Category: Interview

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].

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].

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/.

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.