Councillor Stephen Gander is the SDP prospective candidate for Sussex Wealden. We spoke with Stephen when he was standing in the local elections and after about his experiences as a Parish Councillor. We now speak again with him about his decision to stand for Parliament.
“With great common sense policies, there’s not much to dislike and if the average voter was to look at what the SDP offer they would undoubtedly think the same”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Stephen Gander an I’ve been an active member of the SDP for the last three years or so. I have previously stood for election at the last general election In 2019. I have been a retail manager for around 35 years, up and down East and West Sussex.
“I love living in Wealden and am also a local councillor so I know the area and the residents”
What made you stand for the SDP?
I came across the SDP as I was looking, like most, for a political home and stumbled across the SDP and it’s fantastic common sense policies. I could see this was a party pretty much in its infancy coming out of the ‘Brexit years’ with a great potential to offer people like me a home and some sort of hope. With great common sense policies, there’s not much to dislike and if the average voter was to look at what the SDP offer they would undoubtedly think the same. Still a fledgling party which doesn’t get the full exposure it deserves, it’s definitely one to keep an eye on in the future once it starts to get some political traction.
You’re the spokesman for Sussex Wealden. What’s made you to decide to represent this area?
I love living in Wealden and am also a local councillor so I know the area and the residents. I would represent the locals and stand up for their concerns giving a voice to the communities.
“Housebuilding and its effects, such as traffic and flooding are the main local issues with immigration and the cost of living the two most talked about national issues”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
Talking on the doorstep there are a variety of issues which people are concerned about. Housebuilding and its effects, such as traffic and flooding are the main local issues with immigration and the cost of living the two most talked about national issues. I am prepared to take on these issues and do what I can in conjunction with local consultation and communications.
For those eager to help how can they get involved in the campaign?
Councillor Lucian Fernando is the Reform UK prospective candidate for Hastings and Rye. We spoke with Lucian about his decision to stand.
“As a person of faith, my Christian values play a significant role in shaping my perspective and guiding my actions. I believe in the power of community, compassion, and collaboration”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
I’m Lucian Fernando, and I am honoured to be the Hastings and Rye prospective parliamentary candidate for the upcoming elections. Currently serving as a dedicated councillor for Silverhill in the Hastings Borough Council, my journey into politics is deeply rooted in a commitment to community service.
Before entering the political arena, I dedicated my time to public service as a volunteer in the British Army Cadet Force and the Metropolitan Police Force. My passion for aiding those in need led me to volunteer as an NHS first responder during the challenging times of the COVID pandemic.
I take pride in being a community-minded individual, actively involved in various volunteer activities across different organizations. My commitment to helping people stems from a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those around me.
As a person of faith, my Christian values play a significant role in shaping my perspective and guiding my actions. I believe in the power of community, compassion, and collaboration.
I am humbled to share that, recognising my contributions to the community, I have been bestowed with the prestigious Freedom of the City of London after receiving two kind nominations for my volunteer service in the capital.
I am eager to bring this spirit of service, dedication, and community focus to the parliamentary role, advocating for the needs and aspirations of our wonderful community in Hastings and Rye.
“I’ve witnessed first-hand the transformative impact of policies that prioritise the needs of the people and foster an environment of growth and opportunity”
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
I believe in the power of change and the need for a fresh perspective on our political landscape. Reform UK resonates with my vision for a dynamic, responsive, and accountable government that places the interests of the people at its core. As you can see these days, the right-wing conservative party is moving towards the left. There is no actual conservatism in the Conservative Party. They forget working-class conservatives and Further, they forgot British values.
The Reform UK party’s commitment to individual freedoms, economic innovation, and a streamlined government aligns with my values and aspirations for our community. I’ve witnessed first-hand the transformative impact of policies that prioritise the needs of the people and foster an environment of growth and opportunity.
Moreover, Reform UK’s emphasis on community engagement and grassroots democracy reflects my own dedication to building connections within our constituency. It’s time for a political system that listens, responds, and works collaboratively to address the challenges we face.
I am inspired by Reform UK’s mission to bring about positive change, and I am eager to contribute my skills, experiences, and passion to serve the people of Hastings and Rye. Together, we can create a future that reflects the aspirations and concerns of our vibrant community.
“Having served as an elected councillor in the Hastings Borough Council, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the resilience, diversity, and spirit of the people here”
You’re the spokesperson for Hastings and Rye. What made you decide to represent this area?
Representing Hastings and Rye is not just a political choice for me; it’s a personal commitment rooted in a deep connection to this remarkable community. Having served as an elected councillor in the Hastings Borough Council, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the resilience, diversity, and spirit of the people here. Currently, Hastings is going through lots of problems, such as housing and a lack of financial help from the national conservative government. Due to a lack of funding, Hastings Borough Council is close to Section 114. Hastings needs good representation to tackle these issues. The current Conservative MP doesn’t care about it.
This area is not just a constituency on the map; it’s a home I’m proud to be a part of. Hastings and Rye are rich in history, culture, and, most importantly, their people. The challenges and aspirations of our community are not distant concerns but shared experiences that I understand and empathise with.
My decision to be the spokesperson for Hastings and Rye stems from a genuine belief in the potential of this community. I am driven by a passion to contribute to its growth, address its concerns, and champion its unique character on a broader stage.
As an elected councillor, I’ve worked closely with residents, listened to their voices, and learned about the issues that matter most to them. This firsthand experience has fueled my commitment to represent Hastings and Rye, advocating for policies and initiatives that genuinely improve the lives of our neighbours and enhance the overall well-being of our community.
In essence, my decision to represent this area is a reflection of my deep-rooted belief in the power of community-driven change, and I am honoured to be the spokesperson for the wonderful people of Hastings and Rye.
“the fishing industry is integral to our identity and economy. I am dedicated to supporting policies that sustain and grow our fisheries, ensuring fair practices, and safeguarding the livelihoods of those involved in this vital sector”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency, and what issues do you hope to champion?
Hastings and Rye is a vibrant and diverse constituency with a tapestry of concerns that deserve our attention. As both a prospective parliamentary candidate and an elected councillor in the Hastings Borough Council, I’ve had the privilege of engaging with our community, understanding its pulse, and identifying key areas that need dedicated focus.
Boosting Our Local Economy: One of the primary concerns is the economic vitality of our region. I am committed to championing policies that promote entrepreneurship, attract investment, and support local businesses. By fostering economic growth, we can create job opportunities and ensure a thriving community.
Infrastructure Development: Our infrastructure is the backbone of our community. I aim to advocate for strategic investments in infrastructure, including transportation and digital connectivity. This will not only enhance our connectivity within the constituency but also contribute to our broader economic development.
Fisheries: Given our coastal location, the fishing industry is integral to our identity and economy. I am dedicated to supporting policies that sustain and grow our fisheries, ensuring fair practices, and safeguarding the livelihoods of those involved in this vital sector.
Housing: Affordable and quality housing is a pressing concern for many residents. I will work towards policies that address the housing needs of our community, promoting sustainable development while ensuring housing remains accessible to all.
Quality Healthcare: Accessible and high-quality healthcare is fundamental to our well-being. I will champion initiatives that strengthen our local healthcare services, ensuring residents have access to the medical care they deserve.
Education: A strong educational foundation is key to the future success of our community. I will advocate for increased investment in education, supporting schools, and providing opportunities for skill development and lifelong learning.
Preserving Our Natural Environment: Our natural environment is a treasure that must be preserved for future generations. I will champion environmentally conscious policies, supporting initiatives that protect our green spaces.
Addressing these concerns requires a collaborative effort, and I am committed to working with the community, stakeholders, and fellow representatives to create a Hastings and Rye that thrives in every aspect.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
I’m thrilled by the enthusiasm of individuals who want to be a part of our campaign for positive change in Hastings and Rye. Your support is invaluable, and there are several ways to get involved:
Volunteer with Us: We welcome volunteers with open arms. Whether you’re interested in canvassing, organising events, or helping with administrative tasks, your skills and time are crucial to our success.
Spread the word: social media is a powerful tool. Follow us on Facebook at Reform UK Hastings and Rye, and share our posts. Engage with your network, and let’s create a buzz together.
Join our mailing list: Stay informed about campaign updates, events, and ways to get involved by joining our mailing list. Email us at [email protected] to subscribe.
Connect with us: Reach out to me, at [email protected], for more details on how you can contribute and be a vital part of our team.
Your support is the backbone of this campaign, and together, we can make a real difference. I am deeply grateful for the passion and commitment of individuals like you who are eager to contribute to the betterment of our community.
Tim Burt is the SDP prospective candidate for Maidenhead. We spoke with Tim about his decision to stand.
“The Labour party has turned its back on traditional working people in favour of adherence to divisive identity politics, whereas the Conservatives have achieved very little over the last 13 years and have merely presided over the continuing decline of the country”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
I was born in Chichester before moving to Stamford Lincolnshire where I went to school. After graduating from Nottingham University in mathematics I moved into the telecommunications industry, initially as a software engineer and later in a variety of operational roles. I have been a resident of Maidenhead for 33 years where I live with my long term partner Jayne. I am now retired and looking to contribute back to the local community.
“I want to give the people of Maidenhead a real choice in how they vote at the next general election”
What made you decide to stand for the SDP?
I had found myself feeling increasingly politically homeless. The Labour party has turned its back on traditional working people in favour of adherence to divisive identity politics, whereas the Conservatives have achieved very little over the last 13 years and have merely presided over the continuing decline of the country. Once I read the SDP’s New Declaration expounding their values, with their combination of progressive economic policies with support for the traditional values of the country, these immediately chimed with me.
I now believe that it is important to play my part in getting the message out to the country that there is a real alternative.
You’re the Spokesman for Maidenhead what’s made you decide to represent this area?
As a long time resident of Maidenhead I feel very lucky to live in such an area of natural beauty and want to do what I can to assure the future of our town and surrounding villages. I want to give the people of Maidenhead a real choice in how they vote at the next general election.
“In Maidenhead there is a need for more quality family housing rather than the ever expanding development of high rise flats in the town”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
Maidenhead is currently undergoing major development as part of its borough local plan (BLP). Although there is an urgent need nationally for more housing, it is important to ensure that such developments are appropriate to their environment and meet the needs of their residents. In Maidenhead there is a need for more quality family housing rather than the ever expanding development of high rise flats in the town. Affordable housing is also a major issue, something that the SDP looks to address in its manifesto policies.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
The SDP is a growing party, but local membership still currently remains very modest. We need any local residents who are attracted by the SDP’s message to assist in any way they can, whether that be leafletting, spreading the message at street stalls or just putting up a poster at election time. Anyone interested in helping can contact me at [email protected].
Kyn Pomlett is the SDP prospective candidate for Didcot and Wantage, in Oxfordshire. We spoke with Kyn about his decision to stand.
“I want a government that thinks of Britain as a home, not a business or a charity, which is not indifferent to the aspirations and welfare of the residents of these islands”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
I am retired and have been married for 40 years. I was born in the West Midlands and lived in the UK, Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa. I have worked and studied in the fields of Electronic Engineering, Software Engineering and Project Management.
I have lived in Cholsey in South Oxfordshire for 30 years and I was a Cholsey Parish Councillor for 3 years.
“I live in one of the best areas of Britain. I know we can do better for the people in this area than the present national and local representatives”
What made you decide to stand for the SDP?
I joined the SDP in July 2020. I had been disillusioned by the 3 main parties for a long time and I was actively seeking a political home. I was drawn to the SDP through its pragmatic policies and focus on the family, community, and nation.
I want a government that thinks of Britain as a home, not a business or a charity, which is not indifferent to the aspirations and welfare of the residents of these islands.
You’re the Spokesman for Didcot & Wantage what’s made you decide to represent this area?
I have lived in the Didcot and Wantage constituency for 30 years and I honestly believe I live in one of the best areas of Britain. I know we can do better for the people in this area than the present national and local representatives.
“The development of infrastructure is lagging the new builds in the area. This has contributed to the shortage of GPs, struggling utility and transport provision”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
My key concerns for the area are housing, health provision and local democracy.
The cost of local housing is extremely high, is of low quality and of high density. This has resulted in an urban city sprawl on the 3 market towns; this in an area that is predominately rural. We need new homes to be built; they must be appropriate and sensitive to the rural context and needs of the community.
The development of infrastructure is lagging the new builds in the area. This has contributed to the shortage of GPs, struggling utility and transport provision.
There is a deficit of local democracy as the authorities are unrelenting in their unquestioned application of Net Zero policies. These are starting to impact the community in terms of transport, road and verge maintenance, and low traffic neighbourhoods.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
The Social Democratic Party offer a real alternative. A vote for me is a vote to end the indifference of politicians and to put people in Didcot and Wantage back in control.
If you would like to raise any issues in our area or would like to help and support me, please contact me on [email protected], please also follow me on Twitter.
Letter from Jeremy Wraith to the PM asking what justifies retaining the net zero policy.
“net zero policy is catastrophically damaging the UK economy and destroying the normal lives and freedoms of all UK citizens”
To Mr R Sunak Prime Minister 10th Dec 2023
Dear Sir
Please note that this FOI is in the public interest as the net zero policy is catastrophically damaging the UK economy and destroying the normal lives and freedoms of all UK citizens, (e.g. abolition of our petrol and diesel powered cars, 15 minute cities, imposition of smart meters, massive costs of green energy subsidies, lack of reliable power generation, etc., etc.)
1 What information do you have which justifies retaining the net zero policy imposed upon the UK by the pernicious EU?
2 What information do you have that negates that the increasing CO2 from the start of the industrial revolution to the present day has had a negligible effect on increasing global temperature?
3 What information do you have which proves that the man made CO2 produced by the UK from the start of the industrial revolution to the present day has created any damage to the world environment?
4 What information do you therefore have that justifies giving £1.6 BILLION of UK taxpayers money to the UN climate change fund?
“What information do you have, and can list, that defines EXACTLY what damage the UK’s CO2 emissions since the 1830’s have supposedly caused other countries”
5 What information do you have, and can list, that defines EXACTLY what damage the UK’s CO2 emissions since the 1830’s have supposedly caused other countries, and which you are using to justify paying huge “reparations” using UK taxpayers money?
6 What information do you have on any cost benefit analysis carried out by the government to prove that giving £1.6 BILLION of UK taxpayers money to the UN climate fund is more beneficial to the UK taxpayers than using that money to repair crumbling concrete in our schools, universities, museums etc.? Especially when the £1.6 BILLION has to be borrowed and when we already have an enormous public debt of well over £2.5 TRILLION, costing every UK household over £2,000/annum just service the interest?
I look forward to receiving your responses to this FOI request.
Andrew Davis is the SDP prospective candidate for Winchester. We spoke with Andrew about his decision to stand.
“I am proud of this country and its heritage, and our traditions are valuable and should be respected. I do not like the radicalisation of society which I am seeing today as a result of people pushing divisive political agendas”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Andrew Davis. I was born in Hillingdon but have lived in Winchester since 1992. I am sixty years old. I have a degree in history from Warwick University and started my career in the 1980s as a customs and excise officer. Since then, I have worked in tax related roles in various companies in England, Ireland and Poland. I am still in full time work and commute into central London.
What made you decide to stand for the SDP?
I am one of the people who feels that I am not represented by the major political parties. I am from a working class background and have benefited from the post war welfare and educational reforms. I want to ensure that everyone has the same opportunity. However, I am proud of this country and its heritage, and our traditions are valuable and should be respected. I do not like the radicalisation of society which I am seeing today as a result of people pushing divisive political agendas.
You’re the Spokesman for Winchester what’s made you decide to represent this area?
I love Winchester and the people of Winchester. I want to give them a choice and try to break the stale political monoculture which has prevailed for too long.
“Winchester is a wealthy city located in a beautiful area. It therefore pains me to see the number of homeless people on the streets, and the associated problem of mental illness and addiction”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
Winchester is a wealthy city located in a beautiful area. It therefore pains me to see the number of homeless people on the streets, and the associated problem of mental illness and addiction. Dealing effectively with the pockets of deprivation in the city is a priority.
I have a particular interest in the environment of the area. I keep bees and am also actively involved in efforts to monitor the local wildlife. Managing the environment sensibly to protect the natural beauty of the area in the face of development pressures is a key concern. I do not however want to try to achieve this through persecution of car owners and other measures designed to force us back to the pre-industrial age.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
There are very few SDP members in the Winchester area for now. I am going to need help with leafletting and other activities needed to raise awareness of the party in the constituency. If anyone wants to help, please contact me at [email protected].
If you want to know more about the party visit our website at https://sdp.org.uk/.
Already a Councillor on Hughenden Parish Council, Yvonne Wilding is the SDP prospective candidate for Mid Buckinghamshire. We spoke with Yvonne about her decision to stand.
“I’m a pharmaceutical drug development consultant, essentially, I map out what needs to be done to check if new medicines work and are safe. I am a local Councillor and run a small business with my husband”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Yvonne Wilding, I live in Great Kingshill, Bucks and I am PPC for Mid Bucks. I’m a pharmaceutical drug development consultant, essentially, I map out what needs to be done to check if new medicines work and are safe. I am a local Councillor and run a small business with my husband who is retired. I have 3 grown up kids. Personal interests are nature, science, walks in countryside with 2 dogs. I belong to local environment and climate change group.
What made you decide to stand for the SDP?
I decided to stand for SDP because I couldn’t contemplate voting for either of the 3 main parties as they do not represent my values. I searched the Internet for other parties and after some digging came across SDP. The values and the policies really resonate with what I believe is important for our nation. I have been a Tory voter for most of my life, but I have been disgusted by their apparent moral slide and lack of integrity.
“I have lived in mid Bucks for 12 years and it us a wonderful place full of fabulous people. I want to continue to protect all that is good here”
You’re the Spokesman for Mid Bucks what’s made you decide to represent this area?
I have lived in mid Bucks for 12 years and it us a wonderful place full of fabulous people. I want to continue to protect all that is good here and avoid some of the monstrous things that councils have done in other parts of the country. I grew up in the North Midlands, so I know how easy it is to destroy towns and communities. My father was a coal miner – exploited by the mining industry and murdered by the tobacco industry. People matter. Communities matter.
“Housing needs to fit within the context of current properties, immigration needs careful control”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
Mid Bucks is one of the most beautiful parts of the country. We need to preserve this whilst continuing to create employment opportunities and housing. These 2 aims are not incompatible. Housing needs to fit within the context of current properties, immigration needs careful control, we need to invest heavily in green industries which improve the environment and climate. Sustainability is important Industries should be carefully managed so they are carbon neutral, and their buildings are in keeping with the landscape.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
Simon Keats is the Reform UK prospective candidate for Dorking and Horley. We spoke with Simon about his decision to stand.
“I’m amazed by Government and civil service stagnation and detachment from the people.”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Simon Keats, I have lived in the South of England all my life. Worked for the Met Police as a photographer for 14yrs and now a freelance photographer and video producer. I try and get involved in local groups around where I now live in Dorking time permitting. Always been interested in news and current affairs. Genuinely want to help local people and younger people in the area.
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
I wanted to stand for Reform as I’m amazed by Government and civil service stagnation and detachment from the people.
“I want to represent my neighbours of this new constituency”
You’re the Spokesman for Dorking and Horleywhat’s made you decide to represent this area?
I have the privilege of living in Dorking and Horley, and I want to represent my neighbours of this new constituency.
“Reform UK priorities of Lower Taxes and Cheaper Energy will directly assist people with the cost of living crisis”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
When I speak to people the two big concerns that keep coming up are housing and the cost of living. Reform UK priorities of Lower Taxes and Cheaper Energy will directly assist people with the cost of living crisis, and by implementing Net zero immigration we will reduce pressure on affordable housing and public services.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
Adam Hibbert is the SDP prospective candidate for Sevenoaks. We spoke with Adam about his decision to stand.
“I’m a Brexiteer from the Left tradition – frustrated at the way parliament proved incapable of living up to that result, and at Johnson’s failings over COVID”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
I’m a volunteer organiser for the Social Democratic Party in the South East region, married, two teenaged children, working full-time – not in a political career. I joined the SDP in February 2021.
What made you decide to stand for the SDP?
I’m a Brexiteer from the Left tradition – frustrated at the way parliament proved incapable of living up to that result, and at Johnson’s failings over COVID. Seven wasted years, and no end in sight. So, I resolved to stop spectating and get on the pitch.
The Social Democratic Party has a common-sense programme to turn the ship around. Our “social market” principles chart a centrist course very different to that of the LibDems, or Reform – one that understands Britain as our home, not as a business or a charity, putting family, community, and nation first.
“I believe it’s right and healthy for MPs to truly belong to the community they seek to represent. It’s all about bringing politics home”
You’re the Spokesman for Sevenoaks what’s made you decide to represent this area?
I’ve lived here since 2012, raised my children here, following in the footsteps of my in-laws who raised both their daughters here through the 80s and 90s. I believe it’s right and healthy for MPs to truly belong to the community they seek to represent. It’s all about bringing politics home.
Sevenoaks bleeds blue if you cut it, but Tories were wiped-out in the local elections here in May, handing the town council to the LibDems. Why? Nothing to do with the local talent here – everything to do with voter fury at the national party’s political bankruptcy and administrative chaos.
We have a parachuted Cameron ‘talent’ here, in name at least, who I can’t hope to displace. But for one nation Tories, the politically homeless and Brexit-minded Labour voters, there has to be an option on the ballot paper that registers a coherent critique of the neoliberal Blob that she, the Labour Party and the LibDems now represent. This vote must send a clear signal to whichever combination of them happens to win, to put an end to their indifference towards British values and interests. A vote for the SDP does precisely that, like nothing else.
“I’m committed to rebalancing our education system, top to bottom, to support and empower those young people who are not university-fodder”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
I don’t think it’s appropriate for parliamentary candidates to fight on issues that are more properly the domain of local democracy – we’re here to influence national policy. Where national policy affects local issues, such as housing, I would urge voters to refer to our policies at the website – we know how to tackle these issues, head-on.
One of my teens attended Hadlow College, and I’m committed to rebalancing our education system, top to bottom, to support and empower those young people who are not university-fodder. I will likewise champion small enterprises, farming, and light industries, here – for a more productive, less service-heavy economy.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
Above all else, we need additional members and candidates to step forward. Go to https://sdp.org.uk/ for our policies and follow the party at @SDPhq on Twitter. Please do also contact me on twitter @adhib – I’ll advertise activities there as the campaign hots up.
Our South East Branch Coordinators are looking for constituency contacts across the region, from Oxfordshire via Hampshire across to Kent. You might be able to help us give your fellow constituents a decent option on your ballot paper, if you currently lack one.
Carl Buckfield is the SDP prospective candidate for Brighton Pavilion. We spoke with Carl about his decision to stand.
“Born into a working class family I was very excited to be the first in my family to go to university and eventually get a PhD”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Carl Buckfield, born in Carshalton, Surrey. We moved to Brighton when I was a child to be closer to family. I have lived in Brighton the majority of my life. Born into a working class family I was very excited to be the first in my family to go to university and eventually get a PhD; I am now a psychology lecturer. I am a staunch advocate for free speech and enlightenment values. Family is the most important thing in the world to me so I like to spend my free time with them. I have also spent years volunteering for St. Vincent De Paul Society charity so I can do my small part in alleviating poverty in the local community.
“The Conservative government have been disastrous over the last 13 years. Labour has turned its back on the working class and holds us and our values in contempt”
What made you decide to stand for the SDP?
The SDP are the party of common sense, something we are sorely missing at the present. For several years before becoming an SDP member I found myself politically homeless. The Conservative government have been disastrous over the last 13 years. Labour has turned its back on the working class and holds us and our values in contempt. The Green Party – sole purpose of fighting climate change – are completely impotent in this agenda as long as they put a primacy on eco-austerity measures over nuclear energy. The Liberal Democrats recently have been neither liberal nor democratic. The SDP left-of-centre economic policies and socially conservative values are my values. The SDP has long-term fixes for the most pressing issues facing ordinary citizen such as cost of living and housing.
“Voters deserve better than some parachute candidate who bounces from constituency to constituency trying their luck at places just because they think they have the best chance of winning there”
You’re the Spokesman for Brighton Pavilion what’s made you decide to represent this area?
Brighton is my home. I think whoever runs for a constituency should at least have deep roots there. The people of Brighton deserve someone who has invested time and energy into the area and who understands what the people and the city need. Voters deserve better than some parachute candidate who bounces from constituency to constituency trying their luck at places just because they think they have the best chance of winning there. With Caroline Lucas stepping down there is real opportunity for change in Brighton.
“Brighton is the most dangerous city in East Sussex with 103 crimes per 1000 people. The crime rate is 41% higher than the county overall. More proactive frontline policing is needed”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
Housing and the cost of living – Brighton is the most expensive place to live in Sussex and ranks among the most expensive places in UK. The city has catered to the increasing student population at the expense of affordable housing for permanent residents. I would work hard to tackle the level of homelessness in Brighton. The SDP will build more affordable homes and nationalise energy companies to reduce and control prices.
Commuting & travel – many Brighton residents commute to London for work. Commuting costs approx. £5600 per year which could increase to £6000 in 2024. The SDP are committed to nationalising railways. The trains are also a great opportunity for Brightonians to have relaxing weekend in London and Londoners to have a nice beach holiday. Nationalising railways will make these journeys cheaper for all and could encourage tourists to visit and spend more in Brighton.
Drugs and crime – Brighton is the drugs misuse death capital of the South East. As an addiction researcher I am committed to reducing the harms associated with drug use and making everyone healthier. Brighton is the most dangerous city in East Sussex with 103 crimes per 1000 people. The crime rate is 41% higher than the county overall. More proactive frontline policing is needed.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
I highly encourage people to join the SDP – check out our policies: https://sdp.org.uk/
People can contact me on [email protected] or on twitter @CBuck_SDP. Volunteers for leafletting and canvassing are always welcome. Finally, I also encourage people to stand. Check out our website to see if SDP are standing in your area: https://sdp.org.uk/general-election-candidates/. I am standing in Brighton Pavilion and Valerie Gray, is standing in Brighton Kemptown. It would be great if someone could stand in Hove.
