Philip Peers, SDP candidate for Torridge & Tavistock

Philip Peers is the SDP prospective candidate for Torridge & Tavistock in Devon.  We spoke with Philip about his decision to stand.

“Their policies align perfectly with my outlook on life and what I believe would deliver the best future for my family, community and nation”

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

I am pleased to announce my selection as prospective parliamentary candidate for the Social Democratic Party (SDP) for the Torridge & Tavistock Constituency.  I am a married father of two young children. I am a former town councillor for Tavistock. I work locally for an NHS Trust based in Plymouth and am a director of the estate management company for the estate in which I live.

What made you decide to stand for the SDP?

The SDP is a political party with policies that are patriotic, economically left-leaning and culturally traditional. Their policies align perfectly with my outlook on life and what I believe would deliver the best future for my family, community and nation.

“Simply put, this is the community in which I have the greatest stake in. It is my sincere wish for the people of this constituency and neighbouring ones to be the most healthy, prosperous, and fulfilled as they possibly can be”

You’re the Spokesman for Torridge & Tavistock what’s made you decide to represent this area?

This is the area that I was raised in from the age of 2 years old and continue to live in and raise my own family in. I have strong roots within the community having attended local state primary and secondary schools, worked for local businesses and where my friends and family live. Simply put, this is the community in which I have the greatest stake in. It is my sincere wish for the people of this constituency and neighbouring ones to be the most healthy, prosperous, and fulfilled as they possibly can be. It has been taken for granted by the Conservative Party for too long and become a forgotten land in the halls of Westminster.

“we have 8,500 households on the waiting list for social housing. It’s not just a lack of total numbers though but suitable housing in the right places”

What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?

Housing, employment and healthcare. These are the big three that will affect just about everyone. We have a chronic lack of housing, in Devon excluding the Unitary authority areas of Plymouth and Torbay we have 8,500 households on the waiting list for social housing. It’s not just a lack of total numbers though but suitable housing in the right places.

There is no coherent strategy for economic development in this part of the country. We lack high skilled, well-paid jobs in a vibrant private sector. This is caused to a great extent by being geographically isolated and lacking the infrastructure to allow for speedy and reliable public or private transport or even rural high-speed broadband. We need central government to form a coherent economic strategy for our region with massive investment in transport infrastructure and connectivity.

Healthcare, we have some of the poorest communities in the nation here with worse than average health outcomes. In the current financial year the NHS allocated the third highest amount of money per head of population to the Southwest ICB’s at £1,536. The formula for calculating this is based on various factors that determine the need of the population, poverty being a high indicator of poor health outcomes and the need for greater funding.  

For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?

I would ask that any member of the SDP or any citizen concerned with the state of our communities and nation who is based in West Devon to get in touch with me at [email protected].

For more information on the party visit our website at https://sdp.org.uk/

Simon Lee, Reform UK candidate for Sevenoaks

Simon Lee is the Reform UK prospective candidate for Sevenoaks.  We spoke with Simon about his decision to stand.

“it is being a father and my rewarding work with other children, that has led me into the political arena to secure a more safe and freer future for them. Reform U.K. seemed the only real choice for me”

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Simon Lee and I have been living in Sevenoaks for 11 years now and a frequent visitor to the town before becoming a resident. I am a veteran high performance coach and therapist of over 30 years for children and adults. I have recently written a book called ‘The Courage Project: The Counter Poise To Fear,’ which is a powerful call to courage for men to take responsibility for their society. I am publishing two more books this year. I have three children and it is being a father and my rewarding work with other children, that has led me into the political arena to secure a more safe and freer future for them. Reform U.K. seemed the only real choice for me, due to its complete separation from the authoritarian organisations seeking  to impose their control over the countries of Europe and beyond.

“there is a great concern from the young people about the ideologies drifting into schools, the madness of WOKE culture”

You’re the Spokesman for Sevenoaks what’s made you decide to represent this area?

Sevenoaks has been a Conservative stronghold for many years but recently the Lib Dem’s won all but one seat in the area. Having spoken to many people in the area, there is a great concern from the young people about the ideologies drifting into schools, the madness of WOKE culture and the looming threat of organisations like the WEF. This appears to be the crossover of concern that both the young and the older generations agree on. There is a general disillusionment with politics in Sevenoaks which is representative of the similar outlook, that has understandable spread throughout the U.K.

I feel it is vital that Sevenoaks and indeed all constituency’s realise that the mainstream parties are all aligned with the likes of the WHO and the WEF who want to remove people’s sovereignty. This is where unwanted policies like digital IDs, Net Zero, 15-minute neighbourhoods, ULEZ and other plans, designed to remove personal freedoms are originating from.

It is now obvious that we don’t have leaders in power but managers, who are compliant and serving the needs of those in power above them.

“The mainstream parties have always encouraged people not to waste their vote and we are now in a situation where voting a mainstream party is the real wasted vote”

If more people realised what this meant to themselves and their children, I believe they would mostly stay clear of such policies and the parties that represent them. The mainstream parties have always encouraged people not to waste their vote and we are now in a situation where voting a mainstream party is the real wasted vote, because we will end up with the organisations they serve in power. This will be at the expense and to the detriment of the British people they are supposed to serve. I am totally against the current coercive, manipulative and forceful government approach and believe true leadership is to earn and represent the trust and will of the people.

Ultimately I will champion looking after the needy and vulnerable in my society and encouraging responsibility for everyone, to protect and nurture the community against any harmful influences and help those in difficult circumstances.

For those eager to help and how can they get involved in the campaign?

Please visit the Reform UK Website at https://www.reformparty.uk/ for more information about the party and you can contact me at [email protected].

Kevan Chippindall-Higgin, Reform UK candidate for Fareham and Waterlooville

Kevan Chippindall-Higgin is the Reform UK prospective candidate for Fareham and Waterlooville.  We spoke with Kevan about his decision to stand.

“Now we are faced with ruin as the direct result of 25 years of socialism.  The national debt is nearly the size of our GDP and has trebled in just 13 years.  That is profligacy on an epic scale.”

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

I was a Conservative Party member until 2014 when I had a problem locally and none of the Conservative councillors, two of whom I knew personally, even bothered to reply to my mail, never mind do anything about it.  I was by then becoming disillusioned with the way the country was going and joined UKIP.

I have worked in a number of disparate industries and represented companies both here and abroad.  I speak French and German.

What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?

UKIP imploded post Brexit and again, when we had quite serious, internal local problems, nothing was done.  UKIP is now irrelevant.

I stood for UKIP in Portsmouth South in 2017 but like so many others, believed in Boris Johnson to stop the rot over Brexit and did nothing in 2019.  That was a big mistake, but then even Nigel Farage was taken in by Boris.

Now we are faced with ruin as the direct result of 25 years of socialism.  The national debt is nearly the size of our GDP and has trebled in just 13 years.  That is profligacy on an epic scale.

“The issues facing Fareham and Waterlooville are the same as many other places.  Soaring costs, moribund wages and ever worsening services to name but a few.”

You’re the Spokesman for Fareham and Waterlooville what’s made you decide to represent this area?

I live in Portsmouth and feel very strongly that an MP needs to live within the community represented.  Fareham is right next door and a 20-minute drive away.  While not actually living in the constituency, being that close is good enough.

What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?

The issues facing Fareham and Waterlooville are the same as many other places.  Soaring costs, moribund wages and ever worsening services to name but a few.  Our burgeoning population cannot now be properly serviced.  I have seen estimates of some 2 million people living here illegally, on top of the 750,000 who turned up legally in 2022.  The people arriving here illegally by boat are costing us a fortune and we have no idea who they are.

The very first thing we need to look at are those here illegally.  They impose an intolerable strain on the nation’s resources.  Those coming over by boat must be stopped mid Channel.  Those who have failed the asylum process must be sent back.

The next big issue is climate change.  This is simply not happening.  Were the climate changing, we would be growing peaches and oranges in Hampshire.  We do not.  CO2 has been conclusively shown to increase AFTER warming.  CO2 makes up 0.042% of atmospheric gas and is a thus a trace gas.  CO2 is essential to life on earth as it is plant food.  Without plants, all that can survive on Earth would be bacteria.

“the Climate Change Act must be repealed, and work started immediately on extracting nature’s treasure from beneath our feet in order to become as energy self-sufficient as possible”

Pollution is a different issue and certainly, road pollution has been dramatically reduced to virtually vanishing point.  To put this in context, Portsmouth has a clean air zone, but not in areas of rush hour congestion but rather downwind of the harbour entrance.  Maritime engines have nothing like the emissions controls of terrestrial engines and the result is that the southwestern corner of Portsea Island has all the pollution.  It has nothing to do with motor vehicles.

Very simply, the Climate Change Act must be repealed, and work started immediately on extracting nature’s treasure from beneath our feet in order to become as energy self-sufficient as possible.

Law and order is now a complete farce.  The Human Rights Act needs to go so that we can deport those here illegally and foreign criminals as quickly as possible.  We need to de-politicise the police, which means getting rid of Police and Crime Commissioners for a start.  Closing Bramshill (The Police Staff College) should also be a priority and quite possibly clearing out most of the senior officers and cancelling senior fast track recruiting.  It did not work in Trenchard’s day (Hugh Trenchard  Metropolitan Police Commissioner from 1931 to 1935) and it is not working now.  

“Wokeism is the new fascism.  Failure to toe the woke line means job loss.  This is the new intolerance.”

The police must impartially uphold the law.  This means arresting those who shout hateful slogans against Islam as well those doing the same against Jews.  If that means mobilising every copper in the land to break up and deal with hate demos, so be it.  We also need proper sentencing, not the nonsense we have now.  Get caught stealing and into jail you go.

We must also control public spending.  The civil service is now totally bloated and an awful lot of them could be let go and nobody would notice the difference.  Budgets need to be slashed everywhere.  Not military or police but foreign aid and of course all the woke nonsense.  Wokeism is the new fascism.  Failure to toe the woke line means job loss.  This is the new intolerance.  Traditionally, those with differing views and unwise enough to articulate them got a kicking in the car park.  Now they get cancelled.  Both approaches work equally effectively, and this has been the technique of extremists through the ages.

For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?

Please visit the Reform UK Website at https://www.reformparty.uk/ and for those who wish to join in, I can be contacted via email at [email protected].

Ivan Kinsman, SDP candidate for West Suffolk

Ivan Kinsman is the SDP prospective candidate for West Suffolk.  We spoke with Ivan about his decision to stand.

“I believe that the current duopoly of Conservative and Labour is failing the country, as well as the first-past-the-post electoral system”

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

I am 61 years old and a graduate from The University of St Andrews M.A. Hons.) and Edinburgh University (MBA). I was brought up in the Lake District, later moving to the south-west of England as a teenager and attended Eton College. After my university education in Scotland, I moved down to London, working as a wine salesman, IT and telecoms conference organiser and then website administrator/copywriter for a fund manager prior to moving to Newmarket in Suffolk.

I run my own translation and proofreading business, which I have been doing since 2011 (which also involves a lot of foreign travel).

What made you decide to stand for the SDP?

I have a keen interest in politics and current affairs. I believe that the current duopoly of Conservative and Labour is failing the country, as well as the first-past-the-post electoral system. I was persuaded to join the SDP by The New Declaration as well as by listening to the speakers at the party conference in Manchester in 2022. The SDP very much reflects my own political views, which are left of centre on the economy whilst right of centre on cultural and social issues.

“the SDP’s political agenda, focused on family, community and nation, will appeal to voters who live in a county that has a large number of historic towns and large tracts of farmland and countryside”

You’re the Spokesman for West Suffolk ­- what’s made you decide to represent this area?

I have a strong association with West Suffolk through living in Newmarket, a town famous for its horseracing (around 3,000 race horses are stabled in and around Newmarket; by comparison, the human population is around 15,000 and it is estimated that one in three jobs are connected to horseracing in one way or another). 

The constituency’s MP is currently the independent Matt Hancock who is standing down at the next election. Although traditionally a Tory constituency, I feel that the SDP’s political agenda, focused on family, community and nation, will appeal to voters who live in a county that has a large number of historic towns and large tracts of farmland and countryside, so most people lead a predominantly rural lifestyle. Nick Timothy will the Conservative PPC but he carries a lot of baggage as the political advisor to Theresa May who, along with Fiona Hill, was held responsible by MPs for the disastrous snap election results called by her.

I regularly attend the EofE SDP meetings, chaired by Michael McGetrick, as well as the party annual conferences.

“The Conservative party has conserved very little but instead – as William Clouston correctly emphasises – put everything up for sale, and it is increasing clear that Labour has abandoned the nation’s working men and women”

What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?

Jobs, cost of living, housing, public services, energy and immigration are all issues affecting West Suffolk. voters.

Energy: Sunnica Energy Farm, a solar photovoltaic (PV) and energy storage project in Suffolk and Cambridgeshire. West Suffolk Council are currently evaluating a Development Consent Order to the Planning Inspectorate. I am a strong supporter of renewables so am supporting this initiative.

Public services: Suffolk Country council this month (January 2024) has proposed £64.7m in cuts to balance its budget including scrapping funding for the arts, making redundancies and closing two archives’ branches. The Theatre Royal in Bury St Edmunds could have its funding stopped by Suffolk County Council as part of the proposed £500,000 in savings by stopping core funding to art and museum sector organisations from April 2025.

Cost of living/health: West Suffolk also has some poverty hotspots, for example the Howard Estate in Bury St Edmunds has recently been labelled the most deprived ward in West Suffolk with “significantly higher rates of hospital admissions compared to the national average, with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), self-harm and alcohol related conditions being some key areas of concern” (Suffolk News, 5.01.24).

My core message will be that the SDP is not a party of the major urban centres like Labour and the Conservatives but focused on strengthening communities. Like in other parts of the country, I am convinced people in West Suffolk believe that the old Labour/Conservative duopoly is harming our nation. The Conservative party has conserved very little but instead – as William Clouston correctly emphasises – put everything up for sale, and it is increasing clear that Labour has abandoned the nation’s working men and women. To preserve what is best in our nation Westminster must change, and as West Suffolk’s MP I will be working hard for my constituents instead of being sucked into the Westminster metropolitan bubble.

For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?

I require 10 signatures from West Suffolk residents who are on the electoral register so please contact me if you can help with this.

I am focusing initially on digital media activities via Facebook and Twitter/X, and then later local campaigning including leafleting and establishing street stalls. If people are interested in helping out, that would be greatly appreciated.

You can find out more about the SDP at https://sdp.org.uk/ and follow or contact me via:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IvanKinsmanSDP/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/IvanKinsmanSDP
Email: mailto:[email protected]

Colin Wright, Reform UK candidate for Wokingham

Colin Wright is the Reform UK prospective candidate for Wokingham.  We spoke with Colin about his decision to stand.

“Reform has a truly Conservative manifesto that I believe relates to the majority of UK voters”

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Colin Wright, have lived in Crowthorne/Sandhurst since 1979 and witnessed many changes and challenges throughout that time in the area. My parents worked locally in Broadmoor for many years and I am close to this area having been born in Northern Ireland. My wife was born in Wokingham and the children, David and Keelin locally at Frimley.

Career wise I have set up the European operations of many IT Software companies and spent a lot of my time over past 20 years in European countries most weeks.

“that old saying of “doing things same way for years and expecting different results” spurs me on and seems so apt to our current UK Governing parties”

What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?

I guess, like many prospective Reform UK voters we have been left politically homeless by the two major parties, many of us would have been Conservatives who have appeared to have abandoned any genuine Conservative policies. Reform has a truly Conservative manifesto that I believe relates to the majority of UK voters and we need to start to breakdown the 2 party aspect that gives all of us as voters no clear view of any differentiation between the two.

The aftermath of the 2016 referendum was dismal, the first in my adult life and to see the politicians try to overturn at every opportunity saddened me that voters were treated with such disdain, whatever anyone’s thoughts of the result, democracy has to be put first.

Our current Government has squandered all goodwill, ignoring their members and voters, and presenting Labour with an open goal, but one that the normal voter won’t notice any difference, changes occur in every life and context, by having true competition from other more current support political topics can the electorate truly be reflected in a changing UK.

I’m a huge supporter of change in every context, that old saying of “doing things same way for years and expecting different results” spurs me on and seems so apt to our current UK Governing parties.

You’re the Spokesman for Wokingham what’s made you decide to represent this area?

It’s an area I have spent most of my adult life in and around, both work and pleasure, an area that has changed hugely and as a strong Conservative base it would perhaps be an area that feels let down by the Government. In John Redwood the area does have a true Conservative MP, one that looks very isolated in the current party? If we could achieve a point where we elect One, Two, Three MPs then with stamina and momentum/energy we can really start to make inroads to affect positive change and momentum.

“I would never presume to know every issue of the Town and area, but would give 100% time and commitment to assist with the most compelling and identified electorate issues that arise, giving a voice to every single person who needs it, or wants it

What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?

Wokingham is an affluent area, there is no argument to that and perhaps a little stronger than many other areas, however the issues that are important will be identified by the electorate. I would never presume to know every issue of the Town and area, but would give 100% time and commitment to assist with the most compelling and identified electorate issues that arise, giving a voice to every single person who needs it, or wants it.

For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?

Please visit the Reform UK website for more information on the party or contact me at [email protected].

Martin Broomfield, SDP candidate for South Cotswolds

Martin Broomfield is the SDP prospective candidate for South Cotswolds.  We spoke with Martin about his decision to stand.

“I feel very comfortable with the SDP’s strapline:- Family, Community, Nation.  Now semi-retired I have some time to spend on helping the SDP to spread the word”

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

I grew up in Reading, it was a multicultural town even in the 1970s but unlike today, we all understood and respected our cultural differences and we lived happily side by side, it was a real live and let live environment which I really enjoyed.

I went to a secondary modern school. When I was 16 I started an apprenticeship as a toolmaker and studied for HNC in mech. eng. at Reading Tech.  I worked in various engineering jobs, became a service engineer and eventually got into industrial robotics and CAD design, working in car factories including Ford, Rover, BMW, Volvo and Honda in various European locations.

I have lived in Wiltshire for the last 40 years, I now live to the north of Chippenham with my wife Daisy and two teenage sons.  I also have two grown up daughters living in Australia and Thailand.

I feel very comfortable with the SDP’s strapline:- Family, Community, Nation.  Now semi-retired I have some time to spend on helping the SDP to spread the word.

“the EU was a massively complex, cumbersome organisation that was trying to amalgamate the opinions of 27 different nations, headed up by a top table of unelected bureaucrats”

What made you decide to stand for the SDP?

For most of my voting life all of my political knowledge came from the TV and I voted depending on who appealed most from the little that I knew.  Then in 2016 the EU referendum was looming, I realised that this was going to be a really important political event. I also realised that I knew nothing about politics or the European Union, so I set about learning everything I could, about how our political institutions functioned and how the EU was a massively complex, cumbersome organisation that was trying to amalgamate the opinions of 27 different nations, headed up by a top table of unelected bureaucrats. I could see the intention was to make “one size that fits all” decisions and laws, but in reality it seemed the best they ever achieved was “one size that fits nobody”.

My attempts to discuss European pros and cons revealed it was a very emotive subject, but worst of all I constantly heard the BBC telling us we were racist idiots for even wanting to talk about it.  Then move on a few years and I found that questioning the main stream Covid narrative brought on a very similar reaction.  Then came the race and culture wars and lo and behold, it was very difficult to talk about any of that without being called all sorts of names.

“It became apparent that there was a culture of suppressing free speech to allow the propagation of niche ideas that were not good for the majority of the British people”

It became apparent that there was a culture of suppressing free speech to allow the propagation of niche ideas that were not good for the majority of the British people, which frankly horrified me. Being able to discuss every subject openly and freely without emotional bullying or guilt trips is the bedrock of a healthy democracy.

I found that the government in power was actually fuelling this suppression, because it seemed that their policies and actions were at odds with each other and their actions did not stand up to any sort of common sense scrutiny. But they were dead set on the idea that “globalism is the new god” and they were going to expedite pulling down Britain’s borders and forcing this thing on the British people whether they liked it or not.

Net Zero, another globalist idea based on very dodgy data. The government’s solution was to enforce the use of electric only power while simultaneously dismantling our electricity generating capability.  Thankfully I realised that the SDP, who’s name I knew of old, actually had policies that I agreed with.  At last I had found my political home.

“if there was a box that said “None of the above”, that’s where I would put my cross.  Obviously this is not good enough, so I am standing to give voters the opportunity to put a cross by the “SDP”

You’re the Spokesman for South Cotswolds what’s made you decide to represent this area?

I live in the Kington ward of the South Cotswolds County Constituency.  As may be apparent from my previous answers, I am not a career politician and I am not from any area of influence.  Every time I go to vote, I find the same problem, if there was a box that said “None of the above”, that’s where I would put my cross.  Obviously this is not good enough, so I am standing to give voters the opportunity to put a cross by the “SDP”.

What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?

One of our main challenges is to somehow force our institutions, councils, NHS, welfare etc. to stick to their core responsibilities and not waste enormous amounts of our money on stuff that most people consider to be irrelevant nonsense.

For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?

At the moment the SDP name and policies need to be spread to as many people as possible. I think if we can get people familiar with the party’s policies then we will naturally get politically homeless people on board. So spreading website links and getting people aware of us will be key to starting the ball rolling.

You can find out more on our website at https://sdp.org.uk/.

You can also find me on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and email me at [email protected].

Rory O’Brien, Reform UK candidate for Spelthorne

Rory O’Brien is the Reform UK prospective candidate for Spelthorne.  We spoke with Rory about his decision to stand.

“2021 Surrey County Council elections, with a 4% share of votes. Subsequently, for Sunbury Common in the 2022 by-election for Spelthorne Council, with a 7% share of votes. And most recently, in the 2023 Local Election for Sunbury Common, with a continued increase to 11% share of votes.”

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Sligo, Eire to Anglo-Irish parents, and settled in the UK in the late 1970’s. Growing up and schooled in South Harrow, North-West London, in a loving single-parent household with two older siblings.

I’ve been lucky to work and experience many sectors over the years including hospitality, property, accounting and project management. My career has now evolved to become an Agile Coach for an Integrated Energy Company, supporting project teams to improve their collaboration and outcomes.

I moved to the Spelthorne area in 2007, initially living in Ashford Common and now living in Sunbury, with my wife Sandra and two children.

What made you stand for Reform UK?

My first involvement in politics was as part of the grass-roots campaign team, for the Brexit Party in Spelthorne, in the lead up to the 2019 General Election. Spelthorne has long been a Conservative stronghold and the decision to stand down Brexit Party candidates in Tory held seats, left me feeling politically homeless in the 2019 General election. Unable to align myself with any of the “remaining” candidates on the ballot paper, I jokingly promised then to stand myself as an Independent in the next election. As exercising your right to vote is fundamental, “The vote is precious. It is the most powerful non-violent tool we have in a democratic society, and we must use it.” (John Lewis, late civil rights activist), and I’d at least have a candidate I could align with.

However, it was the draconian measures of Covid 19 lockdowns and the dangerous groupthink emanating from All parties in Westminster, that spurred me into direct action. Firstly, standing for Sunbury Common & Ashford Common in the 2021 Surrey County Council elections, with a 4% share of votes. Subsequently, for Sunbury Common in the 2022 by-election for Spelthorne Council, with a 7% share of votes. And most recently, in the 2023 Local Election for Sunbury Common, with a continued increase to 11% share of votes.

“By his own admissions, Mr. Kwarteng confirmed scrapping the expansion plans of Heathrow was an identifiable divergence between Labour and Conservative policies, irrespective of the benefits to the UK”

You’re the Spokesperson for Spelthorne, what’s made you decide to represent this area?

I had hoped things would’ve improved but having looked deeper into our malfunctioning institutions and processes, my only conclusion is reforms are essential.

I attended a meeting of the ‘Back Heathrow’ campaign at the Spelthorne Council offices in 2023, also in attendance and support was our current Conservative MP, Kwasi Kwarteng.

During this meeting, the ‘Back Heathrow’ team shared a summary of the last 20 years, since decisions were made to expand Heathrow in 2001, with their aims to increase the number of flights, creating more jobs, boosting the UK’s economy and maintaining Heathrow’s stance as a hub airport against European competition.

In January 2009, the Labour Government backed Heathrow’s expansion. However, by May 2010 with the incoming coalition Government of Conservatives-Liberal Democrats, (including the assumption to office for Spelthorne of, Kwasi Kwarteng) the expansion was cancelled. By his own admissions, Mr. Kwarteng confirmed scrapping the expansion plans of Heathrow was an identifiable divergence between Labour and Conservative policies, irrespective of the benefits to the UK.

By comparison in 2005, Germany saw the major capital expenditure project to expand Frankfurt International Airport begin. Which included an additional fourth runway and third passenger terminal, a project that garnered support across the Bundestag (German Parliament).

How was it possible for Germany to deliver the benefits of such a major project and the UK still unable to place a shovel in the ground? Although Frankfurt airports expansion wasn’t uncontested (with regular protests from opposition groups). It was ultimately through consensus of the major political parties collaborating. This was aided through the Germans use of AMS (Additional Members System) of Proportional Representation (PR), resulting in less combative and more collaborative, coalition government rule.

When I put the question to Kwasi Kwarteng, how the UK’s FPTP (First Past the Post) system fails the UK with passing major, multi-decade infrastructure projects. In typical deflecting, self-preservation style, the response was for opposition parties to join his newfound supportive stance of, backing the Heathrow expansion plan.

When I look back to Nick Clegg’s speech in 2010, dismissing any nuclear power expansion program as benefits of additional capacity wouldn’t be realised until 2021. The un-mitigating disaster of HS2 and nonchalance from the UK Government on the closures of the Rough Gas storage facility. These may all have elements of hindsight; However, the short-termism of government and its decision-making process, have also had significant impacts.

“I’m standing for Reform UK because I’ve had enough of the mediocre representation and duopoly of politics, that has led us to where we are today.”

What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?

As alluded to already, Heathrow airport is a huge primary and secondary provider of jobs and opportunities for the area.

However, the continued anti-driver rhetoric and cash cow policies of ULEZ expansions to include Heathrow airport, have a direct impact on small and medium sized enterprises in the constituency. Spelthorne borders the three London Boroughs of Hounslow, Richmond upon Thames and Kingston upon Thames, impacting it’s residents and businesses alike.

Primarily the big concerns are focused on the National level, as these filter down and impact locally. You should always watch what a politician does and not be distracted by what they say. The ULEZ expansion plan was triggered by Grant Shapps, (then Transport Secretary) in a memo to the Mayor’s Office, as a condition for further financial support to TfL. Hence, we hear dissent from the Conservatives regarding ULEZ expansion, but see no actions taken.

The UK Energy Bill 2023 was passed with the worrying additional clauses for provisions of fines up to £15,000, or 12-months imprisonment for failures of home owners to meet energy performance regulations, and granting public functions enforcement rights to enter properties, under such energy performance regulations. With clear government overstep, one would’ve hoped for some level of opposition from the other benches. The Bill passed largely unopposed (280 for – 19 against), with Labour MP’s abstaining from the vote.

I’m standing for Reform UK because I’ve had enough of the mediocre representation and duopoly of politics, that has led us to where we are today. Firmly believing in a return to the values of ‘small government’, providing over-sight whilst promoting free expression, freedom of movement, freedom of choice, and free-market principles.

For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?

If you are fed up too, please get involved, join us, volunteer and help us campaign.

I can be reached on email; [email protected] and you can follow my progress on Twitter/X https://twitter.com/SunburyUk/.

Tony Glover, Reform UK candidate for Poplar and Limehouse

Tony Glover is the Reform UK prospective candidate for Poplar and Limehouse.  We spoke with Tony about his decision to stand.

“I strongly believe in Brexit but the Tories have failed to deliver the benefits. They have also failed on the economy, taxation, pursuing unnecessary lockdowns out of panic”

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Tony Glover. I originally worked at the heart of government for the Leader of the House of Lords and the House of Commons Chief Whip. I then worked in public affairs and policy in the energy industry. I am now semi retired running a property company.

What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?

One of my roles in government was ensuring EU legislation passed into law. This showed me the profoundly undemocratic nature of the EU. This view was reinforced in my time in the energy industry where I worked regularly in the EU Parliament and Commission, sitting on various EU wide bodies. I strongly believe in Brexit but the Tories have failed to deliver the benefits. They have also failed on the economy, taxation, pursuing unnecessary lockdowns out of panic and have lost control of our borders and immigration policy.

My work in the energy sector included representing the gas grid companies. The disastrous Tory Net Zero policy will make us poorer and lower our quality of life. It is a step backwards that will see us forced to give up our cars and rip out our gas boilers. It is madness. Reform UK recognise this and would bin the policy.

Reform UK offer an alternative that better represents the Conservative Party that I first joined in 1983.

“wanted to fight Poplar and Limehouse because the sitting MP Apsama Begum represents everything that is wrong with politics”

You’re the Spokesman for Poplar and Limehouse what’s made you decide to represent this area?

The area encompasses the Isle of Dogs. It is a place of contrasts. The gleaming towers of Canary Wharf sit alongside large post war council estates. It has a large river frontage and a great maritime history. I was born in Bethnal Green where I now live but wanted to fight Poplar and Limehouse because the sitting MP Apsama Begum represents everything that is wrong with politics. Her views on Hamas and her exploitation of race politics are repellent to me. I am keen to hold her to account and know whoever the Tories pick will not call her out for her despicable views.

“the expansion of the adjacent Congestion Zone into the weekend is causing more traffic problems and therefore pollution whilst costing many in a time of a cost of living crisis. We will bin these policies enabled by the Tories and implemented by Labour”

What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?

Bringing our community together is vital. Ensuring sustainable immigration and social cohesion are also essential. The demands on our services and infrastructure in a very dense urban environment are at breaking point. Coupled with uncontrolled development we have a recipe for disaster. Our borough is incompetently run with rubbish uncollected, roads unmaintained and the flags of Palestine on all the lamp posts. The sitting MP is close to the Mayor of Tower Hamlets who is a force for bad in our area.

The disastrous impact of Low Traffic Neighbourhoods and unnecessary 20 mph controls coupled with the expansion of the adjacent Congestion Zone into the weekend is causing more traffic problems and therefore pollution whilst costing many in a time of a cost of living crisis. We will bin these policies enabled by the Tories and implemented by Labour.

For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?

Reform are growing across London as people become sick and tired of failed policies imposed from above. Please join us to defeat the Tories in Westminster and elect Howard Cox our London Mayoral candidate and Reform London Assembly candidates including myself next May.

You can email me at [email protected] and follow me on Twitter at https://twitter.com/TonyLiberator.

Councillor Stephen Gander, SDP candidate for Sussex Wealden

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?

Please follow or get in touch with me via:

Email [email protected]

X (Twitter) @StephenganderDP

Facebook Cllr Stephen Gander

Councillor Lucian Fernando, Reform UK candidate for Hastings and Rye

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.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

You can find more out about Reform UK at https://www.reformparty.uk/, and follow Lucian on Twitter and Facebook.

Lucian Fernando announcement.