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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.