5 years to the day that we lost Lord Paddy Ashdown, it is my honour to announce that I will stand as the Liberal Democrat Prospective Parliamentary Candidate, in my home constituency of Tewkesbury.
Until yesterday, I had served for 23 years in the RAF, formerly as an Aviator and Non-Commissioned Officer, then as a Commissioned Officer. The liberal politics I have come to adopt were borne of countless days and nights on global Operations, representing the UK before our allies and rivals, and coming to understand and respect diversity. When the Service took me to Imjin Barracks, I resolved to raise a family here in the constituency.
I've seen, across our constituency, how badly people are struggling, as a volunteer for a local foodbank, and by speaking to residents. In such a broad constituency there is great breadth of circumstances, including rural poverty which too often flies under the collective radar. People feel hopeless, leaderless and unrepresented. I am standing to restore that hope.
I want to live in a fair, tolerant and progressive society. I want a government which acts and communicates responsibly, which serves its people rather than its donors. A government which operates with dignity and integrity. I know that this government is unable to do any of this, so I'm offering to continue my public service by taking these qualities to Westminster.
If you too, have had enough. If you're up for the fight, then perhaps you'll join us. However you can help, you are welcome on our team.
Yesterday I submitted an Early Day Motion, that the House of Commons recognises the impact of flooding on regions in the River Severn Catchment Area, including Tewkesbury Town and villages within Tewkesbury Constituency.
