Labour came to power with their largest majority since 1997, we have the lowest number of Conservative MPs ever, and the SNP has been pushed back in Scotland. The SDP ran their highest number of candidates since the 80s, and we have increased independent, Green, and Reform MPs. Now we ask the candidates, General Election 2024 – How was it for you?
Join us on Wednesday 21st August for our drinks and conversation with a panel of local candidates. We will be asking about the campaign, their experiences and thoughts on what happens next.
Confirmed Panel:
Vinayak Malhotra, Reform UK candidate for Croydon West Marian Newton, Reform UK candidate for Lewisham West and East Dulwich
For drinks, conversation, panel discussion and Q&A asking General Election 2024 – How was it for you? Come along Wednesday 21st August, Whispers Purley at 7pm.
This is part of our #ThirdWednesday drinks and events, we hold these in association with Dick Delingpole’s #ThirdWednesday Libertarian drinks club, and POLITICS in PUBS a group of people from across the political spectrum who value the freedom to question and to speak openly.
Peter Hunter is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Putney. We spoke with Peter about his decision to stand.
“Reform and I can help the government deliver best local policies for people of Putney”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
I am an ex-army officer and ex-British diplomat at the United Nations in New York. I live in South London and I’m passionate about politics having retired recently. I have also run a small business in Switzerland so know about the EU and Europe. I also speak a little French, German and Russian.
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
Nigel says that Labour are likely to win a majority; the conservatives have lost their way and need change. Reform is the best forum for that change and after the election, may help the Conservatives reform themselves.
Reform and I can help the government deliver best local policies for people of Putney.
You’re the Spokesman for Putney what’s made you decide to represent this area?
I resonate with local issues and concerns, like crime, traffic, and share the Wimbledon LTA plan concerns.
I have the leaderships skills and influence to get things done and help local people solve problems.
“Champion the NHS, but it needs slimmer better management so these resources can be put into front lines services”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
Champion the NHS, but it needs slimmer better management so these resources can be put into front lines services.
Cut waiting times, support the police, fight crime, and stop shoplifting.
Revise low traffic networks – get traffic moving – whilst we still safeguard pedestrians and children.
Putney housing for Putney residents – build new affordable and renovate old housing.
Support the government over legal and stop illegal immigration.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
Vote for me – PETER FOR PUTNEY – PETER LAFAYETTE HUNTER for Putney RESIDENTS & BUSINESSES.
Nick Goulding is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Chester North and Neston. We spoke with Nick about his decision to stand.
“I got involved in politics again was my disgust at the attempt to defy the clearly expressed will of the people and obstruct Brexit”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
I’m a 60 three-year-old business owner, former army officer and a small business campaigner. I am married with four children, and I have lived in Cheshire for over thirty years.
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
I previously stood for the Brexit party in the last general election and then for Reform UK for the post of Police and Crime commissioner for Cheshire. The reason I got involved in politics again was my disgust at the attempt to defy the clearly expressed will of the people and obstruct Brexit by politicians’, civil servants and judges.
“I find as I go round the constituency the overriding issue is the betrayal of their voters by all the main existing parties and the desire for a new way forward”
You’re the Spokesman for Chester North and Neston what’s made you decide to represent this area?
Although I live outside the constituency, in mid Cheshire, I wanted to stand for Chester because it is the county town and most significant location which can send the clearest message to the country.
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
Although there are all local issues that need to be addressed. I find as I go round the constituency the overriding issue is the betrayal of their voters by all the main existing parties and the desire for a new way forward, which Reform UK can provide.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
Emma Guy is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Mid Cheshire. We spoke with Emma about her decision to stand.
“The tipping point was during lockdown, when the decisions made on our behalf by the government seemed more and more detached from reality”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Emma Guy and I have lived and worked in Northwich, Cheshire for almost 35 years, during which time I have served on the local Lostock Gralam Parish Council, started, and grew my own wellbeing clinic, and represented local interests since 2001 by campaigning with CHAIN (Cheshire Anti Incinerator Network) against the building of the Incinerator on Griffiths Lane on the edge of our beautiful town.
I am a Prevent Breast Cancer ambassador and part of a local group helping to make Northwich Dementia Friendly.
Currently, I am the Chief Commercial Officer for a Runcorn based business, Aqueous Digital, and in November 2022 I won Outstanding Entrepreneur of the Year at the Crème de la Crème Cheshire Business Awards, for my ongoing work with the business.
On top of these roles, I am also Chair of the board of Trustees at Halton Haven Hospice.
In 2016 I was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a mastectomy and reconstruction which triggered early onset menopause, an episode I covered in my bestselling 2021 book, Wisdoms of the Menopausal Godmother.
I have been happily married to my husband Jonathan for 18 years and we have three children.
“a new seat comprising Northwich, where I live, and the two nearby local towns of Middlewich and Winsford. Collectively I refer to them as the ‘salt towns’”
What made me stand for Reform Uk?
The tipping point was during lockdown, when the decisions made on our behalf by the government seemed more and more detached from reality.
The fear campaigns, the rule of six, mask mandates and social distancing based on no scientific evidence made me determined to do something. As Simon Wiesenthal once said, “For evil to flourish, it only requires good men to do nothing”. I couldn’t, in all good conscience, do nothing.
On New Year’s Day 2021 I contacted the party to ask it they had a candidate in this area, and would they consider me.
I was duly selected as the Spokesperson in early 2021 after undergoing the vetting process and became Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for the party in November 2023. I was formally announced as the official Parliamentary Candidate when my nomination papers were accepted in early June this year.
You’re the Spokesperson for Mid Cheshire what’s made you decide to represent this area?
Mid Cheshire is a new seat comprising Northwich, where I live, and the two nearby local towns of Middlewich and Winsford. Collectively I refer to them as the ‘salt towns’ as they all have a long history of salt production, dating back to Roman times.
Fun fact: most people don’t realise that when the gritters go out during icy spells to grit the roads all over the U.K., the chances are that what is being spread comes from our local salt mines in Winsford.
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
There are several issues that affect my local constituency, but I expect that my priorities may resonate with a lot of people in a lot of other areas.
The first is that I want to bring back a sense of Civic Pride to the area. Too many local residents tell me that they are disappointed with what they see locally, and no one seems to have a sense of responsibility that was high on the agenda in Victorian times. If you can’t be proud of where you live then it’s no surprise if you don’t want to engage positively with your local town.
The second is that we desperately need an integrated transport policy in our area. Luckily, we don’t suffer (yet) from ULEZ, LTN’s or mandatory 20mph zones, but what public transport is available is fragmented, infrequent and ill-suited for local needs and motorists are still seen as a burden rather than the driver of investment in our towns.
Finally, rather than a disparate and disjointed allocation of funds to our towns, which straddle two County Authorities, we should have funds allocated based on local need, not what is decided for us by someone in an office 40 miles away. Would you believe that the one consistent point made by residents I talk to in each of the towns is that they bemoan the lack of public toilets in the town centre? It’s incredible that this should have happened in the twenty first century.
“For evil to flourish, it only requires good men to do nothing”. I couldn’t, in all good conscience, do nothing”
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
If anyone is able to help then they can visit my website at https://www.emmaguyreform.co.uk/ and from there they can follow my social media profiles or email me directly.
David Burgess-Joyce is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Wallasey. We spoke with David about his decision to stand.
“I no longer supported a party that was NOT conservative. I also looked at what Reform UK were advocating, and I struggled to disagree”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is David Burgess-Joyce and I represent the Wallasey constituency on the Wirral, which is part of Merseyside. I’ve spent all my working life in law enforcement and have worked throughout the United Kingdom and internationally.
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
I was a Conservative all my adult life and had two terms as a councillor. However, last year I resigned my membership because I no longer supported a party that was NOT conservative. I also looked at what Reform UK were advocating, and I struggled to disagree.
“I have lived in this area all my 60 years and know it extremely well”
You’re the Spokesman for Wallaseywhat’s made you decide to represent this area?
I have lived in this area all my 60 years and know it extremely well. I am also of the opinion that decades of a Labour MP who lives in London has not helped its success.
“There are areas of deprivation which have not seen the council maintain or show any interest in”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
Wallasey needs inward investment to raise the area from a forgotten part of Merseyside. There are areas of deprivation which have not seen the council maintain or show any interest in. Ironically, these are some of the areas the Labour council receive their votes from! Given we have a coast on three sides I am concerned the pollution caused by the water utility company and some businesses is rife, and I intend campaigning for strong sanctions.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
Peter Sceats is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Bethnal Green and Stepney. We spoke with Peter about his decision to stand.
“I would crawl over broken glass to vote leave again if I had to…”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
I am Peter Sceats, a British businessman working mainly in the energy markets. I invented the index upon which the international coal market is based. I am chairman of our family gin company, EL-BART.
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
I was a referendum party supporter back in the day, then UKIP, Brexit Party and now Reform. I think the EU is merely “greater Germany” and is in any event an undemocratic dictatorship. I would crawl over broken glass to vote leave again if I had to…
“My family has 230 years history in the area”
You’re the Spokesman for Bethnal Green and Stepney what’s made you decide to represent this area?
My family has 230 years history in the area. I got involved in the stairway to heaven charity which built the monument next to St Johns Church remembering the 173 who died in the Bethnal Green tube disaster. My cousin Lillian died in that event… I wrote the charity’s song actually, “Lillian’s Theme” and recorded it with my middle daughter who is now somewhat a star of musical theatre.
“I simply want to represent the people of Bethnal Green and Stepney and help them with the problems where I can”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
I simply want to represent the people of Bethnal Green and Stepney and help them with the problems where I can. I will be present in the constituency week in, week out for the term. Radical, huh?! I would like for the area to regain more of its East London charm and be safer, cleaner and more visually compelling and I will work for that.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
Vinayak Malhotra is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Croydon West. We spoke with Vinayak about his decision to stand.
“At the core of Reform UK’s ethos lies a steadfast dedication to individual liberty, personal responsibility, and economic freedom”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Vinayak Malhotra, and it is both an honour and a privilege to stand as Reform UK’s candidate and spokesman. My journey to this candidacy is deeply rooted in a steadfast belief in the potential of our communities and a resolute commitment to addressing their specific needs and aspirations.
With a rich background in extensive volunteer work and community service, I have dedicated myself to improving the lives of those around me and fostering a stronger, more connected community. This experience has not only shaped my understanding of local dynamics but has also instilled in me a profound appreciation for the rich tapestry of British society.
Being deeply committed to British values and culture, I am driven by a passionate desire to preserve the traditions and principles that make our country great. Throughout my years of service, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges our communities confront, particularly concerning issues such as crime and safety. These pressing concerns lie at the heart of my campaign, and I am fully committed to implementing effective, evidence-based solutions that safeguard the well-being and security of all residents.
I firmly believe that by fostering collaborative efforts and engaging all stakeholders, we can create a safer, more prosperous environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. My candidacy reflects a genuine dedication to serving the people and making a positive impact on our community’s future.
As Reform UK’s candidate, I am prepared to bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a steadfast commitment to accountability and transparency in governance.
Together, let us forge a path forward that honours our shared values, celebrates our cultural richness, and ensures a brighter future for generations to come.
“Central to my agenda is promoting economic growth and prosperity. I am dedicated to attracting new businesses, supporting local entrepreneurs, and creating job opportunities”
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
I decided to stand for Reform UK because it represents more than just a political party to me; it embodies a profound commitment to the fundamental principles that underpin our society. At the core of Reform UK’s ethos lies a steadfast dedication to individual liberty, personal responsibility, and economic freedom. These principles resonate deeply with my belief in the importance of empowering individuals and communities to thrive on their own terms, free from unnecessary governmental interference.
Throughout my life, I have witnessed the transformative power of policies that prioritise personal liberty and economic dynamism. Reform UK’s platform not only aligns with my vision for a prosperous and fair society but also reflects a pragmatic approach to addressing the challenges facing our nation today. From championing sensible regulatory reforms to advocating for a more competitive business environment, Reform UK offers a comprehensive blueprint for fostering innovation, growth, and opportunity across all sectors of our economy.
Moreover, the leadership within Reform UK has inspired me with their unwavering commitment to advancing these principles. Their courage in confronting the status quo and their dedication to advocating for the rights of individuals and communities have motivated me to step forward and contribute actively to our political discourse. I am particularly drawn to Reform UK’s emphasis on evidence-based policymaking and their willingness to engage in constructive dialogue to achieve meaningful reform.
The overwhelming support I have received from within Reform UK has been both heartening and humbling, underscoring the party’s collaborative and cohesive approach, where a variety of perspectives converge to shape policies that benefit all British citizens. As a parliamentary candidate, I see this as an opportunity not only to represent the interests of my constituents but also to contribute to shaping a legislative agenda that promotes fairness, prosperity, and social cohesion.
Standing for Reform UK is more than a political endeavour; it is a commitment to upholding the values that define our nation and securing a brighter future for generations to come. I am dedicated to bringing integrity, diligence, and a principled approach to my role as a candidate, ensuring that the voices of those I represent are heard loud and clear in the corridors of power. Together with Reform UK, I am eager to work towards building a society where individual freedoms are safeguarded, opportunities are plentiful, and every citizen can pursue their aspirations with confidence and dignity.
You’re the Spokesman for Croydon West, what’s made you decide to represent this area?
My decision to represent Croydon West is deeply rooted in a commitment to bring about much-needed reform and progress to our community. Croydon West, like many areas, faces challenges that require innovative solutions and strong leadership. As a proud advocate for our dynamic community, I see immense potential here, waiting to be unlocked.
Central to my agenda is promoting economic growth and prosperity. I am dedicated to attracting new businesses, supporting local entrepreneurs, and creating job opportunities that will drive our area’s economic development forward. A thriving local economy is essential for ensuring resilience and prosperity for all residents.
Equally important are improvements to public services. I am prioritising enhancements to healthcare, education, and public transportation to ensure accessibility and well-being for everyone in Croydon West.
Community safety remains a top priority. I will work closely with law enforcement and community groups to implement effective crime reduction strategies, addressing both immediate safety concerns and underlying social issues through targeted programs.
Environmental sustainability is also critical. I am committed to advancing green initiatives, investing in renewable energy, and promoting sustainable practices to protect our natural environment for future generations.
Moreover, fostering a strong sense of community is essential. Through inclusive events and initiatives that celebrate our heritage and promote solidarity, we can build a more cohesive and supportive community in Croydon West.
I firmly believe that Reform UK can play a pivotal role in achieving these goals. Their commitment to reform and their innovative policy solutions can bring about positive change in our area, helping us address longstanding issues and seize new opportunities. Together, with collaborative effort and dedication, we can build a vibrant and prosperous future for Croydon West that we can all be proud of.
“I aim to champion policies that balance fiscal responsibility with the need to invest in public services and infrastructure, ensuring that our tax system is fair and that public funds are used effectively”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
One of the major concerns I see for our constituency is the escalating rate of crime. This issue not only jeopardises the safety and security of our residents but also undermines the cohesion and trust within our community. I am committed to taking a proactive stance in addressing this challenge. This involves advocating for increased police presence and resources to ensure our streets remain safe. Additionally, I will support community-based initiatives aimed at providing constructive opportunities for young people, which can help divert them away from criminal activities. These measures are crucial in safeguarding our neighbourhoods and fostering a sense of security among all residents.
Another important issue is the preservation of British culture and values. In an increasingly globalised world, it’s crucial that we hold onto the traditions and principles that have shaped our identity. I am deeply committed to promoting our heritage and ensuring that our values are upheld in our community. This includes supporting local cultural events, festivals, and educational programs that celebrate our history and traditions, fostering a sense of pride and unity among residents.
Additionally, I am keenly aware of the struggles many of our citizens face daily. From economic hardships to access to quality healthcare and education, these challenges need to be addressed head-on. The NHS and social care are critical areas where I hope to make a difference, ensuring that everyone receives the healthcare and support they need without undue delay or burden. I will work to secure more funding for our local health services, reduce waiting times, and improve access to mental health support, recognising that mental health is just as important as physical health.
Education and childcare are also top priorities. I believe every child deserves access to high-quality education and that working parents should have affordable, reliable childcare options. These foundations are essential for the future success of our community. I will advocate for increased funding for schools, better support for teachers, and expanded access to early childhood education programs. Ensuring that our children receive the best possible start in life is a top priority.
Tax and spending policies must be fair and supportive of both economic growth and social equity. I aim to champion policies that balance fiscal responsibility with the need to invest in public services and infrastructure, ensuring that our tax system is fair and that public funds are used effectively to benefit all citizens. This includes advocating for tax relief for low-income families and small businesses, investing in public transportation and housing, and ensuring that our local infrastructure meets the needs of our growing community.
By focusing on these key areas—enhancing safety, preserving our culture and values, supporting healthcare, improving education and childcare, and ensuring fair tax and spending policies—I aim to create a safer, more cohesive, and supportive community for all. My commitment is to listen to the concerns of our residents, work collaboratively to find solutions, and be a strong voice for our constituency in Parliament.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
Thank you so much for your interest in getting involved in the campaign! Every bit of support is truly appreciated. There are several ways to help make a difference:
1. Volunteer: Volunteers are needed for a variety of tasks, including canvassing, leafleting, and staffing events. Their time and energy can help reach more voters and spread the campaign message effectively.
2. Host Events: If someone has space, they can consider hosting a small gathering or a fundraiser. This is a great way to introduce the candidate to friends and neighbours and discuss the issues that matter most to the community.
3. Distribute Materials: Helping to distribute campaign materials like flyers, brochures, and yard signs can increase visibility and ensure the message reaches every corner of the constituency.
4. Social Media Advocacy: Following the campaign on social media and sharing posts can amplify the campaign’s reach and engage a wider audience. Using personal platforms to talk about why they support the campaign and the key issues being focused on can be very effective.
5. Donate: Campaigns require financial resources to run effectively. Any contribution, big or small, helps cover the costs of advertising, materials, and events. Donations can be made through the campaign website.
6. Join a Working Group: If someone has specific skills or expertise, they can join one of the campaign’s working groups focused on policy, communications, logistics, or outreach. Their insights and professional experience can be invaluable.
7. Attend Events: Supporters can show their support by attending rallies, town halls, and other public events. Their presence demonstrates strong community backing and helps build momentum.
8. Spread the Word: Talking to family, friends, and colleagues about the campaign is incredibly powerful. Personal endorsements can persuade undecided voters.
Interested individuals can sign up on the Reform UK website or contact the campaign office directly. Updates on upcoming volunteer opportunities and events will be provided. Together, everyone can create positive change and build a better future for the community.
Neville Watson is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Edmonton and Winchmore Hill. We spoke with Neville about his decision to stand.
“POLITICS MUST REGAIN ITS MORAL MISSION AND INTEGRITY”
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
A BELIEF THAT POLITICS MUST REGAIN ITS MORAL MISSION AND INTEGRITY and Reform embodies all those values.
You’re the Spokesman for Edmonton and Winchmore Hillwhat’s made you decide to represent this area?
I represent two completely different wards, one Edmonton with crime, unemployment and housing being an issue and Winchmore Hill is how to reinvigorate local trade, rubbish collection and noise pollution. I have the innovative thinking to improve the lives of both my wards.
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
As above, but my key theme is to improve youth provision across the constituency, that has the positive knock-on effect on crime.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
“I represent two completely different wards, one Edmonton with crime, unemployment and housing being an issue and Winchmore Hill is how to reinvigorate local trade”
Gary Stevens is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Dulwich and West Norwood. We spoke with Gary about his decision to stand.
“I became actively involved in 2017 and in 2018 I was elected as a local Councillor in Bromley. It was an incredibly rewarding time to be able to help out in the community”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
I was born and raised on a sheep and cattle farm in Southland, New Zealand, and have since lived and worked in several major cities, including Sydney, Amsterdam, Hong Kong, and London. Currently, I reside in Bromley with my wife and our two sons. I have had a long career in IT and Finance, first starting in Investment Banking in the early 90’s in London. I am currently a Director with an Investment Bank, working on high-profile projects as a Program Manager. This is a role which I enjoy immensely and is indeed a dream come true for me to be living and working in IT and finance in London.
The first time I voted it was for a Labour government, as at the time, they were more credible, organised and had a clear plan of delivery, rather than just empty promises. I would, however, first and foremost describe myself as a modern conservative – believing in your freedoms and liberties, low taxes, and small government. Over the last 4 years it is also clear to me that I am also a libertarian. I believe we should be able to live freely and enjoy our lives as much as possible, free from authoritarian government over-reach. I also consider myself to be an old-school liberal and old-school progressive, but with a strong conservative base, and a key part of this is the family unit and the closely connected, interdependent members of our communities and country. As a society, country and indeed human race, we must progress in an open-minded manner, delivering policy in a conservative structured way.
After years of following politics, I became actively involved in 2017 and in 2018 I was elected as a local Councillor in Bromley. It was an incredibly rewarding time to be able to help out in the community, and during my tenure, I worked diligently at both the ward and council levels, addressing issues such as housing, planning, traffic, and community projects.
Some extra info:
PADI qualified scuba diver.
International Rugby Board (IRB) qualified Rugby Coach.
First job out of university was for a bungy jump company in Queenstown NZ, driving a jetboat in Skippers Canyon, and I have done over 100 bungy jumps.
I have had two exhibitions of my own art.
Alongside my career in IT and finance I have worked as an actor appearing in numerous TV series, commercials and films.
I have backpacked around The Middle East (Syria, Jordan, The Sinai, Israel and Egypt), India, Nepal (Annapurna Base Camp) & Thailand.
“Labour called for harder lockdowns, sooner and far more extreme than they already were. It was an appalling state of affairs as the British people were used as playthings for politicians”
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
The old UK parties have failed us all. I am an ex-Conservative Councillor, but the Conservatives no longer stand for anything remotely C/conservative. Conservative members and indeed all British people have been ignored. Labour has become an elitist London centric club and no longer stands for the working class or indeed the ordinary British people, and the Liberal Democrats are largely irrelevant. It is time for change, it is time for Reform UK.
Whilst it is important to have unity at times of crisis, during Covid it was clear that we have one party in the UK, the “UniParty”. Labour may as well have crossed the floor and joined the Tories over the last few years. Elitist Sir Keir Starmer’s Labour (who values the WEF and Davos, over Westminster and the British people) provided no opposition or scrutiny whatsoever to the extremist legislation and policies forced on the British people. Indeed, Labour called for harder lockdowns, sooner and far more extreme than they already were. It was an appalling state of affairs as the British people were used as playthings for politicians across Wales, Scotland, NI, England, and internationally, to see who could out do the other in terms of how hard line they could be. This must never happen again.
I am not a career politician and I bring with me a large amount of real-world experience. I would take a more professional approach to the role as MP, and engage with and listen to people in Dulwich and West Norwood (DAWN), and indeed take their guidance.
You’re the Spokesman for Dulwich and West Norwood what’s made you decide to represent this area?
I have strong links to DAWN, having lived in various locations across the constituency since the early 90s. My first job in the UK was pulling pints at the Crown & Greyhound in Dulwich Village and I have been actively involved with a local Rugby Club in Dulwich for 9 years. I love this area and indeed I consider it my UK home.
Whilst there are a number of international events that have gained much needed attention and scrutiny, my primary focus will be the people of DAWN. I will work tirelessly to address local issues and support community organisations, particularly those relying on volunteers. My experience in sports club management will be instrumental in engaging with and supporting local clubs and organisations. These clubs and organisations are an under acknowledged part of our community and must be supported and encouraged.
“I stand firmly against Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) and the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), which have proven to be detrimental to social cohesion and disproportionately affect the poorest in our communities”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
Kids are getting mugged on their way to and from school in DAWN. Street-level crime and crime in general across London has rocketed under a Labour Mayor of London and without a doubt drugs and drug use are a major part of this, as well as being a major social issue. There is no one policy that can resolve this all-invasive issue. Stop and Search, reform of the justice system, Policing levels and funding, zero tolerance, stronger leadership, and community engagement are just part of a much larger set of policies that make up the overall approach on crime. I would work with the MET Police and local community groups to provide the level of safety that residents deserve.
I stand firmly against Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) and the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), which have proven to be detrimental to social cohesion and disproportionately affect the poorest in our communities. These measures must be removed, and I fully support Reform’s policy to legislate their removal across DAWN and the UK.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
John Gager is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Tunbridge Wells. We spoke with John about his decision to stand.
“They trounced over our rights, tried to criminalise us for peacefully protesting, used behavioural psychology against the people to manipulate and scare them. They tried to mandate vaccinations on people – unforgiveable”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is John Gager. I am 44 years old. I have lived in the Paddock Wood / Capel area near Tunbridge Wells for 12 years now. I am divorced, have a daughter just finishing Year 7 of school and two stepdaughters who are now adults – one at university and the other working full-time in the NHS care sector.
I currently work as an IT support tech for a small IT service provider based near Tonbridge, supporting local businesses and charities. I have worked in the IT industry for around 20 years, both in an employed and self-employed capacity.
Away from work I love sport and am a regular gym goer – one of my proudest personal achievements is losing nearly 6 stone in weight over the past 6 years through just sheer willpower and self-motivation. I also confess to being a bit of a geek (hence the career choice) so enjoy tinkering with tech at home.
“these politicians need to be replaced by people who love our country, customs and freedoms”
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
I am not a politician, activist or campaigner. Those things have never really interested me. Until the Brexit Referendum I did not pay too much attention to current affairs, however I was becoming more aware of mass migration affecting access to public services and jobs and how much control the EU seemed to have over our government.
I was really surprised how biased and visceral the mainstream media and most politicians were towards leaving the EU, despite it being to me the obvious choice to protect the sovereignty of our country and stop uncontrolled immigration. Then following the referendum result, my surprise turned to disgust as “the establishment” did everything in their power to thwart the decision of a democratic vote our country had made.
The theme of “the establishment” (government, all the major political parties, the mainstream media) seeking to act against the best interests of our country and people has continued since then.
Lockdowns were the final straw for me – the first one I can probably accept albeit being too long, but every other lockdown and non-sensical diktat enforced on us by Government since that point has been an absolute disgrace. They trounced over our rights, tried to criminalise us for peacefully protesting, used behavioural psychology against the people to manipulate and scare them. They tried to mandate vaccinations on people – unforgiveable, especially given recent history.
No one should ever forget that it wasn’t just the Tory Government doing this, all the other parties in parliament and the mainstream media wanted more of this – sooner, harder and longer.
I can never forget that and how it impacted my daughter. This is why I am standing; these politicians need to be replaced by people who love our country, customs and freedoms.
“Tunbridge Wells has been a Conservative seat for nearly 20 years, but in this coming election they are completely unelectable”
You’re the Spokesman for Tunbridge Wells what’s made you decide to represent this area?
Tunbridge Wells is the area I live in, and over the years it has really grown on me. This part of the country is beautiful – lovely countryside, quaint villages and Tunbridge Wells itself has great potential to be a thriving, attractive town that people can be very proud of.
Tunbridge Wells has been a Conservative seat for nearly 20 years, but in this coming election they are completely unelectable. The people here need a candidate and party to vote for with true small “c” conservative values, wanting to put Britain first.
“the majority held Lib Dem council will want to implement LTNs and other anti-car measures”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
We have several looming issues that challenge Tunbridge Wells.
Demand for living accommodation is increasing forcing house prices to become unaffordable. There has been a housebuilding frenzy in the villages surrounding Tunbridge Wells with nowhere near enough infrastructure being put in place to support it, which the local plan is meant to secure during planning applications before approval.
Population increase is also beginning to clog up major roads into Tunbridge Wells, while the majority held Lib Dem council will want to implement LTNs and other anti-car measures.
Crime and anti-social behaviour appear to be on the rise. We love our police force and need to do more to help them be more effective and present on our streets.
The expensive and illogical madness that are Climate Change policies are here too. Inefficient and environmentally questionable solar farms are appearing across the constituency, and the council are pushing ahead with converting public buildings to “carbon neutral”.
I will endeavour to highlight these issues and apply pressure on the relevant parties so that more sensible decisions are made that will benefit our constituents and not continue to harm them. I also pledge to conduct myself with honesty and integrity, no more of the spin we are all sick of hearing.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
