Catherine Becker is the Reform UK Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Hampstead and Highgate. We spoke with Catherine about her decision to stand.
“I have become increasingly frustrated at the poor running of government both by Labour at the local and London-wide level and by Conservatives at national level”
What made you decide to stand for Reform UK?
I have a successful business background rather than being a career politician. However, I have become increasingly frustrated at the poor running of government both by Labour at the local and London-wide level and by Conservatives at national level. I saw Reform policies and the sensible and well thought through solutions to crime, the economy and across the board and was delighted that there was a credible alternative.
You’re the Spokesman for Hampstead and Highgate what’s made you decide to represent this area?
Hampstead and Highgate have the third worst crime in the whole of London. There are only 2 policeman per ward (who are on shifts and if on holiday/sick not replaced) and there is little funding or operational efficiency to support them. In addition, labour have been running the area for over 25 years and there has been a rise in wasted expenditure, poor amenities and pushing through irresponsible policies. I have real solutions and policies to turn this round without bankrupting the area.
“having more front line police is key, but it’s not just about funding (which Reform will increase by 28%) but also about creating a safe culture in which the police operate”
What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?
a. Crime – is one of the biggest – having more front line police is key, but it’s not just about funding (which Reform will increase by 28%) but also about creating a safe culture in which the police operate. Many have left the force as a result, and having run a business I know about keeping a culture in our organisations so they thrive and stay.
b. Transport – The 20 miles an hour restriction is important near schools and small roads, but along the finchley road and other key main roads is too restrictive and can be more dangerous. The safer streets again is important but has been rushed through and in many cases means the elderly cannot get essential visits or deliveries and is certainly not making our streets cleaner.
c. Housing – we need more affordable housing, but without being rushed through by labour without the necessary increases in tubes, GPs, hospitals, schools and infrastructure. This needs to happen alongside which it currently is not.
“There should be proper tenders for all government expenditure not the chumocracy we have at present. And we want to make it better for workers and local business owners too by taxing less and delivering growth”
d. Economy – The expenditure and deficit in H&H is poorly handled by Labour, I am a business person and used to getting the best value out of our budgets. There should be proper tenders for all government expenditure not the chumocracy we have at present. And we want to make it better for workers and local business owners too by taxing less and delivering growth in the area.
e. Students and young people – many people think labour is the party for young people but our policies of not taxing the first £20k of income (as opposed to £12.5k now), no interest on student loans and better crime prevention and amenities show that Reform have the best policies to provide support.
For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?
Yes, we need more active volunteers in the area. Being involved in a political campaign is fascinating and great experience – so please do get in touch at [email protected] or our Facebook page at Reform UK – Hampstead and Highgate Constituency 2024 or fill out this very short form for feedback on policies and volunteering at: Reform UK – volunteering and help.
