have witnessed the transformative power of policies that prioritise personal liberty and economic dynamism. Reform UK’s platform not only aligns with my vision for a prosperous and fair society but also reflects a pragmatic approach to addressing the challenges facing our nation today. From championing sensible regulatory reforms to advocating for a more competitive business environment, Reform UK offers a comprehensive blueprint for fostering innovation, growth, and opportunity across all sectors of our economy.
Moreover, the leadership within Reform UK has inspired me with their unwavering commitment to advancing these principles. Their courage in confronting the status quo and their dedication to advocating for the rights of individuals and communities have motivated me to step forward and contribute actively to our political discourse. I am particularly drawn to Reform UK’s emphasis on evidence-based policymaking and their willingness to engage in constructive dialogue to achieve meaningful reform.
The overwhelming support I have received from within Reform UK has been both heartening and humbling, underscoring the party’s collaborative and cohesive approach, where a variety of perspectives converge to shape policies that benefit all British citizens. As a parliamentary candidate, I see this as an opportunity not only to represent the interests of my constituents but also to contribute to shaping a legislative agenda that promotes fairness, prosperity, and social cohesion.
Standing for Reform UK is more than a political endeavour; it is a commitment to upholding the values that define our nation and securing a brighter future for generations to come. I am dedicated to bringing integrity, diligence, and a principled approach to my role as a candidate, ensuring that the voices of those I represent are heard loud and clear in the corridors of power. Together with Reform UK, I am eager to work towards building a society where individual freedoms are safeguarded, opportunities are plentiful, and every citizen can pursue their aspirations with confidence and dignity.
You’re the Spokesman for Croydon West, what’s made you decide to represent this area?
My decision to represent Croydon West is deeply rooted in a commitment to bring about much-needed reform and progress to our community. Croydon West, like many areas, faces challenges that require innovative solutions and strong leadership. As a proud advocate for our dynamic community, I see immense potential here, waiting to be unlocked.
Central to my agenda is promoting economic growth and prosperity. I am dedicated to attracting new businesses, supporting local entrepreneurs, and creating job opportunities that will drive our area’s economic development forward. A thriving local economy is essential for ensuring resilience and prosperity for all residents.
Equally important are improvements to public services. I am prioritising enhancements to healthcare, education, and public transportation to ensure accessibility and well-being for everyone in Croydon West.
Community safety remains a top priority. I will work closely with law enforcement and community groups to implement effective crime reduction strategies, addressing both immediate safety concerns and underlying social issues through targeted programs.
Environmental sustainability is also critical. I am committed to advancing green initiatives, investing in renewable energy, and promoting sustainable practices to protect our natural environment for future generations.
Moreover, fostering a strong sense of community is essential. Through inclusive events and initiatives that celebrate our heritage and promote solidarity, we can build a more cohesive and supportive community in Croydon West.
I firmly believe that Reform UK can play a pivotal role in achieving these goals. Their commitment to reform and their innovative policy solutions can bring about positive change in our area, helping us address longstanding issues and seize new opportunities. Together, with collaborative effort and dedication, we can build a vibrant and prosperous future for Croydon West that we can all be proud of.
“I aim to champion policies that balance fiscal responsibility with the need to invest in public services and infrastructure, ensuring that our tax system is fair and that public funds are used effectively”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
One of the major concerns I see for our constituency is the escalating rate of crime. This issue not only jeopardises the safety and security of our residents but also undermines the cohesion and trust within our community. I am committed to taking a proactive stance in addressing this challenge. This involves advocating for increased police presence and resources to ensure our streets remain safe. Additionally, I will support community-based initiatives aimed at providing constructive opportunities for young people, which can help divert them away from criminal activities. These measures are crucial in safeguarding our neighbourhoods and fostering a sense of security among all residents.
Another important issue is the preservation of British culture and values. In an increasingly globalised world, it’s crucial that we hold onto the traditions and principles that have shaped our identity. I am deeply committed to promoting our heritage and ensuring that our values are upheld in our community. This includes supporting local cultural events, festivals, and educational programs that celebrate our history and traditions, fostering a sense of pride and unity among residents.
Additionally, I am keenly aware of the struggles many of our citizens face daily. From economic hardships to access to quality healthcare and education, these challenges need to be addressed head-on. The NHS and social care are critical areas where I hope to make a difference, ensuring that everyone receives the healthcare and support they need without undue delay or burden. I will work to secure more funding for our local health services, reduce waiting times, and improve access to mental health support, recognising that mental health is just as important as physical health.
Education and childcare are also top priorities. I believe every child deserves access to high-quality education and that working parents should have affordable, reliable childcare options. These foundations are essential for the future success of our community. I will advocate for increased funding for schools, better support for teachers, and expanded access to early childhood education programs. Ensuring that our children receive the best possible start in life is a top priority.
Tax and spending policies must be fair and supportive of both economic growth and social equity. I aim to champion policies that balance fiscal responsibility with the need to invest in public services and infrastructure, ensuring that our tax system is fair and that public funds are used effectively to benefit all citizens. This includes advocating for tax relief for low-income families and small businesses, investing in public transportation and housing, and ensuring that our local infrastructure meets the needs of our growing community.
By focusing on these key areas—enhancing safety, preserving our culture and values, supporting healthcare, improving education and childcare, and ensuring fair tax and spending policies—I aim to create a safer, more cohesive, and supportive community for all. My commitment is to listen to the concerns of our residents, work collaboratively to find solutions, and be a strong voice for our constituency in Parliament.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
Thank you so much for your interest in getting involved in the campaign! Every bit of support is truly appreciated. There are several ways to help make a difference:
1. Volunteer: Volunteers are needed for a variety of tasks, including canvassing, leafleting, and staffing events. Their time and energy can help reach more voters and spread the campaign message effectively.
2. Host Events: If someone has space, they can consider hosting a small gathering or a fundraiser. This is a great way to introduce the candidate to friends and neighbours and discuss the issues that matter most to the community.
3. Distribute Materials: Helping to distribute campaign materials like flyers, brochures, and yard signs can increase visibility and ensure the message reaches every corner of the constituency.
4. Social Media Advocacy: Following the campaign on social media and sharing posts can amplify the campaign’s reach and engage a wider audience. Using personal platforms to talk about why they support the campaign and the key issues being focused on can be very effective.
5. Donate: Campaigns require financial resources to run effectively. Any contribution, big or small, helps cover the costs of advertising, materials, and events. Donations can be made through the campaign website.
6. Join a Working Group: If someone has specific skills or expertise, they can join one of the campaign’s working groups focused on policy, communications, logistics, or outreach. Their insights and professional experience can be invaluable.
7. Attend Events: Supporters can show their support by attending rallies, town halls, and other public events. Their presence demonstrates strong community backing and helps build momentum.
8. Spread the Word: Talking to family, friends, and colleagues about the campaign is incredibly powerful. Personal endorsements can persuade undecided voters.
Interested individuals can sign up on the Reform UK website or contact the campaign office directly. Updates on upcoming volunteer opportunities and events will be provided. Together, everyone can create positive change and build a better future for the community.
Neville Watson is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Edmonton and Winchmore Hill. We spoke with Neville about his decision to stand.
“POLITICS MUST REGAIN ITS MORAL MISSION AND INTEGRITY”
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
A BELIEF THAT POLITICS MUST REGAIN ITS MORAL MISSION AND INTEGRITY and Reform embodies all those values.
You’re the Spokesman for Edmonton and Winchmore Hillwhat’s made you decide to represent this area?
I represent two completely different wards, one Edmonton with crime, unemployment and housing being an issue and Winchmore Hill is how to reinvigorate local trade, rubbish collection and noise pollution. I have the innovative thinking to improve the lives of both my wards.
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
As above, but my key theme is to improve youth provision across the constituency, that has the positive knock-on effect on crime.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
“I represent two completely different wards, one Edmonton with crime, unemployment and housing being an issue and Winchmore Hill is how to reinvigorate local trade”
Michael McGetrick is the SDP prospective candidate for South West Hertfordshire. We spoke with Michael about his decision to stand.
“I found out through social media that the SDP was still alive. I read The New Declaration and my enthusiasm for the party was immediately re-ignited”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
I was born and raised twenty miles north of London, in Hertfordshire, where I received my primary and secondary education. During this time I came to love both the Hertfordshire countryside and it’s close proximity to London. I continued my studies at London University where I studied physics and obtained my doctorate. My research was carried out at the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Research Establishment, Harwell.
I was an academic for ten years in South Africa, working with the disenfranchised communities, before moving into the corporate sector. I have worked in a range of industries in various countries (South Africa, United Kingdom, Germany and Sweden) providing solutions to various clients in the military, government and corporate world. My working career in such a variety of geographical settings has provided me with direct experience, and deep understanding of, the vast wealth inequalities that exist between various nations worldwide. As a social democrat, it is my wish to see extreme poverty tackled at both a national and international level.
“more social housing needs to be provided. The reduction of net inward migration to sustainable levels will relieve the pressure on services”
What made you decide to stand for the SDP?
I was very excited about the formation of the SDP when it was launched in 1981. Later, when I moved to South Africa, I shared an office with a fellow physics lecturer (also from the UK) at the university. He was a member of the Electoral Reform Society (which promotes proportional representation). One day in our office, in the middle of the African bush, he shared his experiences of campaigning for Roy Jenkins (one of SDP Gang of Four) in the Glasgow Hillhead by-election the year before! We had many discussions on PR and the SDP (when we were not talking physics!). We were both of the opinion that the SDP was the only way forward for Britain.
In the years that passed, hearing nothing of the party after the merger with the Liberal Party, I assumed that the SDP was officially no more.
Fast forward to 2019. I found out through social media that the SDP was still alive. I read The New Declaration and my enthusiasm for the party was immediately re-ignited. I soon became involved with former SDP MEP for East of England Patrick 0’ Flynn’s campaign in the Peterborough by-election, and finally stood as PPC for Watford in the General Election later that year.
You’re the Spokesman for South West Hertfordshire what’s made you decide to represent this area?
I stood for the constituency of Watford during the 2019 General Election. It is a town I have a familiarity with having been raised in a town not too far way in the county. Due to the recent boundary changes, some areas have been absorbed into South West Hertfordshire.
“ULEZ policies must be revised or scrapped to ensure people can go about their business”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
Cost of Living, Housing, Crime and ULEZ.
Local authority budgets are becoming increasingly squeezed due to rising costs and increased demand for services. For instance, more social housing needs to be provided. The reduction of net inward migration to sustainable levels will relieve the pressure on services.
SDP policy on housing would provide for 100,000 new social homes per annum. This would increase the overall housing stock, thus reducing housing costs in both the social and private sectors.
Many in the constituency depend on their living by travelling into London. ULEZ costs can make this prohibitively expensive. ULEZ policies must be revised or scrapped to ensure people can go about their business.
SDP policy on re-industrialisation will, in the longer term, provide more well-paying jobs that will significantly alleviate cost of living problems.
The police will be encouraged to do their job professionally on issues such as knife crime and anti-social behaviour independently of politically correct pressures. Maximum assistance will be given to the police in tackling ‘county lines’ gang-related activity which is becoming more prevalent and sourced from nearby London bases.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
If you wish to help, please contact me by email at [email protected]
Any help with leafleting and spreading the word would be greatly appreciated.
Mark Patten is the SDP prospective candidate for Harpenden and Berkhamsted. We spoke with Mark about his decision to stand.
“my despair at the main parties has made me step up to stand as a candidate”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
I am an NHS consultant anaesthetist who has worked for the NHS all my life. I have been relatively apolitical but my despair at the main parties has made me step up to stand as a candidate.
What made you decide to stand for the SDP?
Only party that is promoting a true alternative to the mainstream political parties
You’re the Spokesman for Harpenden and Berkhamsted what’s made you decide to represent this area?
I have lived in the constituency for 26 years. It is a new constituency that has no incumbent and should be open to a new alternative party.
“Affordable housing for young people. My own three children have no prospect of living independently locally”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
Affordable housing for young people. My own three children have no prospect of living independently locally. Social care for the elderly the poor provision has massive impacts on the NHS.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
Come along to the local Hustings and get involved that way. You can also contact me at [email protected].
Martin Evison is the SDP prospective candidate for Newcastle upon Tyne North. We spoke with Martin about his decision to stand.
“feel very at home in the SDP. I am overjoyed at the growth in the Party in such a short time – fielding 122 candidates in the 2024 General Election”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
I’m a Shropshire Lad who first came to Newcastle as a student in 1979. I worked in IT in the 80s boom, and then returned to the academic world in the life, archaeological and forensic sciences, retiring in 2020.
What made you decide to stand for the SDP?
I was a wavering Brexit voter inflamed by the disgraceful attempt to overturn the result. This would not have happened if it had gone the other way and was profoundly anti-democratic.
For this reason, I supported the Brexit Party until 2019 and stood for Reform UK in my ward in Newcastle in 2021 strongly advocating for an end to the insane and injurious lockdown policies. My attempts to influence Reform to take a stronger stance at national level fell on deaf ears and, still frustrated, I took a look at the SDP. Their policies are sensible, overlapping in places with those of Reform. Most importantly, however, the SDP seemed properly democratic and consultative of its members with an approachable leadership – and definitely not a vanity project. I have since found all this to be the case and feel very at home in the SDP. I am overjoyed at the growth in the Party in such a short time – fielding 122 candidates in the 2024 General Election.
“My MP was Nick Brown who was suspended by the Labour Party in 2022 for why-we-know-not, depriving the voters of their chosen representation”
You’re the Spokesman for Newcastle upon Tyne North what’s made you decide to represent this area?
I live in Newcastle North, but only 100m from the adjoining Newcastle East and Wallsend, both constituencies having been redrawn for 2024. I know and have lived in both areas, but presently live in and am more familiar with Newcastle North. My MP was Nick Brown who was suspended by the Labour Party in 2022 for why-we-know-not, depriving the voters of their chosen representation ever since. Keir Starmer’s cynical burying of this issue is itself scandalous.
“As well as reshoring industry, we hope to provide more support for small businesses and the self-employed, recognising these form a significant and important part of the economy”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
Newcastle North has large swathes of rental properties that are often poorly maintained despite spiralling rents, and I anticipate SDP housing policies will be attractive to voters. Everyone will be concerned about the cost of living, and our energy policies should ensure more affordable domestic bills and cheaper costs for industry, which should again bring prices down.
As well as reshoring industry, we hope to provide more support for small businesses and the self-employed, recognising these form a significant and important part of the economy.
There is a substantial care sector in the constituency and the SDP plans for a combined national care service will improve conditions for care staff and residents.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
To learn more about the SDP please visit sdp.org.uk.
There are lots of opportunities to help with campaigning in Newcastle North and other North East constituencies. In the North East, please make contact by email with [email protected].
Ian Grattidge is the SDP prospective candidate for Tonbridge. We spoke with Ian about his decision to stand.
“The New Declaration was something of a revelation. It was the first time I read a party ‘prospectus’ with which I almost entirely agreed”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
I grew up in Southeast London moving to West Kent over 40 years ago. I am married with four children and three grandchildren. After a career spent mainly in the Civil Service, and latterly operating at senior management level, I ‘reinvented’ myself as a consultant and interim manager specialising in financial, reporting and governance turnrounds. I also have had a number of Governor and Trustee roles, latterly as Board Chair for a Housing Association.
What made you decide to stand for the SDP?
For many years I drifted between different parties, not much enthused by the offerings of any. The New Declaration was something of a revelation. It was the first time I read a party ‘prospectus’ with which I almost entirely agreed. At a time when so much division is evident in the UK – division that is being exacerbated by identity politics – I feel that with the SDP there is a genuine offer of something for all. The family has been neglected by successive governments and over the past few years public services have become both unreliable and seemingly unaccountable to the people they serve. The prospects, too, for young people getting on the housing ladder seem to be getting increasingly bleak. I don’t believe any of the mainstream parties have engaged with these challenges sufficiently well to give me confidence that they have good solutions.
“At a time when people might like to take the opportunity to express their dissatisfaction with the Tory Government there needs to be a credible alternative, one based on support for families”
You’re the Spokesman for Tonbridge what’s made you decide to represent this area?
I have lived in West Kent for over 40 years. Constituencies have remained steadfastly Conservative during this time. At a time when people might like to take the opportunity to express their dissatisfaction with the Tory Government there needs to be a credible alternative, one based on support for families, affordable housing and reliable public services. I believe the SDP offers voters the opportunity to support these key priorities. The voters of Tonbridge deserve to have this option made available to them.
“Maintaining good quality services – both in Tonbridge but also the many villages in the constituency – are particular issues from my perspective”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
Housing is a big issue and the pressure for provision of sufficient affordable housing, particularly for young people who would like to work and live in the area, will remain a challenge. The Council plan, specialising as it does on development of brownfield sites, needs to deliver. Similarly plans to redevelop Tonbridge town centre, to revive it as a thriving High Street are key. Maintaining good quality services – both in Tonbridge but also the many villages in the constituency – are particular issues from my perspective. Community based services are a better alternative to centralised provision, especially where public transport is not extensively available.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
There is a new Facebook page – SDP West Kent – aimed at bringing together SDP supporters in the area (Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks) and which will carry updates on local campaigns. We do not have a large army of volunteers so any help with getting the message out there will be really welcome. I can be contacted on [email protected] and found on Twitter @GrattidgeIan.
Gary Stevens is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Dulwich and West Norwood. We spoke with Gary about his decision to stand.
“I became actively involved in 2017 and in 2018 I was elected as a local Councillor in Bromley. It was an incredibly rewarding time to be able to help out in the community”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
I was born and raised on a sheep and cattle farm in Southland, New Zealand, and have since lived and worked in several major cities, including Sydney, Amsterdam, Hong Kong, and London. Currently, I reside in Bromley with my wife and our two sons. I have had a long career in IT and Finance, first starting in Investment Banking in the early 90’s in London. I am currently a Director with an Investment Bank, working on high-profile projects as a Program Manager. This is a role which I enjoy immensely and is indeed a dream come true for me to be living and working in IT and finance in London.
The first time I voted it was for a Labour government, as at the time, they were more credible, organised and had a clear plan of delivery, rather than just empty promises. I would, however, first and foremost describe myself as a modern conservative – believing in your freedoms and liberties, low taxes, and small government. Over the last 4 years it is also clear to me that I am also a libertarian. I believe we should be able to live freely and enjoy our lives as much as possible, free from authoritarian government over-reach. I also consider myself to be an old-school liberal and old-school progressive, but with a strong conservative base, and a key part of this is the family unit and the closely connected, interdependent members of our communities and country. As a society, country and indeed human race, we must progress in an open-minded manner, delivering policy in a conservative structured way.
After years of following politics, I became actively involved in 2017 and in 2018 I was elected as a local Councillor in Bromley. It was an incredibly rewarding time to be able to help out in the community, and during my tenure, I worked diligently at both the ward and council levels, addressing issues such as housing, planning, traffic, and community projects.
Some extra info:
PADI qualified scuba diver.
International Rugby Board (IRB) qualified Rugby Coach.
First job out of university was for a bungy jump company in Queenstown NZ, driving a jetboat in Skippers Canyon, and I have done over 100 bungy jumps.
I have had two exhibitions of my own art.
Alongside my career in IT and finance I have worked as an actor appearing in numerous TV series, commercials and films.
I have backpacked around The Middle East (Syria, Jordan, The Sinai, Israel and Egypt), India, Nepal (Annapurna Base Camp) & Thailand.
“Labour called for harder lockdowns, sooner and far more extreme than they already were. It was an appalling state of affairs as the British people were used as playthings for politicians”
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
The old UK parties have failed us all. I am an ex-Conservative Councillor, but the Conservatives no longer stand for anything remotely C/conservative. Conservative members and indeed all British people have been ignored. Labour has become an elitist London centric club and no longer stands for the working class or indeed the ordinary British people, and the Liberal Democrats are largely irrelevant. It is time for change, it is time for Reform UK.
Whilst it is important to have unity at times of crisis, during Covid it was clear that we have one party in the UK, the “UniParty”. Labour may as well have crossed the floor and joined the Tories over the last few years. Elitist Sir Keir Starmer’s Labour (who values the WEF and Davos, over Westminster and the British people) provided no opposition or scrutiny whatsoever to the extremist legislation and policies forced on the British people. Indeed, Labour called for harder lockdowns, sooner and far more extreme than they already were. It was an appalling state of affairs as the British people were used as playthings for politicians across Wales, Scotland, NI, England, and internationally, to see who could out do the other in terms of how hard line they could be. This must never happen again.
I am not a career politician and I bring with me a large amount of real-world experience. I would take a more professional approach to the role as MP, and engage with and listen to people in Dulwich and West Norwood (DAWN), and indeed take their guidance.
You’re the Spokesman for Dulwich and West Norwood what’s made you decide to represent this area?
I have strong links to DAWN, having lived in various locations across the constituency since the early 90s. My first job in the UK was pulling pints at the Crown & Greyhound in Dulwich Village and I have been actively involved with a local Rugby Club in Dulwich for 9 years. I love this area and indeed I consider it my UK home.
Whilst there are a number of international events that have gained much needed attention and scrutiny, my primary focus will be the people of DAWN. I will work tirelessly to address local issues and support community organisations, particularly those relying on volunteers. My experience in sports club management will be instrumental in engaging with and supporting local clubs and organisations. These clubs and organisations are an under acknowledged part of our community and must be supported and encouraged.
“I stand firmly against Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) and the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), which have proven to be detrimental to social cohesion and disproportionately affect the poorest in our communities”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
Kids are getting mugged on their way to and from school in DAWN. Street-level crime and crime in general across London has rocketed under a Labour Mayor of London and without a doubt drugs and drug use are a major part of this, as well as being a major social issue. There is no one policy that can resolve this all-invasive issue. Stop and Search, reform of the justice system, Policing levels and funding, zero tolerance, stronger leadership, and community engagement are just part of a much larger set of policies that make up the overall approach on crime. I would work with the MET Police and local community groups to provide the level of safety that residents deserve.
I stand firmly against Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) and the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), which have proven to be detrimental to social cohesion and disproportionately affect the poorest in our communities. These measures must be removed, and I fully support Reform’s policy to legislate their removal across DAWN and the UK.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
