Join us on Wednesday 15th May for our drinks and conversation with Elizabeth Cooper, Reform UK candidate for Carshalton and Wallington.
Reform UK are consistently third in polling for the next General Election, they are also in the midst of announcing candidates for our area. The newly announced candidate for Carshalton and Wallington is Elizabeth Cooper who will be joining us in May for an interview, Q&A and drinks.
Come along Wednesday 15th May at 7pm to join in.
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.
Elizabeth Cooper is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Carshalton and Wallington. We spoke with Elizabeth about her decision to stand.
“My work experience is within the area of education, healthcare, and mental health settings. I am an advocate for the community and seek to address the pressing issues that matter to the people”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
Hello, everyone; I am excited to introduce myself as a new candidate who is joining the Reform Party. For the past 8 years, I have been working as a dedicated psychotherapist and company director. I am deeply passionate about emotional well-being and care deeply about people. I consider myself to be someone who takes great pride in our country and its people. My work experience is within the area of education, healthcare, and mental health settings. I am an advocate for the community and seek to address the pressing issues that matter to the people. Areas close to my heart too, include safety, housing, education and mental health. I’m eager to bring my expertise, passion and commitment to the forefront as we work together towards positive change.
“I believe in their principles of individual freedom, personal responsibility, and a fair society”
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
I felt politically redundant until I made the decision to stand for Reform UK. A friend introduced me to the party’s principles, which resonated with me and sparked a passion within me to take action. Since then, I have been gathering information and educating myself on the party’s ideologies. I believe in their principles of individual freedom, personal responsibility, and a fair society. After meeting with Howard Cox and Richard Tice, my belief in Reform UK’s political values has only grown stronger. I see Reform UK as a platform where I can contribute to shaping policies that prioritise the welfare and prosperity of individuals, especially in crucial areas like mental health support, youth empowerment, and safe, affordable housing for everyone. My ethos aligns with Reform UK’s goal of humanising Britons as we used to.
You’re the Spokesman for Carshalton and Wallington what’s made you decide to represent this area?
Choosing to represent Carshalton and Wallington was a deeply personal decision for me. Having lived in Wallington and worked and live in the surrounding area, I’ve witnessed first-hand certain challenges this beautiful community has faced. I’m committed to being a voice for the people here, advocating their concerns, and working tirelessly to address the issues that matter most to the people who call it home.
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
In Carshalton and Wallington, as in many other areas, there are considerable concerns, including community safety, mental health, education and housing, All of which are of paramount importance. As a candidate and spokesperson, I aim to champion policies prioritising mental health services, promoting community safety initiatives, and advocating for improving education and quality housing solutions.
“Choosing to represent Carshalton and Wallington was a deeply personal decision for me. Having lived in Wallington and worked and live in the surrounding area”
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
For those eager to join our campaign and make a difference, there are several ways to get involved with Reform UK. You can connect with us on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter to stay updated on our events, initiatives, and ways to contribute. Additionally, you can email to learn more about volunteering opportunities and campaign events or share your ideas and concerns. Your support and involvement are invaluable in shaping a better future for Carshalton and Wallington.
Augustine Obodo is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Bicester and Woodstock. We spoke with Augustine about his decision to stand.
“Britain is broken. The Tories have delivered: Record Mass Migration. Record Waiting NHS Waiting Lists. Record High Taxes.”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My names is Augustine Obodo I am delighted to be standing as the Reform UK candidate in the forthcoming General Election in Bicester and Woodstock constituency.
I work in the NHS, in our local hospital, community pharmacy, and for Health in Justices (HiJ) the UK’s leading independent provider of healthcare services in prisons and immigration removal centres, as a clinician. I am also an economist and former banker. The Founder of advocacy group, Friends of Trump UK and Commonwealth Affairs, and have been its Group Chief Executive Officer since 2015. I passionately believe that Jerusalem should remain the undivided capital of the Jewish people under the Middle East peace plan. At the heart of my advocacy, I views Donald J. Trump as the embodiment of the American success story, a benchmark for excellence across fields such as real estate, sports, entertainment, and politics. For he, Trump is the quintessential businessman, an unmatched dealmaker, and one of the best
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
I decided to stand for Reform UK because the Tories and the Labour Party have failed the people of this great country.
Britain is broken. The Tories have delivered:
Record Mass Migration.
Record Waiting NHS Waiting Lists.
Record High Taxes.
“representing Bicester and Woodstock is a privilege because both areas are rich in history, culture, and community spirit. I’m passionate about promoting their unique charm”
You’re the Spokesman for Bicester and Woodstock what’s made you decide to represent this area?
I decided to represent this area because I live and work locally and know the issues facing our community. As an Economist and clinician representing Bicester and Woodstock is a privilege because both areas are rich in history, culture, and community spirit. I’m passionate about promoting their unique charm and helping to showcase all they have to offer to residents and visitors alike. The political establishment have had their chance and have failed the people of Bicester and Woodstock
But… there is an alternative! Join us today: To all my fellow Patriots who love this Great country Vote Reform UK – We need to support small, local businesses! Our high streets are blighted by empty properties. Reform UK will make sure that Britain is open for business.
Support for local farmers across Bicester and Woodstock constituency
I will work closely with Cherwell District Council to preserve our green areas
Improve Education Healthcare, Security and Transport Infrastructure across the constituency.
Support local businesses in Bicester and the surrounding area.
Improve all town centres the Bicester and Woodstock constituency investment in public amenities and helping to boost business.
The State of our roads across Bicester and Woodstock constituency will top my agenda.
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
Key concerns include infrastructure development, affordable housing, healthcare access, and environmental sustainability. As a representative, I aim to champion initiatives that address these concerns, advocating for improved infrastructure, affordable housing solutions, accessible healthcare services, and sustainable development practices to enhance the quality of life for all residents.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
To get involved in the campaign, you can:
Follow our social media channels for updates, events, and ways to participate:
Volunteer your time to help with canvassing, phone banking, or organizing events. Email us at [email protected] to learn more about volunteer opportunities.
Spread the word about our campaign to your friends, family, and community members. Every voice counts!
Bill Piper is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for South Leicestershire. We spoke with Bill about his decision to stand.
“I’ve lived in this area for around 40 years and have been active in several different charity associations and on the Town Council – and even was Mayor once”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
Hi, I’m Bill; I’ve lived in this area for around 40 years and have been active in several different charity associations and on the Town Council – and even was Mayor once.
For a long time, if a politician was tied to a party, they could be dictated to by that party. That then means they are no longer there to serve the community.
For that reason, I was an ardent independent for years. Reform UK, like UKIP, does not ‘whip’ their members, so as a member of Reform UK, I can still do what I believe is best for the people of South Leicestershire.
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
Reform UK: –
Talk the sense that a governing party ought to
Do not ‘whip’ councillors of members.
We are currently the only conservatives. – Both the Conservatives and Labour are socialists.
We have had the Labour / Conservative duopoly for a hundred years – and no one believes them anymore.
The members of the Duopoly have proven that they are much more interested in feathering their own nests than those of ‘the people.’
“I feel that I can do a better job than someone ‘parachuted’ in for them to try and make a name for themselves”
You’re the Spokesman for South Leicestershirewhat’s made you decide to represent this area?
I’ve lived here for nearly 40 years, I feel for the area and the people, and I feel that I can do a better job than someone ‘parachuted’ in for them to try and make a name for themselves. Indeed, Reform UK offered me several places before I could eventually get this seat.
“There is a threat of increased housing in the south of Leicester and virtually a new town to the east of Lutterworth, but there are no plans for proper infrastructure”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
One of the greatest concerns in the infrastructure. The area has a number of industrial sites and the largest distribution set of warehouses in Europe. There is a threat of increased housing in the south of Leicester and virtually a new town to the east of Lutterworth, but there are no plans for proper infrastructure.
Lutterworth has needed a relief road/bypass for decades; the Plan for Lutterworth East will have a single road running through it. Should it be blocked at one end, then – Carmageddon! – It was originally suggested that that road would take traffic away from Lutterworth!
Whilst the NHS is suffering from bed blocking, which is creating waiting on surgery lists and A&E etc, The NHS fighting the possibility of keeping or even extending the facility of step-down beds at the Feilding Palmer Hospital, I have been working for five years with the ‘Mary Guppy Group’, to keep the hospital open initially and now to keep some beds there.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
Eddie McDonald is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Corby and East Northamptonshire. We spoke with Eddie about his decision to stand.
“I’ve watched with alarm and disbelief as we were betrayed and democracy ignored by weak politicians, on Brexit and many other issues. Our political leaders no longer represent the citizen”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
Hello, I am Eddie McDonald, the Reform UK PPC for Corby and East Northamptonshire. I’m 58, 8 years ago I retired from the Police, having served 30 years, throughout Northamptonshire and in almost every Role, with the exception of Traffic and Firearms. I am married, my wife is a teacher and we have 4 children, all of whom were educated in Corby. I have no previous political memberships, and I’m certain that I’m not dissimilar to many in my constituency.
“waiting for someone else to do it. I had been encouraged by Reform UK and their position on the economy, immigration and what I’d call, many common sense decisions, and put myself forward as a candidate”
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
I campaigned for Brexit in 2016, as I believe that Brexit is in the best interests of the UK. I still do. I hear so many say that Brexit was a failure, etc, but my response is that we haven’t had the Brexit that 17.4million voted for, because we have been betrayed by our politicians.
I’ve watched with alarm and disbelief as we were betrayed and democracy ignored by weak politicians, on Brexit and many other issues. Our political leaders no longer represent the citizen and there’s a huge disconnect with me and everyone that I know. It appears that corruption and self interest are the new politics, and for me that isn’t acceptable.
My wife, I think, had enough of me shouting at the telly and suggested that I do something myself, rather than waiting for someone else to do it. I had been encouraged by Reform UK and their position on the economy, immigration and what I’d call, many common sense decisions, and put myself forward as a candidate.
As far as the other parties are concerned, it is my opinion that the Conservatives were no longer conservative or Unionist in their actions or speech. Labour, has deviated from the old Labour principles, they no longer represent or connect with the British worker and are more concerned with minority interests, rather than the needs of the majority. Both parties have sold out to interests and voices other than their electorate. As someone who believes in duty and service to others, this is anathema to me.
You’re the Spokesman for Corby and East Northamptonshire what’s made you decide to represent this area?
I moved to Northamptonshire in 1976, when my father left the Army. I live in the constituency, work here and raised our children here. It makes sense to have someone local represent their neighbours, after all I’m one of them.
“Corby needs employers who create employment for local people, ideally skilled jobs with secure futures. The area is ideally positioned with great transport networks, but its road surfaces are poorly maintained by the local councils”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
The economy is the priority, without a thriving economy, its very difficult to introduce the necessary changes. Encouraging economic growth, stimulates growth in jobs, money in the pocket, improved infrastructure, and overall public satisfaction. Corby, lost a lot of well paid, secure jobs, and its identity with the demise of the steelworks. Corby needs employers who create employment for local people, ideally skilled jobs with secure futures. The area is ideally positioned with great transport networks, but its road surfaces are poorly maintained by the local councils. these need urgently improved.
I would pursue Reform UK policy on growing our industrial strength and security, encouraging the increased output and reliance on our once mighty steel industry, rather than imported steel. I would champion the improvement in our local road networks and push for the introduction of improved cross county road access.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
Prabhdeep Singh is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Feltham and Heston. We spoke with Prabhdeep about his decision to stand.
“My political activism began as a response to the growing disparities I saw in our society, especially highlighted by the cost of living crisis and unfair policy implementations like the ULEZ expansion”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
I’m Prabhdeep Singh, a committed advocate for social justice and a prospective parliamentary candidate for Feltham and Heston with the Reform UK party. Born in Punjab, India, and a British resident since 2003, I have served in the British Army’s Royal Army Dental Corps before venturing into entrepreneurship. My political activism began as a response to the growing disparities I saw in our society, especially highlighted by the cost of living crisis and unfair policy implementations like the ULEZ expansion. I lead the Fight2Survive movement, which aims to bring pressing community issues right to the halls of Parliament, ensuring that the voices of the underrepresented are heard and acted upon.
“Reform UK’s commitment to addressing these systemic problems, such as the cost of living crisis and bureaucratic overreach, resonates with my experiences and the values I’ve upheld throughout my life”
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
Deciding to stand for Reform UK was a pivotal choice driven by my deep-seated belief in the party’s principles and its alignment with my vision for a fair and just society. After years of military service and community activism, I felt increasingly frustrated with the traditional political parties’ approach to governance and their often inadequate response to the issues facing everyday people. Reform UK’s commitment to addressing these systemic problems, such as the cost of living crisis and bureaucratic overreach, resonates with my experiences and the values I’ve upheld throughout my life. The party’s focus on direct action, transparency, and real change presented the perfect platform for me to take my activism to the next level—into Parliament, where I can effect change from within and advocate for policies that truly benefit the constituents of Feltham and Heston
“ULEZ expansion, a policy I have actively campaigned against through a hunger strike at Uxbridge Station. Throughout that intense week, many residents came to show their support”
You’re the Spokesman for Feltham and Heston what’s made you decide to represent this area?
I decided to represent Feltham and Heston specifically because it is one of the areas directly impacted by the ULEZ expansion, a policy I have actively campaigned against through a hunger strike at Uxbridge Station. Throughout that intense week, many residents came to show their support and share their concerns with me. These interactions helped forge a deep connection and a sense of duty towards the people here. I vowed to continue fighting for their issues in Parliament, advocating for change in an area that not only needs it due to policy pressures like ULEZ but also deserves a committed representative who genuinely understands and shares their challenges
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign
Anthony Owens is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Northampton South. We spoke with Anthony about his decision to stand.
“I have witnessed firsthand the gaps and inefficiencies in the healthcare system that often leave individuals, including veterans, underserved, and overlooked”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
Hello, I am Anthony. I have had the privilege of serving in various capacities dedicated to public service and healthcare. My journey began as a British soldier, where I learned the values of discipline, teamwork, and adaptability. Transitioning to the British police force, I upheld the law with integrity and a commitment to community safety. Now, as a paramedic practitioner in a GP surgery, I bring together my experiences to provide comprehensive healthcare with compassion and dedication.
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
I believe in the urgent need for reform in healthcare policy, particularly regarding accessibility, affordability, and quality of care. Through my experiences as both a paramedic practitioner and a former British soldier, I have witnessed firsthand the gaps and inefficiencies in the healthcare system that often leave individuals, including veterans, underserved, and overlooked.
As a candidate of Reform UK, I am committed to advocating for policies that prioritize healthcare accessibility and address the unique needs of veterans. Our veterans have sacrificed so much in service to our country, and it is our duty to ensure they receive the support and care they deserve upon returning to civilian life. This includes access to mental health services, rehabilitation programs, and employment opportunities tailored to their skills and experiences.
I am enthusiastic about championing these causes within Reform UK because I believe in the power of proactive, compassionate policymaking to enact meaningful change and improve the lives of both veterans and the broader community. By standing for reform on healthcare policy and supporting veterans’ rights, I aim to contribute to a brighter and more equitable future for all.
“Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to reform, we can work towards revitalising our healthcare system and ensuring a healthier future for all residents of Northampton South”
You’re the Spokesman for Northampton South what’s made you decide to represent this area?
As the Reform UK candidate for Northampton South, my decision to stand stems from a deep-rooted commitment to improving the lives of individuals in my community. Having worked as a paramedic practitioner at a GP surgery in Northampton South, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges and shortcomings within our healthcare system. The recent CQC rating of a GP surgery as inadequate only underscores the urgent need for reform and change.
I am deeply invested in ensuring that every individual in Northampton South receives the quality healthcare they deserve. The inadequate rating serves as a catalyst for action, spurring me to step forward and advocate for meaningful reforms that address the deficiencies in our local healthcare services. My firsthand experience within the system equips me with valuable insights and perspectives to drive positive change.
By standing as the Reform UK candidate, I aim to be a voice for the community, advocating for policies that prioritise healthcare excellence, accountability, and accessibility. I believe that every individual, regardless of their background or circumstance, deserves access to high-quality healthcare services that meet their needs effectively. Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to reform, we can work towards revitalising our healthcare system and ensuring a healthier future for all residents of Northampton South.
“The lack of suitable infrastructure to support the influx of new residents not only undermines the quality of life for current residents but also poses significant challenges for the future well-being of our community”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
As a resident of Northampton, I have witnessed firsthand the rapid increase in housing construction without corresponding improvements in infrastructure, particularly in essential services like healthcare and policing. The booming housing market has brought with it a surge in population, placing strain on existing resources and highlighting the inadequacies of our infrastructure.
In terms of healthcare, the growing population has resulted in longer wait times for appointments, stretched resources at local GP surgeries and hospitals, and a strain on emergency services. Residents often struggle to access timely and quality care due to overburdened healthcare facilities. Similarly, the increased demand for police services has stretched thin an already limited force, leading to longer response times and decreased effectiveness in addressing community needs.
The lack of suitable infrastructure to support the influx of new residents not only undermines the quality of life for current residents but also poses significant challenges for the future well-being of our community. It is imperative that we address these issues proactively by investing in the expansion and improvement of healthcare facilities and bolstering police resources to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.
As the Reform UK candidate for Northampton South, I am committed to advocating for policies that prioritise infrastructure development and address the pressing needs of our community. By collaborating with local authorities and stakeholders, we can develop sustainable solutions to support the growing population and ensure that Northampton South remains a vibrant and thriving community for generations to come.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
As I prepare to launch my campaign, I am eagerly anticipating the opportunity to share my vision and message across multiple media platforms. While I understand the importance of having a strong presence in the media to reach a wider audience, I also recognise the significance of timing and strategy.
At this moment, I am carefully considering the optimal time to initiate my campaign. I want to ensure that when I step into the spotlight, I do so with purpose and impact. Timing is crucial, and I am waiting for the right moment to capture the attention of the public and convey my platform effectively.
By strategically planning the launch of my campaign, I aim to maximise visibility and engagement across various media websites. Whether it is through interviews, articles, or social media platforms, I am committed to leveraging every opportunity to connect with voters and garner support for my candidacy.
As I await the perfect moment to embark on this journey, I am using this time to fine-tune my message, solidify my platform, and build the momentum necessary for a successful campaign. I am confident that when the time is right, my campaign will make a significant impact, resonating with voters across the media landscape.
Antony Antoniou is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Northampton North. We spoke with Antony about his decision to stand.
“There are issues in the UK that require addressing as a matter of urgency, our society is becoming increasingly polarised and there is a spirit national sabotage from within”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Antony Antoniou, I was born in Northampton and have lived here all my life, with the exception of the odd period spent abroad. I have always wanted to represent Northampton and contribute to the community, which I have done in the past, in many different ways. I have been a mentor for the University of Northampton, I have been a QCF assessor, helping young people to progress academically whilst they are working and recently, I also became a parish councillor, for my local area, which is Kingsthorpe.
I run my own business and always have done, so there are many issues which I not only understand, but ones that I also have personal experience with.
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
I decided to stand as an independent MP last year, simply because I felt politically homeless and I wanted to be free to voice my opinion as I wished. Over time, I began to feel that the policies of Reform UK were very similar to my own, and therefore it made perfect sense for me to join the party and campaign as a team.
There are issues in the UK that require addressing as a matter of urgency, our society is becoming increasingly polarised and there is a spirit national sabotage from within, when we live in the best country in the world and we should be free to be proud of our nation, our flag, our way of life and the right to protect it.
Northampton North is, and always has been split along party lines, with little room for anyone else, which has not been good for the area. I am of the opinion that rather than see this as an obstacle, I see it as a necessary challenge, to get out there and argue our case, for the better good of all.
You’re the Spokesman for Northampton North, what’s made you decide to represent this area?
Northampton is my hometown and I live in the Northampton North area. I am already active in this area with council business and I really want to be able to improve things at a local level.
“We need supporters to spread the word, encourage the public to attend our meetings and help us to break the two-party deadlock that has been so catastrophic for this country”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
There is an increasing drug-fuelled crime problem in parts of Northampton North along with the same issues that are faced by most of the country, including access to essential services, housing, cost of living, concerns about mass immigration and the impact it is having on communities, which are overwhelmed with people who are living parallel lives, communities, within communities.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
I am currently looking for premises which we can use as our campaign headquarters in Northampton. This would enable us to have a visible presence and enable the public to visit and speak to us in person.
We need supporters to spread the word, encourage the public to attend our meetings and help us to break the two-party deadlock that has been so catastrophic for this country. Please follow my social media and even better, get in touch and participate with me, live on a stream, raw, unedited debate.
I do try to maintain a large social media presence, with posts, videos and live streams and in that regard, I would be happy to participate in a live stream, should the opportunity arise.
Robert Reaney is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Bolsover. We spoke with Rob about his decision to stand.
“If the Keystone Cops were running parliament there’s a good chance they could have done a better job”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Rob Reaney and I am a family man in my mid 50s with one son. I was born and bred in Sheffield with humble roots that I am non the less very proud of. I am self employed now and run a small business in Chesterfield, having recently moved into the area. My work life has given me a mixed financial and business background as I worked in financial services for eighteen years and now run my own business in vintage motorcycles which has been a business that I thoroughly enjoy for the last twenty years.
“You name a subject and basically the situation appears to be in dire straits. I feel obliged to act”
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
Something has to be done. I was sick of moaning about politics and doing nothing about it. My wife actively encouraged me to stand and looking at both of the main party’s I knew instinctively that I could not represent either of them with any degree of sincerity. You name a subject and basically the situation appears to be in dire straits. I feel obliged to act. Immigration in crisis, the NHS in crisis, the National debt at its worst, taxation off the charts, defence a joke, wages at their lowest, standards of living in physical decline, crime sky rocketing.. especially online crime, the police utterly disinterested, industries all over being sold out. Even national infrastructure and utilities are in disarray, social services on the brink of collapse, education of our children is not fit for purpose. The future prospects for our children looks rather grim – what chance have they got of even getting on the housing ladder?.
Where do you begin? If the Keystone Cops were running parliament there’s a good chance they could have done a better job. Brexit has been an utter betrayal. There is no other description for it. Something has to be done pretty urgently. Reform UK are the only party with any realistic chance of making major changes on the national stage in my view. I have looked at their policies and their people and they appeal to me. This is a team I can represent and I feel that they are talking sense. Common sense. Look at their manifesto. There’s no hype, waffle, empty promises, UN-costed dreams or fairy tales. It’s all no nonsense big change stuff. We need a really serious shake up. In my view Reform UK are the only ones gearing up to deliver it. Neither Labour or the Conservatives are the answer to our problems going forward. I do not believe either of them have the vision needed frankly. Only fresh thinking and some pretty bold moves are going to get us out of the jam that we are in. Neither Sunak or Starmer look credible to me. Do you really want them at the helm in a crisis? Honestly?
“The Constituency switched to the Conservatives last time purely to get Brexit done. They voted more than 80% in favour of Brexit here. They have been let down cruelly and in essence sold out by the Conservatives”
You’re the Spokesman for Bolsover what’s made you decide to represent this area?
First and foremost I live here. I am not a career politician drafted in to win an easy seat. Far from it. I work locally, and I connect with the people in the locality on every level. The seat was staunch Labour under Dennis Skinner, the “beast of Bolsover” for nearly five decades. Here was a straight talking no nonsense man and there appears to be a lot of respect for him still. You may not have agreed with what he was saying, but you at least understood it. There was no second guessing what Dennis Skinner meant. I believe that local people respect that level of honesty because it comes from actually believing what you are saying. The Constituency switched to the Conservatives last time purely to get Brexit done. They voted more than 80% in favour of Brexit here. They have been let down cruelly and in essence sold out by the Conservatives. I feel sure they will not go back down that path. Actually, some will never forgive the Tories for the last fourteen years. But will they switch back to Labour? That is what will be the question facing them in the ballot box. Conservative or Labour? Yet I have faith that the people of Bolsover are brave enough and perhaps savvy enough to vote for the wild card, the new kid on the block, the under dog.. which will be Reform UK. If any constituency in the UK has the bravery and sheer grit to send a shocking message to Westminster, then its Bolsover because the people here are beyond fed up. I want to represent the ordinary man or woman in the street who works hard, pays their taxes and expects a simple honest competent handling of the economy in return. Instead of what we are getting. The people of Bolsover deserve better. As do the people of the UK.
“We are promised a green jobs revolution, yet I don’t know a single person actually working in that industry”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
Jobs, housing and immigration. Affordable housing for kids are almost non existent. The pressure on housing locally is ridiculous. In terms of jobs my local MP tells me that we have been transformed into a “service economy”. What does that mean? Does that mean that the best job in the area you can expect if you have worked hard and got a degree is serving in a shop? Probably at the local supermarket? What’s that about? Where have the real jobs gone? What happened to jobs for life, booming industries, highly skilled or professional jobs, rebuilding the country, decent trades etc. etc.?. Oh yes, I forgot. All that has been swapped in, in the race to become green. We are promised a green jobs revolution, yet I don’t know a single person actually working in that industry. Yes, we do have people installing solar panels, wind turbines and heat pumps, but where are these made? Is British Industry manufacturing these items or are we importing from overseas? Are we not manufacturing the pumps and the turbines here in the UK because we are being dragged down the route of a zero carbon footprint? Where are all the engineering and innovation jobs? We are and have always been an enterprising and innovative nation. This needs to be encouraged and promoted. We are a nation of miners, steel men, motor industry men, farmers, builders and inventors. Our children need to be encouraged in apprenticeship based skills. Is there any wonder that our young people are leaving the UK for a brighter future elsewhere. I truly can not blame them.
Finally immigration. Honestly, some people are frightened by all these strangers hanging about. Some are just sick of paying for the worlds hungry and needy. Others are angry at these outsiders jumping the cue for housing, health, education and social care. Everyone is worried about the financial drag when the TV blares out that it’s costing ten million a day to house what we already have and yet everyday more arrive. It is beyond a joke.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
Go to the main website and study reforms policies. Don’t hear it second hand.
Reform need social media ambassadors, which are people promoting them on their own social media platforms. They need volunteers to drop leaflets and door knock. Each local candidate needs funding to buy leaflets, sandwich boards, bumper stickers, posters etc. etc. So you have choices. You can support us online. You can make a donation. You can simply join the party. Or you can get actually involved and help canvas people and drop leaflets. All the links you need are on that website. Every local candidate has Facebook, Twitter, X and whatever else there is covered and all have their links on that website above, or will do very shortly. The single most important thing you can do however is to engage. Tell us what you want to see change. This is the only party that will not have a whip. That means that your local Reform UK candidate represents you and you can fully influence what they vote on. Do not sit back and be quiet and think there is nothing that you can do to make things change. Voice your opinion and voice it loudly. We are listening. Reform UK need your input. let’s not be a party that is detached from reality or its citizens. We need to know what you think all the time, every day and as often as you can be bothered to tell us. Engage. Do it now. And if you perhaps have someone who is elderly and not online, help them to engage as well. Get them on the telephone if need be. That is the type of party I want to be involved with.
Graham Drage is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Godalming and Ash. We spoke with Graham about his decision to stand.
“I spent 16 months studying politics in Paris, which opened my eyes to the realities of the “European project”
Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Graham Drage. I am Guildford / Godalming born & bred, going onto read Politics, International Relations & French at Lancaster University in the late 1980s / early 1990s. As part of my degree, I spent 16 months studying politics in Paris, which opened my eyes to the realities of the “European project”. Today, I remain a passionate, bilingual European (culturally-speaking) and a strident supporter of the new outward-looking opportunities which Brexit presents.
I’ve been self-employed all of my life; working as business consultant for some of the UK’s principal telecommunications and managed services companies. I also setup a small manufacturing business, building wine cellars over a 15-year period, whilst employing a small team of ex-offenders in our workshop in Farnham.
“if the Social Contract is an implicit agreement between the people and their government about what each side provides to the other, the Tories have clearly broken this contract”
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
I was moved to stand for Reform-UK because I’m acutely concerned about the Tory Party’s move to the left, its steadfast refusal to deliver an honest, conservative agenda and because of the parlous state of British politics generally. I’d describe my political views as right-of-centre, moderate and coherent. I believe in small state, low taxation economies which operate ‘within their means’. As a business owner, I also believe that SMEs are the beating-heart of our economy, providing 16m jobs and accounting for half of the UK’s income.
The Tories have wilfully moved away from conservative policies in recent years, to the extent that they can no longer reasonably be called Conservatives. Moreover, if the Social Contract is an implicit agreement between the people and their government about what each side provides to the other, the Tories have clearly broken this contract. A few quick examples below:
Implemented a hostile economic environment for small business people
Imposed the Northern Ireland Protocol / effective annexation of NI to the EU
Failed to take full advantage of Brexit – abject failure to escape the stagnancy-inducing, anti-competitive regulation of the EU
Pursued an irrational decarbonisation policy, whilst dishonestly offshoring UK’s heavy industry and carbon footprint
Wilfully neglected young people – university degree courses now the preserve of the wealthy
Govt spending completely out of control – public debt ballooning from 40% to 100% of GDP in two decades
Excessive reliance on 957 undemocratic & unaccountable quangos
Reform-UK is unique in that it’s appealing to people right across the socio economic spectrum, united by common concerns and a love of country. My decision to stand for election with Reform-UK stems from a profound belief that a new approach is required.
You’re the Spokesman for Godalming and Ash what’s made you decide to represent this area?
I grew up in Normandy / Ash area of Surrey and was state-educated in a variety of schools across Guildford & Godalming up until the age of 18. Godalming VI Form College helped me to win a place at university and I purchased my first house on Brighton Road in Godalming. Whilst I now live in Guildford, I have a strong affinity with South West Surrey and retain many friends in the area.
“if I had one extra hour every day to devote to a specific cause, I would focus on undoing some of the anti-business policies which the Tories have introduced and which makes us all as a country so uncompetitive”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion
NHS waiting lists – 1 in 3 (33%) of constituents waiting six months or more for NHS treatment
GP appointments inaccessible – almost 6 in 10 people (59%) advise that friends or family had experienced difficulty in booking a GP appointment and nearly half (47%) struggled to book an appointment themselves.
Cost of living – (63%) of local constituents feel their “quality of life is deteriorating” due to the cost of living crisis. 46% of constituents said they’d reduced spending on ‘basic necessities, like food’, while 38% had worried about paying essential bills, like rent or mortgages
“Vision Zero” Road Safety Strategy – anti-car policies – car & van drivers under attack on at least 4 fronts, as a result of a culture of “safety at any cost” – creeping, collective targets and limits all set without reference to the people who will be expected to meet them.
Ongoing attacks on local Small & Medium Businesses (SMEs) – marginal rate of corp tax now reached 26.5%, VAT threshold freeze, increases in dividend tax, introduction of off-payroll working rules (i.e. IR35) – all utterly unconservative policies which have made Godalming & Ash (and the UK generally) an extremely challenging place for entrepreneurialism & innovation
Whilst all of these areas need to be addressed, if I had one extra hour every day to devote to a specific cause, I would focus on undoing some of the anti-business policies which the Tories have introduced and which makes us all as a country so uncompetitive. As stated above, since SMEs are the beating-heart of our economy, providing 16m jobs and accounting for half of the UK’s income, if we can begin to unpick some of the problems created by the “Conservatives”, this would go a long way to generating a more conducive business environment, more jobs and greater disposal income for South West Surrey at large.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
For residents of Godalming & Ash who are motivated to get involved in our campaign, we would be delighted to receive any help they can provide. Whether this comes in the form of assistance with leafleting and canvassing across our sizeable constituency , a small donation to our GoFundMe fund-raising-initiative or some engagement on our Facebook / Twitter pages, we welcome all involvement, small or large:
