Tim O’Rourke is the SDP prospective candidate for Hazel Grove, Greater Manchester. We spoke with Tim about his decision to stand.
“I had always voted Labour, but I increasingly felt they were losing sight of what was really important to people and were becoming increasingly ideologically captured”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
I am a former Electrical Engineer and Project Manager and spent half of my career in the private sector (Power and Rail projects) and the other half in (effectively) the public sector (Nuclear). I have studied Martial Arts for over 50 years and hold the rank of 5th Dan. I am also a keen musician and have played guitar in a band for over 30 years. I retired about 5 years ago and started becoming interested in politics and the way it seemed to be becoming more distant from the views and needs of ordinary members of our society. I had always voted Labour, but I increasingly felt they were losing sight of what was really important to people and were becoming increasingly ideologically captured.
“I had also directly seen the effects of deindustrialisation which is what happens when you don’t care where you source goods from”
What made you decide to stand for the SDP?
Back in 1981 my dad had also become disillusioned with the Labour Party and joined the original SDP and became involved in Shirley Williams’s Crosby campaign.
Like most people I did not know that the SDP had survived the 80s until I saw something from Ben Cobley referring to them. I followed it up and was immediately hooked by the SDP’s New Declaration. It was for me the ideal mix of left wing economics combined with a great respect for pride in our country and the need for a strong sovereign state and control of our borders and where the laws that govern us are made by people we can ultimately remove at the ballot box should we need to. I had also directly seen the effects of deindustrialisation which is what happens when you don’t care where you source goods from as long as you get the cheapest price.
I took over as Chair of the North West Branch of the SDP at the beginning of 2023
You’re the Spokesman for Hazel Grove what’s made you decide to represent this area?
Hazel Grove is close to where I live, and I have many friends there and have spent a lot of time in the constituency.
As Chair of the North West Region we are trying to cover as many constituencies as we can as our main problem is exposure. We find that once people know about us and our policies, they are usually enthusiastic The North West region runs from Carlisle down to Chester and from the Wirral to Glossop so it’s a big area. Although I live in the Macclesfield constituency we had another excellent candidate in that area and, knowing Hazel Grove well I elected to stand there.
“We see increasingly that police resources are diverted into into activities which don’t reduce crime and with more sympathy being given for those that carry out crime than are victims of it”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
I think the main issues for the constituency are similar to those nationally. We see increasingly that police resources are diverted into into activities which don’t reduce crime and with more sympathy being given for those that carry out crime than are victims of it. We seem to be becoming more tolerant of Anti social behaviour and the real reasons for the breakdown of social cohesion appear not to fit with the current “liberal” mindset and are therefore ignored.
I believe when Hazel Grove constituents look at the SDPs policies they will resonate with them and realise that something must be done to break the endless cycle of Labour/Conservative neither of which achieve any real change for them.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign? You can find out more about the SDP at https://sdp.org.uk/. You can contact me by email at [email protected] and follow me on Twitter @Iskimore199546.
Croydon Councillor Jeet Bains stood in the arguably safe Labour seat of Luton North in the recent General Election. He first became a councillor in 2010 in the then Coulsdon West ward. In 2018 he campaigned in Addiscombe East and split the ward with Labour’s Councillor Maddie Henson winning the other seat, a somewhat surprising result written about in ConservativeHome.
Jeet thank-you for your time..
How did you find it being a Parliamentary rather council candidate, what were the big differences?
It
was an honour to be the Conservative Parliamentary candidate for Luton North. I
absolutely loved it, so much so that I felt this is what I was born to do – not
a feeling one often gets. For me, every minute was a joy. Whether it was
pounding the streets for hours on end delivering leaflets, talking to people outside
shops, being praised, receiving abuse, answering questions on radio stations,
debating at hustings, going to different places of worship and community centres
– I thoroughly enjoyed it. I made good friends – some stayed by my side day-in
and day-out. There were the Sikh businessmen, the Kashmiri radio hosts, the
Irish construction guys, the Afro-Caribbean church community…innumerable and
wonderful community members. It is an experience like no other. I’ve been
thinking about why I liked it so much. My wife says it’s because I like being
the centre of attention…
As a
council candidate, the issues are obviously very local – streets, planning,
bins etc. Many people do, however, vote according to the national picture even
in a local council election. In fact we come across many people who aren’t
aware that the local council is controlled by Labour – they just assume that,
because the Conservatives are in power nationally, that the Conservatives
therefore run the council too.
Running for Parliament is different. I found that people are
much more engaged and passionate. The issues are also on a wider scale: I received
questions about nuclear disarmament, abortion, euthanasia, the environment, and
the NHS. I also attended several hustings, community meetings and was
interviewed by local and BBC Radio.
In short, running for Parliament is more intense, and I enjoyed this.
“Throughout the campaign, I felt that in this election the electorate had a clear choice between a Marxist agenda from Labour and an economy-boosting agenda from the Conservatives”
What
led to you being a candidate in Luton North? What were the big issues in
the area?
To
stand for Parliament in the Conservative Party, you must be an approved
candidate. Being one, I was asked to stand in Luton North.
Luton
suffers from higher than average poverty levels, and so for me an emphasis on
improving the economy and generating jobs was important. I made the case that
getting more companies and government departments/agencies to locate in Luton
would create more jobs. This would lead to people having more money in their
pockets and feeling better about their lives, and there would be a beneficial
effect for the local economy. This was in contrast to my Labour opponent who
emphasised public spending and advocated scrapping Universal Credit. Throughout
the campaign, I felt that in this election the electorate had a clear choice
between a Marxist agenda from Labour and an economy-boosting agenda from the
Conservatives. This was quite different to recent elections in which people
would complain that there wasn’t much difference between the parties.
Housing was another big issue in Luton, as more people are coming to locate there from other areas. The experience I have of dealing with this issue in Croydon was very useful. People also felt that they were waiting too long for GP appointments, so this was an area on which I was particularly committing to focus.
We’re
sure you’re pleased with the overall election result. What do you hope to
see the government deliver on?
It
was a great night for the Conservatives. The Great British Public utterly
rejected Corbyn and his hard Left agenda and, frankly, saved the country. I met
people who aren’t usually very interested in politics but, on this occasion,
were quite appalled at the prospect of Corbyn in No. 10. The Prime Minister,
Boris Johnson, has committed to getting Brexit done, levelling up investment
across the nation, and investing much more in health and education. I think
this is absolutely right, and I know the government will deliver.
More broadly, the country now has that great benefit of the first-past-the-post system, viz. a clear majority. Gone is the previous deadlock in Parliament, and with it the endless gloom propagated by those that refused to accept the result of the referendum. There is an air of positivity and energy to get things done. I think we will see quite a transformation in the country. In particular, I think there is a permanent shift of political loyalties that has occurred, for example in many northern constituencies. I worry, however, about how it is that some of our younger generation have been convinced that the solutions to their very valid concerns lie in Marxism. I hope the government gives attention to re-making the case for capitalism.
You
used to represent Coulsdon West and are now in Addiscombe East. What are the
similarities and differences between the two wards?
Coulsdon
West was larger, with the usual three councillors representing the ward.
Addiscombe East is smaller and thus has two councillors. It’s interesting that
in Coulsdon West there was just one Residents’ Association for the whole ward,
which is quite normal, whereas in Addiscombe East we are blessed with four!
In
Coulsdon West there are family homes in the main, and the issues I dealt with
there were chiefly around planning, building control, and traffic and parking
in Coulsdon Town. I was also involved in the Cane Hill development – a fine
example of Conservatives providing housing of various kinds, in contrast to the
Labour council policy of wantonly permitting highly inappropriate developments in
existing streets.
Addiscombe East has a greater variety of housing and, I guess with it being a marginal ward and in the Croydon Central parliamentary constituency, the politics is a little more intense. A long running issue, and quite jarring to local residents, has been traffic flows on local streets. An historic decision to make certain roads one way in neighbouring Addiscombe West has resulted in a wholly unequal distribution of traffic on neighbouring roads. In essence, Elgin Road is now flooded with traffic night and day, whereas the residents of Canning Road in Addiscombe West benefit from hearing the birds chirping and their children playing safely in the street. All sensible people agree that this is an anomaly, but the fact that Labour control the Council and all the councillors in Addiscombe West are Labour has nothing at all to do with this sad problem remaining unresolved.
“in Addiscombe East. We focus on helping and making a difference to local residents rather than fighting over our political differences. I think local people quite like this arrangement”
Addiscombe
East is the Boroughs only split ward. How do you find representing an
area with a Councillor of a different party?
It actually works well. I get on well with Maddie Henson, the Labour councillor here, and we keep things friendly and cordial. I have heard that in the past where there has been a split ward, the councillors from different political parties barely spoke to one another. It’s not like that in Addiscombe East. We focus on helping and making a difference to local residents rather than fighting over our political differences. I think local people quite like this arrangement.
What
are your thoughts more generally on Croydon politics?
Croydon
is a great town with huge potential. I think Croydon has been let down by the
Labour-run council. The town centre has declined, major employers have left,
Westfield is nowhere to be seen, and
Labour have a quite deliberate policy of allowing highly unsuitable residential
developments (mostly small flats) in the middle of streets with family homes. Everyone
was hoping for some positive news from the redevelopment of Fairfield Halls,
but even that looks to have been botched, and there are complaints arising
about where and how the money has been spent.
All of
this means that there is a lot for politicians to address. The case needs to be
made to local people on which party can best solve these problems. My focus
would be on attracting employers to Croydon, providing jobs to people so that
they feel responsible and can look after their families. I also want to see a
relentless focus on improving the standard of our schools, so that our children
have the springboard for getting good jobs.
I think a directly elected mayor could make difference, because the Council is patently failing. Let’s take a tangible example. The government announced a £28.8bn National Roads Fund and an increase to the National Productivity Investment Fund so that it totals £37 billion. I’m not aware that either the Croydon North MP or the Croydon Central MP have made any efforts to have some of these funds come to Croydon. In contrast, Chris Philp, the Croydon South MP, has made herculean efforts in, for instance, getting funding allocated to improve the Brighton-London rail line so that Croydon passengers benefit. This is the kind of thing that a directly elected mayor can really boost.
“We have a great tradition of being free to hear all sides of an argument make their cases robustly, and we shouldn’t lose this. Shouting that the end is nigh is, I suggest, counter-productive”
On
Twitter you have expressed some concern with the doom mongering of the
environmental lobby. What sensible action do you think we should be taking on
the environment?
I
think that people don’t respond well to doom mongering, and there is an adverse
reaction to endless lectures. At the same time, most people want to do the
right thing and be environmentally friendly. If we look at how the world came
together to tackle the ozone layer issue, that is an excellent example of how
people made conscious buying decisions which stopped the ozone layer being
damaged. Similarly, the government’s measures on charging for plastic bags in
shops and the ban on the sale of products containing microbeads are
measures that make a real difference. The government has also committed to
achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. That may seem a long way off but
it is realistic and achievable. In contrast Labour was talking about reaching
net zero by 2030 – something that even the GMB union refused to support.
I
think the key is to be realistic and help people to do the right thing –
because, most of the time, they want to. I also think we’re not hearing serious
dissenting voices, such as Lord Matt Ridley who presents data and questions some
of the conclusions that we are asked to accept. We have a great tradition of being
free to hear all sides of an argument make their cases robustly, and we
shouldn’t lose this. Shouting that the end is nigh is, I suggest,
counter-productive. Also, walking along the top of tube trains in Canning Town
is probably best avoided.
Any
other thoughts you would like to leave us with?
Politics
is important and (as apparently Charles de Gaul said) it’s too important to be
left to the politicians. I’m encouraged by the increasing engagement in
politics by young people. It doesn’t matter which party you join or what your
cause is, it’s good to be involved in matters that affect you and your
community. I am worried, however, that someone who was utterly unfit to be
Prime Minister was one step away from achieving it. It is important that we
look at how it is that the hard Left ideology, long ago rejected as damaging to
society, has reared its ugly head again.
Finally, a word about social media. Its ability to amplify and to distort is something that we are just beginning to understand. Our greatest minds will need to be brought together to wrestle with this problem. Anonymous accounts, fake news, false utterances with no consequence – freedom and liberty need armour against them.
During the general election we interviewed local pro-Brexit
candidates. Following on from this we asked
the candidates how they found the election and for any thoughts they had from
the campaign.
Below is the update written by Councillor Mario Creatura the Conservative Party candidate for Croydon Central. Mario’s original interview is available here.
In December 2018 I was lucky enough to be chosen to be the Conservative candidate for Croydon Central. At the election on 12th December, 21,175 people in my hometown chose to put their faith in me – I am sorry that it was not enough, but I will be forever grateful to every one of them.
It’s been an incredible year. Over the campaign my team and I have spoken to many thousands and ran a positive, energetic campaign. We highlighted vital local issues, like Labour’s plans to build on the green belt and their wanton destruction of community identities, as well as fighting to respect the result of the Brexit referendum and shining a spotlight on Labour’s illiterate economic policies. I am truly proud of the way my party behaved during the campaign.
Across the UK so many unbelievably talented Conservative friends have been elected – particularly those from blue collar backgrounds breaking through the so-called ‘red wall’ in the Midlands and the North of England. Our Parliament is lucky to have each and every one of them. It was the greatest result for the Conservatives since 1983, and the worst performance by Labour since 1935. We now have five years of stable national government, one that means we can finally get Brexit done and move on with our lives.
“Chris Philp’s majority went up in Croydon South, a testament to his incredible work ethic and stamina. Steve Reed’s majority was slashed by a massive 8,000 votes. The start of a worrying trend for Labour in London?”
In Croydon, it’s well worth looking at the results of the two ‘safe seats’. Chris Philp’s majority went up in Croydon South, a testament to his incredible work ethic and stamina. Steve Reed’s majority was slashed by a massive 8,000 votes. The start of a worrying trend for Labour in London? If I were Croydon Labour, I would be very concerned about what this means on a local level for the 2022 Council elections.
For every candidate standing for election there are dozens, if not hundreds of passionate party volunteers helping our democracy to function. Every leaflet delivered, every street pounded and door knocked – it’s a huge team effort and they are all doing it out of love for their party, community and country. It takes a lot, particularly in the cold winter months, to forgo spending time with your loved ones and to instead pull on a waterproof and try to campaign in an election. I’m grateful to each and every one of them.
“There are 81,000 electors in Croydon Central alone – so it takes years to get around everyone once, which is why it feels like you only see us at election time”
One thing all political campaigners will hear on the doorsteps repeated time and time and again: “we only see you out at election time”. It’s one of the most frustrating things to be accused of – of not caring about our community enough to be out all the time, not least because it’s just not true! There are some 47,000 properties in Croydon Central. If a single volunteer can knock on 100 doors in a given canvassing session, around 2/3s of people will be out. Which means each activist might get to speak to 30 people a week. There are 81,000 electors in Croydon Central alone – so it takes years to get around everyone once, which is why it feels like you only see us at election time.
So here’s my plea to everyone reading this: if you are upset by the result of the election in Croydon, if you want to get Labour out of Croydon Town Hall in 2022, then don’t sit at home complaining – get involved with the Croydon Conservatives and help us do something about it. We need good people to stand to be local councillors. We need talented locals to help us build a machine to take the fight to Labour over the next few years. We need bright, passionate members of our community to get stuck in any number of different roles and activities.
If you would like to find out more, then get in touch by emailing [email protected] and I’d be happy to meet to explain more about what it might involved – there’s something for everyone!
Croydon is my home town. It’s where I was born and where I live with my wife. I’m still a serving councillor and I’m not going anywhere. Croydon has so much potential just waiting to be unleashed – get in touch and let’s make it happen!
Michael Swadling, from the Croydon Constitutionalists, offers his forecast for the election outcome in an interview with Sputnik Radio.
“The Conservatives clearly need to play the expectation game. They want to make sure their voters come out on what might be a miserable winter’s day next week and they need people scared slightly of a Corbyn government”
“Labour’s campaign change doesn’t appear to particularly have worked. They have attempted to become a more Brexit-y party with some of their core voters – I think people see through that very clearly”
“the biggest democratic vote on any subject in British history, which needs to be honoured for Britain to remain a democracy, and even if he [Jeremy Corbyn] was in a restrained manner in government, that would be a real systemic risk to the British economy”
Always keen to support people in Croydon prepared to support Brexit. The Croydon Constitutionalists spoke to Candace Mitchell of the Christian Parties Alliance candidate in Croydon North.
Formed in 1999 the Christian Parties Alliance is a coming together of the Christian Party and the Christian Peoples Alliance. With members come from all backgrounds and church traditions. The 2017 Manifesto supported Brexit including “to be prepared to walk away from the EU”. They supported the end of fractional reserve banking to reduce debt and want to “rebuild favourable trading relationships with any country in the world that wants to join with us in doing so to our mutual benefit provided they do not have an unacceptable human rights record”. As you would expect from a Christian Party they have some more traditional policies including a plan to “Restore a pro-life ethic across the NHS so that every member of staff is doing their best to assist the healing of a patient and where life is coming to an end” and “to support marriage and family life to reverse the domestic de-population trend”.
Can you tell us a bit about your background and what first got
you involved in politics?
I am a local resident in the Croydon North constituency (which includes Thornton Heath, Upper Norwood, South Norwood, Selhurst Norbury), a former school teacher, a Youth & Charity Worker, founder of RevolutionChange, an international speaker and a professional transformational life coach who is passionate and has a heart to see positive change impact this great nation. Over the years, I served as a Community change agent representing the youth and also where I campaigned for the homeless and anti-trafficking; standing up for families, single parents, mentoring young people and children. I fought for Change and my core belief is that “To make a difference, you must BE the difference. So change begins with me.”
I host workshops, conferences and seminars for the young to elderly, and to dynamically empower women. Strategy is important and with the right effective plan of action, every one, young and old, can affect change in their personal worlds. This is the change that will inherently change a nation and we need you all. Since 2015, more politically I have been interested in and standing up for things that are important to our community and country and it has been and continues to be an honour to do so! I’ve seen many great successes of lives been turned around and this is just the beginning! I look forward to all that’s to come and intend on giving my very best to my constituency.
How did you find yourself selected as the candidate for Croydon
North?
In recent years, since 2016, I have linked and connected with the CPA Party Leader, Sid Cordle, a dynamic key politician, author & strategist determined to restore Britain. I was delighted to be selected to stand for Croydon North, a constituency that bustles with the heart of this nation, diversity! This resonates so deeply with me as it is my passion to see many peoples come together as one to live as a thriving community. And I believe this is the heartbeat of Croydon North. When people come together, we can change a community, a city, a nation!
“Understandably the unknown is oftentimes scary. But we have come to a point in the political atmosphere where something’s got to give. A party that is brave and courageous enough to go against the political fear tactics and status quo!”
How do you find the experience of the campaign trail (have you
run anywhere else)?
Walking around and getting to know one on one and hearing the hearts and views of you all in Croydon North has been such a great journey! We definitely are a people of diversity and a myriad of colours that bring culture and all things British into celebrating our nation. I’ve found many voters stick to conservative & labour because it’s the ones they know. Some don’t even know the underpinning views of the party or why they vote for them but because it’s the popular choice, they go with it. But look at the state of our nation being in the hands of these two parties. The time has come for a change. It’s going to take something different! Understandably the unknown is oftentimes scary. But we have come to a point in the political atmosphere where something’s got to give. A party that is brave and courageous enough to go against the political fear tactics and status quo! CPA is that party and I am that person to stand with you the people of Croydon North constituency. It’s time for change.
Any surprises you found running any stories from the campaign
trail?
Many surprises, yes! But the best stories so far, have been in just spending time with residents and hearing your views. I’ve been pleasantly and warmly invited in your homes to have a chat and just share and exchange views. This community of Croydon North has so much to offer and give not only locally but even by wider impact. We have so much to learn from each other and put all our thoughts together to affect positive change. We would love for more people to join and support however you can. You don’t have to disqualify yourself from politics any longer. We need real people with real hearts, stories and passion. If you are passionate about making a difference then please get in touch with us or myself directly at [email protected]
Manpower is always welcomed. Let’s increase our reach and get involved Croydon North. We are a open community. So, Let’s unite and stand together, stronger!
What are your thoughts on Croydon Politics?
With the many diverse issues in the constituency, for critical focus, Croydon has always been a hub of bustling youth & It is known for the elevated young offenders and knife crime. This is at the forefront of our focus and aim in fighting crime. With many years experience working with youth personally, I believe we the CPA can start to implement from foundation level and work on the family construct to get to the root of the issue. Youth crime is a by-product of family breakdown and seeing to this issue will undoubtedly affect positive change, reduce the young offending statistics and turn things around systemically. Things aren’t getting better because we’re so busy fire-fighting when we should be getting to the root of things and implementing forward-focus, motivation, goal direction workshops and courses for young people to engage in to find their purpose and fulfilment. I will be strategising and implementing such transformational avenues for the youth of our constituency, as I believe this will bring tangible results and reduce the youth & knife crime rates significantly.
What’s next for the Christian Parties Alliance, how do you see
them making a breakthrough?
We the CPA Party are committed and determined to be the voice for the voiceless. We fervently beleive that we have the best policies for the nation and that everyone in time will see this. Because we genuinely care about the wellbeing of a nation and not just fire-fighting issues but rather getting to the root of the problem, we are a party you can trust to have your best interest at heart. We are not a party of quick-fixes and minimal effort. We are a party that knows this is going to take hard work, strategic action, much heart, and incredible effort! We are ready! The good news is that as well as being committed, and determined, we are laser-focused in our mission and manifesto and most importantly, in what may seem a very bleak-looking atmosphere in our nation right now, we are filled with hope! Hope cannot be lost at this critical time. We are positive that with a solid, clear and strategically sound manifesto as ours, we will see breakthrough, positive change and a restoration of the heart and soul of Britain!
The issue of the day is Brexit. What are your personal
thoughts on the subject that divides Britain?
Great Britain has always been exactly that – a GREAT country of immeasurable honour and heritage, and we want to bring respect and honour back to our very strong nation. Our stance on Brexit is an Honour Democracy.
We
need to honour the democratic will of the British people and get Brexit done.
That means we must honour the 2016 Referendum result and leave the EU
completely. We will offer a second Brexit referendum five to ten years after
we’ve left completely when there is evidence of what has happened. I
believe we can make a success of leaving the EU. We can’t predict the future
but we can plan for it. Time will tell how this unfolds, and if needs be, there
must be a simple mechanism in place for returning (the referendum). This will
unite the nation.
We have faith in Britain’s ability to thrive as an independent
nation with new international trade deals. The referendum 5 – 10 years after
we’ve left completely is to ensure the country can be brought back together
when there is evidence of however performed outside the EU.
“Aside from the human cost, family breakdown has been estimated to cost the taxpayer £48 billion per year. No other party will address this issue’.”
If you introduce or repeal 3 laws (other than for Brexit) what
would they be?
1. PROTECT UNBORN CHILDREN
We stand on strong pro-life platform and we pledge to restore full legal protection to unborn children while diverting more than £200 million of taxpayers’ money spent each year on funding abortions here and abroad into supporting any mother in a crisis pregnancy situation.
It
is painful to note that within election campaign period alone an average of 598
babies will lose their lives to abortion in the UK, with over 9 million lives
lost altogether as a result of the 1967 Abortion Act. This is a national
tragedy — we have to have the courage to face this issue and look for
compassionate alternatives.”
2. MAKE TAX FAIR AND CARE FOR THE POOR
We’d end the scandal of big multi-national companies (eg. Facebook, Google, Starbucks) sending their UK profits abroad in order to avoid paying their fair share of tax.By introducing a Turnover Tax (of 5%), offset against Corporation Tax, we’d address the disadvantage faced by British businesses. This would raise an estimated £32bn, which we’d use to halve commercial rates to revive our city centres (£11.5bn), pay for our family policies (£4bn) and restore the £12bn in Tory benefit cuts by properly funding Universal Credit. We would help everyone sleeping rough with a free night shelter, meal and the right support to get back into society.
3. SUPPORT MARRIAGE AND THE FAMILY
The
CPA will support marriage and the family with a £12,000 grant to first-time
married couples and £6,000 upon the birth of their first child, provided they
go for at last 5 marriage preparation sessions.
“Aside from the human cost, family breakdown has been estimated to cost the taxpayer £48 billion per year. No other party will address this issue’.” The CPA’s marriage and first-child grant (costing £4 billion) and other key policies would be funded by the introduction of a turnover tax of five per cent, offset against corporation tax, which is intended to stop big multinational companies sending their UK profits abroad in order to cut down their tax bill.This would raise an estimated £32 billion.
“CPA is NOT exclusively for Christians. This is a core value and moral-standing issue and I believe that many people from different faiths or none at all can unite with me in our solid values and stand for the good of a nation”
Any other thoughts you want to leave us with?
I am proudly British and a definition of diversity which is one of the striking characteristics of our constituency. I am approachable and a strong advocate for things I believe in. I want to continue fighting for our families and community as I did and continue to in London over the many years. I ask all residents to vote for me to be a strong voice for us all in Parliament.
I strongly believe that what unites us is far greater than what divides us. CPA is NOT exclusively for Christians. This is a core value and moral-standing issue and I believe that many people from different faiths or none at all can unite with me in our solid values and stand for the good of a nation. Thank you Croydon North! Align with the core values of our party and vote for us. We need you! There is HOPE, Britain! We can make a difference because we, Croydon north, are the difference!
Always keen to support people in Croydon prepared to support democracy and
Brexit. The Croydon Constitutionalists spoke with Donald Ekekhomen, the
Conservative Party Candidate for Croydon North.
On Donald’s twitter account he describes himself as a Conservative, Pharmacist, Entrepreneur.
Christian, keen on positive community action, and a Crystal Palace fan.
He stood in Waddon for the Conservatives in the 2018 local elections in what
was widely recognised as a hard fought campaign.
Croydon North is currently held by anti-democracy MP Steve Reed OBE.
Donald thank-you for your time.
What led
to you being picked as the candidate for Croydon North?
After the disappointment of the last local elections, it’s terrible to see the devastation that Croydon’s Labour Council continues to do to our local communities. At the same time, there is the increase in stabbings in Croydon that’s very worrying. Everyone I talk to in church, work or at football are always talking about this. It’s causing a lot of uneasiness in the community with parents afraid for their teenage children. That prompted me to avail myself of the rigorous screening process to be the Conservative candidate for Croydon North.
“to someone who has lived through an authoritarian regime, that was exceptional by the MP and his office. It simply says the MP is concerned about the welfare of his constituents and cares enough to help them fulfil their aspirations”
What
first got you into politics.
I am an immigrant who came to the UK to study and got a job on
completion of my studies to provide NHS pharmaceutical services as a
pharmacist. As one who works in a lot of pharmacies as a locum in and around
Croydon, I get to participate in conversations about governance, taxes etc. In
one of these conversations, a pharmacy owner explained to me activities that
led her to open her pharmacy. She said that she was able to get the local MP at
the time to help officially open the premises. Now that might seem normal but to someone who
has lived through an authoritarian regime, that was exceptional by the MP and
his office. It simply says the MP is concerned about the welfare of his
constituents and cares enough to help them fulfil their aspirations. That MP
was Gavin Barwell; the erstwhile Conservative MP for Croydon Central.
In my job and through voluntary activities, it is clear that there are lots of issues facing local people; education, school expulsion, NHS, housing, immigration, crime, jobs etc and I believe being part of a political party will help me try to resolve these issues by enacting laws and lobbying government in order to make a difference to the lives of these people and more.
“Having them believe that someone is there to help when they are challenged is a very powerful statement of confidence in our community and abilities”
Any story
from Waddon or other campaign trails that have stuck in your memory?
While on the campaign trail, a lot of things really excited me, gave me a buzz. People are deeply concerned about their local environment and are willing to do what they can to protect it. However, a particular incident remains in my memory: during our campaign there was an old church hall that already had a planning application submitted to convert it to blocks of residential flats. However, this old church had provided valuable service to the community as it is used as a nursery space for young children and on weekends, used as a place for meetings and parties/celebrations for locals. It forms the nucleus of the community and also retains the old architecture which celebrates the history of the place and in consonance with other buildings in the area. When I went canvassing in the area, it was the most important issue for residents but they needed help and advice on how to oppose it. We sprung to action and helped the residents oppose the planning application using dexterity and with the knowledge of how to do this. Eventually, this was stopped and the building was saved. The joy on the faces of the residents when we went back was a sight to behold. I felt happy to have been a part of this process: making people smile, happy and comfortable in their local environment. Having them believe that someone is there to help when they are challenged is a very powerful statement of confidence in our community and abilities.
What is
your favourite Crystal Palace memory?
I love sports especially football and know it is an important part of keeping our physical and mental health in the best shape especially now with how fast and complex our lives are. It is a tool for creating firm structure for young people to learn about discipline, respect and teamwork while improving their social skills, friendships and broadening their aspirations.
The FA cup final in 2016 is one I still think about today. The run to the final was exceptional and the team did this with real determination while scraping through some games. I felt that was a given and that gut feeling was consolidated when Jason Puncheon scored the first goal in the final. That was the most delirious I have ever been!!!
It was disappointing the team lost eventually but they showed
really courage; working together, challenging every ball and giving it their
all. I was very proud of the boys!!
Crystal Palace football club is involved in a lot of wonderful local projects for poor communities which help disadvantaged locals to get on in life. Some of these partnerships I am involved with as a trustee. This off the field activity is awesome.
What are
your thoughts on Croydon politics?
Croydon politics is in a terrible state currently. Where do
I start!
We have a group of Labour Party councillors running the council and not delivering on their last local election promises. The Labour council do not collect bins weekly as promised, they do not listen to residents’ complaints but rather make it difficult for residents to pass on their legitimate concerns. Council chamber question time is fraught with verbose replies, residents only have 30 minutes to ask questions during full council meetings that sit just a few times in the year!!! How is that listening to the residents?
This is your first time as a parliamentary candidate, has anything come as a surprise from making that step?
I always expected it to be intense, changing its course almost every other day with changing campaign priorities. However, the amount of energy needed to keep on the campaign trail and answer emails from a lot of people who expect responses very quickly, has been enormous. Regardless, I am enjoying every bit of it especially meeting people on their doorsteps and talking to them about their concerns and priorities.
“The current system of offenders getting up to five suspended sentences could be too lenient and doesn’t feel like justice for the victims of crime”
If you
introduce or repeal three laws (other than Brexit), what would they be?
Reducing the number of suspended sentences given to people
who commit serious crime to three and increasing the length of their stay in
prison. I would go further to make serious offenders serve three quarters of
their term before they are due for parole. The current system of offenders
getting up to five suspended sentences could be too lenient and doesn’t feel
like justice for the victims of crime. The Conservative government is investing
in the prison services to train, educate and give ex-offenders the skills
needed to be more productive in the wider society which is the duty of any
responsible government.
More investment in schools in line with inflation to help recruit
and train more teachers. Teachers that
will spend more time with disruptive youngsters and help improve their chances
at learning to attain a degree at university, get into apprenticeships or learn
other job skillsets. This will help to reduce exclusions, foster cohesion and
improve life chances of disadvantaged young people. On the societal scale it will help reduce
crime, help with social mobility and improve positive community participation.
Currently, the Government has promised increased funding per pupil in schools
and has been doing that for over 10 years, incrementally. This is an indication
that it is taking it seriously but much more will be greatly appreciated.
The Help to Buy scheme has seen record numbers of people and young families being able to afford a home. I want to see such schemes encouraged further and expanded to help a lot more people get onto the property ladder.
Any other thoughts you want to leave us with?
The UK is currently the second best country in Europe for business start-ups. I would want the current government fund provision for tech start-ups to continue into the post Brexit years ahead. It is vital that we encourage people with digital intelligence to continue to contribute to the digital space and create the next Facebook, Google or Amazon of this world.
We discuss the finalised list of nominated candidates for the 3 Croydon seats in the impending General Election and our upcoming free speech event “My Tuppenceworth“.
Michael Swadling of the Croydon Constitutionalists spoke again with Sputnik Radio on the 7th November 2019 about the upcoming general election.
“This isn’t planned about striving and having aspirations, the Labour Party policy is really just about cutting the cake that we have today and redistribution – that doesn’t generate wealth”
“In 1997, Labour became electable because Tony Blair put out a positive message, and he put out an aspirational message, going back to the 1960’s.That’s how Wilson got elected, he talked about technology and the future of Britain. …and the modern Labour Party just looks like an unhappy party. Why would anybody vote for that?”
Always keen to support people in Croydon prepared to support Brexit. The Croydon Constitutionalists spoke to Councillor Mario Creatura, the Conservative Party Candidate for Croydon Central.
Mario will be well known to many of our followers as a local Councillor and campaigner. He worked for Gavin Barwell when he was an MP, global beer company Heineken and in 10 Downing Street running social media for Theresa May. He now works in communications for Virgin Money UK.
Mario thanks for your time.
What
don’t we know about you that has led you to be the PPC in Croydon Central?
I’ve lived in Croydon all my life. I was born in Mayday
Hospital and went to nursery at Tollgate in Shirley; attended St Thomas Becket
Primary in South Norwood; checked my first books out of Ashburton Library and
learnt to ride my bike in Bingham Park.
My first job was in the town centre; first flat just off the
historic Surrey Street Market and last year, with my wife Amy, we moved into
our first home together in Park Hill.
Croydon isn’t just some rung on the political career ladder
for me – it’s been my home for over 30 years. I want my community to thrive and
that’s not been happening in recent years.
I truly believe that it’s only when our community comes
together that we can tackle the complex issues facing our town – to create an
environment that promotes aspiration and helps our town thrive. That’s why I’m
running to be our next Member of Parliament: to work with everyone to help
Croydon be the best it can be.
What
first got you involved in politics?
Growing up in Croydon I wasn’t
really concerned about politics, and neither were my family. My dad still gets
up at 4am to go to work, and when I was a kid mum would work nights in
Woolworths in the town centre.
I went to a great state school in
South Norwood, worked hard and became the first in my family to make it to
university. It wasn’t easy; I didn’t know anyone else that had been. Thankfully
with the help of a bursary and an incredibly supportive family I graduated, and
it’s no exaggeration to say that it truly transformed my life.
I met people who became lifelong
friends. Some of them were interested in politics, and over many a beer it was
at university that my interest in politics was kindled.
I graduated in 2009 and came back to
Croydon just before the 2010 General Election. While I was away my mum had
become a Teaching Assistant at my old school and my dad had started refereeing
and coaching the local little league. They had started to get fully involved in
the community, rolling their sleeves up and helping out. I saw the difference
they made, and how much of an impact they were both making in our local area.
That’s when I started thinking about
local politics. I have always thought that if you want to help your community
then the best way is by getting involved. It doesn’t matter what it is – but the
best way to make a difference is to get stuck in.
That’s also why I started getting
involved in the local Conservative party. Politics can be a force for good, a
place where people debate ideas and work to make our local area better. I
wanted to be a part of that effort, so I took my own advice and got involved!
Any
stories from previous campaign trails that have stuck in your memory?
I first ran for election in Selhurst
ward. One weekday evening I was out knocking on doors on the Selhurst Road,
working to find out about the issues and concerns facing the local residents.
In one of the houses was a lady who
was clearly getting ready to go out for the night. She had a towel around her
hair and was in a dressing gown – she was clearly in no mood for talking to a
councillor candidate. She told me, as anticipated, that she was in the middle
of something and had no time to talk – but in any case that there was
absolutely no way she was going to vote for a Conservative. She thought that
was the end of that, and so I (thinking I had nothing to lose) asked her ‘Why?’
She was taken aback. What did I
mean: why? She was very clear wasn’t she?
I was genuinely interested in what
she had to say. Why not vote Conservative? Why vote Labour? Why be so unequivocal?
I was curious, and she appreciated it.
Despite her supposed rush, we ended
up talking for more than 30 minutes. About schools and social mobility. About
fly-tipping and potholes. About the health service and police force.
At the end of the conversation she
thanked me for my time, and that I listened to her. She told me that she would
still be voting Labour but that she appreciated my commitment to our community.
A few weeks later was Election Day.
That night I was surprised to receive a message on Facebook. It said:
‘Hi Mario. Not sure if you remember
but you canvassed me on Selhurst Road the other day and we had a good
conversation about politics. Well just to let you know that I did something
that I have never done before in my life and voted for a Tory! Because you are
young and passionate and I believe that you will make a difference. So good
luck, and if you do get in don’t let me down!’
I sadly did not win that time, but
the whole experience taught me a valuable lesson: that if you truly care about
your local area, and you listen to the people in the community, then you can
make a difference.
” We were all told that the referendum result would be respected; both Labour and the Conservatives ran on a manifesto commitment to do just that. If we betray that trust, then we jeopardise faith in our entire political establishment”
You
supported Remain in the EU Referendum. What’s made you now support us
leaving the EU?
Although
I did support Remain, I always recognised that there were merits on both sides
of the argument. Since the referendum, my excitement about the possibilities
for Britain outside the EU has really grown. In the last year I’ve had the
privilege of travelling quite a bit, and there’s a real appetite around the
world to re-engage with Britain in a way that simply wouldn’t be possible if we
were staying in.
However,
above and beyond anything else, I am a champion for Brexit because I’m a
democrat. I
believe we should leave the EU as soon as possible to fulfill the democratic
instruction given to us by the British people. I therefore fully support Prime
Minister Johnson’s intention that we leave by October 31st.
In the largest vote ever to take place
in British history, the people made a clear decision. I am a democrat, and that
decision must be implemented. To do otherwise would shake the very foundations of our
democracy.
We were all told that the referendum
result would be respected; both Labour and the Conservatives ran on a manifesto
commitment to do just that. If we betray that trust, then we jeopardise faith
in our entire political establishment – a faith that is already being tested to
the limit.
Politicians should not choose which
votes they respect and which they do not. We must leave the EU – no ifs, no
buts.
“However, even if we can’t secure a deal like this – which I think we can – we must leave the EU, come what may, on 31st October”
What
terms would you like to see us leave the EU under?
The ideal
terms for Brexit would be to negotiate a comprehensive free trade deal with the
EU similar to the arrangement enjoyed by Canada. This kind of deal will
allow free trade and relatively little friction on the borders but would not
compromise national sovereignty, our ability to set our own laws, control our
borders and pursue an ambitious global trade policy.
However,
even if we can’t secure a deal like this – which I think we can – we must leave
the EU, come what may, on 31st October.
“Join a political party or residents’ group or local charity – whatever suits you, just do it. Truly the only way to improve things, and to oust bad politicians, is to work hard and push for change locally”
Until
recently you were Chief Whip for the Conservatives in the Council. You must
have seen a lot of what’s going on. What are your thoughts more broadly
on Croydon Politics?
Our local politics is not in a
healthy place. The Labour-run Council actively avoids scrutiny – tens of
thousands of residents have signed petitions that are ignored by the Council.
Even in official consultations, if the response is not in keeping with Labour’s
policy objectives then the results are often sidelined. Residents’ Associations
are barely engaged with and whenever a reasonable local resident tries to flag
issues with an insensitive development, aggressive councillors routinely shut
them down.
The public gets a measly 30 minutes
to ask questions at each Council meeting, and there are only 7 meetings each
year. The Labour Cabinet members don’t hold public meetings and when a member
of the public does get to ask a question often the answer is mealy-mouthed and
obstructive.
A confident council should welcome
scrutiny. The Opposition can help the (currently Labour) Administration to up their
gameif they are allowed to do their job properly. However, at the moment Labour does everything
it can to block any attempt at the main parties working together in Croydon’s
interests – and so meetings often spiral out of control into childish bickering
that debases our community.
But I’m an optimist. There are so
many phenomenal people involved in our local politics – whether they’re in a
political party or not, so many residents are committed to making our local
communities thrive. We may sometimes disagree on the way to get there, but our
ultimate goal is the same.
The only way to help Croydon thrive
is to get involved. Join a political party or residents’ group or local charity
– whatever suits you, just do it. Truly the only way to improve things, and to
oust bad politicians, is to work hard and push for change locally.
This is
your first time as a parliamentary candidate, has anything come as a surprise
from making that step?
Croydon has got huge potential – the
potential to be a dynamic, prosperous town that provides opportunities for
everyone. I’ve spent 10 years campaigning in Croydon, and the biggest surprise
since becoming the candidate is finding out just how many people locally care
passionately about our community and how desperately they want it to get
better. There have been heated discussions, and the vast majority have shared a
common desire to boost our borough. It’s energising to know there’s that hunger
out there, and I want to be instrumental in helping to make it happen for my
home town.
If you
introduce or repeal 3 laws (other than for Brexit) what would they be?
Cracking down on
crime:
A review of sentencing of prolific
offenders with a view to creating a clearer expectation of longer and more
certain prison sentences for super-prolific offenders. We should continue the
Government’s policy of investing in more prison capacity to enable more
super-prolific offenders to be jailed and for longer. And we need action to
improve and toughen community sentences, suspended sentences and drug
rehabilitation programmes – a greater emphasis on rehabilitation is all-important
in breaking the cycle that too often drags those leaving the penal system back
into a life of crime.
Tackling poverty: tax cuts for
business should be made conditional on increases in wages for staff on the
lowest rates of pay, in order to counter in-work poverty. I would offer
corporate tax cuts to firms that increase pay for their staff and these tax
cuts should also be used to encourage more training for young and low-paid
staff, who are most likely to miss out on support to boost their skills. With
near full employment already achieved, the Conservatives are already helping
millions, but it’s time to address the root causes of in-work poverty – this is
just one policy idea to contribute to achieving that goal.
Social mobility: Given that gaps
between the advantaged and less advantaged open up before birth and get wider
through a child’s formative years, the role of parents and the early years
workforce is highly important. The government’s 30-hour free childcare offer
has helped many families afford a vital service – but good quality childcare is
still out of reach for many. Significantly reducing the lower income limit of
eligibility and working with local authorities to specifically target
low-income households will help to boost social mobility. I want every kid in
Croydon to get the support and services they need so they can achieve their
maximum potential in life.
Any other
thoughts you want to leave us with?
We’ve
currently got a Labour MP in Croydon Central who has voted to block Brexit more
than 10 times. The Lib Dems can’t win in Croydon and neither can the Brexit
Party – it’s a straight fight between Labour and the Conservatives. If you
truly want to deliver Brexit, then the only way to do that is to vote
Conservative in the next election, whenever that comes. A vote for any other
party is effectively a vote for Labour to stay in power and for our
Brexit-blocking MP to continue in her determined effort to circumvent the will
of the people.
Don’t let
that happen. Croydon deserves better than that.
Always keen to support people in Croydon prepared to stand up for Brexit. The Croydon Constitutionalists spoke to Alan Cook the Brexit Party PPC for Old Bexley and Sidcup.
Alan was originally standing in Croydon North. Mike Swadling of this parish stood against the current anti democracy MP Steve Reed OBE in the constituency which included part of the Crystal Palace triangle, Norbury, Thornton Heath, the transport hub of West Croydon and of course the home of football [Mike insert] Crystal Palace.
Old Bexley and Sidcup voted 62% Leave in the referendum and is currently represented by James Brokenshire MP.
Alan thanks for your time.
So tell us a bit about your background and how you found yourself being a Brexit Party Candidate?
My parents were in the services, my
father was in the Fleet Air Arm and my mother was in the Women’s Royal Naval
Service. I was born in an RAF base in Singapore. We returned with my
elder brother to England
when I was one year old and briefly lived with family in Thanet. I grew up and
was schooled in South East London, I now live in Westminster with my girlfriend and our two
daughters.
By twenty I had secured a position
in finance in London,
my first day was Black Monday! I discovered there was no prospect of
progression within that company due to not having a degree. I very quickly
changed industries to Information Technology and what followed was a dream of a
career in the City starting at the end of the Thatcher years.
For many years I have been a member of a
parliamentary think tank, amongst other things promoting and progressing
leaving the EU. I am a trustee of a local charity, and co-vice chairman of a
civic body looking after over 1400 residents and businesses, dealing with the
local council, The Met., TfL and the Grosvenor Estate.
I have realised over the last few years that
The House of Commons is in dire need of reform, it is lacking MP’s from a
normal background. I decided earlier this year to put myself forward as a
candidate for The Brexit Party, the only party currently offering political
reform. I also requested a South London Constituency, and here I am now.
“a feeling of betrayal over the Maastricht and Lisbon Treaties and now I can add May’s new EU treaty to that as well. The voice of the electorate is very clearly being bypassed and ignored”
What first got you
involved in politics?
Frustration
in the knowledge that the previous leaders of both the main parties have not
put the needs of our country first. They have created division and caused lasting
damage to the long term prosperity and independence of the UK. Also a feeling of betrayal over
the Maastricht
and Lisbon Treaties and now I can add May’s new EU treaty to that as well. The voice
of the electorate is very clearly being bypassed and ignored. Of course I have an
overriding conviction that I can do so much better. Better for Croydon North
and better for the country as a whole.
Any stories from previous campaign
trails that have stuck in your memory?
I
spent a week in Wales
helping The Brexit Party before the Brecon and Radnorshire by-election. I took some
time off from the normal day to day canvassing and joined our candidate Des
Parkinson for a tour of the constituency on the Brexit Bus. Little did I know
how dangerous such a pursuit was going to be. There are a lot of trees in Wales, and some
very low tree canopies that span the whole road. If anyone on the bus shouted “tree”
you didn’t have time to look and would duck or throw yourself to the floor with
great speed. The only one who was truly safe on the top deck was the T-shirt
wearing Brexit Dog who just happened to be called Nigel. At one stage on our
journey the Brexit bus was being lead and flanked by two dozen escaped
bullocks, it was at that stage someone on the top deck shouted the very
memorable, “Bullocks for
Brexit“.
You were originally standing in Croydon North where you follow Winston McKenzie and our own Mike Swadling in standing as a Pro-Brexit candidate in Croydon North. What were you focusing on to make a breakthrough?
Thanks to the work of previous Pro-Brexit candidates in the Croydon area, I was not starting from the beginning but I have a foundation to build from. Brexit is now more in the public conscience than it has ever has been. I am not here alone, The Brexit Party has broken all political records with its rapidly growing supporter base. The battle isn’t just about leaving the expensive and corrupt EU institution it is about protecting our democracy and it’s about political reform. People are sick to the back teeth with the undemocratic MPs who currently sit in the House of Commons. They are clearly not following the wishes of and are not acting in the best interests of the electorate.
What are your thoughts on
Croydon Politics?
Croydon is in an envious and very unique position, it is an outer
London borough with easy, quick train access to central
London,16
minutes, but it is also very much a business hub of its own and indeed an
international business location. With easy and quick train access to both St. Pancras
International Station and Gatwick
Airport the future
potential of the tri-constituency area is huge. This unique situation needs to
be highlighted to and recognised by the government. My constituency, Croydon
North, deserves the highest calibre representation in the commons to reflect
this. This is why I am dedicating myself to becoming the MP for the area.
“I have found myself happily discussing politics in groups of people with different ideologies. As long as you are pro UK, pro Europe and you put the interests of our amazing country before that of the EU you have a home in The Brexit Party”
What surprised you most
about getting actively involved in politics?
That’s an easy question to answer, it is the people you meet,
the true diversity of those who have joined The Brexit Party is staggering. I
am not just referring to race and religion but everything – across the board,
from their locations, vocations and especially their political stance. It doesn’t
matter where you are on the political spectrum, be it central, right or left
wing, every day I have found myself happily discussing politics in groups of
people with different ideologies. As long as you are pro UK, pro Europe
and you put the interests of our amazing country before that of the EU you have
a home in The Brexit Party. People where travelling from the tip of Scotland
and from Continental Europe to volunteer and help The Brexit Party at both of
the recent by-elections.
If you introduce or repeal 3 laws (other
than for Brexit) what would they be?
I
am a huge fan of democracy so I wouldn’t wish to repeal any law that has been democratically
arrived at. I know you said other than Brexit, however, there are two things which
I have previously mentioned The Lisbon and Maastricht treaties. Now both of these should
have of gone to the electorate for a vote, but the polls at the time suggested neither
would of have a favourable result, so they were pushed through without public consultation.
Since then there has been the ‘in and out’ referendum which should, in practice,
remove these two undemocratically installed treaties from the UK
constitution.
Back
to non Brexit. I do love food, I should be a lot bigger than I am. I am
passionate about UK
produce and high welfare meat. I would definitely change UK labelling
laws to give the consumer all knowledge available and not just what the
industry wants us to see.
I
would also like to see a completely different model for prisons, with a far
greater emphasis on vocational education. On release everyone should be in a
better situation having hopefully learned a trade or gained further education,
ambition and hope for their future.
I
will add a fourth one to end with, I would like to make MPs more accountable to
their constituency voters. I am open to suggestions from voters for this one,
so please do email me with suggestions.
Any other thoughts you
want to leave us with?
Politics used to be discussed over a pint in pubs, but people no longer dare talk about politics in case others have opposing views. We need to get back to talking and debating. It is fine to have a different point of view, this is healthy and normal for society. There is no place for anger and aggression in politics it needs to be removed and replaced with discussion.
